Dating sim

Dating simulations are a genre of computer and video games, usually Japanese, with romantic elements. Contrary to popular Western misconception, a very small percentage of them are tied to anime titles, though some do exist, such as Tokimeki Memorial, Angelique, Sotsugyou M, and Chobits.

Some dating sims have been imported to the United States by companies such as JAST USA and G-Collections; however most never leave Japan, at least not as official releases.

Technical definition

Dating Sim is a simulation game where one role plays, usually as oneself though picking a fictional character is common, and achieving certain objectives. The most common are to date women, (usually more than one) and to achieve a high level relationship with them within a certain time limit. The player usually must raise money by either working jobs, or other activities. Attributes also play a major role. These can be increased by doing various tasks. All these activities take time and games of this genre usually have realistic times to them. A good place to see many examples of Dating Sims is at Newgrounds.

Technically, the term "dating sim" refers to a narrow group of games such as Tokimeki Memorial that offer virtual dating and simulation game features. However, in practice the term "dating sim" applies to any sort of romantic anime game, including those which might be specified as ren'ai games or bishōjo games by some fans.

Characteristics

Dōkyūsei (Classmates) established the basic conventions for dating sims in 1992. In a typical dating sim, the player controls a male avatar surrounded by female characters. The gameplay involves conversing with a selection of artificial intelligence-controlled girls, attempting to increase their internal "love meter" through correct choices of dialogue. The game lasts for a fixed period of game time, such as one month or three years. When the game ends, the player either loses the game if he failed to properly win over any of the girls, or "finishes" one of the girls, often by having sex with her or achieving eternal love. This gives the games more replay value than some other game genres, since the player can focus on a different girl each time, trying to get a different ending.

Many titles also exist where the player character is female and potential objects of affection are male-Angelique, Harukanaru Toki no Naka De, La Corda D'Oro, Kimagure Strawberry Cafe, and Tokimeki Memorial Girl's Side are just a few-this genre is known as GxB. Also of note is the BL genre. While fewer in number, there are also female/female (GxG) titles and titles with no specific gender lines ("all pairings") in existence.

There are many variations on this theme: high-school romances are the most common, but a dating sim may also take place in a fantasy setting and involve such challenges as defending one's girl from monsters. Dating sims, as their name suggests, generally strive for a romantic atmosphere.

Technical definition

Characteristics

Popular dating sims

See also

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Technical definition

Characteristics

Popular dating sims

See also