Crusader Kings II

Overhead map of the world with Sweden and Denmark labelled. Other labels are cut off by the edges of the screen. A portrait of a masculine figure is in the top left corner of the screen.
  • Developer: Paradox Development Studio
  • Publisher: Paradox Interactive
  • Year: 2012
  • Genre: Strategy
  • Platform/s: PC

Crusader Kings II features representation of homosexuality, though it is often not depicted positively. If a character has the 'homosexual' trait in the game, they are attracted to their own gender but must still engage in sexual interactions for the purposes of lineage. Their homosexuality results in a lower fertility rate. It is also possible to blackmail other rulers regarding their homosexuality. Although this representation of sexuality is not particularly positive, it is realistic and representative of how sexuality was treated.

In the Queer Representation (2016) survey, respondents did have praise for the representation of gender in Crusader Kings II. Ruling as a woman can be difficult—and sometimes impossible—but the challenges that come from being a woman in a time when women were severely undervalued or objectified, and potentially changing laws of succession to allow daughters to inherit leadership, were particularly enjoyable for one respondent.