Ludus amoris is a Latin-derived term from the Western mystical tradition.
According to Evelyn Underhill's Mysticism, The mystics have a vivid metaphor by which to describe that alternation between the onset and the absence of the joyous transcendental consciousness which forms as it were the characteristic intermediate stage between the bitter struggles of pure Purgation, and the peace and radiance of the Illuminative Life.
They call it Ludus Amoris, the "Game of Love" which God plays with the desirous soul....
The "Game of Love" is a reflection in consciousness of that state of struggle, oscillation and unrest which precedes the first unification of the self.
The Middle English version of Suso's Horologium refers to 'þe pleye of loue þe which I am wonte to vse in an amarose sowle'.