romanceable

Romanceable is a term used within video games, particularly role-playing games, to describe characters with whom the player character can pursue a romantic relationship. These characters are often referred to as "love interests" or "romance options." The ability to engage in a romance with an in-game character is typically a feature that develops over time through dialogue choices, completing specific quests, or building a positive relationship score.

The mechanics for initiating and progressing a romance vary significantly between games. Some games present clear choices that directly lead to a romantic path, while others require players to pay close attention to subtle cues and make consistently supportive or affectionate decisions. Successful romances can lead to unique dialogue, cutscenes, and sometimes even in-game benefits or narrative outcomes, such as a companion character staying with the player permanently or contributing to a specific ending.

Not all characters in a game are romanceable. Developers typically designate specific characters as romance options, ensuring these individuals have sufficient backstory and personality to create compelling relationships. The inclusion of romanceable characters is a popular feature that can add depth to a game's narrative and enhance player immersion by allowing for more personal connections with the game world and its inhabitants. The term itself highlights the potential for a romantic storyline within the game's mechanics.