I love a good visual novel. There’s something about a visual novel that just really lets the player relax, unwind, and vibe. This feels doubly true when the visual novel is also a dating sim. The cherry on top, or in this case possibly the sprinkles, are when that same visual novel can also make you hungry along the way.
Enter High Times, a visual novel dating sim where you work at The Hotbox. I know what it sounds like, but it’s not what you think. The Hotbox is a donut shop where the donuts are extra special. These donuts won’t just lift your spirits due to the sugar but they do come with mood enhancers which will change the emotions of your customers. Will you cheer them up, make them more honest, a bit more courageous? It’s really up to you.
Unfortunately, many of those customers are also your exes. In case you haven’t caught on, High Times takes inspiration from Scott Pilgrim, as well as VA-11 Hall-A, Papa’s Donuteria and Good Pizza Great Pizza.
During Pax East 2026, we had the opportunity to play the demo and get a feel for making the donuts and meet our potential love interests. The mechanics of making the donuts is simple, smooth, and yet feels rewarding. Thankfully, it isn’t something you need to do from memory. You’ll have access to your recipe book as well as which feelings it will inspire along the way. Throughout the demo, you’ll also get the opportunity to meet quite a few of your exes. Will you fall for the rocker MJ? Perhaps the cheerleader Emmette is much more your speed? For me personally, based on the demo I’ve fallen for Harry Yen with his tender voice and admitting he missed discussing donuts with me. Let’s talk donuts anytime Harry!
Your exes will come in to visit and you’ll have the awkward encounter with them before serving them each time during the demo. You’ll also learn what happened to the owner of the donut shop and why you end up in such a precarious situation. Customization of your character was also very detailed allowing players to really customize who you are. Present your best self for your exes or don’t. The choice is yours!
Bite Sized Q&A
At Pax East, we had more than just the chance to play the demo. We also had the opportunity to speak to Carlos, one of the developers for High Times for just a bite sized Q&A. Carlos tells us a little bit about the inspiration and it’s just a bite. The first taste is always free as they say! Be sure to check out our bite sized Q&A below.
High Times is due out later this year but you can play the demo and wishlist High Times on Steam. Will you be providing sweet therapy to your exes when High Times comes out? Let us know in the comments down below! And if you didn’t make it to Pax East, be sure to check out the rest of our Pax East coverage!
