Valorant's April Fools' dating sim is a reality, and you can play it now. Meet Bee, the lead developer of Amorant, who showcases a collection of signed Valorant merchandise, including a flat-looking Tactibear and fanart. The story revolves around two enormous cardboard cutouts of Phoenix and Sage, which Bee managed to transport from Texas to London and Paris. "Customs treated them like regular bags," Bee explains, revealing the creative labeling of the cutouts as 'waifus' with an airtag. This all stems from a Valorant dating sim that initially gained traction on April 1, 2021. The author recalls the excitement of the 'Agents of Romance' reveal and their journey with Bee's project, which has now reached Champions, an FPS game's premier tournament. The demo, set in the VCT, showcases Phoenix's clumsiness, leading to a gooey situation. Players navigate dialog options to calm Phoenix, who faces further setbacks after overhearing Viper's complaints about his temper. The demo is around ten minutes long, but the full game promises a more extensive experience. The game received positive reactions at Champions, with a mix of new and long-time fans. However, Amorant is not your typical dating sim; it's a story-driven experience with romantic elements, focusing on the characters' development rather than player-character relationships. Each of the eleven launch characters has a unique story track, with plans for new mechanics and art styles. The development team prioritizes authenticity, drawing inspiration from Valorant's voice lines and cultural consultants for diverse representation. The game's success has been a surprise, with Bee reflecting on the unexpected journey. The author, who admits to writing fan fiction, praises the game's authenticity, citing research and personal connection to the characters. Amorant's popularity has led to new connections and adventures, as Bee encourages players to embrace their inner cringe and follow their hearts.
