It's been a while since I've checked in on this game so I played through chapter 11 and the chapter 12 alpha in one go. This is an interesting update, especially for the Ian/Cindy route.
I have to say bravo for how the Ian/Cindy romance was handled here. I'm a little conflicted since it is my main route, but it makes a lot of sense. Regardless of your path, it's pretty clear that Ian's interest is somewhat one-sided. Considering their relationship begins through infidelity while she is dating one of his closest friends, and Cindy is an imperfect character as a whole, I'm glad it is being represented accordingly. Seems like regardless of your choices, Cindy goes to the club with Axel and flirts with him. (I'm curious if anyone knows if this still happens on a Wade/Cindy route with their relationship strengthened; I'm assuming yes).
It's interesting that mentioning Axel breaks up their relationship and causes massive point loss, but using the Wits option to call her out keeps the relationship intact and doesn't even cause point loss. (I ended up losing points on my canon route because I decided not to choose 'play it cool'; unsure how much a 'perfect score' actually matters). Seems like that is probably the right choice for a true Ian/Cindy romance?
I didn't play through the Jessica route, but watched the scene... what a grim and depressing outcome. I can see where Eva is going with it, but damn. Sad.
Overall, the game seems to be getting back on its feet. Feels like the summer vacation might be the break between stage 1 and stage 2, where Ian can move out and some of the relationships can start coming together. (Is there any update on whether a time skip is planned?)
Curious about others' insights.
