Nintendo Confirms Same-Sex Marriage in Fire Emblem: Fates

Some will find it controversial. Others will see it as a huge step forward. No matter which side one stands on, there’s no argument that this is a historic move for Nintendo.

In an interview with Polygon, Nintendo confirmed that Fire Emblem: Fates will allow same-sex marriage.

“We can confirm that Fire Emblem Fates for Nintendo 3DS, which launches in Japan on June 25, 2015, and is coming to the U.S. and Europe in 2016, includes the possibility for a same-sex marriage to take place between the main character created by the gamer and another character in the game. We believe that our gameplay experiences should reflect the diversity of the communities in which we operate and, at the same time, we will always design the game specifications of each title by considering a variety of factors, such as the game’s scenario and the nature of the game play,” Nintendo said. “In the end of course, the game should be fun to play. We feel that Fire Emblem Fates is indeed enjoyable to play and we hope fans like the game.”

The previous entry in the series, Fire Emblem: Awakening, featured the marriage mechanic as well, which allowed players to build relationships between male and female characters as they fought alongside one another on the battlefield. Not only would their attacks become stronger, but the two would marry and produce a child. The same mechanic will be featured in Fire Emblem: Fates, but a marriage between two male or two female characters will not produce a child. Instead, the couple will gain a special A+ rank.

It should be noted that two editions of the game–entitled Conquest and Birthright— will be released in the states. For those looking forward in setting up two male characters down the road to matrimony, they will have to purchase the Conquest version of Fire Emblem: Fates. Birthright will feature a female character who may marry another female, if the player wishes to do so.  Nintendo offered more details about the two versions:

“In the U.S., Conquest and Birthright will both be sold separately, as is already the case in Japan. For those who have purchased either the Conquest or Birthright edition, a third edition will be made available as downloadable content at a later stage. Details on how the three storylines will be made available in other regions will be announced at a later date.”

What are your thoughts on Nintendo’s move allowing same-sex marriage in Fire Emblem? Let us know in the comments section below, and we may read your comments on the air! You know we are going to have plenty to talk about on this week’s Geekscape Games podcast!