otome

Otome refers to a genre of video games that are primarily targeted towards a female audience. The term itself originates from the Japanese word "otome" (乙女), meaning "maiden" or "young girl." The core gameplay loop of an otome game typically involves a female protagonist navigating social relationships, often with a cast of male characters, with the goal of developing a romantic connection with one of them.

These games are usually visual novels, meaning they rely heavily on text, static or semi-static character sprites, and background art. Player interaction is generally limited to making dialogue choices or selecting actions at key points in the story. These decisions can influence the protagonist's relationships with the other characters, leading to different story branches and multiple endings, often including a "good" ending with a romantic outcome and various "bad" endings.

Otome games span a wide range of settings and genres, from high school romance and fantasy to historical dramas and science fiction. While romance is the central theme, many otome games also incorporate elements of mystery, adventure, or slice-of-life. The appeal lies in the interactive storytelling, character development, and the opportunity for players to experience romantic narratives from a female perspective. They are popular in Japan and have gained a significant international following.