‘Mortal Kombat X’ Introduces First Gay Character, Angers Male-Dominated Gaming Community
Mortal Kombat X has revealed its first gay character, according to a Gay Star News report. Kung Jin is reported to be a closeted gay man whose sexuality is revealed in a flashback scene on the popular video game. The flashback reveals that the thief-turned-monk is a member of the Special Forces Unit and an expert archer, according to NewNowNext News.
In Chapter 4 of Mortal Kombat X, Raiden suggests that Kung Jin join the Shaolin monks instead.
Raiden says: “Self-loathing has always been an unfortunate part of your makeup.”
Kung Jin responds: “I can’t … They accept …”
Raiden responds: “They care only of what is in your heart; not whom your heart desires.”
Mortal Kombat X only hints about King Jin’s sexuality. Director Dominic Ciancialo confirmed the character’s sexuality to curious players on Twitter.
“I see people are picking up on the subtle exposition contained in Kung Jin’s flashback. Glad we have observant fans!”
Not all fans are happy to hear about the news, though. Kung Jin is a favorite in the Mortal Kombat games, and among those in the gaming community. Although most are open to the fact that he may be gay, there have some that have expressed their rage on social media. Some Mortal Kombat fans think that introducing Kung Jin as the first gay character is the game’s way of pandering to “social justice warriors.” Other players in the heavily male-dominated gaming community also refuse to play the character after knowing his sexuality.
“Bulls**t. Kung Jin is not gay, what the f**k mate!”
“I hope them making Kung Jin gay is more of a general acceptance message of morality and not pandering to the SJWs.”
“Kung Jin – #MKX token character to appease the #SJWs? You be the judge. #gamergate”
“Kung Jin is gay!? Wtf!”
“Is it true that Kung Jin is gay? Why does sexuality have to be mentioned? Most ridiculous stuff EVER!! Disappointed.”
“OMG KUNG JIN IS GAY??? WOW SJWs HOW DARE U PANDER OMG OMG OMG GAY PEOPLE DONT EXIST IN VIDEOGAMES!!!!”
Overall, the reaction to Kung Jin being revealed as a gay man has been mostly positive from the gaming community. Mortal Kombat has been known for tackling both serious issues and social issues in its videos games, so it doesn’t come as a surprise to most gamers. That just makes Mortal Kombat X one of a growing number of games that uses LGBT characters with actual relationships and real story lines. Final Fantasy and Mass Effect have included story lines with same-sex marriages in its releases. Mortal Kombat X was released on Tuesday, April 14, on PC, PS3, and PS4, as previously reported by the Inquisitr.
What are your thoughts on Mortal Kombat X revealing its first gay character? Are you happy or appalled?
[Images: BagoGames via Flickr]
