Another Dating Sim, Another Disappointment
Love On The Edge is a new dating sim by Genius Inc., a company known for developing dating sims. Usually, I find the misogynistic characteristics of the available suitors provided by Genius Inc. to be irksome at best. Luckily, Love On The Edge moves away from the angsty brooding type. However, it has its own pitfalls for players to contend with.
Players take on the role of a young woman who was raised in the mafia. One day one of the men in her organization tries to sell her to another mafia for weapons. The three dashing young men from the rival mafia refuse to participate in human trafficking but take the young woman with them when the warehouse they are in gets raided. Yes, Genius Inc just throws human trafficking into the mix. It seems we’re supposed to immediately like the three suitors because they don’t sell people. Let me just say, that is a low bar and the way that human trafficking is casually introduced leaves a sour taste in my mouth. Come on, Genius Inc, you’re better than this.
Eligible Mafiosos
As per usual Love On The Edge offers players, three eligible bachelors, to woo. Firstly, there is Hoshi. Hoshi is the young boss of the Tanaka family. This pretty blonde boy is trying to run a moral mafia and bring honor to his family name. Next, we have Kane, the analytical one. While Kane isn’t overly empathetic, he is never heartless or cruel. Finally, there’s the purple-haired Taiyo, a playful and easygoing young man. Usually dating sims include a suitor whose kind of cruel until you get to know him. Luckily, this toxic trope doesn’t pertain to Love On The Edge. The love interests may be running a criminal organization, but they aren’t brimming with red flags as is the case in many dating sims.
That Darn Paywall
I know, I know, I’ve said it many times before, but I can’t stand Genius Inc.’s paywall system. To romance any of your potential suitors you’ll need to make premium choices. Genius Inc. provides players with enough rubies to pay for one premium choice. After that, you’ll need to make in-app purchases. It costs $2.49 for twenty rubies. That may not seem too bad until you realize that twenty rubies doesn’t even cover one premium choice. Honestly, I’d rather pay for the game upfront than make an in-app purchase every time an interesting choice comes around.
Some dating sims make up for their flaws with an engrossing plot. But not this one. I found Love On The Edge’s storyline boring, to be honest. You’d think a story about the mafia would be action-packed and thrilling. However, other than running from the cops, in the beginning, the storyline failed to catch my interest.
The Verdict
I really wanted to like this title. Unfortunately, between the annoying paywalls, and bland story there’s little to like. The potential suitors are likable enough but, that’s not enough to make for an engaging experience. If you’re looking for a fun dating sim with an engaging plot keep looking.
Is It Hardcore?
No.
Love On The Edge features a bland storyline and obtrusive paywall that make the game an unenjoyable experience.
