Ever played an otome game so progressive and immersive that it includes a feature to track your monthly cycle?
For the unfamiliar, ‘otome’ is a Japanese word that translates to “maiden” or “young lady.” Suffice it to say, otome games are marketed toward female players. The narrative typically involves a female protagonist who meets and interacts with several male characters, eventually developing romantic relationships with one or more of them on top of the main story goals.
Love and Deepspace, or LaDS, has taken the otome game world by storm since its release on January 18, 2024—and really, why wouldn’t it? It is the first fully 3D otome game, with storytelling, interactive romance mechanics, and action-packed gameplay all rendered in 3D, making it the most polished and immersive otome experience to date. I started playing the game in September 2024, and so far, I’ve been having a blast. What I find particularly interesting is LaDS’s sci-fi and futuristic theme, while many other games focus on fantasy or historical settings. The gameplay is also new to me since you can choose which of the characters will help you in combat.
Yes, there’s a battle system in this game. Interesting, right?
Last month, the game introduced a new feature called “Remind Me”.
This allows your chosen 3D boyfriend to remind you of things—think of it like an in-game calendar app. But what truly caught my attention and sparked discussions among players is the in-game period tracker.
That’s right, folks—LaDS is the first otome game to include a built-in period tracker, and your 3D husbando or boyfriend will remind you of it. While some see it as a unique and thoughtful addition, others find it… a little unsettling.
Before diving into that, let’s first see how the period tracker works in-game.
You’ll find the period tracker in the “Remind Me” section when you spend Quality Time with your 3D husbando. In my case, I used Sylus as my example.
In my experience, I was asked for several details, such as the date my last period started, the length of my cycle, and how long my period usually lasts.
Then, the game—or better yet, your 3D husbando—will summarize the information you’ve inputted.
And that’s it!
Despite the game’s good intentions, not everyone is on board with this level of intimacy. Many players are questioning why the game needs to access such personal information, raising concerns about potential misuse. Some feel that incorporating a period tracker crosses the line from romantic to invasive, while others worry that their information could influence the game in ways they might not want or enjoy.
While some find this feature a little weird or off-putting, others see it as a thoughtful addition. To me, it adds a sense of realism—having a partner who acknowledges and responds to your menstrual cycle mirrors real-life relationships, making interactions feel more natural and personal. I mean, who wouldn’t want that, especially if you’re single or recently went through a breakup? Additionally, it could serve as a handy reminder for those already tracking their cycles with a separate app. Having this option in-game sounds convenient since you wouldn’t have to switch between apps. Plus, with the period tracker, your virtual boyfriend can provide comfort or just check in—virtually, of course.
As someone who tends to forget their monthly cycle, I’ve used apps to track it. Having a period tracker in-game isn’t just helpful; it also makes me appreciate that the developers put thought into their female players’ needs.
Of course, this raises the question of how LaDS and its developers handle this data. In an era where data privacy is a growing concern, transparency is crucial. Sure, this is just tracking a menstrual cycle, but believe it or not, a period-tracking app has already faced scrutiny over data security. It’s understandable why some players are worried about this feature.
However, the good news is that using the game’s period tracker is entirely optional. You get to decide whether you want to use it or not. So, if the idea of a period tracker in your otome game makes you uncomfortable, you can simply skip it.
While Love and Deepspace’s period tracker is a groundbreaking addition, it also raises important ethical concerns about privacy and data security.
The inclusion of such personal information sparks a broader conversation: how much of our personal data should be integrated into games, even if it’s optional?
As games become increasingly lifelike and interactive, developers must strike a balance between innovation and ensuring that players’ trust and consent are respected. This feature sets a new precedent, but its success will depend on how future games address these challenges responsibly.
