Exploring All Avenues: The Best Games That Let You Date Everyone

The landscape of video games has evolved dramatically, moving beyond simple narratives to offer players deep, branching stories and complex character relationships. Central to this evolution is the rising popularity of romance systems, which allow players to form meaningful connections with in-game characters. While many games offer romance options, a select few go a step further, breaking down traditional gender and relationship barriers to let you date almost every eligible character. This shift towards more inclusive and player-driven romance is a testament to a growing demand for diverse and personal experiences in gaming. This article dives into some of the most prominent titles where you can truly “date everyone,” exploring why this feature is becoming a staple in modern RPGs and life simulation games.

The Pioneers of Inclusive Romance

For a long time, video game romance was often restricted, following a very specific formula where male player characters could only romance female NPCs and vice versa. However, a new wave of games has challenged this status quo, offering “playersexual” romance options where your character’s gender doesn’t restrict who you can pursue. This approach not only broadens the gameplay experience but also provides a more authentic role-playing opportunity for a wider audience. The high-value keywords like best RPGs with romance, games with no gender-locked dating, and LGBTQ+ friendly games are seeing a surge in searches, indicating a strong market for these titles.

Baldur’s Gate 3: A Masterclass in Player Choice

Larian Studios’ masterpiece, Baldur’s Gate 3, has redefined what is possible in video game romance. Known for its deeply interactive storytelling, the game allows players to build relationships with their companions and various NPCs with an unprecedented level of freedom. The game is celebrated for its commitment to player agency, which extends fully to its romance system. Unlike many other RPGs, your character’s gender and race do not restrict your romantic pursuits. Whether you’re a male dwarf seeking to romance the stoic Shadowheart or a female Tiefling vying for the affection of the charismatic Astarion, the game supports your choices. Furthermore, Baldur’s Gate 3 even allows for polyamorous relationships, such as the one involving the druid Halsin, a feature that was widely celebrated by the gaming community for its progressive approach. The dynamic nature of these relationships means that your choices and actions have real consequences on your love life, making each romance feel unique and earned.

Stardew Valley: Wholesome Life, Wholesome Love

While Baldur’s Gate 3 offers a high-fantasy take on dating, Stardew Valley proves that an inclusive romance system can be just as impactful in a cozy, pixelated world. In this beloved farming simulation game, you can romance any of the twelve bachelors and bachelorettes in Pelican Town, regardless of your character’s gender. This simple but powerful design choice was revolutionary at the time of its release and has become a standard for the genre. The game doesn’t just let you date; it allows you to build a life with your chosen partner, from getting married and moving in together to having children. The wholesome and accepting nature of Stardew Valley has made it a favorite for players looking for a relaxed and inclusive gaming experience. It demonstrates that romance in games isn’t just about a single outcome but about the journey of building a community and finding your place in it.

Fallout 4: Love in the Wasteland

Bethesda’s post-apocalyptic RPG, Fallout 4, may not be the first game that comes to mind when you think of romance, but it is one of the early major titles to embrace an inclusive dating system. The game features a variety of companions, many of whom are romanceable regardless of your player character’s gender. From the mysterious synth detective Nick Valentine to the hardened mercenary MacCready, you have a wide array of personalities to pursue. What sets Fallout 4 apart is its lack of jealousy or romantic restrictions, allowing you to flirt and build relationships with all available companions simultaneously. This freedom, while less focused on deep narrative consequences, caters to a different kind of player who enjoys exploring all possible character interactions without being locked into a single path.

Games that Offer True Dating Freedom

Beyond the giants of the genre, several other games have also made significant strides in this area. Boyfriend Dungeon, for instance, is a unique dungeon crawler where you can date the personifications of your weapons—and all of them are available for romance, regardless of your character’s gender identity. Similarly, the visually stunning Hades allows the protagonist Zagreus to engage in a polyamorous relationship with two key characters, Megaera and Thanatos, which is a rare and welcome feature in modern gaming. This trend shows that developers are recognizing the value of giving players complete control over their romantic narratives, reflecting a more modern and diverse understanding of relationships.

The desire for games that let you “date everyone” is more than just a passing trend. It reflects a fundamental shift in what players want from their interactive stories. They seek authenticity, inclusivity, and the freedom to create a character and a life that truly feels like their own. As the gaming industry continues to grow and evolve, we can expect to see more titles that embrace this philosophy, offering a richer, more personal, and ultimately more memorable experience for every kind of player.