Ren'Py - Change of Hearts [v0.4] [cheeky-owl]

(Review as of 0.4)

Finally got around to playing this as I saw it updated recently, and it is right up my alley. My immediate reaction to the game was somewhat lukewarm, but the author did a good job of reeling me in and making me invested in the story and the characters.

I will say that upfront, there is not a lot of ecchi scenes, so if you're looking to fap, you will not get that from this game for a long while, and even then it feels like it's just not at that stage to have such things happen.

Pros

• Characters. Characters are the main reason why I like or dislike a game, and in this game, each character comes across as unique and layered. There are stereotypes used, of course, but no character feels like they're merely a personification of the stereotype. I looked forward to every event with them, since even in small banter you get to learn a lot
• Story is much better than I had expected going into it. While there are some things you'll have to suspend disbelief for, the story feels purposeful and intertwines between characters. Character stories inter-mesh, the main story meshes with characters; the author does a good job of balancing it all. Not only that, but the situation the characters find themselves in with respect to their own personal stories actually feel meaningful and impactful in how the act and react to others

Cons

• Can be a little preachy at times, but it could also be viewed as the MC's point of view (since he's an individual, with opinions). Nothing too harsh though, was searching for a con
• Almost feels like there are too many characters, since playing seems to focus on some far more than others. This might be fleshed out in the long run, but there are definitely more obvious key characters than others at the moment
• Not a lot of H for an H game. I'm not talking only about sex scenes, but there aren't a lot of titillating scenes in general. I'd like to have seen more teasing scenes (like getting stuck in a locker and seeing just one character undress), or even cutaway scenes to characters (like taking a shower). I, as the reader, do want to perv on some of these girls even if the story isn't ready to have the MC perv on them.

Neutral

• Another school setting. Though it's integrated well enough into the story to make it not feel like a detriment
• Character models may or may not be for you. They grew on me over time
• The MC is his own character. I enjoy this, but I know some people like to self insert and choose all the things, but there have only been a few opportunities where you can influence the outcome
• Sandbox is not for everyone. It does feature a hint guide, which is helpful, but those who are not used to this style of game will find it tedious searching for events. Though I will say that I was able to play blindly without looking at the guide for a good while

A brief review of V0.3

I have enjoyed the game so far.

-The character writing and the main story are the strongest parts of this game.

-The character models and locations are a mixed bag, but I think they will naturally improve as time goes on.

-The only thing people may dislike about this game is the slow buildup of any sexual content. I personally prefer the slow buildup as it adds weight to the scenes and plot, but some people may not like it.

I look forward to the next update.

Writing this review after the 0.2 release.

Settings 3/5

- pretty standard, nothing new in terms of settings

Story 4/5:

- Well, this is a new take that I haven't seen anywhere else and I really like it. No teacher or anything, a psychologist working undercover to investigate the school, nice. So far a slow build up of the case, bringing something new to it in both releases, so this is going at a steady pace.

Characters 5/5:

- I think this is the highlight of the game so far. Lots of interesting characters with lots of different backstories and struggles that we're slowly learning more about - and those struggles are pretty heavy in some cases. Tia's story, Demi's story, damn, those were touching. And I suppose we will be learning about the other girls soon, since most of them have been given a few hints so far. I like the steady pace they are presented with, no rush at the beginning and then a burnout when that arc is resolved quickly.

Renders 3/5:

- Some are interesting, some could definitely use some work. But I can see improvements from the developer.

Sex scenes 1/5

- Only one scene to talk about so far, but I expect that the dev wants to go for the slower relationship development instead of instant smut, so if you're here for a quick fap, you won't get it before you know the characters.

Soundtrack: 4/5

- Some familiar soundtracks, some I haven't heard anywhere else. It's a nice change. Also, the sound effects added where necessary add a nice touch.

Overall: 4/5

- I think this is a promising project if the developer can keep it at this level and hopefully improve it. The promise is interesting and I will continue to follow it.