Doki Doki literature club
Beginning as a joyful dating sim game and then morphing into a horror game. You see signs of breaking the fourth wall and more horror elements like more glitching which adds to the game’s frightening, interesting, and distinctive atmosphere. But why does this work? It opens a new perspective not often seen within dating sim games. Though a little unsettling it can make the game feel more immersive and emphasises the narrative since in the beginning the player is meant to believe it’s a normal dating sim game. I enjoy the bright aesthetic and the sudden glitching of the game, how it arranges the options presented, and the UI. The welcoming soundtrack that changes throughout the game emphasises the game’s disturbing narrative.
A Woman Goes to a Private Games Industry Party, Rosa Carbó-Mascarell
A itchio game in which a woman goes to a industry party and interacts with the other guests. Already in a few conversations men are immediately flirting or giving indecent suggestions in a party setting, “Have you ever had a threesome?”. Making me, the player uncomfortable for the interaction but also sad as this game is a recreation of the developers experience. I want to also show a message towards player through my game.
Class mates
This isn’t a dating simulation game, but I was intrigued by Ian’s behaviour. You play as June and decide to help Ian with class notes, but when he asks you over for a tap water, you find yourself unable to leave after entering his home, forcing you to solve puzzles and escape this love-obsessed yandere. I like this game’s pixel graphics, colouring, variety of endings, and puzzle-solving gameplay. Moreover, the developers choice of music to create tension and thrilling moments for the player.
Delicious date
Delicious Dates is a game in which you go on a date only to discover that you’re with a demon. A colourful design with many endings. I was interested in the opening menu fonts and the use of colour in the setting. I really like the elements added by the developer when it is revealed that your date is trying to eat you. For example, the music effects or how the date begins to glitch and change its look.
Dekiai Heart Candy Kun- Heart Doting Candy
This is a short otome game where you live with a slightly twisted boyfriend. There are two modes: sweet and nougat. With 14 endings, you can explore the differences between both partnerships. Chihaya-kun, who is aggressive and distant in general, is described as a scumbag partner, while Kei-kun is described as a caring partner. I like the general gameplay and how there are various levels for how dark and realistic the game can be.
