I have not previously contributed to this platform, but I believe it is crucial to address the concerns raised by both the complainants and the developer.
It is essential to acknowledge that there will always be individuals who expect to receive everything for free. However, it is prudent to disregard these individuals since they were never prospective "customers".
In the following explanation, I will outline why and how this issue should be addressed in future updates:
Firstly, it is acceptable to offer paid content exclusively to Patreon members. It is a logical decision to ensure that everyone involved receives appropriate compensation for their work. Financial obligations such as bills and the potential need to acquire new hardware or software to achieve the desired vision necessitate generating revenue.
Relying solely on compliments and positive feedback is not sustainable. Even those who desire free access to everything understand that they themselves would not work for free. Consequently, they cannot expect others to do so either. Since no one wishes to support freeloaders, implementing a "paywall" of some sort becomes necessary.
That being said, the current implementation of the "paywall" is subpar and leaves much to be desired.
It is acceptable to include cheats at the beginning of the game as codes, since they assist players in bypassing less engaging content and reaching the more enjoyable aspects quickly.
However, the inclusion of the code for "extra" content should have been done at the intended location within the game, accompanied by a grayed-out image as a teaser.
Since this approach would provide players with an indication of the nature of the "extra content" they would receive upon becoming a paying Patreon member.
Placing the "paywall" at the beginning of the game without any prior knowledge of the "extra content" would likely be poorly received by new players.
Since they may feel compelled to pay for something sight unseen, and this is generally an unfavorable experience. Consequently, they might choose not to try the game at all, even if they would have enjoyed the game had they only given it a chance.
Presently, this arrangement fosters a negative sentiment even before players have commenced their gaming experience.
No one wishes to encounter a barrier right at the outset without knowing what they will be missing out on.
Conversely, if players are aware of what lies behind the gate and believe it would enhance their experience, they would willingly pay for it.
By incorporating the "extra content" within the game alongside a teaser, players are enticed to start playing.
As they progress and eventually encounter the locked content, they will be presented with the teaser image.
And at this point, they might think: "I have invested time in this game, and I have enjoyed it thus far. Additionally, the 'paywall content' appears enticing, so subscribing to the developer's Patreon for access and future updates seems worthwhile."
Finally, once the game is available on Steam, the "extra content" can be added as a free patch downloadable from the developer's website. Since this content is not available on Steam, no rules are being violated, and it is entirely up to each individual whether they choose to visit the website and download the patch. The inclusion of the patch would not be formally announced in the game details; rather, it would be spread through word of mouth.
In conclusion, addressing the concerns surrounding the implementation of paid content is crucial.
While offering paid content to Patreon members is a valid approach, the current execution of the "paywall" is inadequate.
By integrating the "extra content" within the game, accompanied by a teaser, players can make informed decisions based on their experience and potentially become paying patrons.
Furthermore, the inclusion of the "extra content" as a free patch on the developer's website after the game's release on Steam is a viable solution that adheres to the rules while providing additional value to players.
