| Dating Sim |
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Dating simulations ('''dating sims''') are a Video Game subgenre of Simulation Game s, usually Japan ese, with romantic elements. The most common objective of dating sims is to date, usually choosing from among several characters, and to achieve a romantic relationship. In the West, the term dating sim is also used to classify what are known as Visual Novel s in Japan. However, this is mixing genre and medium, as Visual Novel s are considered a subgenre of Adventure Game s and the term does not cover simulations. While the two genres often share a common visual presentation, dating sims are sometimes considered to be more statistically based than the "choose your own adventure" style of visual novels. The technical definition of a dating simulation game, known as a in Japan, can involve several technical elements such as a time limit, several statistics such as looks and charm which can be boosted through exercise, or an "attraction meter" which can increase or decrease depending on one's decisions. However, the term "dating simulation" is commonly defined as simply a romantic game and need not include any of these elements. Dating sims can be simply presented as Visual Novel s, known as in Japan. Some dating sims have been imported to the United States by companies such as JAST USA and G-Collections , but most never leave Japan, at least not as official releases. Contrary to popular misconceptions, only a small percentage of dating sims start life as Anime or Manga titles. When a dating sim and anime exist, it is often the dating sim that inspired the anime counterpart. Some American fans refer to dating sims as ''ren'ai games'', from the Japanese ''ren'ai'' (romance). CHARACTERISTICS version of '' Tokimeki Memorial '' illustrating the complex system of statistics standard of the genre.]] '' 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 girls, attempting to increase their internal "love meter" through correct choices of dialogue. This then effects which internal "path" you take through the game like it would in a " Choose Your Own Adventure " book. 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. While Bishoujo Games make up the bulk of dating sims, other types of games exist. Games where the player character is female and potential objects of affection are male are known as GxB or Otome Game s. Homosexual relationships are also possible, as are games with no specific gender lines ("all pairings"). 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. One game series that keeps a sub quest of dating in most of the games is the farming sim series '' Harvest Moon ''. The subplot of dating is more focused towards choosing one of usually five girls and offering them presents or joining them on events in the game. While this isn't a full dating sim, it is a very popular aspect of the game. EXTERNAL LINKS |
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