Episode 507: A History of LGBTQ Representation in Games (Patreon)

Video games go hand-in-hand with escapism: That's arguably been the case since Atari's Pong technically let us role-play as tennis paddles that enjoy being hurt. But video games have long been more than an escape for vulnerable people in the queer community. For LBGTQ+ folks, video games can be a means of self-discovery—and from there, a means of finding friends, partners, and communities that would otherwise remain inaccessible.

For this very special episode of Retronauts, Nadia recruited her friend Larch and her other friend, Len from the Three Moves Ahead podcast. (Nadia only has two friends.) They talk about how queer characters were represented in retro games, and how said representation compares to today's attempts at making games more inclusive.

There's also considerable discussion about the games that made us realize truths about ourselves. Let's just say putting on the facade of a sexy catwoman in Final Fantasy XIV is like walking through a wardrobe door and entering gay Narnia.

Cover art pending (we'll update once it's in). Edits by Greg Leahy.

• 13:26 - "Ruined Skies" (FFVI "Searching for Friends" OC ReMix by Orkybash)
• 21:52 - Final Fantasy XIV: A New Hope (Ul'Dah Day Theme)
• 32:39 - Celeste: Starjump
• 40:15 - Persona 5: Will Power
• 51:46 - Super Smash Bros. Ultimate: Vega Stage
• 57:56 - Xenoblade Chronicles 2: After Despair and Hope
• 1:08:00 - Final Fantasy VII Remake: Stand Up (Reprise)
• Closing - "Safety in Numbers" (FFIX "You're Not Alone!" OC ReMix by Orkybash)