Even though I have been on this site for many years, this will be my first review.
I'd like to start by thanking the developer for lots of things.
Even though many years have passed, I still clearly remember how I was overwhelmed with emotion after finishing Acting Lessons.
And all these years I was really waiting for the final episode of BaDIK to come out so that I could enjoy the full story (I was told that game is finally completed, but it turned out that is more like to be continued...)
When it comes to VN evaluation, for me plot and characters are the most important aspects of visual novels. And because of this, DrPinkCake is and will remain number 1 on my list of the best storytellers. I don't have enough words to describe how rare it is to find a story where the characters are truly ALIVE. All significant characters have a written (one way or another) backstory, so we can observe how their life circumstances, feelings and worldview intersect with the views and feelings of mc.
I wouldn't criticize the graphics (animation particularly ), because those who played Acting Lessons will agree that it's absolutely not important for story-focused project. It just doesn't matter. But for those who care about high-quality animations, it should be said that starting from the third season, the quality has improved significantly.
Also in some reviews I noticed criticism of the characters' actions. And although some points were fair, I urge everyone to remember that we are talking about very young people who are still at the mercy of hormones and cannot always even explain their actions, let alone think about the consequences. C'mon guys, you don't stop watching a horror movie where the characters do dumb things just because the plot demands it, right? Right? (Padme look)
So, of course, the game does not pretend to recreate the real student experience, but is intended to show its most basic aspects, with a dose of humor, drama and a smooth touch of personal tragedy. It's not "get laid or die" quest, it's more about exploring yourself and people around you.
And of course I could be wrong, but I have a feeling that we obesrve some of the developer's life exprerience, his thoughts, his concerns through the story. I dunno why, but this feeling is very strong. And it's another reason why this VN is special for me.
I know that many gamers prefer "light" stories + animations (yay, fck the plot, gimme more CGI porn). But still I'm very happy to notice how much people are supporting the developer on his way to make something worth remembering.
I would like to end the review with a few words to the developer. I understand that working alone on a project is very difficult, but please consider accepting help. It doesn't have to be paid, but I'm sure there are plenty of people (myself included) who would be happy to take on some of this Herculean work, even if it's a small thing. Just think about it, and thx again for your talent, passion and dedication.
I'd like to start by thanking the developer for lots of things.
Even though many years have passed, I still clearly remember how I was overwhelmed with emotion after finishing Acting Lessons.
And all these years I was really waiting for the final episode of BaDIK to come out so that I could enjoy the full story (I was told that game is finally completed, but it turned out that is more like to be continued...)
When it comes to VN evaluation, for me plot and characters are the most important aspects of visual novels. And because of this, DrPinkCake is and will remain number 1 on my list of the best storytellers. I don't have enough words to describe how rare it is to find a story where the characters are truly ALIVE. All significant characters have a written (one way or another) backstory, so we can observe how their life circumstances, feelings and worldview intersect with the views and feelings of mc.
I wouldn't criticize the graphics (animation particularly ), because those who played Acting Lessons will agree that it's absolutely not important for story-focused project. It just doesn't matter. But for those who care about high-quality animations, it should be said that starting from the third season, the quality has improved significantly.
Also in some reviews I noticed criticism of the characters' actions. And although some points were fair, I urge everyone to remember that we are talking about very young people who are still at the mercy of hormones and cannot always even explain their actions, let alone think about the consequences. C'mon guys, you don't stop watching a horror movie where the characters do dumb things just because the plot demands it, right? Right? (Padme look)
So, of course, the game does not pretend to recreate the real student experience, but is intended to show its most basic aspects, with a dose of humor, drama and a smooth touch of personal tragedy. It's not "get laid or die" quest, it's more about exploring yourself and people around you.
And of course I could be wrong, but I have a feeling that we obesrve some of the developer's life exprerience, his thoughts, his concerns through the story. I dunno why, but this feeling is very strong. And it's another reason why this VN is special for me.
I know that many gamers prefer "light" stories + animations (yay, fck the plot, gimme more CGI porn). But still I'm very happy to notice how much people are supporting the developer on his way to make something worth remembering.
I would like to end the review with a few words to the developer. I understand that working alone on a project is very difficult, but please consider accepting help. It doesn't have to be paid, but I'm sure there are plenty of people (myself included) who would be happy to take on some of this Herculean work, even if it's a small thing. Just think about it, and thx again for your talent, passion and dedication.