Skip To...
Every June, tons of LGBTQ+ games come out (that wasn’t supposed to be a joke, I promise) to prove to the world just how engaging and cinematic they can be. Of course, some games are played year after year (*cough* Tell Me Why *cough*) and start getting a little old after a while. To ramp things up a bit, I decided to list out five of the best games with LGBTQ+ themes to play during Pride month. If that’s not your cup of tea, you can check out the top ten LGBTQ+ movies and TV shows you can watch during the month! You can also take a look at what sort of books might be fun to celebrate the month with.
5. Hades
I wanted to start this list off with Hades because not only is it an incredible game, but the protagonist, Zagreus, is canonically bisexual. As you play through the game and offer Ambrosia to your acquaintances, you can develop even deeper relationships with them. In one scenario, you can get together with both Thanatos and Megaera at the same time. Queerdom is also an intrinsic part of Greek mythology. One of Zagreus’ mentors, Achilles, is on a quest to search the underworld for his lover, Patroclus. Chaos is also canonically non-binary with everyone using proper pronouns throughout. Not only do you get a kickass game, but you also get a clear representation of the queer community during pride month.
4. Life is Strange
Just about every installment in the Life is Strange franchise has a queer element. The representation of queer relationships and the emotional turmoil that can result from any of them is everpresent in each one. Of course, there are other themes that each game covers, but there’s a focus on the relationships between the main characters and others of the same sex. Each game has an incredible story and an awesome soundtrack, so all the gay stuff is just a plus.
3. Baldur’s Gate 3
Of course, Baldur’s Gate 3 would make the cut. If you head over to Xbox’s LGBTQ+ category of games, you’ll find BG3 at the top. The story isn’t necessarily queer, but you can definitely pursue a queer roleplay adventure if you so choose to. You’re given various ways to play out your gay dreams with different characters of your choosing while working through the campaign. If you have a PC, mods can quench your queer thirst with additions like the ability to have multiple partners without anyone confronting you. Trust me when I say that there are probably more gay fanfics on AO3 of Baldur’s Gate 3 than there are people who bought the game.
2. Gone Home
Gone Home is a little old, but gives a great look at a queer love story that touches on themes of loss and resentment while also being a great puzzle game. Much of the story relies on you finding notes and reading letters to unfold it. However, you’re rewarded with the story of Sam and Lonnie, which grows more and more emotional as it progresses. It’s a short game that’s great for streaming, as well as an incredible addition to any LGBTQ+ library this pride month.
1. Bugsnax
I love Bugsnax. Everything about it is incredibly wholesome, including the way it represents queer relationships. In the game, all relationships are portrayed without explanation and certainly without scrutiny. I love that the queer content is just part of the game rather than it being an aspect of the plot. More importantly, it’s incredibly cute watching little bug foods fall in love with one another; it’s why Bugsnax is at the top spot.
