In an intriguing twist on modern romance, designer Sheri, a dedicated wife and mother, finds herself deeply engaged in a virtual relationship with Sylus, her ideal man—tall, handsome, and incredibly charismatic. The catch? Sylus is a fictional character from a mobile game called Love And Deepspace. Launched in January 2024, this free-to-play gaming phenomenon has captivated players worldwide, amassing over $500 million in revenue.

Love And Deepspace allows users to step into a sci-fi adventure, battling monsters and pursuing charming bachelors, all through a female protagonist's eyes. With a staggering 50 million players globally, Sheri embodies a rising trend among Singaporeans who are increasingly invested in this virtual universe.

The Rise of Digital Love in Singapore

Launched by the Chinese gaming company Papergames, Love And Deepspace has quickly captured the hearts of many, including Sheri, who spends about $300 monthly on virtual currency for in-game purchases. Her husband, a software engineer, supports her passion, provided she manages her expenses.

For Sheri, the game's blend of combat and romance keeps her engaged. "Unlike typical romantic fiction, Love And Deepspace makes me feel like an active participant in the narrative, as my character's relationship with Sylus deepens through gameplay," she explains.

Gamified Wellness and Collectibles

The game not only offers romance but also encourages healthy habits. Another player, Yuka, credits the game for her weight loss journey, as she synchronizes her workouts with her character's activities. The game's integration of real-life benefits, along with virtual companionship, is enticing many fans.

Beyond gameplay, players are investing in physical collectibles. For instance, Sheri has spent around $3,500 on dolls modeled after her favorite characters, further blurring the lines between fantasy and reality.

Celebrating Digital Relationships

Fans go to great lengths to celebrate their virtual loves. During Valentine's Week in 2025, local content creator Syafiqa Noor funded a promotional banner for Sylus outside a prominent mall, acknowledging the character’s upcoming birthday. This dedication showcases the emotional investment players place in these fictional relationships.

The Psychological Appeal of Virtual Relationships

Experts note that these virtual romances can fill emotional voids for many. Dr. Kenji Gwee from the National University of Singapore highlights how the game can trigger feelings of joy and satisfaction reminiscent of real-life relationships. However, he cautions about the fine line between entertainment and addiction.

Dr. Lim Boon Leng, a psychiatrist, elaborates on the powerful psychological hooks of the gacha system, which encourages repeated spending through its reward mechanisms. While many players find joy and confidence in their virtual interactions, the risk of excessive expenditure looms.

Sheri and Syafiqa agree that their experiences with characters like Sylus offer a unique perspective on human relationships, shedding light on the emotional complexities of love in both virtual and real worlds. By blurring these boundaries, Love And Deepspace is not just a game—it's transforming how people view connection and satisfaction.