Xbox Avatars have been around since the days of the Xbox 360. Serving as a customisable digital self, gamers could even unlock items by completing certain achievements in a game. Yes, it certainly was an exciting time to be an avatar.
Sadly with the updates to the Xbox Live dashboard the avatars have all but faded from existence and it seems that only a few dedicated long time gamers like myself still dare to use and tinker with their avatars. Well, that’s all about to change!
Microsoft have just announced at their recent Xbox Daily from E3 2017 on Tuesday that they will be revamping the avatar system. For those thinking this might be a simple update get ready to be wowed, the entire Avatar creator has been rebuilt in the Unity engine making this a complete overhaul.
Larry Hryb AKA Major Nelson, designer Kathryn Storm, and project manager Bryan Saftler spoke about how the system is now able to support a much higher level of diversity as a result of this new engine. Staftler and Storm stated:
“Our new Avatars are built with inclusivity absolutely in mind, with absolutely more options”
“We want people to feel like we have endless options to really reflect who they are”
“At the end of the day, Avatars are meant for whatever you want your digital self to represent”
Part of this new found inclusivity can be found not only in the new avatars range of diverse mounts such as wheelchairs, but also in its ability to allow gamers to dress them however they choose. You’ll be able to place any and all clothing or style options on your avatars regardless of gender. This is an amazing step forward in gender diversity and one that has us seeing rainbows.
About the Author
Rachel Humphreys
Rachel (Trance) is a long time gamer full time nerd without a plan... When she's not playing on some manner of console or handheld device she can be found enjoying popculture life to its fullest.
