A World of Choice: The Best Games That Let You Date Everyone

In the expansive and diverse landscape of modern gaming, player choice has become a cornerstone of immersive design. While for years, romance options were often a locked-off, gender-specific affair, a new wave of games is breaking down barriers and empowering players to pursue relationships with virtually any character they desire. This shift reflects a growing demand for inclusive and fluid storytelling, where players can truly shape their own narrative without arbitrary restrictions. From epic RPGs to cozy life simulators, the era of universal romance is here, offering unprecedented freedom and depth. Let’s explore some of the most notable titles that are leading this charge and the groundbreaking features that make them so appealing.

The concept of “dating everyone” extends beyond simple polyamory; it speaks to a design philosophy that decouples romance from a character’s gender, allowing the player to express their identity and desires more authentically. This isn’t just a gimmick; it’s a profound evolution in character development, where relationships are built on shared experiences and personality, not on a pre-determined checklist. For gamers seeking a truly personal journey, these titles provide the ultimate sandbox for love and connection.

Baldur’s Gate 3: The Gold Standard of CRPG Romance

When it comes to comprehensive and inclusive romance, Baldur’s Gate 3 stands as a towering achievement. Larian Studios’ critically acclaimed RPG has set a new benchmark for character interaction, offering a cast of companions who are not only fully-realized and complex but are also largely “player-sexual.” This means that your player-character’s gender does not restrict who they can romance among the main cast. The game’s intricate approval system, rich dialogue options, and cinematic cutscenes make every relationship feel deeply earned and meaningful. From a passionate fling with a stoic githyanki warrior to a heartfelt connection with a brooding vampire spawn, the game’s romance options are as varied as they are captivating. The sheer volume of content dedicated to these personal stories is staggering, ensuring that no two romantic playthroughs are exactly the same. It’s a masterclass in modern RPG design and a must-play for anyone who values a compelling character-driven narrative.

Stardew Valley: A Cozy Sim with an Open Heart

For those who prefer a more relaxed pace, Stardew Valley offers a serene and equally inclusive experience. In this beloved farming simulator, all marriage candidates are available for romance, regardless of your character’s gender. The game’s charm lies in its simplicity and the genuine nature of its relationships. As you give gifts, attend festivals, and complete quests, your bond with a character grows naturally. While you can only marry one person, the game allows you to pursue multiple relationships at once, though you may face some humorous consequences if you’re not careful. This polyamorous-friendly approach has made Stardew Valley a cornerstone of the indie gaming scene and a shining example of how inclusive design can lead to widespread success and a dedicated community. The recent updates and ongoing support from developer ConcernedApe ensure that the game remains a relevant and cherished experience for years to come.

Dragon Age: The Vanguard of Inclusive RPG Storytelling

The Dragon Age series has long been a pioneer in offering diverse and meaningful romantic options. While some early titles had certain gender-locked romances, the series as a whole has embraced a fluid and inclusive approach. Dragon Age: Inquisition, in particular, features a wide range of romanceable companions and advisors who cater to different player genders and identities. The latest installment, Dragon Age: The Veilguard, is poised to continue this tradition, with reports indicating a completely open-ended romance system where all companions are available to every player, regardless of gender. This commitment to player agency and representation has solidified BioWare’s reputation as a developer that puts character and choice at the forefront of its epic fantasy narratives.

Beyond the Big Names: More Games with No Gender Walls

The trend of universal romance is not limited to just the biggest AAA titles. A variety of other games are also creating compelling and inclusive worlds:

• Fallout 4: In this post-apocalyptic RPG, the majority of companions are available for romance, and your gender has no bearing on who you can woo. This allows for a great deal of role-playing freedom in the wasteland, letting you find love with a variety of fascinating characters from different factions.
• Assassin’s Creed Odyssey: Taking a more historical approach, Odyssey lets players, as either Kassandra or Alexios, pursue relationships with multiple characters. While some are brief flings, others are more developed, and the game does not restrict your options based on your character’s gender, staying true to its ancient Greek setting.
• Cyberpunk 2077: Although Cyberpunk 2077 initially had some gender-locked romances, subsequent patches and the game’s overall narrative freedom have made it more open. The distinct and well-written characters offer unique relationship arcs that feel personal and impactful to the main story.
• Hades: This rogue-lite masterpiece from Supergiant Games offers an incredibly progressive take on romance. The protagonist, Zagreus, is explicitly bisexual and can pursue polyamorous relationships with two of the game’s key characters, both male and female, without any penalty or jealousy.

The evolution of romance in video games is a direct reflection of broader cultural shifts. Developers are recognizing that players want to see themselves reflected in the games they play, and the freedom to pursue a relationship with any character is a powerful way to achieve that. The titles listed above are not just great games; they are a testament to a more inclusive and imaginative future for interactive storytelling. As the industry continues to grow and diversify, we can expect to see even more groundbreaking and authentic romantic experiences that truly let the player’s heart be their guide.