In a bold move that has grabbed the attention of the gaming community, ZeniMax Project Narrative Director Bill Slavicsek has defended the inclusion of Tanlorin, The Elder Scrolls Online’s first non-binary companion. This character debuted in Update 44, which hit PC and Mac on October 28, with console players set for the launch on November 13. As gamers come to terms with the new addition, Slavicsek emphasizes that the backlash is largely misplaced, as he asserts, “The Elder Scrolls franchise was always inclusive.”
As Slavicsek explains, Tanlorin is naturally woven into the vast tapestry of Tamriel’s lore. The High Elf outcast isn’t just a token character; instead, he’s a continuation of the franchise’s decades-long tradition of representing a broad spectrum of identities. The universe has long showcased a variety of characters, including mixed marriages and diverse orientations, making it clear that ZeniMax is committed to portraying “all possibilities.”
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The Inclusivity of Tamriel’s Lore
Fans of ESO know that the world of Tamriel has served as a canvas for inclusive storytelling, reflecting various aspects of our real-world society. According to Slavicsek, the narrative isn’t about grandstanding; rather, characters like Tanlorin coexist seamlessly in this universe. “It’s part of the world and so it’s no big deal,” he adds. Hopefully, this will help quell any concerns from players who feel that a non-binary companion disrupts immersion.
Additionally, the lore of powerful entities like Daedric Princes has already established flexibility regarding gender identity. The inclusion of Tanlorin is another layer to this already complex narrative. Slavicsek points out, “People complaining about Tanlorin’s inclusion being immersion-breaking are wrong,” standing firmly beside his creative team.
Representation Matters: The Importance of Casting
Finding the right voice for Tanlorin was crucial for authenticity. Slavicsek highlighted that it was “extremely important” for ZeniMax to cast a non-binary actor to portray this new character. Enter Vico Ortiz, a Puerto Rican actor famously known for their role in the HBO Max series, Our Flag Means Death. Slavicsek commends Ortiz for their brilliant interpretation of Tanlorin, suggesting that a character like this deserved to be represented authentically behind the microphone as well.
In closing, the introduction of Tanlorin in The Elder Scrolls Online not only expands the game’s lore but also ushers in a new era of inclusivity. As this game continues to evolve and grow, players can expect to see myriad stories that reflect the vast diversity of Tamriel. Embrace the change, and remember, every hero regardless of their identity has a story worth telling.
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