How many LIs are too many?

[Xykoss]

12 is to many I forgot what game is it

 

[eoeoao]

I think around 6–8 LIs is ideal. Personally, I'm happy to have more love interests as long as each route is well-written, has plenty of content, and doesn't feel rushed in its progression.

 

[Arielle]

About four people would be ideal.
Actually, even just one person is fine. I feel like the more people there are, the more watered down the experience gets.

 

[shironyan]

5 or 5+1 secret LI is the standard. For example, 9R.I.P... but because they have too many LI, each route is so short

 

[Eril $akurai]

It gets kind of overwhelming when there are more than seven of them.
But I usually don't mind it too much if the characters are interesting.

 

[fr4pp3cinn]

I'd say 5~6 LIs is definitely the sweet spot, and I wouldn't be bothered by a secret route. When it gets above 7 in a single game I'll start worrying about it lol
It also depends on playtime though. A longer game with more LIs is understandable, but a shorter one just tells me the routes won't be properly developed... as long as the plot is not rushed and the routes aren't the same thing, but with different characters, I can let it slide

It's more likely I'll play a game with a lot of LIs if they have two MCs and a longer playtime though. Too many LIs for a single MC is a bit overwhelming