Levelling Up: Why LGBTQ+ Representation in Video Games Matters

From the age of four, I remember waking up early on the weekends and sneaking downstairs with my dad to play on his Playstation 2. Tomb Raider, Ratchet & Clank and Ape Escape were some of the many video games that kick started my obsession with this form of media.  

Unlike movies or books, where audiences passively consume a narrative, video games offer agency. Not just as a form of storytelling, but as an immersive experience that allows players to become the characters they see on screen. When an LGBTQ+ character is central to this experience, it doesn’t just send a message, it becomes personal.  

There are many ways I have experienced representation while playing. Most notably, being immersed in a narrative with authentic queer characters or having the freedom to explore yourself in the characters you are able to create. 

Games like The Last of Us Part II and, more recently, the extremely popular Baldur’s Gate 3 don’t simply feature queer characters, they let players live through their stories. That emotional connection can foster empathy and understanding in ways other media can't quite replicate. 

"Video games are proving their power to shape not just what we see, but how we see ourselves."

One standout example is the relationship between Ellie and Dina in The Last of Us Part II. Their connection unfolds naturally; marked by quiet moments, shared jokes, and visible vulnerability. It feels organic, never forced, and deeply human. When I played the game back in 2020, I had recently come out to my family and being immersed in their story moved me in a way no other game had. Seeing them happy and unapologetic (particularly Dina’s character), even in a world where homophobia still exists, was powerful. We're often told to hide who we are, so having that kind of representation mattered. I think seeing a character like Dina earlier might’ve helped me feel more confident in myself. 

"Whether we realise it or not, we project parts of ourselves into our characters"

Representation doesn’t always need to follow a fixed storyline. Baldur’s Gate 3 by Larian Studios has been praised not just for its deep storytelling and gameplay, but also for its unapologetic LGBTQ+ representation. Set in the fantasy world of Faerûn, the game gives players rare freedom to explore fluid romantic and gender identities without judgment. Queer relationships aren’t sidelined, they’re a natural part of the world, woven into every path you take. 

When I first started the game, I was almost overwhelmed by the freedom of choice. Even the character creation felt powerful, it let me build a version of “Tav” that felt completely my own. As the story unfolded, I grew attached not just to companions like Shadowheart, Lae’zel, and Astarion, but to my Tav too. Whether we realise it or not, we project parts of ourselves into our characters and that’s something Larian Studios captured beautifully. 

What really makes Baldur’s Gate 3 stand out is how organic it’s LGBTQ+ storytelling feels. Relationships develop through real conversations and choices, without labels or restrictions. It invites players to create and explore identities in a way that feels honest and deeply personal. 

The industry still has progress to make, but as more developers embrace inclusive storytelling, video games are proving their power to shape not just what we see, but how we see ourselves. For me, gaming has been a gateway to self-discovery, connection, and belonging. Because in this medium, representation isn’t just about being seen, it’s about being played. 

Author: Alexandra Camp

Based in London, Alexandra is a passionate advocate for storytelling and creativity, drawing inspiration from all corners of pop culture. Her interests centre around immersive experiences, particularly within the worlds of video games and tabletop role-playing games like Dungeons & Dragons. She finds deep creative influence in narrative-driven titles such as Baldur’s Gate 3, The Last of Us, and Ghost of Tsushima. These experiences fuel her curiosity and shape her perspective as a designer and storyteller in the digital space.