Very much agree. So much hollow writing for minority characters that make them feel tokenized instead of as real people. I suppose it must start somewhere, but when you see it done well it really points out weaker characters.

Ellie and Riley are wonderful, Bill too.

Key appears to be writers who write a character, who happens to be gay instead of a caricature to check the box as you said.

Loras in the game if thrones tv show is one of the worst examples of a butchering of a gay character. Dudes a young Jaime in the book vs the show where he's a bloodhound looking for dick.

Dorian in dragon age inquisition is a character I loved. His orientation is a part of his character and identity. Fits into his backstory with his father that meshes with lore of world to make a connection to real events.

"You tried to change me." Line is one of my favorite deliveries in games.