The 10 Best Dating Simulation Games of All Time.
Dating simulation games started gaining popularity in Japan during the 90's. However, this was never the case in other parts of the world. Video game magazines that I read regularly would cover Japanese imports and niche titles, but dating sims were merely a curiosity and nothing more.
Things are very different now. The games industry has grown exponentially and modern gamers are interested in titles beyond the scope of the action, shooting and role-playing genres. We've been seeing stronger interest in PC gaming lately, and we have the rise of Steam to thank for this. The PC is an open platform with tons of great development tools, making it ideal for small indie developers to target. Steam on the other hand, has made digital distribution cost-effective, efficient, and accessible to a massive audience. All this is a huge boon for visual novels and dating simulation games, which would have lingered in obscurity outside of Japan, otherwise.
A bevy of 2D hotties are waiting for us to make the right move. Let's see if we've got what it takes to establish fulfilling relationships with them with the best dating simulation games out there!
Sweet Fuse: At Your Side.
Available For: PSP.
The majority of dating simulation games usually has the player assuming the role of a male protagonist in the lead role, as he tries to win over the hearts of several beautiful girls. Sweet Fuse: At Your Side on the other hand, introduces us to Saki Inafune who’ll be romancing six hunky guys for a change!
What’s even cooler is that Saki happens to be the niece of famous Japanese video game designer - Keiji Inafune. Well, considering that Comcept co-developed this title, it’s easy to make the connection.
Saki is hurled into a suspense-filled mystery, where her uncle is held hostage, and she’s determined to save him in a theme park that’s about to blow. But she’ll also encounter the other men who she may end up saving, and even, developing a deeper bond with.
Clannad.
Available For: Windows, PS2, PSP, PS Vita, PS3, S3G, FOMA, Xbox 360, Android.
If you’re even mildly interested in dating simulation games, then there’s a good chance you’ve heard of Clannad. It was developed by Key and initially launched on Windows PCs back in 2004, selling incredibly well. So much so, that it was ported to other platforms and also received anime, manga, and film adaptations. There’s even a variety of magazines, books and drama CDs for dedicated fans who wish to complete their Clannad collection.
Clannad’s visual appeal is immediately apparent; the beautifully illustrated cast of characters and backgrounds are impressive. And the gameplay will engage even the most discerning of visual novel fans with its branching plot line and multiple endings.
If My Heart Had Wings.
Available For: Windows, PS Vita, Android, iOS.
If My Heart Had Wings is an eroge visual novel with a fair amount of risqué content, at least for the original Japanese release. Unfortunately, the English localization is censored which takes some of the edge off. I know purists hate that, but that’s just the nature of the beast.
But don’t let that put you off, as this still ranks as one of those dating simulation games you need to check out. You’ll assume the role of Aoi who was formerly a member of a cycling club at his previous school, but after injuring his legs he retires and heads back to his hometown. Here he’ll meet several beautiful girls, who’ll hopefully help him bring back the spark that’s missing in his life.
Katawa Shoujo.
Available For: Windows, OS X, Linux, Android.
Linux and Mac OS X users have often been treated like poor stepchildren, especially when it comes to receiving game ports. It seems that Windows users have all the fun, while users of competing operating systems are left out in the cold. Fortunately, the tide is changing since the latest wave of dating simulation games also support Linux and OS X.
Katawa Shoujo is part of this brave new world, and hopefully a larger audience will dig into this unique visual novel. The story revolves around high school student Hisao Nakai and the five young women who he encounters. They all have their own disability to deal with, which makes for a thought-provoking experience to say the least.
Grisaia no Kajitsu (The Fruit of Grisaia)
Available For: Windows, PSP, PS Vita.
Yuuji Kazami executes black ops operations for a Japanese government agency. He now leads the life of an ordinary high school student after transferring to Mihama Academy. Here he’ll meet several interesting, cute and sexy girls such as Makina Irisu, Sachi Komine, Michiru Matsushima, Yumiko Sakaki and Amane Suou.
There are five main plot lines for each girl with multiple endings. The player must choose from several options which will either progress the story further, take it down a different branch, or end it abruptly. Most gamers will probably be looking forward to the CG scenes of Yuuji having sex with the heroines.
Sunrider Academy.
Available For: Windows, OS X, SteamOS + Linux.
So you’re browsing through Steam, and looking for a gripping dating simulation game. The good news is that there are many to choose from, but you may have limited time to play all of them, or on a tight budget. Therefore, you’d prefer to focus on a few key titles. If that’s the case, then you should definitely add Sunrider Academy in your shopping cart.
You’ll assume the role of Kayto Shields, who’s the vice president of the Sunrise Academy, but is also appointed as the school club manager. He’s got until the end of the year to fix these up, and also get a girlfriend within this time period. Kayto’s gonna be a busy bee, indeed!
Shall We Date? The Niflheim+
Available For: Android, iOS.
Many dating simulation games on this list are aimed predominantly at the PC market. A few have received ports for consoles and mobile devices though. But we’ve yet to cover a title that’s aimed squarely at the mobile market.
Shall We Date? The Niflheim+ is just the right dating sim for gamers on the move. The gloriously exquisite artwork is striking, and truly pops out on the small screen. It’s mix of light gothic horror and romance make it an exciting proposition for those looking for something different!
HuniePop.
Available For: Windows, OS X, Linux.
HuniePop is one of the most popular dating simulation games ever made by a Western indie game developer. And boy is it good!
The sexual themes are strong in this one, and the girls are incredibly hot. It’s also refreshing to see a dating sim combined with an addictive tile matching puzzle game. A clever move on the developer’s part, as this provides endless re-playability. You’ll certainly be playing this one for hours on end.
Sakura Wars: So Long, My Love.
Available For: PS2, Wii.
I’ve been a huge fan of the Sega’s Sakura Wars series ever since the first title appeared on the Sega Saturn. Sadly, this is also a series which was often passed up for English localization – a major bummer!
But it’s not all doom and gloom. One of the most accessible and better titles in the series is, Sakura Wars: So Long, My Love which did receive an English release.
It takes place in 1920’s New York where Shinjirou Taiga, a naval officer is tasked with leading New York Combat Revue's Star Division. Here, he befriends and works together with the ladies of the Star Division against the forces of evil. It’s deeper than most dating simulation games, as it combines a tactical role-playing battle mode where the key characters pilot cool steampunk-type mecha.
Eiyuu Senki: The World Conquest.
Available For: Windows, PS3, PS Vita.
Similarly to Sakura Wars, Eiyuu Senki: The World Conquest also provides a turn-based tactical element to keep dating simulation game fans happy, who also like a bit of strategy to spice things up.
The player assumes the role of a mysterious male hero, who must conquer the world. But to achieve his goal, he must battle all the world leaders who happen to be cute women who are named after famous historic male figures.
It’s a well-presented game, with a fair amount of sexual content, strong language, alcohol and drug references. This one’s definitely no kiddy game!
Dating Games Honorable Mentions.
Hey, once you're hooked on dating simulation games. then you're always looking for your next fix! Here are a few more titles for discerning game fans.
Hatoful Boyfriend available for: Windows, OS X, Linux, PS4, PS Vita, Android, iOS.
Moa Hato is the creator behind the Hatoful Kareshi manga. But her creative activities don't end there, she also went on to develop the Hatoful Boyfriend dating sim with her doujin circle - PigeoNation Inc.
It's quirky as hell, mainly because the key characters are anthropomorphic birds!
LovePlus available for: Nintendo DS.
Got an old Nintendo DS sitting there collecting dust? Well, you can still acquire a ton of cool games for it.
If you're partial to collecting and playing Japanese imports, then LovePlus should definitely be on your wishlist. It was well-received in Japan but is one of those titles that slipped through the cracks, and didn't receive an official English localization.
Tokimeki Memorial: Forever With You available for: PC, PlayStation, Sega Saturn.
Tokimeki Memorial: Forever With You is an oldie but a goldie!
It's got great pixel art graphics and an interesting 'bomb' gimmick which one doesn't even encounter in modern dating simulation games. Will the player be able to win over his childhood friend, the beautiful Shiori?
6 Fun Online Dating Simulator Games.
Dating simulator games are video games for the romantic at heart. From speed dating to developing deep relationships, there are tons of dating simulator games to choose from depending on what you're into.
Awkward Dating Simulator.
In Awkward Dating Simulator, two people get to go on a date and complete mini challenges. Questions that appear on your screen lead your conversations and will dictate the level of awkwardness. This game can be played through the itch.io app and is intended to be a multi-player game. When downloaded, the developer allows the buyer to contribute as much payment as they see fit for this particular game.
Lovesick Darlings.
In Lovesick Darlings, you play a teen boy names Syd who is balancing a crush and other potential partners during the school year all while trying to decide who he should ask to the school dance. You get to call all the shots and determine how your character will interact with others, manage his relationships, share his true feelings, and even break up other relationships. This single player game is intended for mature audiences and requires Windows 7 or later, Mac OS X, or Steam OX + Linux to download and play. The full game is set to release in mid 2020, but has a free demo available to play online now.
Hot Date.
Hot Date is a single player, silly and light-hearted speed dating game where you get to play a hilarious pug. In this game you head out for a speed dating mixer and get to ask and answer funny questions. This game can be downloaded using a Max, Windows, or Linux system and offers you the option to decide how much you want to contribute for playing the game. The game has great reviews and users note that it is hilarious to play.
Snow Cones.
In the game Snow Cones, players get to transform themselves into an icy treat and go out on dates. This single player game is meant to be light, silly, and truly engaging. Users may experience awkward moments that are reminiscent of real life first dates, which is sure to bring a smile to the player's face. Dates take place in fun settings like an ice cream bar and a magical ferris wheel ride. This game can be downloaded on a Windows or Mac os system, and like Hot Date the user can decide how much they want to contribute to the creators when they download.
Romancing the Sims.
It's also possible to follow a romance track in the popular simulation game, The Sims. The user can make romance his or her Sim's highest priority by labeling it a Romance Sim when he or she introduces it into the virtual world.
Once a Sim is labeled a Romance Sim, it wants to play, date and flirt. Note that this Sim wants a life of romance but does not want to settle down and get married. It is more into casual dating. To fulfill this Sim's goal in life, the user initiates a first kiss, finds other Sims to hook up with, and gains aspiration rewards, such as the Love Tub, to help it keep partners interested.
Monster Prom.
Monster Prom can be purchased through Steam for about $12 and is a multi-player game for up to four people. You can play individually, split the screen with your friends, or have several people all play the same game remotely making it a really versatile playing experience. The object of the game is to find the perfect date to take to monster prom. This game is funny, amusing, and is geared towards mature audiences as there is sexual and drug related content. If you're into a humorous make your own adventure game, Monster Prom might work well for you.
Playing a Dating Simulator Game.
Dating simulator games can be super fun to play. Depending on your style, you may want to spend a little bit of time testing out a few games, or previewing Youtube videos of others playing before purchasing. Games will vary in intensity, humor, and graphicness. Before downloading or purchasing a game think about:
If you're looking to engage in a serious dating simulator game experience If you're looking for something more lighthearted and funny If you want realistic graphics or if you're fine with simplified cartoon images If you want a mainstream game or if you're into a unique mini game.
These games can be really fun, may teach you a lot about yourself, and can be a great way to release stress and use your creativity.
Finding the Right Dating Simulator Game.
Playing dating simulator games can be a fun way to unwind and interact in a virtual world filled with twists and turns. Keep in mind that some of these games allow the players to engage sexually, so be sure to check the maturity level if you have a teenager interested in playing. Try out a few dating simulator games to find the ones that you connect the most with.
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Something New.
15 Most Entertaining Dating Sims, Ranked.
Dating Sims are all kinds of fun, from the simple and sweet to the darkly funny - and these are the best.
Sometimes one seeks out a video game in order to escape from their real-life and explore a fantasy world the likes of which they could never experience in reality. And sometimes people choose to play games that are so similar to their own lives that they allow players to live out their wildest dreams in the most realistic setting possible. The latter type of game comes to life in the form of the simulation genre of games. These games mimic a version of real-life which allows its players to live out their dizziest daydreams. One of the most popular subgenres in the simulation world is the dating simulation game (which also covers a number of themes and genres.) Below are some of the best dating sims in the market.
Updated by Ericka Blye on September 4th, 2020: Stories of love and relationships never seem to get old, as the market for Dating Sims has grown even larger. There's a dating Sim out there for just about everyone, featuring anything from "slice of life" storylines to more fantasy-oriented ones. A lot of new dating sims also strive to be wildly inclusive, not only allowing players to customize their character in whatever way they want, but also including romanceable characters of different ethnicities, sexual orientations, gender identities, and more.
15 Obey Me!
Obey Me! is a mobile dating sim that's a cross between a visual novel and a card-based RPG. After a strange dream where a mysterious voice asks you to save them, you suddenly find yourself as an exchange student at an all demon school.
There to develop a better understanding between humans and demons, you're sent to live with 7 demon brothers, who you have to form pacts with to be able to command them. The game has a lot of different paid "gacha" like events to win cards that unlock outfits and stories for the different characters.
14 Choices.
Choices is a free-to-play mobile game that is made up of several unique mini-games that play like stories in which the players can live out their wildest daydreams. Stories range from coronations to New York vampires. From discovering the mysteries that haunt a small coastal town to reuniting with a long lost twin with special powers.
Players are able to customize their characters as well as choose from a variety of romantic options in each story. It is also important to note that the majority of the stories within this game allow players to pursue romantic interests of any gender.
13 The Arcana.
The Arcana is a mobile dating sim created by Nyx Hydra. Mixing the usual elements of dating sims with a mystery and the magic of Tarot cards makes The Arcana a one of a kind dating sim. You can romance six characters and journey through the story in 22 "books" that all relate to the Major Arcana in a standard Tarot deck.
Depending on which choices you make, you can earn either the Upright End or the Reverse End. All routes and endings are free to play with the option to pay for extra content, like CGs and side stories.
12 Amnesia: Memories.
Amnesia: Memories is a visual novel type game (which means that it occurs in chapters and follows a strict plot that the player cannot deviate from.) In this game, each choice leads to a new parallel universe in which the heroine pursues a single male character.
The end goal is to regain the heroine's memories through these interactions and figure out who she was and where she belonged before she lost her memories while becoming acquainted with the selected gentlemen.
11 Katawa Shouju.
Katawa Shouju is a dating sim that follows the hero's recovery from a lengthy hospital stay as he transitions into a new school filled with students with a range of different abilities. While adjusting to his new life, the hero also has the ability to pursue a romantic relationship with some of his new peers.
However, it is important to note that the outcome of these interactions is very dependent on the success of the hero's attempts to woo his peers and it is very possible that the game could end with him just as single as he was at the start of the game.
10 Sunrider Academy.
It is important to note that many dating sims are considered mature games and will not be suitable for all players. Check the ratings and reviews for each game before downloading and playing it in order to avoid surprises. Sunrider Academy is a game whose plot is dictated by the success (or failure) of one's romantic endeavors.
Many players encourage others to save as frequently as possible in case one makes a serious error and needs to restart a portion of the game due to the fact that its events occur within a set time frame. Players will have to manage the day to day activities of the heroes club and life while also pursuing romantic plotlines with care and attention. A difficult balance to achieve.
9 True Love.
True Love is one of the original dating simulation games. Though it was released in Japan in 1995, it did not receive a North American release until 1999. Players experience the story from the perspective of a high school boy who is finding his course work far more difficult than expected as well as trying to juggle maintaining an active social life.
The game occurs within a set time frame and is molded by player choice. The game also has high levels of replayability as the player can simply follow a new path and receive an entirely unique experience.
8 Doki Doki Literature Club.
The best dating sims are the ones that go against convention and surprise the player. Doki Doki Literature Club is a dating sim that rose in popularity due to the intense twist that occurs halfway through the game.
Though the game appears to be a typical cutesy and rose-colored dating sim, it slowly devolves into an intense and brutal psychological horror. This twist led to a surge in popularity in streaming communities as people wanted to see their favorite creators react to each element of the game from start to grim finish.
7 Akash: Path Of The Five.
Akash is a beautiful visual novel where players take on the role of Aurora. Aurora is an elemental within a village of other elementals and is the first female one within 200 years of the village's history. This puts a lot of pressure on Aurora with her upcoming coming of age ceremony, as well as the tensions between her village and a human settlement nearby.
The game is full of amazing features, including fully-voiced dialogue options from many veteran VO actors like SungWon Cho, Morgan Berry, Ray Chase, and more.
6 Monster Prom.
Monster Prom is a sweet, quirky, and fun dating simulator that allows players to play as one of several monsters as they navigate the uneasy waters of high school. Players will have numerous chances to boost certain stats in order to woo different monsters (as each monster has a preferred personality for potential partners) in time for the prom (which comes at the end of the game.)
The majority of the gameplay is centered around helping one's monster peers with their personal problems as high school is never easy for anyone.
5 Yandere Simulator.
In a similar vein as Doki Doki , Yandere Simulator is a sickly sweet dating sim with a dark side. Though the plot of this game does not follow the traditional "pursue one of these five characters" structure that has come to define the genre itself.
In Yandere Simulator , players play as a young girl who has decided to bring a little truth to the old adage "If I cannot have him, then no one can" by literally eliminating anyone who attempts to pursue her object of affection. Be careful not to get caught in order to secure the Senpai by the end of the game.
4 Max Gentlemen Sexy Business.
For Dating Sim fans who want humor and shenanigans with their romance, Max Gentlemen Sexy Business is the game for you. It's part Dating Sim, part Business Tycoon as all of your romantic options are also other business executives who will help you return your family business to its former glory.
Based in a Victorian-era London, you can customize not only your "Gentsona", but you can also unlock outfits and items to customize your executives. The game also allows you to control what content you want to see with a spoiler tag system and character-specific settings.
3 Dream Daddy.
Dream Daddy is one of the most well-known dating sims on the market due to its viral fame at the time of its release. Players will have the ability to create their own dad/character and explore a quaint little town as they get the chance to try their luck with several local fathers while also helping their daughter during her transition from teenager to young adult.
Complete with several nostalgic mini-games, this quirky and lovable adventure is a must-play for all who have a soft spot for romance.
2 Arcade Spirits.
Arcade Spirits let you traverse the adventures of love, friendship, and more, all in a retro-style arcade setting. You play as the new employee at a popular local arcade, Funplex, that's home to gamers, programmers, cosplayers, and other eccentric personalities. Your character is fully customizable and every choice you make not only affects the development of your relationships, but it also affects the fate of Funplex.
Currently (along with Akash: Path of the Five ), Arcade Spirits was a part of an amazing bundle collection where all the proceeds went to The Okra Project, a charity dedicated to helping Black Trans lives.
1 Hatoful Boyfriend.
What started as an April Fool's joke became one of the most popular dating sims of 2011. One of the best things about this dating sim is that its many plots and options provide the player with the ability to replay the game numerous times; taking a new path each time.
The other thing that makes this game so special is the fact that its cast is comprised entirely of sentient birds. Though the birds are not explained in the original game, it is important to note that it is later explained in the game Bad Boys Love that Hatoful Boyfriend occurs in a post-apocalyptic world where humanity was wiped out, and birds with human intelligence took over as the dominant species.
Dating Games.
Related categories.
Nail Studio Games.
Baby Hazel Games.
No matter your dating record in real life, you can always get a date here. Even if you're too young to start dating, you can practice with these games, risk and pressure-free! Choose your ideal pair or partner and then dress-up, beautify your hair and nails before you head out with them. If you're lucky, there might even be some sneaky kissing involved! However, there are no worries about who will cover the check. These dates are all free! Date (and cure) a frog prince, the boys from Twilight, or the hottie celebrity you've been crushing on. Or go on a bunch of dates in one night and get to know what you like. We won't tell! Go on a date in Rome or flirt in Asia. Sneak a smooch while on the job or speed date to find your ideal match. Once you find a game that you really enjoy, you can save it to your favorites to relive whenever you like without needing to search. But keep checking back here to find out what sort of new titles have been added.
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Best Dating Simulators for Nintendo Switch in 2020.
Best Dating Simulators for Nintendo Switch iMore 2020.
Whether you need some romance in your life or you're a chronic hopeless romantic, dating simulators can help you experience the love stories you crave, and for some, they're even among the best Nintendo Switch games out there. We've gathered together the dating sims for you to choose from. We stayed away from overtly mature titles in favor of truly romantic ones, but there still might be some suggestive elements in these games. Have fun finding love on your Nintendo Switch.
★ Featured favorite: LongStory: A dating game for the real world Hey there, good looking: Dream Daddy: A Dad Dating Simulator Healing hearts: Nurse Love Syndrome Forever young: Tokyo School Life Royal love story: The Charming Empire Kiss the girl: My Girlfriend is a Mermaid!? Puppy Love: Best Friend Forever.
★ Featured favorite : LongStory: A dating game for the real world.
Choose your gender and then figure out which of your classmates at Weasel Heights Middle School you're interested in pursuing. There are eight episodes total spanning multiple years and including plenty of drama. Will you be able to maintain your friendships and your romantic relationship?
Hey there, good looking : Dream Daddy: A Dad Dating Simulator.
You play as a single father who's just moved to the town of Maple Bay. Luckily for you, all the other fathers in the neighborhood are single and looking to mingle. There are seven love interests for you to pursue, and each one has a very different personality. Which one is your type?
Healing hearts : Nurse Love Syndrome.
This romance adventure takes place in Japan where you play as Kaori Sawai, a nurse who can heal people simply by touching them. There are several other women for Kaori to meet and plenty of decisions to make leading her to one of 20 endings. See what kind of romance you discover.
Forever young : Tokyo School Life.
This visual novel allows you to get to know three female classmates by letting you choose how you spend your time with them. But be careful, your decisions affect the outcome of the story. See which love interest makes you most excited.
Royal love story : The Charming Empire.
This visual novel opens with the main heroine discovering that she's a princess and that five attractive men are interested in her: the bad boy, the tutor, the bodyguard, the childhood friend, and the monarch. Play through each of their storylines to learn their backstories and determine which one you like best.
Kiss the girl : My Girlfriend is a Mermaid!?
The main character returns to his hometown only to discover that his childhood friend has turned into a mermaid. This visual novel allows you to make decisions that determine the outcome of the story. See how well your love blossoms.
Puppy Love : Best Friend Forever.
This awesome game double dips as both a pet simulator and a dating simulator. There's nothing like opening your heart to an adorable furry friend and then getting to know other singles with their own doggos.
All a flutter.
These heart-warming games are perfect for the hopeless romantics out there. Whether you're finding it hard to find true love yourself or simply love romance, these are the games for you. We stayed away from simulators that were overtly lewd, but some of these games might have suggestive themes.
We personally recommend LongStory: A dating game for the real world because it allows you to choose your gender and is LGBTQ+ friendly. In that way, it provides a love story for anyone. If you're looking for something a little different, Tokyo School Life is a fun option. You get to experience Japanese culture and decide between three beautiful girls. See where your decisions take you.
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Rebecca Spear.
Rebecca Spear loves keeping up-to-date with the latest and greatest electronics. She is a life-long gamer and a writer who has written hundreds of online articles over the past four years. On any given day you'll find her drawing with her Wacom tablet, playing video games, or reading a good book.