The Creation and Significance of Apex Legends' First Trans Character

Respawn Entertainment introduced its first trans character, Catalyst, to Apex Legends last year. The character's name originated from a brainstorming session focused on her in-game abilities, which involve creating a chemical reaction in ferrofluid. According to Respawn lead writer Ashley Reed, the name "Catalyst" was suggested by a former designer and immediately gained traction with the team. The name worked well from a gameplay perspective, allowing players to quickly communicate and understand each other's actions. The creation process for Catalyst was deliberate and thoughtful, with Respawn aiming to create a diverse cast of characters. Reed notes that the decision to add a trans character to the game was driven by a desire to reflect the diversity of the world today and tomorrow. The team worked with trans developers and consulted with GLAAD to ensure that the character was created in a respectful and authentic manner. Voice actor Meli Grant, who is openly trans, was involved in the character's development and appreciated the collaborative process. Grant emphasizes the importance of involving marginalized groups in the creative process, rather than just adding representation as an afterthought. She also notes that it's essential to create opportunities for people from marginalized groups to tell their own stories and thrive in their careers. Reed suggests that developers should not be afraid to include trans characters in their games and should focus on creating a well-rounded and authentic character. The team's experience with Catalyst was positive, and they encourage other developers to take a similar approach. By doing so, they can create a more inclusive and diverse gaming environment that benefits everyone involved.