Hey
Jethro Hatfield! I like talking out my ass all the time without really playing and experiencing something, so why don't I try my hand at it again
There is a lot of repetition in games like these. Visual Novels in general. There is a focal point (incest, romance, harem, school, management, sci-fi) and these tend to drive tropes that we've all come to see and expect and sometimes, deplore. Then I ask, why do people play them? Some get bored, it's true. Simple answer: It's because most people like them. We just like it told a different way the next time. Even small devations make the simplest and barest tropes vibrant (Radiant
)
I initially came into this thread negative, but I'm not leaving it negative. Not positive mind you, but I'll try to explain. A game like the one you guys decided to make is brave. It's as brave as it is stupid. I don't mean that as an insult really, it's different. Different often times is the "wrong" thing in many situations. I have no doubt that your story will drive us to happy tears and will give us a new appreciation for what "different" can be. The sad thing is, I can't play/read it. There is a high barrier to entry. The negative and depressing nature is not ideal for many people to hold onto, even if it's only the beginning. The game you are trying to tell, might be incredible and I damn hope you can make it the best story it can be. But sadly I won't be around to see it. It's too much for me and I'm not ashamed to admit it. I don't know who your audience is, but it's not the ones looking for wholesome to escape their own problems. Then again, there are people stronger than me, and I hope they find your game.
That said, in the future, when you've finished this game and are making more money than Jesus (fingers crossed
) I hope you can make something that doesn't make people go into a depressive episode just by hearing what it's about. Have a great day and I give you my heartfelt good luck and also wish that your heroines get the happiness they deserve!