It is difficult to discuss Dragon Age: The Veilguard on certain parts of social media without encountering individuals who are adamant about wanting the game to fail. There are valid criticisms surrounding the game, such as the lack of continuity in choices from previous installments and the shift towards a more action-oriented RPG style. However, many of these criticisms are overshadowed by those who take issue with the presence of queer characters who are openly expressing their identities. But if you are familiar with the Dragon Age series, you would know that this inclusion is not a sudden change. When you look at user reviews on platforms like Metacritic, you will find numerous comments labeling The Veilguard as “forced woke propaganda.” The same sentiment is echoed on Google user reviews. The bigotry displayed in these reviews is blatant, with no attempt to justify it intellectually. On platforms like Steam, Xbox, and PlayStation, where you need to own the game to leave a review, the situation is slightly better as it deters hateful comments. However, there is still a significant amount of negative feedback solely based on the presence of queer characters in the game. This mass review bombing prompted Metacritic to address the issue.
Critics claim that including modern-day terms like “non-binary” in a fantasy setting is ahistorical, but it is essential to remember that Dragon Age is a fictional universe with its own unique elements. While there may be valid discussions about how certain storylines are portrayed, it is crucial for queer individuals to be part of these conversations instead of being dismissed by those who label the game as “woke.” The Dragon Age series has a history of including queer characters and exploring their struggles within the world of Thedas. The progression towards more visibly queer characters and storylines has been met with resistance from prejudiced critics who believe that catering to queer players somehow diminishes the experience for straight players. BioWare has always aimed to create an inclusive environment for all players, as evidenced by their response to criticism regarding romance options in Dragon Age II.
The current climate surrounding discussions of LGBTQ+ representation in video games is reflective of larger societal issues. The internet has provided a platform for outrage culture to thrive, turning a video game into a battleground for activism. As Dragon Age: The Veilguard faces intense scrutiny, fans of the series are hesitant to engage in criticism for fear of providing ammunition to those who seek to undermine the game’s inclusive nature. It is essential to recognize that the inclusion of queer characters in The Veilguard is not a departure from the series’ established themes but a continuation of its commitment to diversity and representation. The challenges faced by the game highlight broader issues within online discourse and the need to approach discussions of LGBTQ+ representation with nuance and understanding.
