When it comes to fantasy RPGs that offer freedom, action-packed combat, and a mysterious world to explore, Dragon’s Dogma: Dark Arisen stands out as a cult classic. First released in 2012 and re-released in 2016 with the Dark Arisen expansion, the game has grown a dedicated fanbase, especially with its re-releases on newer platforms. But does it have the emotional depth or romantic intrigue to stand beside more relationship-focused RPGs? In this review, we’ll explore Dragon’s Dogma: Dark Arisen through the lens of its romantic elements—or lack thereof—and evaluate whether it holds any real appeal as a romance game.
Romance in a Harsh Fantasy World
To begin with, it’s important to understand that Dragon’s Dogma is not a traditional romance game. Unlike Mass Effect, The Witcher, or Persona, where romance is central or heavily integrated, Dragon’s Dogma treats romance as a peripheral and often accidental feature. The game does allow for a form of “romantic” connection via the Affinity system, but it’s less about carefully built relationships and more about who you talk to and give gifts to the most.
That said, there is a “Beloved” system that culminates in a story event where one NPC is designated as your character’s chosen romantic partner. However, the mechanics are so opaque and indirect that it’s easy to end up romancing someone entirely by accident. Many players report finishing the game with the innkeeper, a merchant, or even an elderly nobleman as their beloved—simply because they spoke to them often or completed their quests.
The Affinity System – An Accidental Romance Mechanic
Affinity is essentially a hidden stat that tracks your interactions with various NPCs. Giving gifts, healing them, and speaking to them raises their affection. While this opens up some charming possibilities, it lacks emotional weight. There are no meaningful conversations, no flirtation dialogue, and no actual development of feelings between characters. You never feel like you’re falling in love—because, narratively, you aren’t.
The culmination of this system happens during a late-game quest where your beloved is used as a plot device. Whoever has the highest affinity is treated as your character’s true love, regardless of context. It’s a clever twist on RPG storytelling, but it doesn’t deliver the satisfying build-up or payoff that romance fans expect. If anything, it feels arbitrary.
What It Lacks in Romance, It Makes Up for in Atmosphere
While Dark Arisen is light on actual romantic content, its world is filled with mystery, tension, and emotional resonance. The game’s themes—fate, sacrifice, identity—run deep. The Arisen’s journey is often lonely and haunted, especially when traveling at night through monster-filled forests or descending into the cursed depths of Bitterblack Isle. It’s not romance in the traditional sense, but it is emotionally rich in its own way.
There’s also something to be said for the bond you form with your main Pawn, a customizable companion who follows you throughout the game. While this relationship is not romantic, it can be surprisingly meaningful, as your Pawn grows with you and reflects your choices and style. Some players even headcanon romantic feelings toward their Pawn, simply because the bond can feel so personal.
Final Thoughts: Not a Romance Game, But a Memorable Experience
If you’re looking for deep, branching romantic storylines, Dragon’s Dogma: Dark Arisen won’t satisfy you. The romance elements are shallow, underdeveloped, and often unintentionally comical. However, if you enjoy atmospheric world-building, compelling lore, and high-stakes action with the occasional surprise romance twist, it might still charm you.
Ultimately, Dragon’s Dogma isn’t a romance game—it’s a gritty action RPG with a side of accidental affection. But in its strange, unpredictable way, that’s part of its charm.
Romance Rating: 2/5
RPG Rating: 4.5/5
