VN - Ren'Py - Nothing Is Forever [v0.7.3] [MrSilverLust]

Updated for 0.7.3:

In terms of adult indie games, this is in the elite tier. I think of it as a VN version of Friends with kinks, although I think this is better than Friends was.

I enjoy femdom in games but there aren't many games with it. This one is balanced with femdom, maledom and vanilla. As the apparently rare completionist I am, I try to view all routes and content, and if it's well written I can find enjoyment in all of them, although perhaps a bit less so outside my specific preferences. If you only prefer one of the above you will find plenty in this game. If you play all three you will get a considerable amount of content.

It's a slow burn and ramps over time, your choices give you different dialogue and of course can give you different relationships and scenes. For the most part there is a common route, some chapters stronger than others. The game has a wide cast of LIs, and each LI can have several distinct paths. The game has a "scenarios" option that allows someone to select the specific LI and path, giving the player a streamlined method of seeing each story. I'm not sure if the scenarios allow someone to experience 100% of the story. Even among each route there are many other branching options that might not be available in the streamlined story mode.

Kinks/lewd content are gated behind a "skills" system. Most dialogue options fall under one of 4 skills, each representing a tree, selecting dialogue gives you points in that skill. All of this is explained at the start of the game. Skills and LI information (including paths) are always accessible from a UI option on the top of the screen. There is never a lockout from not having pre-purchased a skill---you will always be shown the skill needed and have time to purchase the skill, if you have the points. Points will probably max out in at least one tree (and another shortly after) by Chapter 6 on a normal option play, but you can also select a "Relaxed" mode on future play that gives you double points, and will allow you an even easier time to purchase skills. You can also always rollback and try different options, the rollback will at least go back several lines.

If you are first discovering this game there is considerable content, the game is somewhere around 70-80% or so complete. I don't know the exact number of hours for a single playthrough, but you will need several to experience all the content. While waiting for updates, this means the content for each route will feel smaller with longer update cycles, but when this game is fully complete it means you will be able to try different routes to see different things. At this time it is at least as long as a mid-sized professional VN, possibly on the longer side. I have 48 hours played with a 90% dialogue read (you can see this stat under the options section of the game). I can't say how many of those hours or what percentage of missing dialogue is from updates changing the totals. When this game is complete and if a person first starts at that time, I'm sure the hours will be lower, but it's still an indication of a lot of content.

As of the 0.7.3 release, the dev has indicated 2 more chapters, updated in probably two parts each chapter, and a possible epilogue. Chapter 7 complete was released a few days over a year from Chapter 6. There were however unique circumstances involved. Speculating on 5 more content updates, at 5 months apart each, and the game would complete in just over 2 years. Note these are just estimates from me, not the dev, and I will update this if there is more information and if it would be helpful. At some point the game will be complete and there will be no need to worry about updates. But as of now it's still a very strong amount of content and there is no need to wait to play it. Saves have always been compatible between updates.

I can't give this anything less than four stars, as much as I didn't enjoy it, based on the hard work that went into it, the suitable aptitude for design and the plethora of paths.

But astoundingly, despite how many paths their are, the game is still very rigid and stiff (though it didn't make me so) in both its kinks as well as an absence of humor or life. It's also just incredibly boring - and this is coming from someone who enjoys a slow-burn natural progression in these sort of drama-based AVNs. Writing & plot also have a very mid-wit feel, in a dunning-kruger striving for insightfulness it never reaches with its outlook on sex, psych, sociology and societal issues. Sure, that still puts it a couple IQ points above the average game on here, though no one ever asked for it. Some lofty goals are better never tried at all if the capabilities aren't there, rather than tried, failed and ending up cringe or cheesy. Especially in a sex game. This is more like a middling, self-published, erotic novel aimed at young 20-something adults who read such things than it is a good porn game. I didn't walk away from it gaining much of anything at all, except some time lost. I would've preferred to have at least lost a little weight to my nutsack. Even with all the paths, this just wasn't erotic to me, nor was it worthwhile from a narrative standpoint. Very basic-bitch in its aesthetic. Will edit to write more later, but dear god, this is a snooze-fest.

I played the game not exploring every path. I primarily played the submissive MC and femdom paths. Consequently, this review will be focused on those aspects.
This review is for version 0.6.3

This game was rated as the best femdom game in the poll on the Femdom Finder 2.0 thread. I had no idea what it was about but recently decided to give it a go.

Boy am I glad I played this game!

The good:

- Characters: I hold the belief that a compelling story is rooted in its characters. A well-crafted protagonist is the virtuoso soloist, a good supporting cast is the harmony that adds depth and nuance, and the plot is the twists and turns of the melody. MrSilverLust has orchestrated a beautiful concerto that captivated me from start to finish. Nothing is Forever has one of the best cast of characters I have read in a very long time. I can't stress enough how well the characters are written. Each has their own rich pasts that shape their present desires, needs, and motivations. Notably, despite catering to similar themes/kinks (if the player so chooses), no two characters are interchangeable.

- Protagonist: Nothing is Forever stands out among games with femdom themes by presenting a mature, capable, and eloquent protagonist. Unlike the stereotypical weakling or doofus that just can't stop sniffing panties and can't wait to molest his sister or mother, the protagonist here is a grown and complex adult who, like us, is grappling with human imperfections. He displays moments of vulnerability but never succumbs to caricatured behavior I often see in other games with a similar theme. His flaws and occasional loss of self-control are relatable and serve as an opportunity for growth throughout the narrative. There is noticeable character growth throughout the story.

- Plot: The plot progresses smoothly and isn't overly convoluted, but the characters carry it forward effortlessly. The internal turmoil of the MC is a big part of the plot and propels it forward. It's a bit drawn out, but it's well written and is at least partially relatable. The other driving force is his quest for fulfillment and intimacy. A few twists and turns might make the story more compelling in the future. So far, the plot has maintained my interest in following the protagonist on his journey.

- Dialogue: Conversations sound authentic and natural with each character having a distinct voice. Very good writing and thanks to the proofreader(s) who also help with this aspect.

- Chess Enthusiasts: If you like chess, or you think you like chess after watching a certain show, this game has interesting chess-related content. I personally couldn't tell you if it's good, but it certainly looks interesting. These bits are skippable if you are not interested.

- Visuals/Renders: Are there better renders out there? You bet. The renders are good and serve their purpose of enhancing immersion and adding another layer of storytelling on top of the excellent writing. As with most other VNs, every girl is drop dead gorgeous. It's good eye candy, but not very realistic. We need some ugly girls ASAP.

- Kinks: The game's primary appeal lies in its extensive exploration of various kinks, showcased through an intricately designed "kink-tree" system. They are seamlessly woven into the narrative and character development. Nothing feels forced. Each kinky scene is distinct and some are ridiculously hot.

- Pacing: The game generally has good pacing, maintaining a steady rhythm between story progression and sexy time. Sometimes, things might get just a bit slow. If you decide to pursue one love interest, intervals between story development and intimate moments may appear lengthy at times.

- Music: The background music generally aligns well with the scenes and their themes. It could have more variety though.


The (only slightly) bad:

- Plot could have more twists and turns. Everybody is very understanding so far. Perhaps more conflict?
- An external antagonist (and I'm not talking about that irresistible lawyer) might spice things up further.
- Sexy time sessions could be longer.


The ugly nitpicking:

- Everybody's chucklin'
- MC shouldn't be getting advice about how a certain kink is practiced in real life by someone else, he's a sexologist, he should know better.
- MC has a bit of underbite.
- No facial hair fence-sitters, please. Either grow a beard or shave, Mr. Sexologist.

One of the best games I have ever played, and I have played a lot of games. It's carried by its writing and mechanics but the graphics are still above average. The world building and character development are top notch. There are no bugs that I have noticed which is astonishing considering how many branching paths there are.

The highest praise I can give it is saying it got me into kinks I have always ignored. Now I'm scouring all my porn sources searching for things like chastity caging and ruined orgasms.

I like this game a lot, will definitely support the dev. Every girl is better than each other and you can always find the playstyle you like. This is a game for everyone's taste. And art style? It is just mesmerizing. The only downside i can tell, the game is a little bit boring. There is too many unnecessary words and those are so much pain to read for slow-readers like me.

The choice/trait system is one of the most interesting in this genre but also quite clunky in how it actually works in the game. The cast is also interesting in that there's a girl for everyone in ways most games don't do. The girls are so different from one another that you may lose interest in most of them. Graphics are decent but could be better. It's a good game.

Nothing is Forever is an above-average AVN game with its writing, vast number of characters and characterization, particularly good storywriting and development of said elements. The love interests all have differing qualities, keeping the gameplay and conversations fresh and intriguing. The concepts explored in the game almost always have scientific explanations that draws from their real-life counterparts which adds up to the immersiveness. The music choice along with some of the other features like the mobile phone reminds me of Being a DIK, which is almost always a good thing. What draws the game back the most is, in my opinion, the sex scenes; arguably the most important aspect of these AVN's. The renders don't appear like they have too much effort behind them which is a huge problem. The worst part is, this doesn't seem to improve in any way with updates so we're left with what we've got.

Overall, Nothing Is Forever is definitely worth a shot if you're into AVN's in general (which goes without saying, I mean, you're here in f95zone reading my review for Christ's sake.) and its pros outweigh its greatest con.

It's amazing. I can't wait to see how much more develops out of this. I hope it's a ton. There's still a ton of scenes/kinks that many of the girls need to be able to play around with. I hope we get a slightly less intense cuck route for some of them. Just because we want to have them fuck other guys doesn't always mean that we want to suck on their shoes or get pegged by the girls lol. The one sharing scene we have now is incredible though.I'm very excited for all future updates.

What can I say about this game... no, what can I say about this masterpiece..., I found myself several times in the shoes of the character, I would point out that this remains very very rare, the art presented in this game remains very specific to itself and fits very well with the way the story is written. If I had to limit myself to a few words I would tell you to go there with your eyes closed, the game is excellent.

This is such a great novel. All AVN authors should play this before writing their characters. The relationships are real. The kinks are real. The choices are real. This novel is as good as it gets. Seriously, how am I suppose to enjoy anything else on this site once I have experienced this? MrSilverLust should teach a class on writing an adult novel that is realistic.

>>>standing ovation<<<

I toured the light so many foreign roads
For Emma, forever ago

It's nice to witness normal conversations with characters, the author understands how to make dialog natural, the problem is just this game is almost completely pointless. Choices are restricted to points, I got blocked out at least 5 times and each character represents special kinks, so if you develop feelings for them, it's most likely not in the way you wish.

The intro's "Just live your life the way you want and have fun" and "You are free to choose who you want to be" being the cherry on top. Waste of time.

In the long run, the characters or conflicts are not interesting enough to hold the attention for the mountains of text, sometimes you already know what is said next, but it appears as a huge text block and, occasionally, some complicated words.
However, it's mostly a plot problem. It's not thought-out enough, characters behave in a repetitive context or manner, you might roll your eyes or even slap your forehead out of some cringe and this game would have also been easier on the erotism if the starting point and overall design wasn't so restrictive.

Some plays with the self-doubt theme, there's humor and wise messages in some of these lines that are nice to see, an author's personal touch. A few phone elements. Music is alright, too.

Simply one of the best porn games I've played on this site, and probably one of the top 2 3DCG games. Wide variety of fetishes, a cool system to move between them, clearly illustrated choices, branching pathways, engaging story. This is downright better than a telltale game.

Amazing story with varied cast and a ton of fetish content. It's really addictive to go through each route and discover how you can charm each of the girls. I wish there was even more freedom in that regard but what we have is already a real gem and I can't wait to see how it develops and wraps up. Will keep an eye out for this developer!

Great game. Really relatable and with an amazing soundtrack.
This game made me stop skipping and start reading. The skill tree adds flavor, there is a diverse amount of fetishs to enjoy and they are aborded in a really cool and respectful way. The devs really did a great job with this game.

The level of writing in this game is quite impresive in compairson with most of the visual novels arround here. It has quite unique mixture between being cosy and beeing kinky.

I'm not going to became a patreon but surley I'll pay for it through Steam

Nothing Is Forever [v0.6.2] 4.5*

Pros:
Story
Great Premise
Writing
Many paths you can take
Many Kinks
Many Characters
Characters are interesting and have their own personalities and kinks
So much content

Neutral:
Character Models look decent, but aged in quality

Cons:
Sex Scenes are pretty dull, because only very few are animated.
Some text exchanges feel too long

Conclusion:
I was about to give this game 4*, because the sex scenes are lackluster, and I would wish that they will get animated.
But that being said, this game is a breath of fresh air, and shines above all the crap I see on this site.
It is so unique in many ways and I love that it doesn´t try to be like any other game.
The Plot/Story is so unique, immersive and really well written.
I love the idea of you (the therapist) being able to detect the girls kinks by gaining clues, and help them explore their sexuality, as you see fit.
The Characters are all interesting, all have their own personalities and kinks.
They are complex and so well-written.
I like the skilltree, where you collect points and spend them for certain personality kinks you enjoy.
You can see that the Dev invested a lot of work and passion in to this game and created a real gem.
I rarely give 5*, but this one deserves it, and I would recommend anyone to play this game.
I thank the Dev for this gem and look forward to the next updates.

I came for the psychology...but stayed for the chess!

As a psych major I appreciated the focused attempt at dissecting kinks and relationship dynamics from a psychological perspective.

The various personal and interpersonal tensions described were also quite relatable. As someone who continues to work through his own set of traumas and mistakes I found myself sympathizing with the main character's struggles with dealing with his own situation.

I enjoyed the exploration of kinks and what they might say about a person's self image. The juxtaposition of feeling liberated with the fear of being shamed was done quite well for such a small project.

While the writing was (for the most part) fairly strong and consistent throughout I found that this VN did unfortunately suffer from the common troubles of single-person to very-small-team development and that's the models.

I won't dock Nothing is Forever points for the art assets as developers like MrSilverLust only have so much time and resources to dedicate to creating their own models from the ground up to a quality that fits the story presented. But it is unfortunate how the identical structures of the models will some times detract from the experience of the game. This is, however, more of a general observation of this genre than an actual criticism.

All in all I give this project a 5/5 for its uncommon take on sexual relationships, character development and willingness to stay true to its identity without the backdrop of some greater global threat that might some times make one feel they are playing two different games.

Good work!

This game offers lots of different kinks to explore.
I especially like Kim' cheating/asshole route. Few games offer that from such an angle.

Also the thepiction of those kinks is not as unrealistic as in other games. It's still a porn game, so I'm not saying it's really realistic, but it's still obviously written by a relatively intelligent adult.

Review based on V0.6.2

Great visual and excellent writing. I would say some of the writings are better than many shows on Netflix.

-Chess play was fun, and quite entertaining to follow Jen's games. Oddly fitting for VN.
- I like the process of detecting someone's kinks and confirm it with clues available.
-Some of the psychology/therapy are modified to let us enjoy the kink play and sex, but the overall writing are very decent
- Love the part with truth, liar and random spirit. Figuring out logic is always fun.
- I know the game is still in process, but atm Bri doesn't feel like a main

TLDR- Top tier visual novel with excellent characterizations, and a very sex-positive tone.

I'm pretty blown away by this game. The plot is absorbing, the characters fully realized. It's smart, well-written, has excellent visuals, and hot as hell.

The MC is a psychologist in the aftermath of a scandal, interacting with his friend group of horny young professionals trying to navigate life. His primary focus is "sexology" (I know that's a real thing, but such a dumb word), and a lot of the gameplay revolves around gathering clues to the other character's kinks, offering advice on how to explore their sexuality, and even taking an active role in that exploration.

Where this dev really shines is in the characterization. Every character is complex, and their interactions have depth and gravitas. The game very successfully invokes the feel of a close-knit group of friends, with all the intimacy and drama that comes with it.

And there will be drama. The plot can get tense as hell, with consequences hanging over your head at times, but it never feels artificial or forced. Unlike many other games, here the struggles and tension serve to make the victories and hotness all the sweeter. It isn't always an easy read, but at least so far, it's worth it.

I could go on. Subtle and well-written social commentary. Complexity and subversion of tropes. Sex and kink positivity. Honestly, stop reading this and start playing this game.