Gamers logo

'Dream Daddy'

Review of the Visual Novel by Game Grumps

By Chloe GilholyPublished 6 years ago 3 min read
1

There’s a lot to say about this game. But to sum it briefly: it’s full of puns, certainly colourful, and gay in every sense of the world. The visual novel takes place in a modern neighbourhoods where most of the residents just happen to be single, are parents, and gay. The Dream Daddy universe is an example of what can happen if we lived in a diverse society free of discrimination. It’s hands down one of the manliest visual novels that I’ve ever played. The game’s objective is simple: you move into the neighbourhood with your daughter, Amanda and the aim is to date and woo seven of the eligible bachelors.

What makes it stand out from other visual novels isn’t just the themes, it’s the ability to customise your own playable character. Now I don’t know if the option is there in other visual novels, but this is the first one I’ve ever found where you can customise your own character. There’s quite a lot of choice of colours and skin features, but I’ve found the choice of clothes lacking. Though I think it’s cool that they have Vegeta’s hair-style.

The characters overall are entertaining. I think they’re well written and thought out. I think the best character in the game is the daughter, Amanda, as I think she’s very well fleshed out. She feels like a real teenager who loves her father to bits, but has her own mind and ambitions. What’s always been clear is her passion for arts and photography. And even with all the troubles she’s having at school, it’s clear that she doesn’t want to give up her dreams. She’s an admirable character.

I think the seven datable characters are also various and interesting as well. On my first playthrough of Dream Daddy, I’ve customised Amanda’s dad to be Luke Wright, then the second one Zachary Steele and on the third playthrough. All three of them are from another visual novel that came out this year called The Letter.

The datable guys include cinnamon roll Brian, coffee shop owner Mat, teacher Hugo, church minister Joseph, sporty Craig, Snape look-a-like Damien and bad boy Robert. Out of all the characters, I like Brian’s character the most, as talking to him in the park interacts this mini-game, which basically warps you into the first generation of the Pokémon games. It comes completely out of nowhere, which is random, but as a Pokémon fan, I think it’s really awesome. At least with the other mini-games, they sort of make sense like the mini golf and the fishing games.

Despite its shortness, lack of conflict, perhaps hints of parody and themes people from the dark ages wouldn’t like, it’s a one of a kind game that is full of novelty. Although the game is short, I don’t think it will be forgotten for a long time. Though perhaps if you love a delicious romance between men or you choose the Joseph or Robert romance route, then you may disagree with my lack of conflict comment.

However, the lack of conflict is not a bad thing in this case. I think the fun and juicy atmosphere with the addictions of fruity puns and dad-jokes, makes the mood really blend well within the game. It does not change the fact that Dream Daddy is one of the trippiest games I’ve ever played, especially with the different styles of the mini-games. It’s truly experimental.

The art style in the game is gorgeous. Although the pretty anime style is the norm and often preferred in these sort of games, I quite like the comic art style in this: it’s vibrant and feels realistic. I also like how different body types are represented. Maple Bay, where the game is set, feels like a real place in America. The art style really brings the characters to life, especially Amanda.

This game will not suit everybody, but there’s nothing in the game that can be considered lewd or inappropriate. Any naughty bits are glazed over with grace and dignity. One reviewer on Steam even went as far to say it’s trash, but lovable trash. Other than that one review, other reviews I’ve found on both Twitter and Steam have been overwhelmingly positive and I can see why. It’s a quirky game that has its own novelty and unique selling points.

Dream Daddy Wiki

Dread Daddy on Steam

product review
1

About the Creator

Chloe Gilholy

Former healthcare worker and lab worker from Oxfordshire. Author of ten books including Drinking Poetry and Game of Mass Destruction. Travelled to over 20 countries.

Reader insights

Be the first to share your insights about this piece.

How does it work?

Add your insights

Comments

There are no comments for this story

Be the first to respond and start the conversation.

Sign in to comment

    Find us on social media

    Miscellaneous links

    • Explore
    • Contact
    • Privacy Policy
    • Terms of Use
    • Support

    © 2024 Creatd, Inc. All Rights Reserved.