Hamster dating sim could decrease Japan’s birth rate “even further,” jokes former politician after playing it

A former Japanese politician has said Japan’s birth rate is “going to decrease even further” thanks to a new live-action dating sim where you play as a hamster.

Nobuteru Ishihara, who previously served as Secretary-General of Japan’s Liberal Democratic Party, recently got an early look at Sweet Hamster Days.

The game caught our attention back in August 2025, thanks to its incredible premise, which sees you reincarnated as a hamster following a fatal traffic accident.

However, instead of living out your days in a pet shop or running on your hamster wheel, you’ll be getting spoiled rotten by “three gorgeous” owners who are all played by Japanese models.

That’s not all, though! The devs have also prepared what they’re calling “brain-melting experiences,” which involve everything from peeping on yoga sessions to getting “private lessons,” a move that has former politician Ishihara concerned about Japan’s already declining birth rate.

Former Japanese politician plays hamster dating sim game

During a translated interview with Friday Digital, Ishihara watched scenes featuring the game’s three sisters, and one particular scene involving the eldest sister appeared to catch him off guard.

“S-suction examination? This is a bit dangerous. If games this realistic exist, the number of children is going to decrease even further,” joked Ishihara before admitting that the “eldest sister is definitely the sexiest.”

Despite revealing he hadn’t played video games since Space Invaders launched in the late 70s, the former politician appeared to enjoy Sweet Hamster Days. He even revealed who he thinks is the best girl out of the game’s cast, noting that the game’s youngest sister Himori won him over.

“I’m choosing the youngest sister. The reason is simple: she’s cute,” laughed Ishihara before quickly throwing some love towards his wife. “My wife is also petite, and I’ve always liked smaller women, so she’s the one that appeals to me most.”

Kodansha

According to the press release, one of the scenes involves Himori hand-feeding you a strawberry while dressed in a maid outfit. So, you won’t have to worry about getting your five-a-day while playing.

Like many, Ishihara was surprised by Sweet Hamster Day’s unique premise. After all, it’s not every day you get to play as a man reincarnated as a hamster that lives with three “gorgeous” women. “I was surprised because I didn’t even know games like this existed. To be honest, I don’t want anyone seeing me playing it!”

So, it’s a glowing review from the former Secretary-General of Japan’s Liberal Democratic Party ahead of its July 2026 release. If you’re interested in learning more about Sweet Hamster Days, you can check out our feature on the upcoming dating sim.