Mortal Kombat introduces first gay character
New fighting game Mortal Kombat X features a gay character for the first time.
The latest entry to the Mortal Kombat franchise – which stirred controversy in the 1990s due to its cartoonish depictions of violence – introduces Kung Jin, a former thief, he is now a monk archer and member of a Special Forces Unit.
Through a series of flashbacks, gamers will get to see new character Kung Jin explore his sexuality as he fights with several others.
When fan favourite character Raiden tells Kung Jin to join the Shaolin monks, he replies: “I can’t… They won’t accept.”
Raiden responds: “They care only of what is in your heart, not whom your heart desires.”
Mortal Kombat X’s cinematic director Dominic Ciancialo confirmed the news on twitter, while responding to fans.
@bcharred I see people are picking up on the subtle exposition contained in Kung Jin’s flashback. Glad we have observant fans!
— Dominic Cianciolo (@domcianciolo) April 14, 2015
@LEROJ_ @bcharred @Jontology @K0MB4T Yes.
— Dominic Cianciolo (@domcianciolo) April 14, 2015
When asked directly whether the character is gay, he confirmed so.
He added: “I see people are picking up on the subtle exposition contained in Kung Jin’s flashback… glad we have observant fans!”
In 2014, the same studio updated previous release final Fantasy XIV to allow for same-sex weddings.