Games With Black Queer Elders Passing Down Legendary Weapons
The landscape of modern gaming continues to evolve by featuring diverse characters who break traditional storytelling molds. Many titles now include complex mentors who provide both wisdom and powerful artifacts to help players succeed in their journeys. These legendary weapons often carry the legacy of those who carried them before the player took up the mantle. This list explores various games where seasoned individuals from marginalized backgrounds guide the next generation of heroes through dangerous worlds. These narratives celebrate the importance of intergenerational knowledge and the strength found in inclusive representation.
‘Borderlands 3’ (2019)

Sir Alistair Hammerlock serves as a distinguished mentor and seasoned hunter who assists the Vault Hunters throughout their journey across the stars. He is a prominent Black queer character whose sophisticated demeanor and survival skills make him an invaluable ally. During the expansion focusing on his wedding, he provides players with unique legendary sniper rifles and other specialized gear. His role as an elder statesman of the hunting community ensures that his legacy continues through the weapons he shares.
‘Starfield’ (2023)

Barrett is a charismatic explorer and a core member of Constellation who offers the player guidance early in the spacefaring adventure. As a Black man who openly discusses his past husband, he represents a soulful and experienced perspective on the universe. He eventually grants the player access to powerful starship components and unique artifacts that unlock special abilities. His mentorship is defined by a blend of scientific curiosity and the wisdom of a seasoned traveler.
‘Tiny Tina’s Wonderlands’ (2022)

Paladin Mike leads the guards of Brighthoof and serves as a stalwart protector of Queen Butt Stallion in this fantasy realm. This character is presented as a Black queer knight who provides the Fatemaker with essential quests and powerful loot rewards. Mike offers steady leadership and tactical advice while the world around them succumbs to magical absurdity. Players receive some of the most reliable shields and melee weapons in the game by following this noble warrior into battle.
‘Dishonored: Death of the Outsider’ (2017)

Billie Lurk takes center stage as a Black queer protagonist who was once mentored by the legendary assassin Daud. In this standalone adventure, she inherits powerful supernatural artifacts and specialized gear that allow her to manipulate reality. She embodies the transition from a struggling street urchin to an elder figure in the underworld of Karnaca. Her journey involves reclaiming her identity while wielding weapons that were forged in the shadows of the empire.
‘Arcadegeddon’ (2021)

Gilly is the owner of a local arcade who fights against a mega corporation trying to shut down his business with a digital virus. He acts as an elder mentor to the player by providing access to an advanced gauntlet and a variety of high tech weapons. As a Black business owner in a vibrant and inclusive world, he represents the spirit of community and resistance. His guidance is essential for navigating the colorful digital landscapes and defeating the corporate drones.
‘The Outer Worlds’ (2019)

Junlei Tennyson is the chief engineer of the Groundbreaker station and a pivotal leader within the Halcyon colony. She is a Black queer woman who maintains the delicate balance of her community while offering technical support to the player. By completing her specific storylines, players can obtain unique engineering tools and powerful science weapons that utilize unconventional energy. Her wisdom as an elder figure in her society helps the crew navigate the complex political tensions of the solar system.
‘Apex Legends’ (2019)

Newcastle is a seasoned veteran and protective father figure who joins the games to protect his family and his community. He shares a deep bond with his sister Bangalore, and together they represent a legacy of military excellence and resilience. While the game focuses on competitive combat, the lore highlights how these characters pass down specialized tactical gear and heirloom weapons. Their presence as Black leaders in the arena provides a sense of history and gravitas to the ongoing narrative.
‘Destiny 2’ (2017)

Ikora Rey serves as the Warlock Vanguard and a primary mentor for all players seeking to master the powers of the Light. She is a powerful Black woman whose vast knowledge of the arcane makes her one of the most respected elders in the Last City. Throughout the various expansions, she provides guardians with exotic weapons and specialized class items that are essential for high level play. Her role as a teacher and leader is central to the survival of humanity against the encroaching darkness.
‘Watch Dogs: Legion’ (2020)

This game allows players to recruit a diverse array of citizens, including Black queer elders who bring unique skills to the DedSec resistance. These characters often come with their own specialized equipment or legacy weapons from their previous careers. By bringing these seasoned individuals into the fold, the player gains access to powerful hacking tools and non lethal weaponry. The narrative emphasizes the power of intergenerational cooperation in the fight against authoritarian control.
‘The Elder Scrolls Online’ (2014)

The vast world of Tamriel features numerous Black and queer characters who hold positions of power as mages or legendary warriors. Many of these elder figures provide players with quest rewards that include ancient staves and enchanted blades of significant power. Characters such as Keshu the Black Fin demonstrate leadership and pass down the traditions of their culture to the player. These interactions highlight a rich history where diverse heroes have shaped the fate of the continent for eras.
‘Guild Wars 2’ (2012)

This game is well known for its inclusive storytelling and characters who guide the player through the shifting world of Tyria. Several prominent Black and queer characters appear in the living world seasons to offer mentorship and specialized gear. These elders often lead the charge against elder dragons while providing the player with the tools necessary for victory. The legendary weapons in this game are often tied to the stories of these diverse heroes who came before.
‘Saints Row’ (2022)

The reboot of this franchise focuses on building a new criminal empire with the help of diverse friends and mentors. Players can customize their experience and interact with seasoned characters who provide high powered weaponry and combat training. The game emphasizes an inclusive world where Black and queer individuals occupy positions of influence and authority. Completing missions for these allies unlocks a wide variety of legendary guns and specialized equipment for the crew.
‘Baldur’s Gate 3’ (2023)

The Forgotten Realms are filled with diverse individuals, including many Black and queer characters who offer guidance in the face of absolute danger. High level mentors and elder figures frequently provide the party with enchanted items and legendary armaments that are crucial for survival. These characters often share their life stories and philosophies while preparing the player for the final confrontation. The game rewards exploration and social interaction with these wise figures by granting access to some of the most powerful gear available.
‘Cyberpunk 2077’ (2020)

Night City is a melting pot of cultures where characters like T Bug and other fixers provide essential support to the protagonist. Many of these mentors are Black or queer individuals who have survived the harsh reality of a corporate dominated future. They provide access to high tier cyberware and iconic weapons that allow V to climb the ranks of the mercenary world. Their experience as elders in the dangerous streets of the city serves as a cautionary and guiding light for the player.
‘Dead Island 2’ (2023)

The survivors in this ruined version of Los Angeles include a variety of vibrant characters who mentor the player through the zombie apocalypse. Some of the most helpful characters are seasoned individuals from diverse backgrounds who offer specialized crafting recipes and unique weapons. These characters use their life experience to help the player navigate the ruined streets with efficiency. By assisting these elders, the player earns legendary items that can cleave through the undead hordes with ease.
‘Far Cry 6’ (2021)

The revolution in Yara is led by a diverse group of rebels, including several Black and queer characters who serve as the backbone of the movement. These seasoned guerrillas provide the player with specialized backpacks and improvised weapons of immense power. Their mentorship is rooted in a long history of resistance against oppressive regimes and a desire for freedom. Players learn the art of unconventional warfare from these elders who have spent decades fighting for their home.
‘Hades II’ (2024)

Hecate serves as the powerful Headmistress who guides Melinoe through the depths of the Underworld during her quest to defeat Chronos. She is depicted as a formidable and wise elder figure who provides the protagonist with magical incantations and legendary weapons known as Nocturnal Arms. Her mentorship is crucial for the player to master the arcane arts and survive the dangerous path ahead. The game features a diverse and inclusive cast that explores deep mythological themes from a fresh perspective.
‘Banishers: Ghosts of New Eden’ (2024)

Antea Duarte is a Black banisher who becomes a ghost and continues to mentor her partner Red through their perilous journey. She provides supernatural powers and guidance on how to deal with the lingering spirits of the New World. As an experienced hunter of the occult, she passes down her knowledge and specialized equipment to ensure their survival. Her perspective as a woman of color in a historical setting adds depth to the narrative of sacrifice and legendary duty.
‘Dustborn’ (2024)

This story driven adventure features a diverse crew of outcasts traveling across a divided landscape while using the power of words. The characters include Black and queer individuals who serve as mentors to the protagonist and help her harness her unique abilities. They provide specialized gear and support that are essential for overcoming the various obstacles on their road trip. The game focuses on the importance of found family and the wisdom passed down between marginalized groups.
‘Flintlock: The Siege of Dawn’ (2024)

Nor Vanek is a Black warrior who teams up with a mysterious godlike creature to fight against an army of the undead. Along her journey, she encounters elder figures who provide her with advanced firearms and magical artifacts to tip the scales of battle. These mentors represent the resilience of a people fighting for their existence against overwhelming odds. The legendary weapons she acquires are often tied to the history and traditions of her culture and its protectors.
‘Marvel’s Spider Man 2’ (2023)

Miles Morales continues his growth as a hero under the guidance of various community leaders and seasoned mentors in Harlem. The game features diverse characters who offer Miles unique technological upgrades and specialized gadgets for his suit. Many of these mentors are elders in his community who provide wisdom and support during times of crisis. These interactions highlight the importance of legacy and the passing of the torch from one generation of heroes to the next.
‘Stray Gods: The Roleplaying Musical’ (2023)

This modern fantasy reimagines Greek mythology with a diverse cast where Grace inherits the powers of a Muse. She is guided by several elder deities who are portrayed with a wide range of racial and queer identities. These mentors provide her with the ability to influence the world through song and legendary artifacts of the gods. The narrative emphasizes the burden of these ancient gifts and the guidance needed to wield them responsibly.
‘Boyfriend Dungeon’ (2021)

In this unique blend of dating sim and dungeon crawler, players wield weapons that can transform into human beings. One of the characters is Isaac, who is a Black man that transforms into an elegant and powerful estoc. As a more mature and refined individual, he provides the player with combat advantages and personal growth through their relationship. This game explores themes of intimacy and trust as players learn to master the legendary power of their sentient weapons.
‘Thirsty Suitors’ (2023)

Jala must confront her exes and navigate family tensions in a vibrant world full of personality and color. She is supported by a variety of mentors, including Black and queer characters who offer advice on life and combat. These elders provide her with unique abilities and items that help her overcome the challenges of her past. The game celebrates diverse identities and the wisdom that comes from reconciling with one’s heritage and community.
‘ValiDate’ (2022)

This visual novel focuses on the lives and relationships of several diverse characters living in an urban environment. While the game is grounded in reality, it features elder figures who provide emotional support and life lessons that act as metaphorical weapons for the protagonists. These characters represent a wide spectrum of Black and queer experiences in the modern world. Their mentorship helps the younger generation navigate the complexities of dating and self discovery.
‘We Are OFK’ (2022)

The story follows a group of friends trying to make it in the music industry while dealing with the pressures of life in Los Angeles. They are guided by several experienced industry professionals who are Black or queer individuals with years of wisdom. These mentors provide the group with the tools and connections necessary to succeed in a competitive creative field. The narrative highlights the importance of representation and the legacy of those who paved the way for new artists.
‘Tchia’ (2023)

Tchia explores a beautiful archipelago inspired by New Caledonia where she meets various elders of the local tribes. These characters are part of a diverse indigenous culture and provide her with traditional tools and magical items. By learning from these wise individuals, she gains the ability to soul jump and take control of animals and objects. This connection to her heritage and the gifts of her elders is central to her quest to save her home.
‘Goodbye Volcano High’ (2023)

This cinematic adventure follows a group of dinosaur teenagers who are navigating the end of an era while discovering their identities. They receive guidance from diverse elder figures in their community who help them process their emotions and prepare for the future. These mentors provide the characters with instruments and creative tools that serve as their primary means of expression. The game explores themes of queer identity and the importance of finding one’s voice during times of change.
‘Marvel’s Guardians of the Galaxy’ (2021)

The game features diverse characters across the cosmos, including the powerful and mysterious Ko Rel who is a Black woman in a high ranking position. She serves as a formidable figure who challenges the guardians and provides them with essential information and equipment. Her legacy and the items she passes down are vital for the team to stop the growing threat to the universe. Her role as a seasoned commander highlights the strength and wisdom of Black leadership in the stars.
‘Marvel’s Midnight Suns’ (2022)

Caretaker is the stern guardian of the Abbey and serves as a mentor to the Hunter throughout the supernatural conflict. She is a Black woman with centuries of experience who has maintained a deep and complex relationship with Agatha Harkness. As an elder figure, she provides the player with essential upgrades and powerful combat cards that function as legendary abilities. Her wisdom is vital for uniting the team of heroes against the demonic threat of Lilith.
Please share which of these diverse legendary figures resonated with you most in the comments.


