I have been an avid player of "The Sims" since I first discovered the game back in elementary school. For those of you unfamiliar with "The Sims," it is a life simulation game that allows you to create and customize a family, then play out their lives. The Sims has always been ahead of the curve in regards to LGBT rights. The game allows same-sex couples to marry, adopt children and even recognizes extended families. In a recent update for "The Sims 4," the game took a huge step and removed gender barriers all together.

Previously, creation of Sims, as the characters are called, was strictly divided between male and female characters. With the new update, all hairstyles and clothing are available to all Sims, regardless of their original gender. On "The Sims" blog, EA Maxis wrote that this update was part of what "The Sims" stands for.

"'The Sims' is made by a diverse team for a diverse audience, and...we want to make sure players can create characters they can identify with."

According to EA Maxis, a subsidiary of Electronic Arts, this update has been in the works for over a year near. GLAAD, a LGBT organization, was even a partner in the process. "The Sims" blog features a comment section, the majority of responses being overwhelmingly positive. Several players applauded EA Maxis for their recognition of gender fluidity. Other users were just excited for the expansion of customizable content.

Madison Dimond, a student at Florida State University and long time "Sims" player, was excited to hear about the new update. "I think it's a really amazing step... Gender is such a sensitive subject and this helps make ['The Sims'] more relatable to a lot more people."

Sex is a biological definition, where as gender is a cultural one. The fact that "The Sims," an extremely popular video game, is acknowledging a separation between these two terms is wonderful news for the LBGT community. Although there are far greater and more pressing issues LBGT individuals are facing, every step towards acceptance counts. Hopefully, the new update will not only make players feel more relatable to their Sims, but also open the minds of players who may not understand the difference between sex and gender.

"The Sims 4" has not announced any more LBGT aimed updates, but no one knows what the future holds. "The Sims" official website is currently focusing on advertising for its upcoming expansion pack "The Sims 4 Dine Out." "The Sims" is available in several formats, including PC, Mac, XBox One and PSP4. While considered to be a more "casual" game by avid gamers, "The Sims" continues to top charts with its sales.