Farming simulation RPGHarvestellaincluded a non-binary option when players choose their preferred gender pronouns. Recently released on PC and Switch,Square Enixaimed to deviate from the casual farming simulator genre by adding action elements and a riveting story.
First revealed at Nintendo Direct earlier this year,Harvestellalets players explore five towns, including Shatolla and Nemea, where they will meet different characters and accomplish missions. Just like other farming sims likeHarvest MoonandStardew Valley,Harvestellawill also have seasons. While players will farm crops and catch fish in the game, they are also tasked with saving the world as the deadly plague Quietus threatens crops and the lives of villagers.
RELATED:Final Fantasy 16 Will Be Getting Playable Demo
There are many excitingfeatures that players are looking forward to inHarvestella. One of them is being able to choose Non-binary in the gender options during character creation. In an interview with Eurogamer, producer Daisuke Taka emphasized that the game is for everyone and that the protagonist ofHarvestellais the player. So, it was only natural to give them the freedom to create their own characters using their preferred appearance, name, and pronouns. He also noted that adding gender-neutral pronouns inHarvestellaseemed like a small act, but acknowledged that the impact could be huge.
Many gamers appreciated Taka’s effort to add in the non-binary option, noting that it felt good to see NPCs and main characters refer to them as “they/them.” They also expressed that they’re having fun with the game so far. While some criticized Square Enix for allegedly pandering to the LGBTQ+ community, followed by some discriminatory remarks, many defended theHarvestellafeature.
The news also coincides with the news thatFinal Fantasy 16has a diversity problem. Producer Naoki Yoshida explained that since the game was inspired by medieval Europe, the characters would be mostly white. This stirred controversy among the gaming community, prompting fans to criticize Square Enix for not taking steps to include persons of color inFinal Fantasy 16. So, the fact thatHarvestellamade moves towards inclusivity and diversity with its character creation shows that there could be a disconnect within the company.
LGBTQ+ representation in video gameslikeHarvestellaisn’t new, and it’s important to show a diverse cast of characters that gamers could relate to. Like Taka said, giving players the freedom to express themselves in games, especially those with customization, might be a simple gesture, but it could leave a lasting impression.
Harvestellais now available on PC and Nintendo Switch.
