Gamers who enjoy story-driven games may not have explored the dating sim genre before. Likewise, new players may be surprised to learn the many similarities the two genres have in game mechanics. However, finding a suitable dating sim title can seem overwhelming, so which titles should a new player seek out? This list can help introduce unique dating sims for new players interested in the genre.
Keep reading to learn more about dating recommendations for new players.
Dream Daddy: A Dad Dating Simulator (2017)
Dream Daddy: A Dad Dating Simulator is available on PC and invites new players to find their match with single dads in a new neighborhood. The player takes on the role of a single dad who finds out they moved into a neighborhood of single dads. The game showcases the state of modern dating sims with interactive relationship minigames and exciting dialogue choices.
Girl’s Garden (1985)
For a much older dating sim title, Girl’s Garden is a unique game for its influence on the dating sim genre. Although, this entry is not accessible to most as it was released in 1985 on older, discontinued consoles. However, Girl’s Garden playthroughs can be found on YouTube, where individuals have recorded entire game playthroughs. Playthroughs are videos that cover an entire game’s story and content. Girl’s Garden is often regarded as one of the first dating sims. This can also help new players understand the core gameplay aspects of dating sims, even if it’s in 8-bit
Sakura Wars (2020)
Sakura Wars is a cross-genre video game, a video game with multiple genres such as dating sims, action, and Japanese Role Playing Game (JRPG). The story follows Seijuro, leader of a rookie steam-powered mecha squad, as they try to protect the inhabitants of 1940s steampunk Tokyo. It is like an anime coming to life where the characters are the focus, and the mech sequences show their skilled fighting.
I Love You, Colonel Sanders! A Finger Lickin’ Good Dating Simulator (2021)
This dating sim can be over the top, which is the game’s appeal. It takes the dating sim standards and has fun with the strangers-to-lovers trope but with Colonel Sanders. The goal of this dating sim is to win the love of the famous Colonel Sanders himself. The game also promises cooking battles and “battles battles” where players can win the love of Colonel Sanders in this prominent culinary school. Dating sims like this showcase humor and an unconventional cast of characters that invite players to let loose.
LoveChoice (2021)
The dating sim genre can also exhibit serious storytelling between characters and players. In LoveChoice, any player choice can heighten plot points and problems between the character and the player. Depending on the choice, the character may dislike the player’s actions, or those actions may increase the character’s desires.
Conclusion
Dating sims may be an unfamiliar gaming genre to many, but many players can immediately understand its charm and appeal. The games listed showcase dating sims’ unique features while incorporating established gaming genres. The genre can range from silly adventures to serious character interactions inviting players to participate every step of the way.
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