A new game, High Times, is brewing up a peculiar blend of culinary craft and romantic entanglements. Developed by Yangyang Mobile, this simulation game, slated for a Q1 2026 release, centers on a doughnut shop where the baked goods themselves influence customer emotions. This unconventional mechanic forms the crux of the gameplay, weaving together cooking simulation with narrative-driven dating sim elements.
The core conceit involves a protagonist working at "The Hotbox," a doughnut establishment where the confections are infused with mood-altering substances. Players are tasked with crafting these special doughnuts, each designed to affect customer feelings—from inducing calm to fostering focus. The game promises a substantial narrative, drawing parallels to acclaimed titles like Coffee Talk and VA-11 Hall-A, and will feature comic-book-style illustrations and full English voice acting.
Crafting Connections and Doughnuts
The gameplay loop appears to involve both the meticulous creation of doughnuts and navigating the social landscape of the shop. Crafting the doughnuts is described as a series of small, non-frantic interactions, allowing players to unlock new flavors and toppings. This culinary aspect serves as a backdrop for the dating simulation, where customer interactions and narrative choices directly impact relationships and, consequently, the game's multiple endings. Choices made, both in dialogue and in the doughnuts served, will shape the unfolding story and lead to various conclusions.
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Adding another layer of complexity, the game introduces the protagonist's ex-partners, who return to town and become patrons of The Hotbox. This setup positions the game as a "reverse dating sim," with a focus on finding closure by engaging with these past relationships through the shop's unique offerings. Players can interact with characters via in-game social media and text messages, fostering friendships and potentially romantic connections.
Funding and Reach
The game has already demonstrated a degree of public interest, having been funded on Kickstarter in just 11 hours. High Times is planned for release on PC via Steam and is also announced for the Nintendo Switch. It will support multiple languages, including English, Simplified Chinese, Traditional Chinese, and German.
Development and Background
First appearing on SteamDB in late 2022, High Times has been in development for some time. A preview was showcased at PAX East 2026, with hands-on impressions suggesting a compelling atmosphere and engaging gameplay. The game's concept hinges on the idea of "eating your feelings," offering a cathartic experience focused on letting go and emotional processing, all through the lens of a cozy, narrative-rich simulation.
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