This paper discusses the games Final Fantasy 7 Remake and The Last of Us 2, focusing on which design attributes contribute to the nuances of problematic and non-problematic sexualization of game characters in relation to its contextual relevance in the narrative. Data collection resulted in 1003 images that were analyzed, and a content analysis identified 739 initial codes and the themes of Physical Attributes, Actions, Camera Positioning, Body Language, and Traits and Emotions. The study’s findings highlight the importance of considering narrative context and the player’s engagement in understanding the effects of sexualization in video games. Additionally, both games illustrate how sexualization can amplify feelings of objectification or provide a safe space for exploring identity, depending on these factors.