Who we love is a highly subjective thing, varying from person to person and entirely reliant on our own preferences. In Roots of Pacha, this is no different. But with the game's strong leanings towards building a sense of community and collective togetherness, there are some strong contenders for the best romanceable character.

Each character's rank is earned through how much they help their Clans, how nice they are to you and those around them, and whether or not their first impression was a good one (because, let's face it, first impressions are everything). How other clan members talk about them is helpful, too.

Updated February 2, 2024, by Tallis Spalding: Since Roots of Pacha's release, it has been pretty enjoyable for many, with some fun surprises, like an update with two new romanceable characters: Jag and Voda. Roots of Pacha's romance was already pretty well developed with some interesting characters, but these two new additions create an even more diverse array of characters that you can spend your time with. Between the bachelors and bachelorettes, there's someone for everyone.

It may take some time to really get to know everyone, including these new characters, but if you're pursuing marriage, it is absolutely worth the effort. Poke around in everybody's life and find the perfect romance candidate, even if you're thrown off by their poor first impressions (looking specifically at you, Jelrod).

13 Jelrod

Jelrod certainly leaves a memorable first impression, though it may not be a great one. Although he's part of the Pachan clan, he certainly doesn't do a lot to contribute at face value. In fact, Jelrod can and will skip out on work just to play music.

He may be the clan musician, but playing music all the time isn't the most helpful, especially when you're trying to build a bridge or a more stable community to survive the winter. He's incredibly confident, but it may lean a little too far into arrogance most of the time. He's talented and good-looking, true, but he's not helpful and a bit of a jerk.

12 Garrek

Garrek can be a bit dry and not all that interesting when you first start talking to him. When you have more conversations with him, you do learn that he's incredibly intelligent and curious about how things work, but he gets stuck on the 'thinking' part. This Garrek readily admits to himself, often getting caught up in his own thoughts and even overthinking things at times.

Should he put his skills to use, or work closely with the builders of the Pachan clan, then Garrek would surely innovate on every aspect of life for the clan, and for the better at that. Unfortunately, he tends to get caught up in his own mind and doesn't really contribute much outside of philosophy and thought.

11 Ibon

Ibon seems sweet, but she's constantly struggling to differentiate herself from her older brother, Jelrod. Despite being interested in the same things he is, music, she is regularly trying to prove that she isn't copying or trying to be like him instead of trying to build up her own self-confidence and sense of identity.

This probably isn't helped by Jelrod's constant accusation that she's trying to be like him. Ibon admits that she tried to be like him when she was little, though it seems Jelrod has yet to let go of this idea. If you're familiar with Stardew Valley, her appearance might remind you of Haley, but she is significantly nicer to start.

10 Krak

Krak is the only member of the Yakuan clan that you can romance. He does what he can to help out his clan, but spends most of his free time sculpting out of random materials and building sand castles. It's clear that he's an incredibly creative individual who strives to create a better environment for those around him.

However, compared to some other romanceable characters, he just isn't as memorable, which is unfortunate. However, that may be great for some people who want a creative partner that is fairly down-to-earth and kind.

9 Frer

Frer is kind-hearted and has a job in the clan that directly helps the people and ensures that they will always have something to eat. As long as there are fish in the river, Frer is thriving. However, after the Rite of Passage, he will confide in you that he isn't sure he's ready for the clan to rely on him. He'd rather keep fishing in a low-pressure environment, but he may not have a choice.

Grob seems to be one of the only hunters in the clan, and as he ages, someone will have to take up the mantle of primary protein provider. Frer will mention to you that he doesn't want to learn to hunt, despite Grob's insistence, which means he better become a very good fisherman. Fortunately fishing in Roots of Pacha is easier than it is in similar games.

8 Touk

Touk is a rugged-looking character, clearly strong and mature. He can be a bit brash and impatient though, trying to get things done with brawn over brains, which only proves to be his detriment most of the time. His bold confrontation of everything, taking it on with brute force, often makes those around him see him as incompetent.

He is, however, a great hunter, if nothing else. And if you look close enough, you may even see that Touk has a tender heart and deeply loves baby animals of all kinds. Unfortunately, you can only meet him once you gain access to the Mograni clan.

7 Jukk

Jukk is one of the best male romanceable characters in the game. Although his job as the clan's clothing maker isn't arguably as necessary to sustain the community as Frer's job, he still cares about it deeply. He truly does believe that your clothing is an excellent way to express yourself and that everyone should have a nice wrap.

He takes pride in his and his family's work and tries to make sure that everyone in the village is happy — even if they don't see eye to eye with him. Unfortunately, though, he doesn't let you borrow his equipment to make clothes like Stardew Valley's Emily. Instead, you have to go to his mom if you want to change up your clothing.

6 Era

Era is the new girl on the block, arriving to join the Pachan clan with her family in your first year on the second of Summer. She doesn't really have any connections to anyone in the Pachan clan, so understandably, she's a bit reserved and incredibly humble when you first start talking to her. While she's polite, she's clearly hesitant to trust.

Regardless, with enough time, you learn that Era does want to help the Clan grow and she does enjoy helping you out. It'll take a bit until she's finally comfortable around you, but that just makes a fulfilling relationship all the more rewarding.

5 Jag

Jag is an interesting character because there really isn't much that you know about him - at least from the beginning. Enough so that you might be convinced you can't actually romance him, given that he doesn't attend any of the festivals or events.

He is wholly devoted to keeping the fire going for the Clan, which is pretty sweet and very helpful. This does, however, stem from some deep-seated trauma, making the continuation of the fire incredibly important to Jag. But that doesn't mean he doesn't have time for you or others, given his investment in Voda staying with the clan.

4 Vallah

Vallah also comes from the Mograni clan, like Touk. She is, however, more level-headed than him. She's a hunter, but she admires the idea of cultivating and growing plants to feed your people instead of just hunting. She is incredibly resourceful and is adept at making her own weaponry.

If you ever had to pack up and leave again, you'd be in good hands with Vallah on your side. She doesn't want to stick to the same path for the rest of her life, though, seeking out a better and different future, one that you might just be able to give her.

3 Voda

When you first start up the game, it's not entirely clear whether or not Voda will be staying for a while. She seems to waver between staying with the Clan or continuing her travels - and it doesn't help that everybody wants her to stay.

Her original intent was to leave as soon as the rubble sealed the clan into their new land, but as time passes, you'll find that she may just have found her new home. Given that Voda is a tracker and clearly adept enough to travel on her own through dangerous lands, she's definitely someone you want on your side (or by your side).

2 Mana

Mana is the daughter of the current leaders of the Pachan tribe, and she strives to be the next one to take command. She is incredibly willing to take control of various situations, even when she isn't needed, as Nokk complains. She is courageous and persistent, working hard to try and make the Pachan clan a safe and comfortable space for all.

As the future leader, it's understandable that she'd want to start making the tribe a wonderful place early on. However, her dedication to the tribe might get in the way of her dedication to you at times.

1 Illoe

Illoe is all around one of the best characters in Roots of Pacha. She's an apprentice healer who, when she's not learning how to take over for Ada, is constantly trying to help the clan in one way or another. She can be regularly found hanging out with Frer while he fishes or taking care of her younger step-brothers.

Illoe may be a bit anxious at times, but she's incredibly sweet and loyal to those she cares for. It's hard to find a character more sincere in their desire to help others have a good life. Illoe is, fundamentally, the perfect character for a cozy game.