I'd say there's plenty of Romance. But you're right, definitions are different. If the bar is as low as "does he treat them like shit," no, of course not. But is it delving into the relationship like Paradise, by Judith McNaught. No probably not. I hope that people do grow connected by way of seeing everyone's back story, and eventually their future with the MC. So there's plenty of that. I know I am biased, but this is a slow burn game for some characters. If you wanted a more relationship building experience, you are missing out by skipping the entire game.
I'd love if you would try my game and come back to me to tell me if I am delusional, or if it really was more like what you wanted.