Borderlands 3 developer, Gearbox, has spoken out about the game’s character FL4K, who’s been announced as having a preferred pronoun of “They.”
The company stated that repeatedly and intentionally using the wrong pronoun on the Gearbox forums would lead to consequences for the user posting, with “formal action” against them being considered.
In a post on the forums, Gearbox writes: “To the newer users, who appear to have been attracted here buy various sensationalist tweets, no, no-one will get a ban for accidentally not using the preferred pronouns.
“If anyone persists in deliberately misgendering, however, then the mod team might consider formal action, as described in the forum rules. If you are new here, and you post provocatively or off-topic, expect your posts to be flagged and hidden pending moderator review. Please read the forum rules now to avoid any misunderstandings.”
The statement has caused something of an uproar on Twitter where the story has spun a little out of control thanks to some misinformation, with some people believing that misgendering the character will see you banned from the game (it won’t).
Regardless of the confusing nature of the story, people are weighing in on the importance of gender choices in the upcoming game.
One user tweeted: “This tweet is obviously in support of borderlands. If you’re going to purposely misgender FL4K you’re a d*ck. If you purposely misgender anyone you’re a d*ck. Trans rights.”
Despite some controversy it seems as though the majority of people are seriously impressed with Gearbox’s inclusive thinking and for normalising ‘alternative’ gender choices.
It’s incredible lmao. Mad respect to the borderlands devs for that
— ??PANDA BOY?? (@rahimgotlost) August 20, 2019
Borderlands 3 will land on PlayStation 4, Xbox One and PC next month.
The game promises “bazillions of guns and an all-new mayhem-fueled adventure,” as you play as one of four brand-new Vault Hunters.
This time around you’ll be taking on the Calypso Twins, and you’ll be able to travel to new realms outside of Pandora as you go on your lootin’ and shootin’ quests.
Borderlands 3 will support online play as well as split-screen co-op “regardless of your level or mission progress,” but enjoy your own rewards without having to share the winnings.
Featured Image Credit: Gearbox