Howard: how to romance them in Shadows of Saintfour 2

Verdict: short, cheapest, all paid

Howard costs 161 diamonds, the lowest in Shadows of Saintfour 2; Darren is next at 183, and Dex tops the list at 331. His route is 3 steps, all paid, and it doesn't start until Episode 7, so the first six episodes are yours to play however you like.

Every step

• Episode 7, The Sanctuary: "Don't hide." — 34.
• Episode 9, Through the Looking Glass: "Talk to Mr. Howard." — 56.
• Episode 12, Familiar Names: "Fine." — 71, the priciest one.

How I'd play it

At 161 in total, I'd just pay, but if your stash is thin, keep Episode 12 on a separate save slot for Diamond Rush: that's 44 percent of the route in one choice. Since there's no free option on his route, skipping a paid step means skipping that scene with him. The story is still coming out, so later episodes may add to the bill. For comparison, see Darren at 183 or Dex at 331.