Final Fantasy VII had a part where you could choose a dude to go on a date with, as well as a part where you cross dress. You really need to re-evaluate what "dark" and "gritty" mean.
Never did the date with Barret but I'm pretty sure it was a close friend thing and not a romantic thing? The cross dressing thing was done with a very light touch, it wasn't just flaming like the fabulous photo.

If FF7 wasn't dark in gritty I'm not sure what is.