Russia blocks Overwatch comic over gay character

An Overwatch comic which features a gay character is blocked in Russia.

The graphic novel, which is a spin-off of Blizzard's first person shooter, is normally available in several countries on the game's website.

In the latest issue one of the heroes, Tracer, kisses another girl called Emily.

However it's unavailable in Russia with a message reading "in accordance with Russian law we cannot share this comic".

The issue is unavailable in Russia

Back in 2013 Russia passed a law stopping "gay propaganda" being available to under-18s.

Although homosexuality is legal in the country, the authorities are allowed to block access to websites deemed to promote it.

In 2015 they even moved to ban emojis which showed same-sex couples kissing.

The tenth issue of the Overwatch comic is largely a festive tale, based around Tracer's attempts to get a present for her flatmate Emily.

In a statement to IGN Blizzard said: "Tracer is a lesbian on the LGBTQ+ spectrum.

"As in real life, having variety in our characters and their identities and backgrounds helps create a richer and deeper overall fictional universe.

"From the beginning, we've wanted the universe of Overwatch to feel welcoming and inclusive, and to reflect the diversity of our players around the world.

"As with any aspect of our characters' backgrounds, their sexuality is just one part of what makes our heroes who they are."

Tracer in the original game

Many gamers on Twitter have welcomed Overwatch's first LGBT character.

Malkythera tweeted "When Blizz officially confirms a gay character in their game" followed by an illustration of a computer "engaging party mode".

Pro gamer Suzy Berhow used rainbow emojis, saying she wanted to scream the news "from the tallest mountain".

Alex Singer "[hopes] Overwatch has more LGBTQ* characters in the future! But I admit, their big mascot character being gay is actually a pretty nice start".

But the full message on the website in Russia reads: "In accordance with Russian legislation, we are unable to share this comic with our players in Russia".

It's not the first time the game has caused controversy.

Just after it was released in May, Blizzard had to take down Overwatch themed porn from several sites.

The company says it supports and encourages users to create and share their own artwork and videos but it has clear guidelines - and porn is not ok.

It was also criticised for its "over the shoulder" victory pose, which accentuates anything but the shoulder.

They have since removed the pose from the game.