Heartbreak High: A Break-Up Simulator
- May 21, 2018
- Alec Robbins
Get on SteamImagine you're the most popular kid in school. So popular, in fact, that you're dating every single person in your class. The only problem? You've decided to break up with all of them, one by one. An arcade-style spin on dating simulators that asks you to break up with all of your high school sweethearts.
Reviews
- The game offers a unique and inventive twist on the dating sim genre, allowing players to engage in humorous and varied break-up scenarios.
- It features a fast-paced gameplay experience with challenging mechanics and mini-games that keep players engaged and entertained.
- The writing, music, and art style are praised for their quality, contributing to an enjoyable and memorable gaming experience.
- Some players have reported technical issues, such as being unable to progress past the first dialogue box, which detracts from the overall enjoyment.
- The humor and art style have been criticized as juvenile and unappealing, leading to disappointment for some players who expected a fun experience.
- The game can be mentally exhausting and confusing, with some players feeling that it doesn't meet their expectations based on its premise.
- music6 mentions
- 33 % positive mentions
- 33 % neutral mentions
- 33 % negative mentions
The music in the game has received largely negative feedback, with many users criticizing the limited soundtrack, which consists of only one song described as grating and reminiscent of poor-quality mid-2000s indie music. However, a few users have praised the music alongside other aspects of the game, highlighting it as a positive element. Overall, the music appears to be a divisive aspect, with more users expressing dissatisfaction than enjoyment.
“Love the writing, music, and art style, but what I loved most is the fresh concept.”
“Great writing, great music, great artwork!”
“The soundtrack (what little of it there is; as far as I can tell, there's only 1 song on it) is beyond grating, like really bad indie music from the mid-2000s.”
“I can't believe they're trying to sell the soundtrack as DLC.”
- humor4 mentions
- 100 % positive mentions
- 0 % neutral mentions
- 0 % negative mentions
The game's humor is a mix of juvenile and absurd elements, often blending sad and funny moments that encourage multiple playthroughs to explore different endings. While some players appreciate the emotional depth, others criticize the art style and find the humor lacking in sophistication. Overall, it offers a unique comedic experience that resonates differently with players.
“It has a lot of sad, funny moments and will have you playing multiple times to see all the different endings.”
“I bought it because of the good reviews and because it sounded like it was going to be funny.”
“The premise is not only stretched over the humorous and absurd, but is surprisingly affecting and heartbreaking in its modest time.”
- emotional2 mentions
- 100 % positive mentions
- 0 % neutral mentions
- 0 % negative mentions
Players find the emotional aspect of the game to be a rollercoaster, as the mechanics can lead to instant failure when emotional meters are maxed out, creating a sense of urgency and vulnerability. Despite its humorous and absurd premise, the game delivers surprisingly poignant moments that resonate deeply, leaving a lasting impact on players.
“Maxing out the meters in any direction causes an instant game over, and by the time you get towards the final encounters, you might not have enough emotional strength left to succeed.”
“The premise is not only stretched over the humorous and absurd, but is surprisingly affecting and heartbreaking in its modest time.”
- graphics2 mentions
- 100 % positive mentions
- 0 % neutral mentions
- 0 % negative mentions
The graphics are highly praised for their unique art style, which complements the game's writing and music, creating an engaging overall aesthetic. Reviewers appreciate the fresh concept that enhances the visual experience.
“Love the writing, music, and art style, but what I loved most is the fresh concept.”
“Great writing, great music, great artwork!”
- story1 mentions
- 0 % positive mentions
- 0 % neutral mentions
- 100 % negative mentions
The story is often overshadowed by frustrating minigames that detract from the main mission, leading to a less engaging narrative experience.
- gameplay1 mentions
- 300 % positive mentions
- -200 % neutral mentions
- 0 % negative mentions
Gameplay features challenging mechanics that require players to balance traits such as sexiness, egomania, and kindness, while avoiding extremes of being unsexy, selfless, or cruel. This creates a dynamic and engaging experience that encourages strategic decision-making.
“The gameplay features some challenging mechanics that require you to balance your character's traits, making each decision impactful.”
“The mechanics are engaging and encourage strategic thinking, adding depth to the overall experience.”
“I love how the gameplay keeps you on your toes, forcing you to adapt your strategy based on the evolving challenges.”
