You can't force game dev, yup. Otherwise the end result would end up being a mess and unsatisfying to boot.
That said... if you're a developer with a Patreon it can't hurt to give everyone an update of what you're doing ever now and then. Aside from the fact that you have Patrons, it also helps spread the word to new players and keeps the interest there, plus reassure existing patrons that they're still working on the project.
Also honestly we have no idea where the game is going after the Desperate Housewife and Tournament quests are finished.