Parts of the LGBT community are concerned that there are not as many options for same-sex romances when playing as a man in Mass Effect: Andromeda. Is Mass Effect: Andromeda not gay enough?
The US site Kotaku has examined how the LGBT community is dealing with the romances in Mass Effect: Andromeda, especially gay players.
The studio BioWare, which created Mass Effect: Andromeda, is known for taking a leading role when it comes to homosexual partnerships.
In their games, there are homosexual romantic and sexual relationships – a rarity in mainstream gaming.
Fans had hoped that the latest installment of Mass Effect, Andromeda, would make further progress here. But in ME: A, they rather see a regression. While there are same-sex relationships in Mass Effect: Andromeda, they are not as pronounced as the “classic” male-female romances.
Reyes Vidal and Gil Brodie are too little for gay fans
For gay Ryders, there are only:
- Reyes Vidal – who is only present in a few quests
- Gil Brodie, a technician
Since neither character is a team member and appears sparingly, there are not many opportunities to engage in a lengthy romance with them. There are only short dialogues. Romancing team members is more extensive. Romances offer more dialogue options, more developed storylines, and conversations. Fans complain about being disadvantaged when they want gay partnerships.
Additionally, the game quickly shies away from sex scenes between two men.
Compared to “Mass Effect 3” or Dragon Age: Inquisition, this is seen as a regression.
An achievement is also not possible as a gay character
Moreover, there is an achievement called “Matchmaker”. The requirement for this achievement is to engage in a romance with three partners. Heterosexual, bisexual, and lesbian players can achieve this success without forming relationships outside their preferences. Gay players cannot.
The fans cited by Kotaku find themselves in a dilemma. They do not want to appear greedy, ungrateful, or seem like they are always demanding more and claiming special treatment.
But they wish to be treated just like all other players. The article ends with a quote from a player: “We love BioWare. We just wish to know that they love us too.”
More about the romances in Mass Effect: Andromeda
Mass Effect Andromeda: Romance Guide – Who wants to be with whom? (Spoiler!)
