PlayStation Sequel Sparks Debate as AI Reimagines Game Legends as the Opposite Gender

The highly anticipated sequel to Ghost of Tsushima was officially unveiled during PlayStation’s State of Play event on September 24th. Titled Ghost of Yōtei, the game shifts away from a direct continuation of Jin Sakai’s story, instead introducing a new female protagonist. This change has sparked a range of reactions from fans. Addressing the backlash, former Sony executive Shawn Layden bluntly responded, “If you don’t like it, don’t buy it,” defending the creative decision behind the new female protagonist.

Amidst the controversy, and in a unique experiment, the mystery box platform Cases.gg used the AI image generator Midjourney to envision some of the most iconic video game characters in gender-swapped roles.

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Mario, Super Mario

Mario, one of the oldest characters on this list, was introduced in 1981. He didn’t start as the hero of his own series but as a playable character in the first Donkey Kong game. Since then, he’s appeared in over 200 video games, two movies, and many other media adaptations.

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Agent 47, Hitman

Agent 47, a genetically engineered assassin, made his first appearance in the 2000s video game, Hitman: Codename 47. Since then, he has become known for his deadly missions in various forms of media, including over ten video games, two novels, and two live-action movies.

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Arthur Morgan, Red Dead Redemption 2

Arthur Morgan, the main character of Red Dead Redemption 2 (2018), is one of the few characters on this list to appear in just one game. Despite this, his storyline has made him a fan favourite and a memorable figure in the gaming world.

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Crash Bandicoot, Crash Bandicoot

First introduced in the 1996 game Crash Bandicoot, this genetically enhanced marsupial has starred in over 20 video games to date. His quirky personality and iconic design have cemented him as one of the most recognisable characters in gaming.

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Cloud Strife, Final Fantasy VII

Cloud Strife made his first appearance as the protagonist of 1997’s Final Fantasy VII. Since then, he has appeared in over 30 video games and various other media, becoming one of the most iconic figures in the Final Fantasy series and beyond.

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Ellie Williams, The Last of Us

Ellie Williams, best known as the lead character in 2013’s The Last of Us, first appeared in the prequel comic book series The Last of Us: American Dreams. This four-issue series introduced the tough, foul-mouthed teenager before her debut in the game.

Since then, Ellie has been the focus of sequels, additional game content, and a TV adaptation, solidifying her position as a significant figure in the series.

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Kazuma Kiryu, Yakuza

Kazuma Kiryu has appeared in ten games within the Yakuza/Like a Dragon franchise, several film adaptations, and even a stage play based on the series. His enduring popularity makes him a standout character in the franchise’s long history.

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Kratos, God of War

The Spartan warrior Kratos has been featured in more than eight games of the God of War series, two comic series, three novels, and multiple crossover appearances in games outside the franchise. His transformation over the years has made him one of gaming’s most compelling characters.

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Steve, Minecraft

Steve, the iconic player character from 2011’s Minecraft—the best-selling video game of all time as of 2024—has also appeared in four other games, including the spinoff Minecraft Dungeons. His recognisable yet simple design has made him a symbol of creativity and exploration for millions of players worldwide.

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Lara Croft, Tomb Raider

Lara Croft first appeared in the 1996 game Tomb Raider for the Sega Saturn. Since then, she has been featured in over 15 games, three films, several novelisations, comic book adaptations, and an upcoming animated series on Netflix. Lara’s adventurous spirit and iconic status have solidified her as one of gaming’s most enduring characters.