The dating simulation game, For All Time, by NetEase has introduced the "Between Tides" feature, allowing female players to conveniently track their menstrual cycle changes.
The game already had a menstrual recording feature, but now players interact with the male character in the "Travel" section to trigger caring events and voice lines， Following the update on March 2nd, the feature now includes added voice content and events.
Update notification for For All Time's “Between Tides”
The calendar page of For All Time's Between Tides
Some female players have commented online expressing their appreciation for the feature and the benefits it brings to their health. One player on the social media platform RED emphasized the importance of the feature, stating "Don't be too caring, we really need it!"
A player talked about For All Time’s new feature on RED: "Don't be too caring, we really need it!"
These comments demonstrate an attitude towards the reminder feature provided by male characters in the game that shows a sense of respect and concern for female players, fostering greater awareness and understanding of their physical health and promoting self-care.
The inclusion of this feature in the game also facilitates open discussions about menstruation, potentially leading to the elimination of social stigmas surrounding this topic.
One player on Bilibili expressed, "This feature does seem a bit embarrassing."
However, this does not mean that the feature is without controversy. Some female players said it may reinforce gender stereotypes. Using female players' menstrual cycles as a game feature can be too personal and private, which could lead to discomfort and embarrassment.
These comments express the viewpoint that the feature may make female players a special group in the game rather than equal players, and it may make female players feel categorized as victims of their menstrual cycle, weakening their self-awareness.
A player brought up the game to their doctor during a hospital visit.
Apart from the discussions centering around menstrual shame, from a user and the app’s functional perspective, “Between Tides” has attracted a lot of attention because it has interactive elements of a game that make players interested.
Many users have mentioned that this app has very few ads, and they have used the app directly when undergoing medical examinations.
Some users have provided feedback saying, "It's really accurate."
While some users have reported that users with irregular periods may feel anxious because the app's interface design does not leave room for irregularities.
The game caused a player’s anxiety due to her irregular menstrual cycle.
Overall, the addition of the "Between Tides" feature in For All Time can be seen as a positive step towards addressing the needs of female players and promoting awareness about menstrual health.
While the mixed reactions from players show that game developers must strive to balance the privacy and rights of female users with the need to provide an innovative and enjoyable gaming experience.