VN - Ren'Py - Halfway House [Ep.10 - Bonus 7-8] [Az]

I'll be honest, I don't feel like writing a massive review right now, but otoh there are just a few too many now, who make this game seem like god's gift to VNs, which sadly it is not.

This started out really great, the renders are good, the writing is decent, the MC was relatively likeable for a game like this.

The first and almost unbelievable drawback was that instead of being able to choose to pursue any of the three ladies sharing the home with the MC, the dev decided that you could only have a relationship with the most vanilla out of them (don't get me wrong, I like vanilla games, but come on, a sexy punk girl and a mischievous milf, how could I not want to at least have the option to go for them?).
You could rightly say, that yes, this does suck, but if that is your main problem, just don't play it.
To which I would say, shut up, I can play any game I want and then complain as much as it pleases me.
Okay, but seriously, that is true, and I might have, except that a part of me still hoped the dev would see the light (as others have before) and add more routes and tbh the first few updates were so good, that I would have continued to play it just for that.

So, what changed? Why do I give only 3 stars now and feel tempted to go down to 2?
After those first few promising updates, this game changed a lot. The time between updates grew, and the updates seemed like endless filler.
Nothing was happening anymore, the most mundane and boring scenes played out endlessly.
I mean, what the fucking fuck do I need to see a subway ride where nothing but boring conversation happens? Why do I need to see scene after scene where nothing but boring filler talk happens? Just skip the part that would be skipped in any book or film or tv show and concentrate on the parts that drive the story forward.
I don't have a problem with slowburn, I also don't mind slice of life stuff, but not if it feels tedious and boring to read, It's just not good or entertaining enough to warrant such a large part of the update.

Sadly, this trend doesn't seem to change and only gets worse. So many potentially good games on this site squander their potential, because the devs don't understand that less can be more and that they need an editor to tell them what to cut, if they aren't able to do it themselves.

Apart from that, the MC has become an absolute douche nozzle. Seriously, can't stand the guy anymore.

Man, after writing this rant, I seriously want to go down to two stars, because it is infuriating for me to see something that could be so good become something so mediocre and boring.

After the 9th chapter I can say that it is one of the top VN games ever made. Every detail is perfect, the story is very interesting and original. It's a rare point-of-view game which allows you to identify yourself with the MC better. And the female characters look very realistic, not some huge tits on tiny bodies as usual.

This is only the third game I have given five stars to.

Really good production values, both in the quality of the renders and in the compelling narrative.

Slow production is a bit frustrating but that doesn't detract from the quality.

It hurts me to give it a 3, one of my favorite VNs, but after a hiatus of almost 9 months, episode 9 falls short, the MC still does not evolve almost nothing, after 9 chapters, Emily each episode that passes, it becomes more childish, the fact that this VN does not give you another romantic option, has always disappointed me.

I will organize my ideas and try to explain in several points:

Pro:
- The best renders I've seen, the level of detail, design, lighting, poses, etc, 10/10.

-The story, despite having very little eroticism, is very pleasant to read, the dialogues feel real, the humor is perfectly integrated and the characters have that, personality.

-The use of Ren'py is perfect, nothing out of this world, but he uses it in a very clever way.

-I love the girls of the house, and Luis is a well developed character.

I would love to give more pros, but with what has been mentioned, I think I will cover a good part of it.

Cons:

-The lack of decision making, this VN almost touches the level of kinetic, basically your decisions are aesthetic, they don't impact, they don't change almost anything, and nothing at the relevant level of the story.

-If you don't like Emily at all, you're screwed, she's basically the only love relationship you're going to have for at least these past 9 episodes.

- You will see many beautiful women in the game, but you will never be able to do anything to them, when I talk about beautiful women, I talk about designs like Ashley's sister, the nurses in the club or the woman in the tattoo shop, etc.

-I really liked Emily at the beginning of the VN, despite her extremely childish personality, I'm sorry to say that with the passing of the chapters all that only gets worse, this would not be a problem, if the game gave me the opportunity to have a romantic relationship with another character in the story, but not is the case.

-The consistency, from chapter 8 to 9, almost 9 months passed, and honestly it was not worth the wait, visually it is still wonderful, it still has all the quality it always has, but the chapter is short, and full of meaningless fillers, zero development in the relationship between the characters, and as always an eternal and annoying blueballing.

- Last, this is more personal, please AZ, let the character fuck, let him make decisions, let him do what he wants, and then he assumes the consequences of his actions, really, I'm tired of seeing such well-done models and sexy, and the MC does not do shit, It can't be that the only time I'm going to fuck, it's going to be with Emily in the final of the VN, it would be extremely crappy.

I love your work, you are an inspiration for my future project, I hope to get close to your visual level, but that does not exempt me from being able to criticize so many things that hurt your wonderful work, please be consistent in the deliveries of the episodes, and let the characters develop, cut all the filler and focus on the main story, is my very very humble advice, greetings.

Sorry for my "engrish"

Edit: 05/28/2023, ""Episode 10"", 15 months be the "developer" late to give an update, 15 months, earned more than 2500 dollars a month from his patreons, is becoming more cynical, lazy, simply the developer, who once started with enthusiasm and was creating quality content every 4 months, is now just a parasite that lives on his patreons without even trying, a complete disappointment, his story was one of my favorites, now I simply don't care, half a chapter every year and a half, it's a joke, I hope the business ends soon, he doesn't deserve the money that people are giving him.

"Halfway House" is an AVN for players who value story above all else. This is a slow burn that, presumably, will one day pay off massively for patient players, but for now remains an experience focused on teasing and characters trying their best not to cross any lines. The title is filled with highly erotic situations and dialogue, but any players seeking frequent depictions of sex in all its glory are likely to be left frustrated.

I have been playing "Halfway House" since episode 3, so must admit to experiencing some frustration myself, but have to award this game 5 stars because I trust that by the time the dev delivers his final update, this game's lewd content will be as satisfying as all the other content. It must be said already that what lewd content is in the game is highly suggestive, erotic stuff. The interactions with the woman who runs the halfway house are particularly hot.

The story is engaging, the characters are varied and likeable, and the art is superb. The title has at least two branches, possibly more if you include sub-branches, so there is replayability. The MC is a bit dopey, but he's not a jerk, which I find refreshing.

The quality of the writing is also above average--both in terms of the technical aspects and the creative aspects.

The game is very super duper to make and everything is perfectly drawn as it should be and the characters are perfectly made more of these games and it is clear that the developer put his soul in the box and follow the game as always more health in our times with a crown and a lot of fans

the characters are young, realistic and flawed with rough edges and room to grow. the relationship dynamics among the core cast are established, interesting and consistent; it feels like a little family. the game has something in it for everyone depending on the chosen route. the premise and setting are also original and unlike any other VN i can think of. the renders are quality and the female characters are beautiful in their own different ways. the writing is good, funny and sweet. the dev must be a petrol head because there is an interesting mix of cars in the game. the game has a slow pace and isn't for anyone after instant gratification. the story is pretty small in scope. some games here feature huge conspiracies or magical powers, this is at heart a coming of age story. the only complaint you could have is the wait between releases, but that is really a compliment that you are eager to continue playing the game. a deserved 5/5 stars and please support the dev if you are able.

The game looks great, but there is so little content between the 11-12 month updates that it's a major letdown at this point. Still, and interesting story with pretty renders, just hate that it seems like it will be 5 years, at least at this rate, until we get anywhere with the story and sex scenes.

Excellent character models - expressiveness is particularly noticeable here in my view. The animation is the only let down here, being less good than the stills, but not terrible enough to be actively negative. Some other games have smoother animation which feels a lot worse than what is present here.

Very good writing which gives each character their own personality, although they fit quite neatly into their stereotypes. Perhaps that is a good thing?

The game is top quality, with great attention to details. Renders and animations are well done. The models are nice. Ashley has super beautiful face, especially when without piercings. All the bodies are sexy, from petite Emily to older and bustier Liz and Samantha. Young girls have natural compact boobs, not watermelons, a real blessing in the world of adult VNs.

The story is non-standard, interesting and with generally good, veritable psychology. It develops at every turn with new intriguing elements. Every character is interesting and makes me want to learn more about them.

The only thing I would criticize is a bit weak implementation of the love path. Main love interests have "Corruption points", and let the protagonist do more with them as the plot develops and he expresses attraction to them. It's alright. Even better, Emily has also "Love points", but if you choose to lean on them, she still remains like, "Oh, it's embarrassing... It's too fast". I would prefer adding more romantic stuff in their dialogs on the love path, and more progression from "embarrassing" to "normal" about lewd stuff, even if there are not many corruption points, because love path in real life opens girls to sex as well.

Anyways thank you Az for persevering hardships and developing this masterpiece. It's worth it.

[Ep.8]

Admittedly, I am not really a fan of the MC and the story is just kind of meh. I mean it just seems to be a day in the life of the MC and not a lot of heavy lifting.

IMO the MC is just unlikable. The girls are great and I like Luis and the other NPCs but the MC... not so much. He's not bad just kind of meh. His shtick just got a little old and there are not a lot of layers to him.

Regardless, this is a great production. It is really well done. The interface, graphics, renders, scene blocking, pacing, writing... I mean it is all really great. A couple minuses for an extremely slow release schedule, but the dev at least communicates well with the Patreons.

Looking forward to some more releases.

One of my absolute favorite VN games. I really hope the developer can continue coding again. If that happens, I will become a supporter.

But to the game. The characters are really believable. the main characters at least.
The dialogues are well written and really gripping.
I think i played through the first 7 chapters in one sitting and I cant wait for chapter 9.

Renders and animations are very decent. Nice job with the Porsche ...and the Lancia ... oh my... the Lancia.
To my surprise the story was what i enjoyed most. When the MC went to his checkup with Emily, i didn't even had my hand down my pants.
This is one of the best i played so far!

Decent, not great. The characters are pretty good, other than that there is not very much there. This is a slow burn which I usually prefer, but there isn't much else to keep you occupied in the mean time. In the later chapters character development appears to have stopped and I'm not sure if I'm interested enough to keep playing upcoming chapters.

A really great game with diverse characters and deep human emotions. It is great in the age of "throw the key away" to run into a game that treats young offenders as kids that need a break and someone that cares about them.

First of all, this is a great game and i enjoyed every minute of playing it. Sadly i encountered a spoiler that makes me to no longer play the game, but i wont hold this against the creator in this review.

That being said, we have a cast of likeable and lovable characters. The female protaganists are great each on their own. Samantha is one of the best mature ladys in any game i have seen. At least for me.

The male side characters are funny and lighten up the mood in a good way.

The story overall is really enjoyable and i cant find anything i want to complain about in the game.

So if you are interested in a a solid story with good characters and building up relationships, this is a great game.

Halfway House [Ep.8] [Az]

I recently played through "Halfway House", and I must say it was a mixed experience overall. The game offers a well-rounded package with stunning visual renders, a grounded storyline, and some moments of genuine humor. From the very beginning, it establishes a lighthearted tone that keeps you from taking everything too seriously, which is mostly enjoyable.

The game introduces us to the main character as he arrives at the halfway house from the Juvenile with his parole officer. This initial conversation sets the tone for what's to come. The main character, for the most part, is portrayed as a laid-back, honest, and somewhat naive individual, which fits well with the overall tone of the story. However, as I progressed through the game, one aspect of his character started to irk me.

The main character has a habit of incessantly verbalizing his thoughts. Initially, this was a quirk that added a touch of charm to his character. However, the writer chose to exaggerate this trait, making it almost insufferable. It felt like an attempt to make the main character more endearing, but it went overboard. Even when other characters called him out on his behavior, he continued in the same vein, often coming across as an unaware dunce.

As for the supporting cast of characters in the halfway house, they initially appear as stock tropes but quickly develop unique qualities that make them stand out. Among them, Ashley emerged as the most compelling character. Her assertive, sexy, and edgy personality, combined with complex vulnerabilities, made her interactions a true treat. She had the most captivating storyline, overshadowing the rest of the characters by a significant margin.

One concern I had was the pacing of the story. By the end of Episode 8, only a week had passed in the game, despite the supposed six-month duration of the arrest stint. I found myself wondering whether the story would rely heavily on time skips or if it would stretch out over an extensive number of episodes.

In conclusion, "Halfway House" has its strengths in storytelling, character development, and humor. However, the main character's constant verbalization of thoughts can be irritating, and the pacing of the story may leave players questioning how the remaining months will be covered. Despite these drawbacks, the game offers an engaging narrative and memorable characters, especially Ashley, who stands out as a true highlight.

This is an excellent game, with a creative premise, an interesting story and beautiful artwork (including animations). It has moments of real eroticism, as well -- not just dumb titillation -- which is a major plus for me.

Three warnings, though: (1) this is a slow burn title, so don't expect a quick trip to the fap zone, (2) with strict point thresholds, you're probably going to need a walkthrough to access some content, and (3) updates are very slow -- my sense is that the Dev is a perfectionist.

The characters are well fleshed-out, likable, and believable as individuals. Yes, the three main paths/love interests are all based on cliched types, but they each have a surprising twist or two that makes them interesting. The MC is a flawed but fairly compelling individual -- he has made serious mistakes but is far from a loser. Even the minor characters are well thought out -- there are no two-dimensional placeholders. Bravo.

The one thing that worries me is that the Dev's storytelling ambitions seem to have exploded a bit in the past two episodes. I just hope the plot doesn't get away from him, by becoming too unwieldy or complex, with too many characters. Don't get me wrong: I like the new characters a great deal, and find the twists in the story worthwhile... but given the slow update time, these new threads could take years to resolve.

Bottom line, though: this is a great game.

I cannot express how great this game is, my entire adult gaming collection has been completely demolished by this one game. It's literally set the standard in my eyes but I gotta say it is a little frustrating when I focus solely on one character but somehow manage to still not have enough stat points with the character to have a special scene with them but all in all I would definitely recommend this to everyone who seems remotely interested in adult games.

I don't think I have enjoyed the story of a VN since forever. This game has great visuals and a well thought out system but even with the well made nude and sex scenes (no actual sex yet), I found myself invested in these characters and their story. There are only very few games that manage to capture my attention to the point that I don't feel like skipping the text for the scenes and this is one of them. After playing, I immediately became a Patron.