Following widespread controversy earlier this week, Nintendo has apologized for not supporting gay marriage in Tomodachi Life, promising that if they do make a sequel, it will be "more inclusive."
Here's Nintendo's full statement, posted on their website this afternoon:
We apologize for disappointing many people by failing to include same-sex relationships in Tomodachi Life. Unfortunately, it is not possible for us to change this game's design, and such a significant development change can't be accomplished with a post-ship patch. At Nintendo, dedication has always meant going beyond the games to promote a sense of community, and to share a spirit of fun and joy. We are committed to advancing our longtime company values of fun and entertainment for everyone. We pledge that if we create a next installment in the Tomodachi series, we will strive to design a game-play experience from the ground up that is more inclusive, and better represents all players.
It's a straightforward, honest, heartfelt response, coming just two days after the less thoughtful statement Nintendo sent out to media outlets as a response to a fan petition to put gay marriage in Tomodachi Life, which comes out this June for 3DS. The game, which lets you watch characters interact and build relationships in an alternate world not unlike The Sims or Animal Crossing, only allows characters to date other characters of the opposite sex.