dating simulators
Virtual courtship games
Dating simulators are video games focused on romantic pursuit, where players navigate conversations and choices to build relationships with potential partners.
The genre originated in Japan and ranges from lighthearted romance to explicit adult content.
Some dating sims feature elaborate storylines and character development; others are barely disguised pornography: He spent the weekend playing dating simulators instead of actually meeting people.
Romantic focus of a story
- protagonistStory's central figure
- bachelorUnwed male adult
- bacheloretteUnmarried woman
- NPCUncontrolled game character
avatar · customization · backstory · character arc · sprite · portrait · voice acting · catchphrase
Diverging route options
- dialogue optionsSelectable conversational replies
- multiple endingsDifferent possible conclusions
- replayabilityEnduring appeal for repetition
- time managementPlanning how hours are spent
relationship building · player agency · save points · good ending · bad ending · true ending · flags · events
Seeking another's romantic favor
- flirtingPlayfully showing romantic interest
- chemistryStudy of substances' interactions
- attractionPull toward something
- affectionWarm emotional attachment
intimacy · love interests · crush · infatuation · sweetheart · confession · first date · virtual date
Choice-driven illustrated narrative
- waifuFictional anime sweetheart
- yandereViolently possessive romantic archetype
- haremWives' sequestered quarters
- fan serviceGratuitous audience-pleasing material
chibi · kawaii · school setting · slice of life · shoujo · localization
love interest
Romantic focus of a story
- protagonistStory's central figure
- bachelorUnwed male adult
- bacheloretteUnmarried woman
NPC · avatar · customization · backstory · character arc · sprite · portrait · voice acting · catchphrase · childhood friend
branching paths
Diverging route options
- dialogue optionsSelectable conversational replies
- multiple endingsDifferent possible conclusions
- replayabilityEnduring appeal for repetition
time management · relationship building · player agency · save points · good ending · bad ending · true ending · flags · events · gift giving
courtship
Seeking another's romantic favor
- flirtingPlayfully showing romantic interest
- chemistryStudy of substances' interactions
- attractionPull toward something
affection · intimacy · love interests · crush · infatuation · sweetheart · confession · first date · virtual date · romance options
visual novel
Choice-driven illustrated narrative
- waifuFictional anime sweetheart
- yandereViolently possessive romantic archetype
- haremWives' sequestered quarters
fan service · chibi · kawaii · school setting · slice of life · shoujo · localization
dating simulatorsspeed dating
Timed rotating introductions
blind dates · matchmaking · arranged marriages · marriage · matchmaking services
dating simulatorsfirst-person shooters
Gun games, your perspective
fighting games · war games · survival horror · puzzle games · real-time strategy
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