Game isn't "super grindy" and the grind has a purpose, but I assume it is still as grindy as it used to be, at least latest patch doesnt change much about that.
I just tried the game again.
Unfortunately, it is too grindy.
Around Barmaid Level 16. There's so many customers, it just becomes overwhelming and tedious. Then I constantly get D or C ratings.
Would be nice if there was an easier difficulty.
It would be nice if we could prevent the younger adult guy (looks like he's 20) from entering the tavern, just disable him if possible.
I'll check back in six months.
Maybe he could add an option to cap the amount of customers to 3 maximum?
He could also lower the private meeting thresholds: C or better, Tips received from single client >=15
He also prioritizes what turns on the NPC more than the player. What turns on the player should be more important than what turns on the NPC IMO.
So, IMO,
up to level 15'ish had great pacing, but after that it became grindy to the point of boredom. Overall, the game is three times better than before. The dev is doing great work.