Elder Scrolls: Skyrim Includes Interspecial, Same-Sex Relationships
Omar Yusuf — August 28, 2011 — Tech
References: escapistmagazine & gamepolitics
The Elder Scrolls: Skyrim is the sixth installment in the fantasy gaming series and intends to shatter the sales records held by previous iterations. How exactly does developer Bethesda Softworks intend to move millions of copies? A combination of revised graphics, a new weapons system and same-sex relationships.
As video games develop, they simultaneously seek to emulate the more human aspects of life with greater fidelity. For Bethesda Softworks, that doesn't just mean photorealistic graphics or pitch-perfect audio; it means allowing you to meet characters, learn their idiosyncrasies and maybe even fall in love with them. And in Elder Scrolls: Skyrim, set for release on Nov. 11, you can befriend and betroth anyone regardless of gender.
When 10 million people play a video game that lasts over 80 hours, the developer almost has a responsibility toward the player. It's encouraging to see Bethesda and other gaming studios put their creative weight behind equality in gender and sexual orientation. Excuse me now, I'm off to marry that Orc barbarian who works at the steel mill!
As video games develop, they simultaneously seek to emulate the more human aspects of life with greater fidelity. For Bethesda Softworks, that doesn't just mean photorealistic graphics or pitch-perfect audio; it means allowing you to meet characters, learn their idiosyncrasies and maybe even fall in love with them. And in Elder Scrolls: Skyrim, set for release on Nov. 11, you can befriend and betroth anyone regardless of gender.
When 10 million people play a video game that lasts over 80 hours, the developer almost has a responsibility toward the player. It's encouraging to see Bethesda and other gaming studios put their creative weight behind equality in gender and sexual orientation. Excuse me now, I'm off to marry that Orc barbarian who works at the steel mill!
Trend Themes
1. Interspecial Relationships in Gaming - The inclusion of interspecial relationships in video games presents an opportunity for developers to create unique and immersive experiences for players.
2. Same-sex Relationships in Gaming - The integration of same-sex relationships in video games allows for increased representation and inclusivity in the gaming industry.
3. Humanization of Video Game Characters - The trend of humanizing video game characters through realistic interactions and relationships opens up new avenues for storytelling and player immersion.
Industry Implications
1. Video Game Development - The video game development industry can capitalize on the trend of incorporating diverse relationships and experiences into their games, attracting a wider audience and fostering inclusivity.
2. Entertainment - The entertainment industry, specifically the gaming sector, has the opportunity to embrace and promote diversity by featuring same-sex relationships and a range of character interactions in their products.
3. Technology - The technology industry can support the trend of inclusive gaming experiences by developing innovative tools and platforms that enable game developers to create more realistic and diverse relationships between characters.
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