A core cast member of Final Fantasy XVI is queer
Final Fantasy XVI is now available for players to pick up, and LGBTQ+ RPG fans may be excited to know that one of the core party members in the game is a queer man. This character is Dion Lestrange, crown prince of Holy Empire of Sanbreque and leader of its dragoons. He and his second-in-command, Terrance, are in a romantic relationship, which we see glimpses of during the game.
In the world of Final Fantasy XVI, the land of Valisthea is experiencing a crisis, as the divine power that fuels most people’s magic has almost entirely faded away. Different factions are battling to claim the last few sparks of power, while other believe that these crystals should no longer control the fate of humanity. The main story follows Clive, the first-born son of the Archduke of Rosaria, who became a skilled swordsman after his younger brother inherited their father’s god-like powers instead of him. His lifetime serving and protecting his kingdom and brother were cut short by the Eikon Ifrit, setting Clive on the path of revenge.
Dion Lestrange is a Dominant, the human vessel for a powerful being called an Eikon. The Eikon possessing him is Bahamut, King of Dragons, whose power Dion can channel to change the tide of battle. But the current conflict has caused unrest in his empire, and his position may be in danger, leading him to join forces with Clive. He has a romantic relationship with his second-in-command, Sir Terrance. During the events of Final Fantasy XVI, we can witness a brief scene where the two share a kiss. Their relationship is also later noted on Dion’s lore page, seemingly indicating that the two’s feelings for each other aren’t exactly a secret.
Fans looking to experience Dion and Sir Terrance’s relationship for themselves can check out Final Fantasy XVI now on PlayStation 5.