Pathfinder: Kingmaker, developed by Owlcat Games, is a robust isometric RPG rooted in the ruleset of the Pathfinder tabletop game. While its core identity centers around kingdom management and strategic combat, it also offers players the chance to experience romance—albeit in a limited and sometimes divisive fashion. For those seeking emotional bonds alongside epic battles, the game offers a taste of intimacy, though not without its caveats.
A Game of Grand Scope, with Romance on the Side
Released in 2018, Kingmaker invites players to forge their own destiny as a ruler of the Stolen Lands. The game is sprawling, challenging, and deeply narrative-driven. In this setting, romance is not the main event—it’s more of a subplot woven into the broader tapestry of politics, conquest, and personal growth. This stands in contrast to more romance-focused RPGs like Dragon Age or Baldur’s Gate 3, where relationships often take center stage.
That said, for players who value character-driven storytelling, Kingmaker offers a few romance paths that can add emotional weight to the journey.
Limited Options, But Meaningful Connections
Pathfinder: Kingmaker includes a small selection of romanceable companions. Options are limited, particularly if you play as a female character. The game allows romantic relationships with:
- Tristian (for female player characters): A soft-spoken, idealistic cleric of Sarenrae whose storyline touches on themes of faith, sacrifice, and redemption.
- Octavia (for male characters): A cheerful and brilliant transmuter who shares a complicated past with fellow companion Regongar.
- Regongar (for female characters): A brash, passionate half-orc magus whose emotional growth throughout the game is deeply satisfying.
- Nok-Nok (sort of): A goblin rogue whose idea of “romance” is, shall we say, unconventional and more comical than emotional.
While these are the core options, modding communities have expanded the possibilities for players who want more freedom in choosing romantic partners or exploring same-sex relationships—though these are not part of the base game.
Writing and Emotional Impact
What the romance arcs lack in number, they often make up for in emotional resonance. Tristian’s romance, for example, delves into serious moral and spiritual dilemmas. His internal conflict between his divine duties and personal feelings makes for a compelling (if tragic) arc. Octavia’s relationship path is more light-hearted and playful, though it gains complexity as she reveals her traumatic background as a slave.
Regongar’s arc is perhaps the most transformative. Initially coming off as aggressive and impulsive, his character reveals surprising depth, and his romance path allows him to become a more grounded and reflective partner. The emotional payoff in these stories may not rival the sheer cinematic drama of more modern RPG romances, but they feel earned and character-specific.
Integration with Gameplay
Romantic relationships in Kingmaker evolve over time, often through dialogue choices, companion loyalty quests, and key story events. There are no overly explicit scenes, and much of the romance is expressed through subtle conversations and situational dialogue. This more subdued approach aligns with the game’s tone and pacing, but it may disappoint players looking for more explicit or dramatic romantic payoffs.
Importantly, romance is not mechanically necessary. You can complete the game without engaging in any romance, and doing so does not significantly hinder your success in combat, kingdom management, or the main narrative. It’s a flavor element—meant to deepen the roleplaying, not define it.
Technical and Narrative Drawbacks
While romance arcs in Kingmaker offer interesting moments, they are not immune to the game’s broader issues. Stiff animations, pacing problems, and occasional dialogue inconsistencies can dilute the emotional impact. The voice acting is competent but not always emotive, which might make some romantic scenes feel flat or rushed.
Additionally, LGBTQ+ representation in the base game is nearly nonexistent. While mods have helped to bridge this gap, it’s an area where Kingmaker lags behind its genre peers.
Conclusion: A Romantic Side Quest in a War-Torn World
Pathfinder: Kingmaker is, at its core, a hardcore CRPG for lovers of deep mechanics, exploration, and strategy. Romance exists within this framework—not as a headline feature, but as a meaningful optional thread. For players willing to invest in companion relationships, the game offers rewarding arcs with moments of real tenderness and growth.
Still, the romance systems feel conservative and underdeveloped compared to more recent genre entries. Those looking for a game where love and companionship are central may need to temper their expectations—or look to mods to expand the experience.
Final Verdict:
If you’re in it for epic battles and kingdom rule with a side of heartfelt companionship, Kingmaker delivers. But as a romance game? It’s more of a promising flirtation than a grand love affair.
