Dating sim

Dating sims, or romance simulation games (恋愛シミュレーションゲーム, ren'ai shimyurēshon gēmu), are a video game subgenre of simulation games with romantic elements. While dating sims share a similar visual presentation with visual novels, they are distinct genres. Dating sims are largely dependent on statistical calculations to drive the plot, whilst visual novels focus on telling a branching story.[citation needed] Nevertheless, the term "dating sim" has become a generic term for romance-driven games (恋愛ゲーム, ren'ai games) in the West.

Dating sims are often dialog-heavy and focus on time management: The player must befriend and carefully build and maintain a relationship with one or more characters.[1] Statistics largely underlie the game mechanics.

  1. ^ Lebowitz, Josiah (2011). Interactive Storytelling for Video Games: a Player-centered Approach to Creating Memorable Characters and Stories. Klug, Chris. Burlington, MA: Focal Press. pp. 45. ISBN 9780240817187. OCLC 706802880.