Galge is a term that refers to a genre of Japanese video games known as "Gal Game" or "Bishoujo Game," which originated in the 1980s. Primarily targeted towards a male audience, these games revolve around romantic relationships and interactions with virtual female characters. The term "galge" is derived from the combination of "game" and "gal," which is a Japanese slang term describing fashionable and charismatic young women.
Galge games typically include visual novel elements, requiring players to make choices and engage in dialogue with various female characters to progress through the game's storyline. These games often offer branching narratives, allowing players to explore multiple routes and endings based on their decisions. Gameplay mechanics may include point-and-click interfaces, interactive dialogue, and the accumulation of relationship points with specific characters.
The visual aspect of galge games plays a crucial role, as they feature high-quality illustrations of the female characters involved. These visuals are often accompanied by voice acting and background music to enhance the immersive experience.
Though primarily known for their romantic themes, galge games can also incorporate other genres such as comedy, drama, fantasy, or science fiction. As the genre has evolved, various subgenres and hybrid games have emerged, combining elements of galge with elements of other genres.
Galge games are typically released for platforms such as computers, consoles, and handheld devices, and have gained significant popularity in Japan. They offer players an interactive storytelling experience centered around building relationships with virtual characters and exploring romantic narratives.
