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In creating this artwork, fans have twisted whatever negative connotations found in the game into something empowering and strong. In the game, the Gerudo outfit is a plot contrivance, the solution to a brief puzzle. At best, its heat resistant set bonus makes it a useful tool. On social media, it’s a symbol of grace and exuberant queer expression.

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Let’s be clear: fans shouldn’t have to make up for developers’ shortcomings. Fans shouldn’t have to twist and bend to take back an image and affirm their identity or to deal with gendered jokes during their time playing a game.. They shouldn’t have to forge a path for greater inclusion themselves, shouldn’t have to draw Link as a girl or Zelda on her own quest in a major game in the franchise.

But they can and they do. Breath of the Wild drops the ball with Vilia and Link’s crossdressing. Thankfully, fans picked the ball right back up and ran it upcourt for a slam dunk.