So by now, you’ve already heard about the BioWare hubbub concerning banning the words “gay” and “lesbian”, singular or plural, in their forums. Let me recap: on Bioware’s Star Wars forum discussion, there were a bunch of threads that discussed the handling of homosexual relationships which were suddenly locked around last week. The community manager of the site, Sean Dahlberg, closed it with the following words:

“As I have stated before, these are terms that do not exist in Star Wars. Thread closed.”

Of course, there was a bit of an outcry, albeit in the most conservative sense. Bioware then proceeded to lift the filters that bar discussions on homosexuality that’s relevant to the universe, along with an apology from Mr. Dahlberg. He also added that no member was banned in discussion with the topic.

All I have to say is: this is the year 2009 and people are still close-minded about same-sex relationships?

Anyone remember in 2006 when Blizzard warned an online World of Warcraft player for advertising a gay and lesbian-friendly guild? Or how about the lesbian gamer who got banned from Xbox Live because of her sexual preference? Game companies in general should very well know that gays, lesbians, bisexuals and transgenders exist, and eventually those group of people who play games like you and I will start going onto forums and be comfortable with their lifestyle while discussing their hobby and choice game.

Ironically enough, the company that makes games that let you beat up hookers and take their money seem to be the more progressive lot in this matter. I speak of Rockstar Games, who happen to allow same-sex kissing in Bully. Will Wright also doesn’t seem to mind too much about seeing Sims avatars dating other Sims of the same sex. It’s a bit weird that there’s some contrast to the matter; that other companies are being more accepting about same-sex relationships in games than others could. Hell, MMOs are the dominant mass market games as of right now; you will inevitably meet up with someone of an alternate lifestyle. The last thing this world needs is to address it with hostility on our side. It’s bad enough that some countries actually arrest and execute homosexuals on sight.

So please, readers. If you ever come across anyone with an alternate lifestyle of sorts, treat them just like you would a normal gamer and discuss your interests like proper gentlepersons. Also, refrain from using the word “gay” other than to describe something that is of homosexual or joyful nature. It’s tiring and makes you sound like an imbecile.