Top 20 Video Games About Love and Relationships

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Ignacio Weil

Gaming - February 11th 2025, 19:00 GMT+1

About this gallery:

For this list, we went deeper. These are games where love and relationships take center stage, sometimes in heartwarming ways… and sometimes in ways that will haunt your dreams. So, no, you won’t find RPGs with romance *options* here (*sorry, Bioware and Larian fans!*). We’re talking about games where love isn’t just a side quest—it’s the *main* quest, for better or worse.

Think we missed a game that perfectly captures the chaos, beauty, or terror of love? Drop it in the comments—we’re always up for a good love story!

Leisure Suit Larry Series (1987–2020)

Ah, *Leisure Suit Larry*, the original lovable loser of the gaming world. This series follows Larry Laffer, a middle-aged man perpetually on a quest for love—or at least a good time—in all the wrong places. Starting in 1987, Larry's misadventures have taken him through seedy bars, questionable resorts, and even the digital age, all while sporting that iconic leisure suit. The games are a cheeky satire of dating and romance, filled with risqué humor and plenty of double entendres. While Larry's tactics are hilariously outdated (and often cringe-worthy), the series offers a humorous look at the pitfalls of chasing love without a clue. Just remember, folks: don't take dating advice from Larry. | © Sierra On-Line / Assemble Entertainment

Cropped Catherine — Catherine (2011)

Ever had nightmares about commitment? *Catherine* brings those fears to life—literally. You play as Vincent, a man torn between his long-term girlfriend, Katherine, and a mysterious new fling, Catherine. By day, navigate the complexities of relationships and infidelity; by night, survive treacherous, puzzle-filled nightmares that symbolize Vincent's inner turmoil. It's a game that blends romance, horror, and block-stacking puzzles in a way that shouldn't work but absolutely does. *Catherine* challenges players to consider the consequences of their choices in love, all while keeping them on the edge of their seats (and possibly reconsidering that late-night text). | © Atlus

To The Moon (2011)

Grab the tissues, because *To The Moon* is here to tug at your heartstrings. This indie gem tells the story of two doctors traveling through a dying man's memories to fulfill his last wish: going to the moon. As you delve deeper into his past, uncovering a beautiful love story filled with joy, sorrow, and a platypus plushie, you'll find yourself reflecting on life, love, and the memories we hold dear. It's a narrative-driven experience that proves you don't need flashy graphics to tell a compelling story. Just be prepared for an emotional rollercoaster that leaves you pondering long after the credits roll. | © Freebird Games

Love Is All Around (2012)

In *Love Is All Around*, players are invited into a charming world where love truly is the central theme. This visual novel explores various stories of romance, each with its own unique characters and scenarios. The game's art style is endearing, and the narratives range from sweet and heartwarming to thought-provoking. It's a delightful experience that reminds us of the different forms love can take and the myriad ways it can enrich our lives. Perfect for those who enjoy storytelling and the exploration of human connections. | © Nekomura Games

Emily is Away Too — Emily Is Away Too (2017)

Ah, the nostalgia of early 2000s internet culture. *Emily Is Away Too* transports players back to the days of instant messaging, away messages, and the thrill (and agony) of chatting with your crush online. Through simulated chat conversations, you'll navigate the complexities of teenage relationships, making choices that affect your connections with two characters: Emily and Evelyn. The game's authenticity captures the awkwardness and excitement of young love in the digital age, complete with screen names, profile pics, and the dreaded typing indicator. It's a bittersweet trip down memory lane that will have you reminiscing about your own AIM days. | © Kyle Seeley

Lovers in a Dangerous Spacetime (2015)

Nothing says “romance” like piloting a neon spaceship through enemy-filled galaxies while screaming at your co-pilot (a.k.a. your significant other) to “MAN THE SHIELDS!” *Lovers in a Dangerous Spacetime* is a chaotic yet heartwarming co-op game where you and your partner must navigate a circular spaceship, dashing between turrets, thrusters, and shields to stay alive. The catch? You can only control one thing at a time, meaning constant communication is key. It’s a fast-paced, fun, and sometimes frustrating test of teamwork, proving that love isn’t just about grand gestures—it’s about figuring out who’s responsible for steering while the other blasts aliens to bits. | © Asteroid Base

Life is Strange (2015)

*Life is Strange* is less about sappy romance and more about the messy, complicated emotions that come with love, friendship, and time-travel-induced regret. You play as Max, a teenage girl who discovers she can rewind time, leading to some… interesting choices in her relationships, particularly with her childhood best friend, Chloe. Every decision you make impacts the narrative, making for a deeply personal story filled with love, loss, and lots of existential dread. If you’re looking for a game that perfectly captures the emotional rollercoaster of young love—with a side of supernatural drama—this one’s for you. Just be warned: feelings *will* be hurt. | © Dontnod Entertainment / Square Enix

Monster Prom (2018)

Forget high school romance—*Monster Prom* takes dating sims to a whole new level by throwing you into a high school full of quirky, over-the-top monsters, all looking for a date to prom. You’ll need to charm your crush, navigate absurd situations, and make choices that range from hilarious to completely unhinged (flirting by summoning an eldritch horror? Sure, why not). Whether you play solo or with friends, *Monster Prom* is a wildly fun and unpredictable ride that pokes fun at traditional romance tropes while embracing the ridiculousness of teenage love. Just be prepared for rejection—it stings even when it’s coming from a werewolf. | © Beautiful Glitch

Florence (2018)

*Florence* is the video game equivalent of a short, beautifully written love poem. This interactive story follows the life and love of Florence Yeoh, a young woman who falls for a musician named Krish. Through simple yet deeply emotional mini-games, you’ll experience their relationship—from the butterflies of first love to the inevitable struggles that come with it. The game is short (you can finish it in about 30 minutes), but it packs a powerful emotional punch, proving that love isn’t always about epic adventures—sometimes, it’s in the small, quiet moments that mean the most. | © Mountains / Annapurna Interactive

Dream Daddy (2017)

Ever wanted to date a bunch of charming, swoon-worthy dads? *Dream Daddy* delivers exactly that, and then some. You play as a single dad who moves to a new town with his daughter and quickly finds himself surrounded by an array of equally handsome and quirky dads to romance. The game is filled with witty dialogue, wholesome moments, and enough dad jokes to make even the most stoic of players crack a smile. But beneath the humor, there’s a surprisingly heartfelt story about family, relationships, and finding love again after loss. If you’re looking for a dating sim with heart (and an absurd amount of puns), *Dream Daddy* is a must-play. | © Game Grumps

Sayonara Wild Hearts (2019)

Love, heartbreak, motorcycles, and pop music—what more could you ask for? *Sayonara Wild Hearts* is an exhilarating mix of rhythm game and interactive music video, telling the story of a young woman navigating the emotional highs and lows of love. You’ll ride motorcycles, skateboard through neon dreamscapes, and even duel ex-lovers—all set to an electrifying synth-pop soundtrack. It’s fast-paced, stylish, and deeply symbolic, proving that love isn’t just about romance—it’s about self-discovery, healing, and occasionally battling a celestial biker gang. | © Simogo / Annapurna Interactive

When The Past Was Around (2020)

If *Florence* was a love poem, *When The Past Was Around* is a bittersweet melody. This hand-drawn, point-and-click adventure tells a story of love, loss, and moving forward, following a young woman as she pieces together memories of a relationship now gone. The puzzles are simple but meaningful, each one unraveling a moment of love shared between the protagonist and her partner. With its soft, warm art style and hauntingly beautiful soundtrack, this game is like a quiet reflection on love—not just the happiness it brings, but the pain of letting go. If you’re in the mood for something poetic and emotional, this one’s a must-play. | © Mojiken Studio / Toge Productions

Embracelet (2020)

Who knew love and magic bracelets went hand in hand? *Embracelet* is a heartwarming coming-of-age adventure about a teenager named Jesper, who inherits a mysterious bracelet with strange powers. As he explores a small Norwegian island, he uncovers family secrets, forms new relationships, and even experiences young love. The game’s gentle pace, relaxing puzzles, and stunning scenery make it feel like a warm hug in video game form. *Embracelet* isn’t just about romance—it’s about connection, self-discovery, and the way love can shape our lives, whether it’s romantic, familial, or simply the kindness of strangers. | © Mattis Folkestad

Once Again (2020)

Ever wished you could relive a lost love, even just for a moment? *Once Again* is a beautifully emotional visual novel that explores the fleeting nature of love and the power of memories. It follows a young man who gets the chance to reunite with someone from his past, if only for a single day each year. Through heartfelt storytelling and touching dialogue, the game captures the feeling of nostalgia, longing, and cherishing the time we have with those we love. It’s a short but deeply impactful game, perfect for anyone who enjoys a good cry with their love stories. | © RB Wolf Design

Love Choice — LoveChoice (2020)

If you’ve ever played a dating sim and thought, “Why do my choices never actually *matter*?” then *LoveChoice* is the game for you. This interactive visual novel does something unique—it actually explores *how* choices affect relationships, for better or worse. Each playthrough can lead to different emotional outcomes, depending on the way you communicate, react, and, well, make decisions like a functioning adult in a relationship. It’s a refreshing take on love in gaming, reminding us that love isn’t just about choosing the right dialogue option—it’s about understanding, compromise, and sometimes, knowing when to let go. | © Akaba Studio

It Takes Two (2021)

Relationships are all about teamwork, compromise, and occasionally turning into tiny dolls to survive a magical divorce therapy adventure. *It Takes Two* takes co-op gaming to a whole new level, forcing you and your partner to work together through mind-bending puzzles, ridiculous platforming challenges, and some truly wild boss fights. One minute you’re using magnets to solve puzzles, the next you’re battling a giant toolbox or snowboarding through an emotional metaphor. The game is packed with heart, humor, and more creative level design than most games dream of. If your relationship can survive *It Takes Two*, congratulations—you’re an unstoppable duo. | © Hazelight Studios / Electronic Arts

Doki Doki Literature Club Plus! (2021)

On the surface, *Doki Doki Literature Club Plus!* looks like your typical cute dating sim: anime girls, poetry writing, and lighthearted high school romance. But, oh boy, if you think that’s all it is, you’re in for a ride. What starts as a sweet, visual novel quickly spirals into a psychological horror experience that will mess with your head (and possibly your computer files). It’s a game about love, loneliness, and existential dread, proving that not all love stories have happy endings. If you’re looking for a game that *feels* like romance but hits like a psychological thriller, buckle up. | © Team Salvato / Serenity Forge

To Be With You (2021)

Some love stories are grand and epic, and some are simple yet deeply moving. *To Be With You* falls into the latter category, offering a heartfelt narrative about connection, relationships, and the choices we make for love. It’s a puzzle-adventure game that blends emotional storytelling with clever mechanics, creating an experience that feels deeply personal. With its soothing art style and reflective narrative, this is the kind of game that reminds you love isn’t just about dramatic moments—it’s in the small, quiet gestures that make life meaningful. | © MythicOwl

Slay the Princess (2023)

Love is all about choices… and sometimes, those choices involve deciding whether to rescue or *slay* a mysterious, possibly world-ending princess. *Slay the Princess* is a mind-bending narrative game that twists and turns with every decision you make. You’ll question everything—your instincts, your morality, and the very nature of love itself. Is she truly in danger? Or are you? This is a romance in the way a psychological thriller can be romantic—compelling, unsettling, and deeply engaging. If you like your love stories with a side of existential dread and moral dilemmas, this one’s for you. | © Black Tabby Games

Cropped BOKURA — Bokura (2023)

Communication is key in any relationship, and *Bokura* takes that concept and runs with it. This innovative co-op game tells the story of two boys who see the world differently—literally. Each player views a completely different reality, and the only way forward is by describing what you see and working together to solve puzzles. It’s a beautiful metaphor for how love and relationships require understanding and patience, wrapped up in a stunning indie game. If you and your partner enjoy a challenge that forces you to communicate like never before, *Bokura* is the perfect experience. | © Tokoronyori / Kodansha

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Love isn’t just about candlelit dinners and romantic walks on the beach—it’s also about epic quests, emotional storytelling, and, occasionally, throwing a controller in frustration. Video games have explored love and relationships in some truly unique ways, from heartwarming romances to gut-wrenching breakups, and everything in between.

Whether you’re looking for a touching love story, a co-op adventure to share with your partner, or a game that will make you feel something deep in your soul, this list has you covered. From fairy-tale romances to the messy, complicated reality of relationships, these 20 games prove that love comes in many forms—even pixelated ones. So grab a cozy blanket, maybe a box of tissues, and let’s dive into the best video games about love and relationships!