Sims 4 introduces gender fluid options to allow creation of transgender characters

Video game consoles should now come with an empower button.

The Sims 4, the latest installment of EA's simulation game, introduced a new, free update that allows unprecedented gender customization options.

That means that for the first time in the long-running franchise, gamers of all gender and sexual identities can create avatar characters that better reflect themselves.

"For the first time, you'll be able to customize your Sims without the gender boundaries previously set in place," a rep for game developer Maxis wrote on the company blog Thursday.

"This means you can now create Sims with any type of physique, walk style, and tone of voice you choose — regardless of their gender."

Hairstyles, personal accessories such as jewelry and physique types that were previously restricted to male and female characters are now unlocked for any potential combination.

The gender customization update was designed with the input of GLAAD, the LGBTQ advocacy group.

"Creating the possibility for greater gender diversity within the world of 'The Sims' is an exciting development," said Nick Adams, director of GLAAD's transgender media program.

"It was a pleasure working with developers who were committed to updating the game so that all players can create a Sims world that more accurately reflects the world in which we live today."

 

Actually, the virtual landscape may be a little more accepting than the real world: the Sims 4 update comes two months after North Carolina passed the controversial HB2 law restricting bathroom access in state buildings by biological gender, rather than gender identity.

Sims has a long progressive history. Same-sex relationships and kissing were allowed since the game was first introduced in 2000.