Gender Customization in Cyberpunk 2077 and Inclusive Character Creation
Overview
Cyberpunk 2077, developed by CD Projekt Red, is an open-world RPG that offers extensive character customization, allowing players to create a protagonist, V, with a diverse range of body types, voices, and features. One of the most significant aspects of its character creator is the ability to mix traditionally gendered traits, such as selecting a female-presenting character with a penis or a male-presenting character with a vagina. This level of customization is a step forward in gaming, embracing a more inclusive approach to gender representation.
How to Create a Female Character with a Penis
In Cyberpunk 2077, gender is not restricted to binary selections. Instead of choosing a “male” or “female” character, players customize their V using a variety of traits:
- Body Type Selection – Players choose a body type that appears traditionally masculine or feminine.
- Voice Selection – The choice of voice (masculine or feminine) determines how NPCs refer to V in dialogue.
- Genital Customization – The game allows players to select different genital options regardless of body type, including the ability to create a female-presenting character with a penis.
The Importance of Inclusive Character Creation
The ability to mix gendered traits in Cyberpunk 2077 is significant for several reasons:
- Representation of Trans and Non-Binary Identities – Many transgender and non-binary people exist outside traditional gender norms. By allowing players to create characters with diverse body configurations, Cyberpunk 2077 acknowledges and includes these identities in a AAA gaming experience.
- Breaking Away from Gender Norms in Gaming – Most games still enforce strict binary gender options. Cyberpunk 2077’s approach moves toward a future where players have more freedom in expressing their identities.
- Supporting Player Agency – By decoupling voice, body, and genitalia choices, the game gives players greater control over how they represent themselves in the world of Night City.
Cultural Impact and Reception
The decision to include diverse gender options was met with both praise and critique. Many in the LGBTQ+ community appreciated the step toward inclusivity, even as some criticized the limitations, such as voice still determining pronoun use in the game. Nevertheless, Cyberpunk 2077 remains one of the first major games to offer this level of customization, setting a precedent for future titles to expand gender diversity in character creation.
Conclusion
The gender customization options in Cyberpunk 2077 mark an important moment in gaming history, promoting more inclusive representation by allowing players to create characters that better reflect the diversity of real-world identities. By offering the ability to mix traditionally gendered features, the game challenges outdated norms and provides a glimpse into a future where all bodies and identities are supported in interactive media.
