Women power China's $1bn romance gaming market

Fewer taboos for female gamers lead to hits like Love and Deepspace

Mobile game Love and Deepspace generated nearly $400 million in revenue in 2024, thanks to its realistic 3D graphics and a growing fan base of predominantly female gamers. (Photo by Ken Kobayashi and screenshot from Love and Deepspace website)

WATARU SUZUKI

July 22, 2025 14:27 JST

SHANGHAI -- A Chinese mobile game featuring a female hunter character who balances protecting the world from invaders with romantic interactions has become an instant hit since its release in January 2024, prompting developers to double down on the 8 billion yuan ($1 billion) female-oriented gaming industry.