A Romantic Visual Novel Set in the 80s

VHS Romance transports players to the summer of 1986 in the vibrant town of Lakeshore, where neon nights illuminate the struggle of a beloved mom-and-pop video rental store. With a fresh narrative centered around romance and personal aspirations, players take on the role of a 20-year-old protagonist known as MC, who grapples with their own dreams while working to save Sunset Video from the impending threat of the corporate chain, Video King.

A Community in Distress

Lakeshore is not just a backdrop; it’s a community teetering on change. Players engage with town dynamics, forging bonds and rallying support to either preserve or lose the cherished local fixture, Sunset Video. Each choice influences the narrative, adding layers to both the outcome of the store and the relationships developed throughout this visual novel.

Branching Romance Pathways

The heart of VHS Romance lies in its fully branched romantic routes. Players can pursue six captivating characters, each with unique personalities and stories: the warm store owner Veronica, the guarded goth Helen, the sunny mascot Lucy, the shy coder Chloe, the tomboy best friend Tessa, and the aloof salon owner Sloane. Each path offers depths of connection, allowing for varied chemistry and dramatic twists as the story unfolds.

Filmmaking and Personal Growth

With aspirations of becoming a filmmaker, players will also dive into creative endeavors within the game. As MC, your choices culminate in the production of a short film starring your chosen romantic interest. The narrative takes turns that evoke styles from music videos to moody horror, demanding creative decisions that affect both the storyline and your relationship with each character.

Choices Shape the Journey

In this branching dialogue experience, choices matter. There’s no grinding for stats or engaging in minigames; decisions feel impactful, leading to distinct narrative paths. Finding the balance between romantic pursuits and community efforts adds a strategic layer to your gaming experience, making each playthrough unique.

Multiple Endings Await

Replayability is a key feature, with a total of 14 endings. Players can explore 12 different endings tied to romance routes, while also having access to a philosophical solo ending focused on creative fulfillment, as well as an early bad ending should the store close. Each new playthrough reveals more of the intricacies of characters and the fate of Sunset Video.

A Safe and Comfortable Experience

Designed with comfort in mind, VHS Romance is 100% SFW, ensuring that all romantic interactions are depicted tastefully and consensually. Expect heartfelt moments, yearning, and subtle romance, with all characters portrayed as clearly over the age of 18. This approach allows players to engage with emotional storytelling without the stress of explicit content.

Relive the 80s Vibe

Whether you’re a fan of visual novels or looking for a narrative-driven experience that combines romance, personal aspiration, and community stakes, VHS Romance delivers a nostalgic journey set in a vibrant 1980s aesthetic. The charming plot and engaging character arcs provide a rich playground for those seeking to explore love and creativity in a simpler yet profound era.