Video Games: Five Dating Sims To Get You Through A Lonely February
Dating sims are some of the weirdest and most relaxing game genres out there. But if you’re not familiar with them, check one of these out.
Dating sims are the weird cousin of the gaming world. Either talked about in whispers or way too enthusiastically but a lot of fun, these games silly, weird, and just plane enjoyable. If you don’t have any plans for Valentines day– or even if you do– why not play one of these and add a little goofy faux romance to your February?
1. Dream Daddy
This one is a bit of a softball, everyone knows about Dream Daddy. Made famous by YouTube’s Game Grumps, this dating sim invites you to play as a single dad who’s just moved town with his daughter.
Single dad life can be lonely, but good news, the neighborhood is full of other single dads to mingle with. Is it gimmicky? Yes, absolutely. But it’s also a delight with lots of replayability, mini games, and character customization.
2. Hatoful Boyfriend
You may notice that this looks like a dating sim based around romancing birds. And you’d be correct, that’s exactly what Hatoful Boyfriend is. You’re the only human at an elite school for talking birds.
I know the premise sounds bananas on its face, but what if I told you there was also a murder mystery to solve? Because, y’know, there is.
3. The Arcana
If mobile games are more your speed, this dating sim may be your new game on the go. Mixing a little magic and mystery into your romance, The Arcana let’s you romance six characters through stories that are inspired by the tarot deck’s major arcana.
Your choices can lead to multiple endings, either “upright” or “reverse,” and if the story doesn’t keep you coming back, the art will.
4. Arcade Spirits
A little less weird than most of the rest of this list, Arcade Spirits is a dating sim that many of us may feel comfortable in the world of. Every variety of nerd hangs out at Funplex, the local retro-style arcade.
So naturally, it’s a great place for friendship and romance to blossom. Choices you make in the game affect not only your personal relationships but the future of Funplex.
5. Monster Prom
You’re just a monster at a high school for monsters looking for love. Or at very least to date to the Monster Prom in three weeks. Up to four players can join in on a multiplayer mode, both working together and against each other.
But even in solo play, this is a game that’s as funny and fun as it is sweet. Plus, this is a dating sim where you get to romance a monster. Everyone wants to do that these days. We’ve all seen the Mothman memes!
Have you played any of these dating sims? Do you have a favorite game that didn’t make our list? What’s the weirdest sim you’ve played? Let us know in the comments!
Happy Adventuring!
