Basic Information
- Official English Name: Make Love Not War
- Developer & Publisher: Big Way Games / Anime Mania
- Release Dates:
- PC: September 27, 2022
- Nintendo Switch: January 14, 2024
- PlayStation 4: December 15, 2023
- Supported Platforms: PC, Nintendo Switch, PlayStation 4
- Game Tags: Puzzle, Simulation, Visual Novel
- Social Media:
- Twitter: @MakeLoveNotWar
- Steam Page: Steam Store Link
In-Depth Review
Make Love Not War offers a unique blend of casual puzzle-solving and narrative-driven gameplay, designed to appeal to fans of light-hearted, visually engaging experiences. This simulation game features 12 distinct female characters, each with their own personality and storyline, set against a backdrop of 1940s-inspired aesthetics. Players solve increasingly complex jigsaw puzzles to unlock character interactions, with each completed puzzle revealing more of the character’s backstory and visuals.
Central to the game’s design is its accessibility. The puzzles are intuitive, requiring players to rotate and arrange pieces, with no time limits or penalties for mistakes. This makes it ideal for casual gamers or those seeking a relaxing experience. The game’s soundtrack, featuring 72 original melodies, enhances the immersive atmosphere, drawing inspiration from jazz and swing music to evoke the era’s charm.
While the gameplay remains straightforward, the narrative depth is where Make Love Not War excels. Each character’s dialogue is laced with humor and subtle character development, encouraging players to replay the game to explore different story paths. The visual presentation is striking, with hand-drawn illustrations that blend retro and modern art styles. However, the lack of voice acting and limited gameplay mechanics may deter players seeking more complex challenges.
Reception has been mixed but largely positive, with players praising its relaxing nature and artistic design. Critics note its short playtime (around 2 hours) and repetitive puzzle mechanics but acknowledge its value as a low-cost, enjoyable experience. The game’s success has led to a sequel, Make Love Not War 2, which expands on the original’s concept with additional characters and levels.
Game Link: Make Love Not War