The next character set to join the ranks of Apex Legends is Tressa Smith, also known as Catalyst, described as an experienced terraformer and defensive conjurer. She’s a trans woman with a unique ability to control ferrofluid almost magically.

Catalyst’s backstory unfolds in a new Stories from the Outlands video, revealing her involvement in a conflict over the fate of Cleo, the damaged moon of her home planet Boreas, currently exploited by the villainous Hammond Robotics. She teams up with her friend Margo to thwart Hammond’s plans, but things take a dark turn, leading to Margo’s arrest or possible demise. However, Catalyst escapes with the aid of her newfound powers.

Respawn’s lead writer, Ashley Reed, emphasized the studio’s collaboration with trans employees, LGBTQ advocacy groups like GLAAD, and Catalyst’s voice actor, Meli Grant, who is a trans woman herself. Grant expressed her gratitude for the opportunity to work on a character handled with sensitivity and authenticity.

Grant highlighted the importance of portraying Catalyst as unambiguously trans, with her transition explicitly referenced in the trailer. This decision aims to remove ambiguity and promote transparency in the character’s representation, in contrast to past instances of queerbaiting and ambiguity in media.

Catalyst is set to debut in Apex Legends on November 1 as part of the Eclipse update, which will introduce a new map, battle pass, and the ability to gift items to friends in-game.