Dragon Age: The Veilguard [picture credit: EA], the much-anticipated sequel to Dragon Age: Inquisition, has made a significant impact on the gaming community by securing three top honours at the 2025 Gayming Awards. The awards ceremony, held on 9 July at The Abbey in West Hollywood and livestreamed on World of Wonder’s WOW Presents Plus, celebrated diversity and inclusion in gaming. The game won the coveted Game of the Year award, along with Best LGBTQ+ Character for its protagonist, Rook, and Best LGBTQ+ Voice Actor for Erika Ishii, who lent her voice to the character.
This achievement reflects the growing recognition and celebration of LGBTQ+ representation in video games. The Veilguard’s success is particularly noteworthy given its status as EA’s most popular single-player game on the PC gaming platform Steam since its release last year. BioWare and EA have crafted a game that not only excels in gameplay but also champions inclusive storytelling and character design, resonating strongly with diverse audiences.
Gary McKay, BioWare’s general manager and executive producer, expressed profound appreciation following the win. He credited the entire development team, highlighting the passion, creativity, and unique perspectives that defined the project. McKay remarked on the significance of the Best LGBTQ+ Character award, emphasising how meaningful it was for the team. Additionally, he paid tribute to the four voice actors who brought Rook to life and supported the inclusive approach the game took.
The awards saw stiff competition, with Dragon Age: The Veilguard leading the nominations earlier in the year with a record 12 shortlistings across various categories, including the Gayming Magazine Readers’ Award. Other strong contenders included well-known titles such as Life is Strange: Double Exposure and The Last of Us Part II Remastered. The latter also secured the Gayming Magazine Readers’ Award on the night, underscoring the variety and quality of LGBTQ+ representation in modern gaming.
The Gayming Awards ceremony was hosted by figures from the LGBTQ+ gaming community, including DEERE and MiladyConfetti, with a special appearance by drag performer Morgan McMichaels, reinforcing the event’s commitment to celebrating queer culture. Other notable winners included Kitsune Tails for Best LGBTQ+ Indie Game, Code Coven for the Industry Diversity Award, and Arcane: Season 2 for LGBTQ+ Geek Entertainment of the Year.
Source: Noah Wire Services
