Reflecting on the introduction of Achievements in gaming, I remember how even the smallest or most significant milestone in an Xbox 360 game was celebrated with a cheerful notification and points to enhance your bragging rights. Little did we realize back then that this was a precursor to today’s digital landscape, where companies offer virtual rewards to encourage engagement with various apps and services. To foster brand loyalty and keep users returning, many mobile applications incentivize daily logins, the completion of specific tasks, and the integration of their products or services into your daily routine. You can see this trend in everything from Duolingo’s language courses to Pokemon Trading Card Game Pocket’s pack openings or the daily streaks on Snapchat achieved by sharing images and videos with the same contact. As we navigate a world full of distractions, this steady stream of dopamine rewards inevitably found its way into some unexpected applications. Yet, one of the last places I anticipated encountering daily tasks was within an app for long-distance sex toys.

Lovense specializes in long-distance sex toys that synchronize through an app. Imagine one partner using a vibrator on one side of the world while another operates a unique toy on the opposite side. The app allows users to manage vibration settings, experience sensations that correspond with their partner’s actions, and bridge the emotional gap during intimate moments. While long-distance relationships are a well-established facet of modern love, this app’s introduction of daily tasks feels like a dystopian twist reminiscent of live-service games.

My curiosity was piqued when I stumbled upon a Tumblr post from user yokowan, who humorously queried, “Why does my butt plug have dailies?” alongside a screenshot of the app showcasing daily tasks like connecting a toy to the Lovense Remote app or using a device for a minimum of 3 minutes. Initially, I thought this was a tongue-in-cheek comment on how every product desires to integrate itself into our lives with ongoing engagement tactics. However, upon downloading the app, I was surprised to discover a dedicated section for daily tasks, rewards, and virtual currency.

Eventually, anyone immersed in a live-service game reaches a point where it begins to feel like a chore. The joy of gaming can quickly transform into an obligation that detracts from time spent on other interests. Why would we want to apply this type of gameplay pressure to our intimate experiences? As creatures of habit, we adapt to systems designed to keep us returning, but maintaining spontaneity and passion is essential. While enjoying a connection through long-distance sex toys, the focus should be on the experience rather than worrying about accumulating imaginary points. I can already picture a scenario where someone interrupts a romantic moment to say, “Hold on, I need to control your vibrator for another 45 seconds to complete my daily tasks.” Absurd!

If someone ever suggests integrating daily tasks into your intimate activities, consider walking away. Alternatively, enjoy your time alone with the toys to ensure that everyone’s attention is undivided.