Nintendo apologizes for lack of equality in life simulator game; promises more inclusiveness

Nintendo is apologizing and pledging to be more inclusive after being criticized for not recognizing same-sex relationships in English editions of a life-simulator video game. But the publisher said it was too late to change the game.

Nintendo came under fire from fans and gay rights organizations this past week after refusing to add same-sex relationship options to the game "Tomodachi Life."

The game was originally released in Japan last year and features a cast of Mii characters — Nintendo's personalized avatars of real players — living on a virtual island. Gamers can do things like shop, play games, go on dates and get married.

Already a hit in Japan, "Tomodachi Life" is set for release June 6 in North America and Europe.