i've had people ask me for recommendations for otome games in the past, but it's a much longer convo than you might think! there are 3 main types of otome games, and some games that don't fit into those categories at all.
the three main types are as follows (with names i just made up): event driven, one-time plot driven, and skill driven. of course, i'll go into detail on each and give some examples. :)
event driven games:
- these games are only found as mobile apps, and, as such, are the most successful type of otome games for the mobile market.
- the focus around a plotline of a suitor that you choose at the beginning, and your conversation choices lead up to which ending (of usually 2 or 3) you get.
- there are no branched off bad endings.
- throughout the route, it makes you aware of which ending you're heading toward.
- you're limited to how many "chapters" you can read within a certain time span. some, you get 5 tickets once a day. others, your tickets refresh at a speed of 4 hours a ticket.
- once you finish one route, you're immediately prompted to select a new suitor.
- there is almost always an in-game customizable avatar of "yourself", or the character you play as.
- in game challenges often involve a stat number that you have to use your energy to gain (there is usually only one of these traits you have to work on), or the purchasing of a specific clothing using either in-game currency for one, or real money for a "spicier" event.
- you can usually add friends who also play the game, and "greet" them every day for in-game currency.
- alongside the main plot, there are often real-time side events.
- these events are totally optional, but they keep the attention of players long after they've finished the main plotlines.
- you get extra plotlines with your favorite suitors, and oftentimes, exclusive new outfits for your avatar.
- they often correspond with the time of year they take place, such as halloween events or winter or the anniversary of the game, etc, but his is not always true, especially in long stretches of time without any events to correspond with.
- sometimes these events do NOT use in-game tickets (known as ticket free events ), but sometimes, they do.
- they're short, but involve frequent challenges in which you need to either purchase items, or have a high enough event-specific stat.
- events usually have rankings, and those with the highest event-specific stats may get bonus items!
- these games also generally have other side stories, which you can simply purchase for real money! they're usually advertised as buying an exclusive item which comes with a story.