Best RPG Romances

Modern role-playing games (RPGs) have evolved beyond simple combat and quests. Increasingly, they prioritize character relationships and offer players compelling opportunities for romance. While not every RPG features romance prominently, some titles excel at crafting memorable and impactful romantic storylines, adding depth and emotional resonance to the overall experience. This curated list explores some of the best examples, spanning various eras and styles.

### Stella Glow (2015)

Developer: Imageepoch Platforms: Nintendo DS Romance Options: 9 Canon Romance: No

Set in a world threatened by a crystal-curse, *Stella Glow* blends classic turn-based combat with a robust social system. Players, as the amnesiac Alto, must forge bonds with powerful witches, their relationships directly influencing combat effectiveness through a Persona-esque “Affinity” mechanic. The game offers a satisfying level of player agency, allowing for multiple romance options and epilogue endings based on these relationships. Anime fans will appreciate the familiar character dynamics and straightforward approach to romance.

### Warhammer 40,000: Rogue Trader

Romance Options: 5 Canon Romance: No

This challenging CRPG throws players into the grim darkness of the Warhammer 40,000 universe. As a Rogue Trader navigating the Kronus Expanse, you’ll build relationships with your companions, facing difficult choices that impact your alignment and relationships. *Rogue Trader’s* romance system integrates deeply with the game’s mechanics, with romantic partners influencing your ship and challenging you within the relationship itself.

### Xenogears (1998)

Romance Options: 1 Canon Romance: Yes

Despite its age, *Xenogears* remains a landmark RPG, praised for its complex story and unique gameplay. The central romance between Fei Fong Wong and Elly Van Houten is a powerful and integral part of the narrative, offering emotional depth within a sprawling sci-fi setting rife with philosophical and religious themes. This single, focused romance provides a compelling human element against the backdrop of a larger-than-life conflict.

### Grandia (1997)

Romance Options: 0 Canon Romance: Yes

*Grandia*, a classic fantasy RPG, features a straightforward yet effective romance between Justin and Feena. Their relationship unfolds naturally throughout the adventure, building from friendship to love as they overcome challenges together. The romance avoids forced interactions or unnecessary conflict, showcasing a refreshingly organic development.

### Final Fantasy X (2001)

Romance Options: 0 Canon Romance: Yes

*Final Fantasy X* tells a linear yet emotionally resonant story. The romance between Tidus and Yuna unfolds alongside the game’s central plot, exploring themes of freedom versus obligation and the impact of love in a world facing existential threats. The depth of their relationship and the philosophical debates surrounding it contribute significantly to the game’s overall impact.

### Persona 3 (2006/2024)

Romance Options: 7 (Male Protagonist), 6 (Female Protagonist) Canon Romance: No

*Persona 3*, with its *Persona 3 Reload* remake, masterfully balances turn-based combat with intricate social interactions. Building Social Links with teammates unlocks the potential for romance, emphasizing the importance of relationships in overcoming the game’s central threat. The romance options offer a variety of personalities, though the game’s approach to romance is largely heterosexual.

### Pathfinder: Wrath of the Righteous

Romance Options: 7 Canon Romance: No

This isometric RPG, based on the *Pathfinder* tabletop game, features a compelling romance system with multiple options, each offering unique interactions and storylines. The depth of character development and meaningful dialogue make even non-romantic relationships worthwhile.

### Thousand Arms (1998)

Romance Options: 9 Canon Romance: No

This classic JRPG features a unique premise: the protagonist strengthens his smithing by dating various women. *Thousand Arms* presents a charming and in-depth dating system, making each romance a mini-game involving gifts and conversations. The quirky premise and multiple options provide an enjoyable romantic experience.

### Starfield (2023)

Romance Options: 4 Canon Romance: No

Bethesda’s space exploration RPG offers a more understated approach to romance compared to other titles on this list. The four romanceable characters each possess unique personalities and backstories, but the relationship system is relatively straightforward.

### Record of Agarest War

Romance Options: 12 Canon Romance: No

This multi-generational RPG features a unique “Soul Breed” system where romantic relationships directly impact the stats and characteristics of subsequent generations. Romance plays a significant role in shaping the long-term gameplay experience.

### Story of Seasons (2014)

Romance Options: 6 Canon Romance: No

This farming simulator offers a charming cast of potential partners, each with distinct personalities. The detailed dating mechanics and character development contribute to a fulfilling and enjoyable romantic experience.

### Harvest Moon: Animal Parade (2010)

Romance Options: 20 (10 per gender) Canon Romance: No

This *Harvest Moon* entry expands on the franchise’s romance options, offering a larger pool of potential partners and even including celestial beings. Unique mechanics like rivalries add a playful competitive element to the dating system.

### Rune Factory 2 (2008)

Romance Options: 7 Canon Romance: No

This farming/RPG hybrid blends the familiar *Harvest Moon* style with RPG elements and multi-generational gameplay. The romance system allows for relationships in both generations, incorporating rival characters to add intrigue.

### Trails in the Sky (2004)

Romance Options: 1 Canon Romance: Yes

This JRPG features a compelling central romance that is a significant part of its narrative. The established relationship between Estelle and Joshua allows for rich character development and emotionally engaging storytelling.

### Star Ocean: The Second Story (2000)

Romance Options: All possible combinations of characters Canon Romance: No

*Star Ocean: The Second Story* features a highly complex and dynamic relationship system, with Private Actions influencing character bonds and ultimately leading to a vast number of different endings, many of which involve romance.

### Dragon’s Dogma: Dark Arisen (2012)

Romance Options: Almost all NPCs Canon Romance: No

This action RPG sets itself apart with its open-ended romance system. Players can pursue relationships with almost any NPC, forging their own unique connections throughout the game.

### The Legend of Heroes: Trails of Cold Steel (2015)

Romance Options: 11 Canon Romance: No

The game features a robust romance system intricately tied to the school setting and character development. Building strong links with classmates unlocks opportunities for romance and impacts the overall story.

### Yakuza: Like a Dragon (2020)

Romance Options: 6 Canon Romance: Yes (revealed in Yakuza 8)

This entry in the *Yakuza* series offers a fresh approach to romance with a cast of realistic and relatable characters. The game encourages players to explore various romantic paths, even allowing for multiple relationships simultaneously.

### Dragon Age: Inquisition (2014)

Romance Options: 8 Canon Romance: No

BioWare’s *Dragon Age: Inquisition* delivers a classic BioWare experience, offering players multiple romance options and nuanced character interactions. The depth of the relationships and their impact on the game’s storyline make for a memorable romantic journey.

### Cyberpunk 2077 (2020)

Romance Options: 4 Canon Romance: No

*Cyberpunk 2077* incorporates romance into its dystopian setting, offering unique opportunities for relationships that can even impact the game’s endings. However, the romance system is somewhat limited by character preferences based on the player’s V’s body type and voice.