In the latest mid-chapter update since the release of the “Sadako Rising” update, Dead By Daylight has revealed its first openly LGBTQ+ character in its latest story-driven Archive content.
In the latest Tome “Devotion”, the background of David King, an existing original survivor character, will be explored and shed light on his identity as a gay man. It will follow the trials and tribulations he has faced in coming to terms with his identity from before he entered the Realm of the Entity in a series of backstory entries. Described as “a hot-tempered ruffian with a penchant for a good scrap”, David is a fighter to the end and has cemented himself as a favourite character (as well as one of the top 10 most played) in the Dead By Daylight.
Since its release, Dead By Daylight has become increasingly popular within the queer community, inspiring cosplay, drag and LGBTQ+ streamers that have found comfort and fun with the characters in the game’s horror pantheon. As an asymmetrical multiplayer game, it has garnered widespread attention for incorporating horror’s most iconic characters into a roster of original characters.
While Dead By Daylight’s integral gameplay mechanics may be relatively simple, its cast of characters has left its mark on the community. The Archive segment of the game was created to expand on the brief lore details already provided with their initial release. In consulting with GaymerX, an LGBTQ+ organisation, the creative team at Behaviour Interactive have been working to retroactively incorporate this story into David’s already established narrative.
Along with characters like Jane Romero and Yui Kimura, David King was already a firm favourite within the player base, including a large number of LGBTQ+ players. While incorporating retroactive representation can often be a difficult topic to navigate, the assistance of GaymerX and discussions with queer players appear to be the first step in the inclusion of further queer characters ahead in what looks to be a positive future for inclusivity within the game.
Dead By Daylight has gradually taken steps to show its pride prior to this update with in-game charms. These collectables are used to decorate the hooks for killers and belts of survivors, allowing for that extra modicum of customisation beyond the standard cosmetic skins. In 2021, a charm depicting the pride flag was released. In its mid-chapter latest update, a new progression pride charm has been released with the inclusion of colours for trans people and people of colour. To receive this charm, players need only enter the code “PRIDE2022”.
The “Devotion” Tome will open for players on November 28, 2022.
Words by Jack Roberts
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