Multiple LGBTQ+ characters and relationships appear in side quests and dialogues, with eight lesbian characters noted in late-game quests. The Burning Shores DLC introduces an optional same-sex romance between Aloy and Seyka, culminating in a kiss option that sparked review bombing and accusations of forcing queer representation on the character.

Matriarchal elements in tribes like the Nora persist from the original, and some players perceive a pattern of villainous or submissive male characters, particularly white men. Guerrilla Games promotes diversity in hiring and content, rating high on inclusion metrics and stating they ignore 'LGBTQ haters.' Rumors of Sweet Baby Inc. involvement circulate but lack confirmation. These progressive elements notably influence casting, NPC representation, and subplots like romances, but remain incidental to the core premise of machine combat, technological mysteries, and world-saving adventure, without overt lectures on systemic oppression or identity politics as the primary driver.