Exploring Nintendo's LGBTQ+ Legacy: From Birdo to Vivian and Beyond

Nintendo's journey with LGBTQ+ representation is a fascinating one. As the gaming giant unveils the much-anticipated Switch 2, it’s a fitting time to delve into the company’s rich history of queer characters and narratives.

Nintendo recently announced the upcoming release of the Switch 2, an enhanced version of the wildly popular Nintendo Switch. This new console promises a larger screen, innovative “joyCon” controllers, and many other exciting features. Scheduled for a 2025 release, the Switch 2 has already captured the attention of many, igniting discussions about the console and its potential game offerings.

The Birth of LGBTQ+ Representation in Nintendo

One of Nintendo's earliest contributions to LGBTQ+ representation was the introduction of Birdo, a character from the 1988 game Super Mario Bros 2 on the Nintendo Entertainment System (NES). Birdo, originally designed for the game Yume Kōjō: Doki Doki Panic, found her way into the Mario universe as a recurring boss. Descriptions of Birdo in the North American instruction booklet hinted at her being transgender, as it stated she "thinks he is a girl." Despite the outdated language, Birdo maintained her identity and continued to appear with she/her pronouns in future games and promotional material.

Birdo’s presence as a transgender character paved the way for more LGBTQ+ characters in Nintendo's expansive game library. Over the years, characters from franchises like Metroid, Animal Crossing, and Pokémon have added to this growing legacy.

Vivian's Transgender Identity in Paper Mario

A recent example of LGBTQ+ representation in Nintendo games is the character Vivian from the Paper Mario series. In the remake of Paper Mario: The Thousand-Year Door, Vivian’s transgender identity is explicitly confirmed. The game restores dialogue in which Vivian discusses her journey to understanding her gender identity and the challenges she faced with her siblings. Vivian’s story adds depth and authenticity to Nintendo's narrative on representation.

Nintendo's Evolving Stance on LGBTQ+ Rights

Historically, Japan has had a turbulent relationship with LGBTQ+ rights, influencing how characters like Birdo were initially perceived. However, Nintendo has shown a willingness to embrace change and support the LGBTQ+ community. In 2022, following a court ruling in Osaka upholding Japan's ban on same-sex marriage, Nintendo introduced a policy giving employees in same-sex relationships equal standing.

This progressive approach has cemented Nintendo's reputation as a company that fosters inclusivity and diversity. Games like Animal Crossing have become safe spaces for LGBTQ+ players, especially during challenging times like the COVID-19 pandemic.

Fan Interpretations and Community Support

Nintendo's characters, often designed without strict storylines, invite fan interpretations. This has led to creative fan theories such as "Trans Luigi." The theory gained traction after a 2019 power-up in New Super Mario Bros Deluxe sparked discussions among fans. Although unconfirmed, these interpretations highlight the vibrant and imaginative contributions of the Nintendo community.

In 2019, the gaming community rallied behind a charitable cause when streamer Harry Brewis, also known as Hbomberguy, raised $347,000 for the UK trans charity Mermaids by playing Donkey Kong 64. The event showcased the community’s support for transgender rights, exemplifying how gaming can be a force for positive change.

While Nintendo is not without its controversies, such as its strict fan game policy, the company has undeniably fostered an environment where players can explore their identities and find acceptance.

Nintendo's evolving narrative on LGBTQ+ representation, from historical characters like Birdo to modern interpretations and fan tributes, underscores the importance of inclusivity in gaming. As the gaming landscape continues to evolve, Nintendo remains a powerful platform for creative expression and community support.