If You Love Me, Then Say So!

Dating simulators aren’t exactly a new idea within the medium of gaming. They have been around for what seems like forever. However, the difference between the sims of old and the dating sims of today is the sheer level of detail, versatility and abundance of moving parts that exist within. The goal of each developer within the genre is to create an intriguing, realistic and deep system which mimics the struggles, trials and tribulations of dating in reality. Well, If You Love Me, Then Say So! Is a game that takes this role very seriously.

This game plays much like other conventional and Eroge dating simulators such as Noblesse of Rose, Hatoful Boyfriend, Yakimochi Stream, the Persona series and Koishiki Manual. This title aims to offer the most flexible dating sim within the genre to date that allows the player to have full control of their experience. However, are you in the driving seat? Or are you merely a passenger? We find out in our review of If You Love Me, Then Say So!

A Versatile Dating Sim

Firstly, let’s begin with the gameplay. This game doesn’t have the player walk down a one-way path filled with expsoition. Instead, this game gives the player the freedom to do whatever they choose with their day, much like the Persona series. You’ll choose how to spend your time, who to spend your days with and the choices you make will change the dynamic of the story and the events of the next day. In this sense, it is one of the most flexible and interactive dating sims we have ever encountered. Plus, thanks to the diverse, branching narrative, the replay value is through the roof.

Then moving on to the artistic direction. We have to commend this game once again as this is some of the most refined and beautiful artwork within the genre. The textures are stunning, the character models are vibrant and detailed and while the raunchy CG’s don’t quite capture this in the same way, they still outshine a lot of the content available within the genre. So overall, this game is a real visual treat which only adds to the overall spectacle.

Then lastly, the story. This game is chocked full of branching narratives, well written characters and a number of heroines that you can’t help but fall for. However, the main plotline is never left to the wayside and remains prominent throughout. Without spoiling anything, we will say that this story is well worth seeing through to the end and then again, if you want to make new decisions along the way.

The Verdict

Overall, we believe that If You Love Me, Then Say So! Is one of the best dating sim games of this modern gaming era. The attention to detail, the aesthetic qualities, the emergent gameplay and branching narratives. Plus the wealth of excellently written and interesting characters all culminate to provide one of the richest dating experiences that the genre has to offer.

Pros:

• A format that allows the player to make decisions on the fly and play their own way
• An aesthetically stunning game

Cons:

• CG cut scenes lack the same refinement that the rest of the visuals offer