However, its romance system stands out as a deliberate modern insertion: players form 'Veiled Vows' with 13 characters including historical males like Ryoma Sakamoto and Shinsaku Takasugi, and these options function regardless of the protagonist's gender, enabling same-sex relationships as a standard feature. Multiple guides confirm this gender-agnostic design explicitly, with some sources noting attempted historical rationales for male bonds but framing it as player freedom.

Character creation uses 'Body Type A/B' labels instead of male/female and employs they/them pronouns in dialogue, drawing direct player complaints on Steam forums about identitarian language. These elements influence relationship mechanics and customization without driving the main narrative of political upheaval and combat.

Developer statements emphasize historical immersion and action variety, with no evidence of consultancy firms or activist mandates. Audience reception shows targeted backlash over pronouns and body types amid otherwise mixed reviews focused on performance and story pacing.