Does Assassin’s Creed Support LGBTQ+ Representation?
Fast answer first. Then use the tabs or video for more detail.
- Watch the video explanation below for a faster overview.
- Game mechanics may change with updates or patches.
- Use this block to get the short answer without scrolling the whole page.
- Read the FAQ section if the article has one.
- Use the table of contents to jump straight to the detailed section you need.
- Watch the video first, then skim the article for specifics.
Yes, the Assassin’s Creed franchise has increasingly shown support for the LGBTQ+ community through the inclusion of LGBTQ+ characters, romance options, and a stated commitment from Ubisoft to fostering an inclusive environment. While representation hasn’t always been perfect and has faced criticism, particularly concerning DLC content, the series has made strides toward offering players more diverse and representative experiences. This commitment extends beyond the games themselves, with Ubisoft actively promoting LGBTQ+ visibility within the company and supporting related initiatives.
LGBTQ+ Representation in Assassin’s Creed Games
The inclusion of LGBTQ+ themes in Assassin’s Creed has evolved significantly over the years. Early installments offered limited or implicit representation, but later games have become more explicit and integrated.
Assassin’s Creed: Syndicate
Assassin’s Creed: Syndicate, released in 2015, featured Jacob Frye, a character whose bisexuality is considered canon. Confirmed by the writers, Jacob’s relationships are subtle but acknowledged within the game’s lore. The confirmation of his bisexuality through storyline elements and narrative acknowledges the character’s complete personality.
Assassin’s Creed: Odyssey
Assassin’s Creed: Odyssey (2018) marked a significant shift in the series by allowing players to pursue same-sex relationships. Whether playing as Alexios or Kassandra, players can romance characters of either gender, providing a choice-driven narrative that reflects the player’s preferences. This freedom extends beyond simple flings; players can develop meaningful relationships, further immersing themselves in the game world. The existence of fourteen romance options allows players to explore different personalities and narratives within the game.
Assassin’s Creed: Valhalla
Assassin’s Creed: Valhalla continues this trend, offering players the opportunity to engage in same-sex romances. As Eivor, players can pursue relationships with characters of various genders. While the romances may not be as explicit as in some other games, they are present and contribute to the player’s overall experience. This inclusivity extends to even allowing the Animus to choose Eivor’s gender to be male or female to represent the stronger memory-stream, depending on its current strength.
Criticisms and Controversies
Despite these advancements, the series has faced criticism regarding its portrayal of LGBTQ+ themes.
- DLC Erasure: Some players have criticized the portrayal of LGBTQ+ relationships in certain DLCs, arguing that they undermine the player’s choices in the main game. For example, the forced heterosexual relationship in the Legacy of the First Blade DLC for Assassin’s Creed: Odyssey was a source of significant controversy.
- Superficial Representation: Some argue that the LGBTQ+ representation in Assassin’s Creed is often superficial or lacks depth, serving more as a marketing tool than a genuine effort to explore LGBTQ+ experiences.
Ubisoft’s Stance on LGBTQ+ Inclusion
Ubisoft has publicly stated its commitment to LGBTQ+ inclusion, both within its games and within the company itself. The company supports LGBTQ+ employees and promotes visibility through various initiatives. This includes:
- Internal support groups: Ubisoft fosters a supportive environment for LGBTQ+ employees through internal groups and initiatives.
- External partnerships: Ubisoft collaborates with LGBTQ+ organizations to promote inclusivity within the gaming industry and beyond.
- Pride Month celebrations: Ubisoft actively participates in Pride Month celebrations, highlighting its commitment to the LGBTQ+ community.
However, it’s important to note that actions speak louder than words. While Ubisoft’s stated commitment is commendable, the company’s actions in its games and its handling of controversies will ultimately determine the authenticity of its support. As noted by the Games Learning Society, the real impact of representation is not only in its presence but in the quality and depth of its portrayal. Visit GamesLearningSociety.org to learn more about representation in games.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. Are there any confirmed LGBTQ+ characters in the Assassin’s Creed series?
Yes, Jacob Frye from Assassin’s Creed: Syndicate is a confirmed bisexual character. In Assassin’s Creed: Odyssey and Assassin’s Creed: Valhalla, players can engage in same-sex romances regardless of the protagonist’s gender.
2. Can you have same-sex relationships in Assassin’s Creed Odyssey?
Yes, whether you play as Alexios or Kassandra, you can romance characters of either gender. The game offers multiple romance options, allowing players to explore different relationships.
3. Does Ubisoft actively support the LGBTQ+ community?
Ubisoft has stated its commitment to LGBTQ+ inclusion through internal initiatives, external partnerships, and participation in Pride Month celebrations.
4. Why did Assassin’s Creed Odyssey face criticism regarding its LGBTQ+ representation?
The main criticism stemmed from the Legacy of the First Blade DLC, which forced the player into a heterosexual relationship, undermining the player’s choices in the main game.
5. Is Assassin’s Creed Valhalla LGBTQ+ inclusive?
Yes, Assassin’s Creed Valhalla allows players to engage in same-sex romances as Eivor.
6. Can you choose your character’s gender in Assassin’s Creed games?
In Assassin’s Creed: Odyssey and Assassin’s Creed: Valhalla, you can choose to play as either a male or female character. Valhalla also has an option to let the Animus decide the gender based on the stronger memory stream.
7. What is the “Animus” choice in Assassin’s Creed Valhalla?
The “Let the Animus choose” option dynamically switches between male and female Eivor as the story progresses, based on which memory stream is stronger at any given point.
8. How many romance options are there in Assassin’s Creed Odyssey?
There are fourteen main romance options in Assassin’s Creed: Odyssey, not counting DLC content.
9. Can you romance Kassandra in Assassin’s Creed Odyssey?
Yes, players can romance Kassandra, and she has several romance options available.
10. Has Assassin’s Creed always included LGBTQ+ representation?
No, earlier installments of the series had limited or implicit LGBTQ+ representation. Later games like Assassin’s Creed: Syndicate, Odyssey, and Valhalla have become more explicit and inclusive.
11. What are some examples of same-sex romances in Assassin’s Creed Valhalla?
Eivor can romance characters like Stigr, Bil, and Vili in Assassin’s Creed Valhalla.
12. Why is representation in video games important?
Representation in video games allows players from diverse backgrounds to see themselves reflected in the stories and characters they interact with, fostering a sense of belonging and validation.
13. What can Ubisoft do to improve LGBTQ+ representation in future Assassin’s Creed games?
Ubisoft can improve representation by:
- Creating more nuanced and complex LGBTQ+ characters.
- Avoiding forced heterosexual relationships in DLC content.
- Consulting with LGBTQ+ organizations and community members during the development process.
- Ensuring that LGBTQ+ themes are integrated organically into the story, rather than feeling tacked on.
14. Are there any controversies regarding the rating of Assassin’s Creed games?
Some Assassin’s Creed games have been criticized for their mature content, including violence, sexual themes, and drug use, leading to debates about their suitability for younger audiences.
15. How can I support LGBTQ+ inclusion in the gaming industry?
You can support LGBTQ+ inclusion by:
- Supporting games that feature positive LGBTQ+ representation.
- Speaking out against homophobia and transphobia in gaming communities.
- Donating to LGBTQ+ organizations that work to promote inclusivity in the gaming industry.
- Encouraging game developers to create more diverse and representative characters and stories.