The Nintendo Switch version of "Paper Mario: The Thousand-Year Door" features Vivian, a transgender character who was originally released in the Japanese version of the game in 2004.
In a groundbreaking move, Nintendo has introduced a transgender character in the U.S. version of its popular video game "Paper Mario: The Thousand-Year Door." Vivian, a purple ghost wearing a pink and white striped hat, was originally introduced in the Japanese version of the game in 2004 but did not have her gender identity explicitly stated in the U.S. version released that same year.
Vivian plays a pivotal role in the game as a villain who eventually goes off on her own due to her sisters' bullying and their tendency to repeatedly call her a "boy." In the new U.S. version of the game, Vivian explicitly states that she is transgender, saying, "Truth is, it took me a while to realize I was their sister… not their brother."
The inclusion of Vivian as a transgender character in the U.S. version of "Paper Mario: The Thousand-Year Door" marks a significant step forward for LGBTQ+ representation in video games. It is a testament to Nintendo's commitment to diversity and inclusivity, and it sends a positive message to LGBTQ+ gamers that they are seen and valued.
Vivian is not the first transgender character to appear in a video game, but her inclusion in a major Nintendo game is a significant milestone. It is a sign that the video game industry is becoming more inclusive and that LGBTQ+ characters are becoming more visible and accepted.
The inclusion of transgender characters in video games is important for several reasons. First, it helps to normalize transgender identities and make them more visible to a wider audience. Second, it can help to educate people about transgender issues and dispel myths and stereotypes. Third, it can provide LGBTQ+ gamers with a sense of representation and belonging.
The inclusion of Vivian in "Paper Mario: The Thousand-Year Door" is a welcome step forward for LGBTQ+ representation in video games. It is a sign that the industry is becoming more inclusive and that LGBTQ+ characters are becoming more visible and accepted. It is a positive development that will hopefully encourage other game developers to include LGBTQ+ characters in their games.
