GTA IV - Pushing a gay agenda

Why is it when something stands out as being gay,  there's the automatic assumption by a certain strain of people that there's some underlying plan that is embedded within the framework. These people then love to throw about the word 'agenda' because it always sounds more deceitful and full of intent. How many times have we laughed at people who say things like "she might turn her gay", a ridiculous notion, thought up by the anti gay crowd to entrench a fear that it is actually possible to 'turn' someone gay.

Whilst researching a recent story here for Lesbian Gamers I came across a forum thread discussing Grand Theft Auto IV. The name of the thread was 'GTA IV The gay agenda'. The person that started the thread seemed somewhat upset that Rockstar had included overtly gay characters in the GTA IV title, he states "when you have gay jokes in addition to multiple over and covertly gay characters, gay references and hints -- I have to seriously start wondering if someone is trying to push an agenda" that being the big gay agenda that will obviously take over the world we imagine.

 

 

There are two truly astounding aspects to this forum thread that struck me, the first was that the idea of having overtly gay characters in video games would be taken as pushing a gay agenda and secondly, that the thread doesn't immediately disintegrate into a lot of homophobic ranting by fanboys (girls). One poster states "So putting gay characters in a videogame means you have an agenda?" which is a really great point.

It's ridiculous to suggest Rockstar are pushing any sort of specific agenda with GTA IV, particularly a gay one. The inclusion of gay characters and storylines is something Rockstar should be applauded for, particularly in a game that is seen as being part of this ridiculous uber masculine type of game that is only going to appeal to homophobic rednecks and 16-30 males who like swigging beer and being sexist.

 

 

If Rockstar has any agenda in GTA IV it is to poke fun at idiocy in the world. On some level GTA IV brings into question why a country that uses the right to bear arms as an excuse for gun ownership appears stunned when things go horribly awry. GTA IV pokes fun at indigenous genocide, the culture of celebrity, homophobia, warmongering and various other unpalatable aspects of modern day life.

If you're interested in the gay and lesbian content of GTA IV, we'll be covering it in as much detail as we can. Be sure you didn't miss our Elizabeta Torres post about her being a lesbian in game.

If you wish to leave a comment about this article, you can do so HERE.

You can also check out Gay Girls Who Game Episode 17 which was a GTA IV special.

 

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