20 Games That Have Secret Black Trans Side Characters You Probably Missed

Video games are starting to better reflect the real world, with many including compelling stories about diverse identities in optional parts of the game, like extra quests or character details. While some diverse characters play major roles, others are hidden gems, offering important representation and backstories for Black transgender and non-binary people. These characters add depth to the games, though players might not notice them during a typical playthrough. Here are some games that feature Black trans or non-binary characters who bring fresh perspectives and life to the gaming world.

‘Dishonored 2’ (2016)

I met this really cool character named Mindy Blanchard while playing through the Dust District missions. She’s a lieutenant with the Howlers, and she’s seriously tough – a total no-nonsense type who’ll help you out if you’re playing as Emily or Corvo. What’s really awesome is learning more about her through the Heart – it subtly reveals she’s trans, talking about how she ‘became someone new’ and found her true self. The developers confirmed that’s exactly what that line means. It’s just… really cool to see a Black trans woman represented like this, especially in a gritty steampunk world. It feels different and adds a lot to the game.

‘Watch Dogs 2’ (2016)

Miranda Comay is a strong and ethical member of the city council who helps guide the story. She’s a good friend to the main character, Marcus Holloway, and together they fight against the powerful and controlling Blume Corporation and its ctOS system. The game reveals Miranda is a transgender woman, and a group called the Church of the New Dawn tries to use her medical history to blackmail her. However, Miranda bravely refuses to be intimidated, remaining a determined political leader dedicated to fairness and fighting for what’s right.

‘Horizon Forbidden West’ (2022)

During the side quest “A Soldier’s March,” Aloy encounters Wekatta, a Black trans woman from the Tenakth, a tribe who live in the sky. Wekatta creates pens and preserves the history of her people, choosing this path instead of becoming a warrior. She shares that her tribe initially struggled to understand her choice to wear armor traditionally worn by a different gender, but ultimately accepted her. Her story is a heartwarming illustration of acceptance in the game’s world.

‘Rainbow Six Siege’ (2015)

I’m so excited about the new operator, Sens! Their real name is Néon Ngoma Mutombo, and they were added in the Vector Glare update. What’s really cool is that they’re from Belgium but have Congolese roots, and they’re a non-binary combat engineer. They use this awesome projector to build tactical barriers, which is a game-changer! The developers have done a great job with their story and character – they consistently use they/them pronouns, and a non-binary actor voices them. Honestly, I think Sens is a really smart addition to the game, bringing both skill and a fresh perspective on diversity that we haven’t really seen before in these kinds of shooters.

‘Battlefield 2042’ (2021)

Emma Rosier, known as “Sundance,” is a skilled combatant who specializes in aerial assaults using a wingsuit and various explosives. They identify as non-binary and have French and African heritage, details officially acknowledged by the game’s creators and included in their character story. Players often describe Sundance as a daring and unpredictable fighter, with a unique personality and a willingness to take big risks. Their background is presented as a natural part of who they are, not as a central focus of the game’s narrative.

‘Concord’ (2024)

Bazz is a character in the game Freegunner who fights using throwing knives and is known for her quick movements. Importantly, she’s a Black trans woman, and this is a core part of who she is, reflected in the game’s story. Bazz was ostracized by her family because of her transition, which led her to become a mercenary. Even though Freegunner wasn’t a long-running game, Bazz stands out as a significant representation of a Black trans woman in a major action shooter.

‘Boyfriend Dungeon’ (2021)

Rowan is a playable character in our game—a mysterious and gothic scythe wielder who players can romance. They are a Black, non-binary individual dealing with loss and figuring out what comes next. As you build a relationship with Rowan, you’ll uncover a touching story about grief, self-discovery, and opening up emotionally. Their story offers a thoughtful portrayal of the non-binary experience in a contemporary fantasy setting.

‘Destiny 2’ (2017)

I gotta say, Nimbus is one of the coolest characters they’ve added to the game with the Lightfall expansion. They’re a Cloud Strider, basically a protector of this awesome new city, Neomuna. What I really appreciate is how they represent diversity – Nimbus is non-binary with striking silver skin and features, and voiced by a fantastic non-binary actor. They use they/them pronouns, which is great to see. Throughout the campaign, Nimbus is a huge help, acting as a vendor and a really important ally. Plus, their story is compelling – they’re young and eager to prove themselves and live up to the Cloud Strider legacy, which is a big part of what Lightfall is all about.

‘ValiDate’ (2022)

This game is a visual novel about the ups and downs of dating in the city, with a wide range of characters. You can play as Emhari, a Black non-binary character, and experience their journey through modern relationships. The game lets you see things from Emhari’s point of view, including their thoughts and challenges with opening up to others. It’s especially praised for its realistic and heartfelt portrayal of queer people of color, making Emhari’s story particularly memorable.

‘Spirit Swap: Lofi Beats to Match-3 To’ (2023)

Demar is a central character in a vibrant, music-filled puzzle game. He’s a Black, transgender man who’s a demon, and he has a passion for fashion and positivity, helping to create a welcoming and diverse game world. The game openly embraces and celebrates queer and trans people of color, and Demar’s design and personality showcase a happy and fashionable life. Players love his charming interactions with others, making him a popular character in the indie gaming community.

‘I Was a Teenage Exocolonist’ (2022)

Nomi-Nomi is a non-binary character players connect with as they progress through this story-driven RPG. Though their background is part of the colony’s diverse genetics, many see them as a person of color, and a non-binary actor provides their voice. Throughout the game, Nomi examines their gender identity, eventually choosing new pronouns and finding ways to express themselves creatively through art and stories. Their journey of self-discovery is considered one of the most touching in recent video games.

‘Starfield’ (2023)

In the cyberpunk city of Neon, players can meet Dani Garcia at the Euphorika lounge. Dani is a companion you can recruit, and she’s a trans woman brought to life by trans actor Blu del Barrio. She honestly shares her history and why she’s looking for a fresh start in space, offering a believable and relatable portrayal of a trans character in a futuristic setting. Plus, her expertise in robotics makes her a useful addition to any team, combining practicality with meaningful representation.

‘We Are OFK’ (2022)

Carter Flores creates the visual effects for OFK, an indie pop band featured in this story-driven game. Carter is a Black, non-binary character who brings the band’s digital concerts to life with their technical skills. Known for being a tech expert with a subtle sense of humor, they often keep the more energetic band members grounded. Carter challenges typical stereotypes, presenting a unique and confident take on the ‘tech guy’ role.

‘Get In The Car, Loser!’ (2021)

Okay, so there’s this character, Grace, in the RPG I’m playing – it’s a road trip game about saving the world, and the main characters are all lesbians. Grace is amazing; she’s a Black trans woman who uses divine powers in battle. She’s definitely the mature one of the group, always bringing a level head and a lot of strength. What I really like is that her dialogue feels real – she talks about her life and how she sees things, which adds a nice balance to the game’s humor. Honestly, the team wouldn’t be the same without her; she’s not just powerful magically, but she also keeps everyone grounded and offers really good advice.

‘Monster Prom 2: Monster Camp’ (2020)

Milo Belladonna is a character in the game who works as a reaper and can be a romantic partner. Notably, Milo is the first non-binary character players can pursue a relationship with. Their design—featuring grey skin and dreadlocks—establishes them as a person of color within the game’s monster world. A social media influencer with a flair for fashion, Milo uses they/them pronouns. Their storyline is both funny and endearing, and it presents non-binary identity in a natural way amidst the game’s supernatural setting.

‘Arcade Spirits: The New Challengers’ (2022)

I’m really excited about Sym in this game! They start off as a rival, but quickly become a friend. What I love is that they’re non-binary and have such a cool, unique style – really futuristic! They make you think about what it means to compete and how to build a community. They’re a huge part of the whole rivalry thing in the game, and honestly, their story is amazing – you can even develop a romance with them that’s all about respecting each other and putting aside those competitive feelings. It’s a really cool arc!

‘Splatoon 3’ (2022)

Shiver, from the idol group Deep Cut, is a character with darker skin whose gender isn’t clearly defined, leading many fans to see them as non-binary. The Japanese version of the game uses gender-neutral language when Shiver speaks and avoids using gendered terms. As a shark-taming bandit, Shiver adds a cool and unique style to the game’s Splatfests. This thoughtful character design reflects Nintendo’s growing willingness to explore gender-neutral options in its games.

‘Hades’ (2020)

Chaos is an ancient, powerful being considered the very first entity in existence. They appear as a floating, many-faced figure with dark, stone-like skin, and use they/them pronouns. Existing beyond the traditional categories of gods and mortals, Chaos isn’t strictly either. In the game, they act as a vendor and offer Zagreus powerful benefits in exchange for a temporary loss of health. Their appearance and voice are designed to feel ancient, alien, and completely beyond human gender.

‘The Sims 4’ (2014)

Over time, The Sims 4 has become more inclusive by adding diverse characters, including those representing the Black trans community. Characters like Ash Harjo were introduced with the “High School Years” expansion and later updates, and players can encounter them living everyday lives in the game – going to school, working, or simply exploring the neighborhoods. The game also allows players to create their own Black trans Sims with customized appearances and pronouns.

‘Extreme Meatpunks Forever’ (2018)

This unique indie game stands out for its diverse cast of queer and transgender people of color. Players take control of four flawed but lovable gay characters who fight neo-nazis using massive robotic suits. The game features authentic representation, like the character Brad who is a Black trans man, and tells a boldly queer story exploring the struggles and victories of marginalized people in a dark, futuristic world. It’s a gripping and impactful experience, giving much-needed visibility to characters often overlooked in video games.

Tell us about any interesting or meaningful details you’ve noticed about characters, or examples of how they’re portrayed, in the comments below!

2025-12-08 12:18