Being the absolute nerds that we are, Ditch the Label thought it would be fun to compile a list about video games. Be it the first transgender video game character ever, or even a pop culture icon, all of these characters had a part to play in the progression of video games.
1 – Samus
When it comes to face reveals, Metroid did it right when revealing the identity of Samus. Players did not know the identity of the main character until after they had played through the whole game. What made this so great, was that players had hours to develop an attachment. The shock came when it was revealed that Samus was female. This made her one of the first female, badasses in such a male dominated area.
2 – Max and Chloe
I know this is a 2-in-1 entry but it’s my list, my rules and if you don’t like it go away… dad. Max and Chloe are two female characters from the BAFTA award-winning, Life is Strange. Throughout the story their relationship develops and depending on the player’s choices, their friendship develops into a relationship. The game tackles this topic very well, not constantly pointing it out or making it their only character trait and really that’s why I put them on this list.
3 – Women’s National Football Teams
If you thought I was cheating by putting 2 in the last one, you’re gonna love this. FIFA 16 saw the first ever inclusion of females as playable characters in the game. This comes with the ability to play as one of twelve national teams. This was a huge breakthrough for female athletes in video games and it has definitely been a long time coming.
4 – Michael Jackson
Yep… that guy. It should come as no surprise that the first ever black protagonist in a video game also happens to be arguably the most famous person in the world, ever. MJ featured in the 1990 beat ‘em up, Moonwalker; the objective of the game was to beat enemies by dancing them to death. Despite the horrible concept, the rise of Michael Jackson really helped open peoples eyes to racism, so like it or not, this old-school game contributed to the progression of society.
5 – Birdo
So waaaay back in 1988, this character featured in Super Mario Bros 2 and was also the first transgender character in video game history. She was described in the games booklet as: “He thinks he is a girl and he spits eggs from his mouth. He’d rather be called Birdetta” This was later confirmed by Nintendo when in the North American version of Super Mario Bros 2 was released, Birdo was voiced by 3 different voice actors throughout the game, starting with a male and ending with a transgender female.
6 – You
In Elder Scrolls V Skyrim, your character has the ability to marry any NPC in the game regardless of gender, race, background or age (not that one). Presuming you have consent, this game allows you to be as progressive as you wish. So, well done you.
So there you have it, six of the most progressive video game charaters in history. Any big ones that we left out? Let us know in community and for another gaming article written by this golden love machine (open to edit), click here.
