Nintendo apologizes for "failing to include same-sex relationships" in Tomodachi Life

Nintendo has apologized for "failing to include same-sex relationships in Tomodachi Life," when the firm is committed to "fun and entertainment for everyone."

The statement was issued in a press release, as well as on the official website, with the firm promising it would "strive to design a game-play experience" that is more inclusive should it create a sequel to Tomodachi Life.

"We apologize for disappointing many people by failing to include same-sex relationships in Tomodachi Life," reads the statement. "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."

The firm recently came under fire from advocate group GLAAD for "sending a hurtful message to many of its fans and consumers by excluding them, while setting itself way behind the times.”

Many players of the game took great umbrage with the removal of same-sex relationships in the game, which according to Nintendo, was the result of a misunderstanding surrounding a patch issued to the Japanese version of the game.

Many felt Nintendo had patched same-sex relationships out of Tomodachi Life on purpose, but Nintendo assured that was not the case; however, earlier this week the firm also said the lack of the option was due to the game being whimsical in nature, not a platform for “social commentary”.