Yup, it’s Valentine’s day. Love is in the air, restaurant reservations are being made, heart-shaped gifts are exchanged, and cards are being sent. Yet if you’re left without a date on this particular day, don’t worry too much, we have you covered. We’re bringing you a bit of a Valentine’s by bringing together some of the most memorable romances in video games. Oh, and don’t feel blue, there’s no love greater than a gamer’s love for quality games!
Half Life 2
Gordon and Alyx
It might no be exactly to be romantically involved with a mute, but after all, love conquers all, doesn’t it? Besides, the mute being one bad-ass alien slayer tends to make up for other flaws. Needless to say, the relationship between Half Life 2’s Gordon Freeman and Alyx Vance is a memorable and touching one.
Mass Effect
Shepard and Liara
The entire Mass Effect series had an abundance of interesting romantic involvements, for both the female and male versions of Shepard. It comes down to a matter of taste as to which one is the best: some prefer the female Shepard and Garrus line, others prefer the Shepard and Tali romantic entanglement. The most canonical though is probably Shepard’s and Liara’s love story, a story amplified by the final scenes in Mass Effect 3.
Uncharted
- Elena and Drake
How can we not mention Nathan Drake and Elena Fisher? Sure, they have their ups, and downs, and they certainly aren’t a perfect match by most standards. But the fact that they are different, yet drawn to each other is what makes them stand out. That, and the fact that they are memorable and extremely likeable characters. Banter, teasing and occasional moments of sentimentality are all present, and this couple just stands out by being natural. In fact, they seem more natural together than many real life couples.
Baldur’s Gate 2
Protagonist and Viconia
Baldur’s Gate 2 also had some memorable romances, there’s no doubt about that. In this case, I’m not going with the canonical Jaheira love story though, and will point out the bond between the male protagonist and Viconia. It’s a bond that unfolds over countless debates, arguments, teasing and erotic moments. It’s arguably the most difficult romance to achieve in a video game, but perhaps that’s also part of what makes it special. After all, when is love ever easy?
Prince of Persia
- The Prince and Farah
There’s just something magical in the romance of Farah and the noble Prince. Through the sands of time, their love manages to endure, and Farah engraves herself into video-game history as a memorable character, both strong and vulnerable. “Listen to this: “Love is life, so if you want to live, die in love, die in love if you want to stay alive.” she read to the Prince, and loved they did!
Max Payne
Max and Mona
Certainly no butterflies and rainbows were involved in Max Payne and Mona Sax’s brief, but intense romance. As customary in Max Payne games, the romance has a film-noir feel to it, and it’s as dark as it is deep. Two broken souls, brought together in a broken and corrupt world, they find some sort of peace in each-other. Of course, neither of them are destined for happiness, but that doesn’t make their relationship any less memorable. And we can’t help but love a damsel in distress, one that even the hardened Mona admits to being at the very end.
The Witcher
Geralt and Triss
Geralt is not a witcher without flaws. His life does not allow happy endings, and has him on the road, so it’s not surprising that he often seeks comfort in varying arms. The Witcher games don’t feature Yennefer, but they more than make up for that through Triss Merigold. The relationship between Triss and Geralt is a complex one, but their attraction for each other cannot be denied. As if confirmation would be needed, the love scene in the elven ruins is masterfully crafted, and their romance most certainly deserves a mention.
MonkeyIsland
Guybrush and Elaine
We can’t imagine a Guybrush Threepwood without Elaine Marley at his side. The two manage to pull of a relationship that’s so believable that it hurts. Forever in love, yet perfectly natural in regards to each other, the two radiate chemistry though every gesture, word and moment. You can almost picture the two of them together, old and happy, honestly and endlessly in love.
Dragon Age
Protagonist and Alistair
Dragon Age also has its fair share of memorable romances, much like Mass Effect. It’s a Bioware game after all. Standing out is the romance between the female protagonist and Alistair. It truly feels like genuine love, as you nourish the goofy and awkward prince and see him transition into a worthy man and eventually, a king. Self-sacrifice is involved in the romance, and that only makes it even more profound and touching.
Star Wars: The Force Unleashed
Starkiller and Juno
There aren’t many things that turn a sith assassin from the dark side of the force. Juno Eclipse is one of them. Her relationship with Galen Mark, known as “Starkiller” is not one of joy and happiness, nor is it one destined to last. There’s a Romeo and Juliet feel to the final moments shared by the two, evidence of their profound love and respect for each other.
So there you have it! What’s your favorite video-game romance? Do let us know!