With the release of Hogwarts Legacy, many gamers are asking whether they should purchase the new game set in the wizarding world. With J.K Rowling’s offensive comments and abuse aimed at the trans community, buying a game that funds this abuse isn’t the right call. This list instead offers five trans positive video games you can play right now that are created by trans developers or positively support the community. Popped does not welcome hate and with this list, we would like to offer alternatives for those not looking to fund abuse.
1. Celeste
Celeste is a platformer developed by Matt Makes Games (now known as Extremely OK Games) and directed by Maddy Thorson. It follows a young woman named Madeline who aims to climb Celeste Mountain while fighting her insecurities and self-doubt. Since its release, the game gained a passionate community with many relating to the troubles Madeline faces throughout. After the release of the game, Maddy Thorson confirmed the speculation that Madeline was written as trans and explained how Madeline’s story represents Thorson’s journey of coming to terms with their gender identity. With this tale of discovery, Celeste has been welcomed in the community for its heartfelt representation and is widely seen as a classic within the indie gaming space.
Celeste is available on all gaming platforms.
2. Tell Me Why
Tell Me Why is an episodic game developed by Dontnod Entertainment. It tells the story of a pair of twins named Tyler and Alyson who investigate the death of their mother. Tell Me Why’s notoriety comes from the character of Tyler who is the first trans protagonist to appear in a AAA game. Dontnod during the game’s development took part in research with various LGBT organisations to craft an authentic trans character. As well as this, August Aiden Black, a trans man, was brought on board to voice Tyler. As a result of the game’s uncompromising commitment to crafting a genuine and thoughtful character, Tell Me Why was a critical success and received many accolades. The AAA gaming space is a long way off from adequate representation but Tell Me Why is a step in the right direction.
Tell Me Why is available to play on Xbox Game Pass.
3. If Found…
If Found… is a visual novel developed by Dreamfeel. The game tells the stories of Cassiopeia and Kasio. Cassiopeia is a space explorer who tries to stop a black hole from destroying the earth. Kasio is a transgender woman who lives in Dublin. While both of their stories are very different, If Found… grants the player the ability to connect them through erasing journal entries and images to craft a singular story. Since its release, it’s been a critical success thanks to its multilayered narrative and the heartfelt emotions that the game creates from the connections with both characters. Although visual novels aren’t for everyone, the two-hour length of If Found… makes it worth sitting down and playing for a short session.
If Found… is available on PC and Nintendo Switch.
4. Hardcoded
Dating simulators are common within video games but Hardcoded is a very unique example. Developed by Ghosthug Games, Hardcoded follows an android named HC who escapes from its owners and joins a trans community. The player is given access to completely customise their character and with seven companions to choose from to engage in an intimate relationship with. As well as this, the game also features a large open world to explore While it may only be for those over the age of 18, Hardcoded is a very positive portrayal of trans sexuality that offers strong writing and diverse characters.
Hardcoded is available on PC. A free demo is also available.
5. One Night, Hot Springs
Concluding the list is One Night, Hot Springs, the first visual novel in a series set in Japan that tells the story of Haru. Haru is a transgender woman that is invited by a friend for a trip to the hot springs. Despite being only 30 minutes long, One Night, Hot Springs also includes seven unique endings to play through. As well as this, One Night, Hot Springs discusses issues of sexuality within Japan and while it isn’t afraid to portray these matters in potentially upsetting ways, the game is also available for all ages.
One Night, Hot Springs is available to play for free on PC.
If you would like to support trans people in the UK, consider Mermaids and TransActual. Both organisations provide support, resources and advocacy for trans people and their communities.
