Battlefield 2042 includes the very first non-binary character of the series

Emma Sundance Rosier is one of the 10 specialists including players can choose in the upcoming Battlefield 2042. You have read the title, so you already know why it s special. What is perhaps more interesting, however, it is the way EA presents this information to the player. No element of the game explicitly calls the non-binary character. Instead, you should watch a selection of written information on Sundance, notice the frequent use of them / them pronouns and put things together.

That s exactly what a fan did, sending a message to the EA community head: Adam Freeman. The answer was fast, decisive and presented without theater.

Yeah. Sundance is non-binary and uses they / them pronouns.

• Freeman (@Partwelh) October 21, 2021

It s easy to read this kind of presentation as a breath of fresh air. It s subtle, it s not called nor put at the center of attention, and that s exactly like that many non-binary people want to live. They do not want to be special, they do not want to have justify their decision with all those they encounter. They just want to be themselves, just exist like everyone else.

But on the other hand, if someone read this as a ashamed to represent non-binary characters in their game, I would have trouble blaming them. Non-sexist pronouns are also used for men and women, and as this information can not be found in the game, the use of their pronouns does not mean anything for most players. These terms can be easily rejected as a fun oddity of writing, and since the character also seems to be feminine, do not be too surprised to see a large part of the player base use his pronouns for Sundance - not out of malice, but by pure ignorance.

That this strategy be the best option for the non-binary representation is questionable, although it can not be dedicated that it attenuates any type of flame feedback or controversy that can flow from the most toxic spaces of the game. This pleases those. Who would like to see more of their own identity in the media, while minimizing its impact. And as many large budget media are designed to please the crowd, you can expect to see more representation like this in the future.

What are your thoughts here? A movement like this one is it far enough ? Is it appreciated? Aggravating? We would like to hear from you in the comments below!

Look too