New Tomodachi Life game introduces same‑sex relationships and non‑binary characters

Nintendo’s much‑loved life‑simulation franchise is taking a landmark step forward in LGBTQ+ representation. The forthcoming sequel, Tomodachi Life: Living the Dream - due for release in April 2026 - will, for the first time in the series’ history, allow players to create Miis who are gay, bisexual, aromantic, asexual, and non‑binary.

The original Tomodachi Life, released in 2009 (and internationally on the 3DS in 2013), faced long‑standing criticism for restricting in‑game relationships exclusively to heterosexual pairings. In 2014, fans petitioned Nintendo to introduce same‑sex marriage, but the company initially defended the omission as consistent with a “playful alternate world” that was “not intended to make any form of social commentary”. They later apologised, promising that any future instalment would be “more inclusive” and better reflect the diversity of its players.

Now, over a decade later, Nintendo has fulfilled that pledge. During a Nintendo Direct broadcast on 29 January 2026, the company showcased an expanded and notably inclusive Mii creation system. Players will be able to choose from three gender options—male, female, and non‑binary - and define each Mii’s dating preferences, selecting one gender, multiple genders, or none at all. This means Miis can now form same‑sex partnerships, pursue multi‑gender romantic interests, or simply opt out of romance altogether - opening the door to gay, lesbian, bisexual, pansexual, aromantic, and asexual representation.

This marks a significant departure from Nintendo’s earlier approach. For years, queer fans resorted to unofficial workarounds - such as disguising a Mii’s gender or modding the game - to simulate relationships that the system itself did not support. Confusion over a supposed 2014 “same‑sex marriage bug” further heightened frustration, and the company’s initial response was widely viewed as dismissive. The inclusion of non‑binary identities and explicit gender‑based dating preferences has therefore been greeted as a long‑awaited breakthrough.

Coverage from industry outlets has underscored the significance of the update. Nintendo Life described the change as a “huge win” for fans and emphasised that Nintendo has finally delivered on its promise to design a more inclusive experience “from the ground up”. The publication also noted that these options should have been available in earlier entries, but praised the company for taking meaningful steps now. Meanwhile, GameSpot highlighted the scale of the shift, reporting that the new entry allows both same‑sex relationships and non‑binary Mii creation - fulfilling a decade‑old commitment to better reflect all players. 

Across social media, fans have celebrated the announcement with enthusiasm. Many expressed delight at finally being able to create avatars that reflect themselves, their partners, and their communities, calling the update “terrific” and “the real dream”.