An Unexpected Mix
There are some things I don't expect at the beginning of a random week in December. The Day Before is closed, E3 is officially dead, and there's a new "turn-based combat dating sim" called Nova Hearts on Steam. You could say it's going to be a pretty strange week.
The Creators of Othercide Present
Nova Hearts is a brand new dating sim from Lightbulb Crew, the creators of Othercide, an absolutely stunning turn-based RPG currently rated 9/10 on Steam and boasting a series of excellent reviews.
From Dark to Sparkling
The beautiful black-white-red visuals of Othercide are being replaced with a sparkling world in the style of Final Fantasy X-2. You take on the role of Luce and her cheerful group of outsiders, who have the task of saving the world from a new mysterious supernatural force.
Superheroes and Supervillains
Both your team and several of your enemies - of course, all attractive singles in your area - have been equipped with a range of powerful superhero talents. This means that you have to face a variety of different supervillains and their hordes of greedy minions. The combat is based on the turn-based strategy of Darkest Dungeon and allows you to unleash devastating combos on your enemies with your friends.
Dating on the Battlefield
But in the background, you also have to successfully woo your chosen companions. You can exchange texts, chat, and even go on dates with your colleagues - or even with your new archenemies. I already know who I will choose.
Choices Have Consequences
However, keep in mind that, to quote good old Uncle Ben (or Voltaire, if you prefer 17th-century French literature like me): "With great power comes great responsibility." Your actions will determine the outcome of the story and could land you in some hot water. Will I still date the villain? Absolutely, but I'm just giving you a little warning.
Release and Availability
So, if you feel like unleashing your inner superhero (or supervillain), Nova Hearts will release the first part of its story, Nova Hearts: The Spark, on January 17, 2024. The rest of the game will follow in the summer of 2024. You can purchase the game on Steam and activate it using a Nova Hearts key.
