Warning: Major spoilers if you haven’t watched Arcane season 2.
Arcane season 2 delivers a moment that sends ripples through the cupcake fandom: the highly-anticipated Vi and Caitlyn kiss scene.
The Vi and Caitlyn kiss scene, which happens in Arcane season 2 episode 3 titled “Finally Got the Name Right,” marks a significant milestone in the development of their complex relationship.
To fully appreciate this romantic moment, let’s take a look at the events that led up to the Vi and Caitlyn kiss.
Why Vi and Caitlyn kissing in Arcane season 2 episode 3 is groundbreaking in the League of Legends universe
Arcane season 2 episode 3 sets the stage for this intimate moment by showcasing the growing tension and vulnerability between Vi and Caitlyn.
Caitlyn’s strike force, which includes Vi, confronts one of Smeech’s henchmen named Heenot to find information on Jinx’s next move. During the interrogation, Caitlyn threatens Heenot with her weapon. This aggressive behavior, unusual for her character, prompts concern from Vi.
Heenot then reveals that Jinx is “planning something big” in the pipeworks.
Caitlyn then tells the rest of her team to cuff Heenot as he’ll be charged and sent to prison as a confessed criminal.
After interrogating Heenot, Vi pulls Caitlyn aside for a private conversation. In this heart-to-heart, Vi confides in Caitlyn, saying that everyone in her life has changed, and she wishes for Caitlyn not to.
“My sister is gone. There’s only Jinx now. It has to end,” says Vi to Caitlyn.
It is in this vulnerable moment that Caitlyn, moved by Vi’s honesty and fear, makes a bold move. She comes close and gently places her hand on Vi’s cheek. While she is the one who initiates, it’s Vi who drops her gauntlets before going in for a passionate kiss.
Vi and Caitlyn kissing is a historic moment in League of Legends. This marks the first time Riot Games has explicitly depicted a romantic relationship between two of its characters.
Before this, while Riot has hinted at the sexual orientations of several characters, their relationships have remained largely implied. Fans have never witnessed such a clear and intimate portrayal of love between two characters, whether in official lore or animated media.
Vi and Caitlyn kissing in Arcane season 2 episode 3 solidifies their relationship as canon within the League of Legends universe.
In the broader LoL universe, other champions have been officially confirmed by Riot Games to be in LGBTQ+ relationships.
The very first story explicitly depicting homosexual romance was “Rise With Me,” written by Narrative Writer Dana Luery “griddlebones” Shaw. Released in June 2021, during Pride Month, this short story follows the complex relationship between champions Diana and Leona.
It explores their shared history, their contrasting ideologies, and the undeniable bond that ties them together, even as they stand on opposite sides of a centuries-old conflict.
A year later, in June 2022, another short story was published following a different pair of LoL champions. “The Boys and Bombolini,” written by Principal Narrative Writer Jared “Carnival Knights” Rose, is set in the gritty world of Bilgewater and features Graves and Twisted Fate.
It’s a light-hearted tale that explores their unique partnership, filled with banter, experiences, and a deep understanding of each other.
While the story doesn’t explicitly confirm a romantic relationship between Graves and Twisted Fate, it certainly hints at a strong bond beyond friendship. Their interactions are often playful and affectionate, and they have a clear sense of camaraderie and respect.
Other characters who are confirmed to be a part of the LGBTQ+ community within the League of Legends universe include Varus, Neeko, Nami, K’Sante, Nidalee, and Rell.
Riot Games has supported the LGBTQ+ community throughout the years, offering in-game content across its video game titles to support the International Day Against Homophobia, Transphobia, and Biphobia (IDAHOTB). Their in-game Pride collection has only grown since 2018, with icons, emotes, and artwork to represent more and more unique identities.
“We want all players to feel their identities are represented,” Riot Games said in a statement. “No matter where you live, who you are, or who you love, we want to make sure you can see yourselves while you play.”
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