Webkare: The First Dating Sim for the Ladies

One of Japan’s most popular genres is the dating simulation, nicknamed the “galge” (short for “gal game”). Strangely, it’s never quite caught on in the West. In the past, this has exclusively been the guilty pleasure for genetically and socially impaired virgin males who never stood the chance otherwise of contacting the fairer sex. But what’s this we see on the horizon? A dating sim…for girls??

Yes, it’s true! LinkThink of Japan has finally acknowledged that maybe the ladies out there might fancy a boy harem of their own with the creation of Webkare (a Japanese abbreviation of “web boyfriend”). You get your choice of one of four boys upon registration, but you’re able to meet and collect other boys throughout the game. You can either put your eggs (pun might be intended) into one basket, or choose to collect a stable of boy toys as pets, which I’m sure will appeal to many girls out there. The progression of each relationship is determined by dialogue trees and each boy has his own plot for you to experience together, should you choose to explore it. You can either engage your digital sweetheart in long romantic talks or shoo him away if he’s being a pest.

What separates this game most from its misogynist counterparts is that it’s actually an online multiplayer game by nature. Webkare doubles as a social networking site, where users can create profiles, communicate with others, and write miniature blog posts. In order to advance in the game itself, users must not only interact with their virtual beaus, but also with fellow members. Think of it as a very girly, anime-themed MySpace…with a polygamy feature.

Presently, the game is only available in Japan, though they’re making progress toward making it more international. Women that are fond of bishounen are bound to be drawn to Webkare. However, some may be disappointed of the lack of yaoi features. Though I imagine that’s just the next stage of evolution for games of this type. Here’s hopin’ for ya, ladies!