Nintendo Issues Second Statement for Same-Sex Relationships in Tomodachi Life

Nintendo has issued a second, updated statement on the issue of same-sex relationships in Tomodachi Life.

With the game's Western release on the horizon, potential buyers have been urging Nintendo to consider adding the option to select same-sex as a preference. However, the additional development work couldn't be achieved by "with a post-skip patch", Nintendo said in the official statement.

Earlier this week, Nintendo's first approach took on a stance that the company "never intended to make any form of social commentary" and simply wanted to create a game that represents a "playful alternate world rather than a real-life simulation".

Given the strong backlash to the use of "social commentary" in the initial response, Nintendo have today issued a revised statement.

We apologize for disappointing many people by failing to include same-sex relationships in Tomodachi Life. Unfortunately, it is not possible for us to change this game's design, and such a significant development change can't be accomplished with a post-ship patch. At Nintendo, dedication has always meant going beyond the games to promote a sense of community, and to share a spirit of fun and joy.

We are committed to advancing our longtime company values of fun and entertainment for everyone. We pledge that if we create a next installment in the Tomodachi series, we will strive to design a game-play experience from the ground up that is more inclusive, and better represents all players.

What are your thoughts on Nintendo's updated stance on same-sex relationships in Tomodachi Life?