The character model, including gender, race, and other attributes, is randomly generated and permanently tied to your Steam account ID when you first launch Rust. This was an intentional design choice by the developers to avoid issues like players picking character models that give them an unfair advantage.
The only way to get a different character model is to create a new Steam account and purchase Rust again, but even then there is no guarantee you will get the gender you want, as it is randomly determined.
Some players have found unofficial methods to change gender, such as using launch options or mods, but these often get patched and may be considered cheating. The developers have made it clear gender and race changing will likely never be officially supported.
So in summary:
- Character model including gender is randomly generated and tied to Steam ID
- No official way to change gender after model is assigned
- Creating new Steam account and repurchasing Rust can allow reroll of model
- Unofficial methods exist but often get patched and may risk bans
- Developers have no plans to add official gender/race changing
While it can be frustrating not having control over your character, the developers felt this better fits the harsh and unforgiving nature of the Rust world. So unless the developers change their stance, players will have to either accept their assigned model or try their luck with a new account.
