Does Gender Matter in Animal Crossing: New Horizons?
The short, definitive answer is: no, gender does not matter in Animal Crossing: New Horizons. The game deliberately moves away from traditional gender roles and restrictions, allowing players to fully customize their characters without being confined by gender stereotypes. This inclusivity is a core feature of New Horizons, offering players unprecedented freedom in self-expression. Your choice of character style has no bearing on gameplay, dialogue, or access to in-game items.
The Inclusive Design of Animal Crossing: New Horizons
Character Customization: Breaking the Mold
One of the key ways Animal Crossing: New Horizons breaks free from gender conventions is through its character creation system. Unlike previous titles, where players had to choose a gender that dictated their appearance and available clothing, New Horizons gives everyone the same body type. You can select any hairstyle, eye shape, and facial features, regardless of whether you’re going for a masculine or feminine look. This freedom extends to clothing too, where all items are available to every player. You are not limited based on your selected character style.
This level of personalization allows players to create avatars that truly represent themselves, or to experiment with different looks without any limitations. It’s a significant step forward in video game inclusivity, creating a space where players can explore their identities without being confined by traditional gender norms.
Pronouns and Dialogue: A Neutral Approach
Another way the game emphasizes its gender-neutral approach is in how your character is referred to. All player characters are addressed using “they/them” pronouns throughout the game. This deliberate choice further solidifies the game’s stance that gender is not a defining factor in gameplay. NPCs will also react to you based on your character’s style, but will not use any gendered terms. Whether you are wearing the most feminine dress or a suit of armor, they will always address you as “they.” This ensures that players are free to choose their aesthetic without needing to conform to a binary system.
Gameplay Mechanics: Genderless Interactions
Beyond character customization and dialogue, the core gameplay mechanics of Animal Crossing: New Horizons are also gender-neutral. There are no activities, quests, or items that are specific to a certain gender. Everyone can participate in the same activities, from fishing and bug catching to decorating their house and island.
The Evolution of Gender in Animal Crossing
The shift to a gender-neutral approach in New Horizons is part of a larger evolution in the Animal Crossing franchise. While previous games presented a more binary system, there were still hints of breaking free from conventions. New Horizons takes this to the next level, fully embracing the fluidity of gender identity. This change not only reflects a more modern understanding of gender but also makes the game more accessible and enjoyable for a broader audience.
The game encourages players to express themselves authentically, offering more than mere surface-level changes to their appearance. It opens a world of personal expression, creating a digital space where players can truly be themselves.
Challenging Gender Stereotypes
Animal Crossing: New Horizons is more than just a fun game; it is also a subtle statement about challenging gender stereotypes. By removing gender-based restrictions, the game promotes the idea that identity is fluid and personal. It invites players to think outside of traditional gender roles and explore the possibilities of self-expression.
In a way, the game models a society where individual differences are celebrated, and where everyone is accepted for who they are. This message of inclusivity is a powerful one, particularly for younger audiences.
15 Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) About Gender in Animal Crossing: New Horizons
1. Can I change my character’s gender in Animal Crossing: New Horizons?
In Animal Crossing: New Horizons, the concept of gender is fluid. You can change your character’s appearance at any time, but not their pronouns. There is no “gender” option, only character style. You can switch hairstyles, outfits, and accessories as much as you like. This means you can freely change your presentation without any in-game limitations.
2. Does choosing a male or female character style affect gameplay?
No. The style you choose for your character does not affect the gameplay. There are no restrictions or benefits based on your style. You have access to the same tools, items, and interactions regardless of whether you pick a more feminine or masculine style.
3. Will NPCs refer to me as a boy or girl?
No. All NPCs in Animal Crossing: New Horizons will refer to you with “they/them” pronouns, regardless of your character’s appearance. This helps the game maintain its gender-neutral approach.
4. Can I unlock different hairstyles and clothes by switching my character’s look?
Yes, by experimenting with different looks, you can unlock all available hairstyles and outfits. Each player can unlock all hairstyles from both male and female character options. All clothes are available to every player.
5. Do villagers in Animal Crossing have genders?
Yes, villagers in Animal Crossing have specific genders, and their dialogue and personalities reflect that. However, there is no restriction on player interaction with villagers based on gender.
6. Are there non-binary characters in Animal Crossing?
While the game doesn’t explicitly label characters as non-binary, the unique appearance of Blanca, with her blank face that players can draw on, has led many to interpret her as a genderless character. This allows for player interpretation and further illustrates the fluidity of the game.
7. Why do some players think of Animal Crossing as a “girl game”?
Animal Crossing is often associated with cuteness and relaxation, which may appeal to some stereotypically feminine interests. However, the game has a diverse player base, with a near 50/50 split between male and female players. The game’s appeal is not limited by gender, and many enjoy its creative and laid-back atmosphere.
8. Is Animal Crossing suitable for all ages?
Yes. Animal Crossing is rated PEGI 3 and is considered suitable for all ages. It’s a peaceful game with no violence, making it a great option for both children and adults.
9. Can I get married in Animal Crossing?
Yes, the feature of marriage has been included in the Animal Crossing franchise. In New Leaf 2, you have the option to marry other villagers. There are 24 villagers you can choose from, and same-sex marriage is an option.
10. How is marriage in Animal Crossing relevant to the lack of gender roles?
Though marriage is traditionally a heteronormative concept, the inclusion of same-sex marriage in the game further breaks down these concepts. By offering players an option to marry regardless of gender, it reinforces the game’s inclusivity.
11. Why do I sometimes get more “girl clothes” in the game?
The game uses an algorithm that is based on luck and random chance, and it is not based on gender or style. Since there are more female clothes, it may seem like you are getting more female clothes. However, there is no coding that dictates your style in the game.
12. Do most of the people who play Animal Crossing identify as female?
Data suggests that while the game is popular among all genders, the split is nearly 50/50. Early reports skewed more towards female players, but more recent figures indicate a near equal number of male and female users.
13. What is the rarest personality type for villagers in the game?
The Uchi (Sisterly) villagers are the rarest personality type, with only 24 of them in the game. These villagers are known for being kind and supportive towards players.
14. Are there any characters that stand out as unusual in terms of gender presentation?
Yes. Coco stands out as being an unusually designed normal type villager. She is a female character with a distinct look, showing how diverse the game’s characters are.
15. Why are so many adults playing Animal Crossing?
Animal Crossing has become popular among adults for a variety of reasons. It provides a sense of escapism, allowing players to create and control a world to their liking. It’s a relaxing game with no real stress, and the creative aspects appeal to many adults. The game has become a means to connect with other players and has allowed older players to revisit their childhood love for the game.
In conclusion, Animal Crossing: New Horizons has made a conscious and significant effort to move beyond traditional gender roles. The game’s inclusive design and gameplay create a space where all players can feel welcome and explore their identities without restriction. The focus is on personal expression and creativity, allowing everyone to enjoy the game for what it is: a delightful escape into a world of their own making.