Thanks for taking the time to respond. Ironically, my latest batch of comments weren't really meant for you this late in the game. We've already had this sort of exchange early on, after the first couple updates, and you essentially said something similar: "I get it, but it's just going to take time for things to crystallize." And that's all good. At the end of the day, I know you know what you're doing. The only reason I felt inclined to bring up my POV now was cause some guy was all condescending toward another person who loosely echoed my own sentiments, and that sort of illiterate condescension just irks me. But then a couple other people responded, and I had fun talking with them, because I do enjoy talking about this stuff for the sake of talking about it.
Anyway, I would not have brought up my POV otherwise, especially this late in the game. I actually largely agree with Rhune that there's a time and place for my sort of scrutiny, and it's certainly not now, when you're fairly far along your chosen path. I know the sorts of questions I might raise would be better served before a project is begun or after it's finished. But now, what I hope might come off as constructive feedback probably just hits as unsolicited advice at this point. But having acknowledged all this, my thirst for the why of things remains (despite having the utmost confidence you have great things planned), and that is translating into a sense of staleness. I can judge/experience the updates only as they are, not based on assurances that things will pick up or everything will congeal in the final product. We are playing serialized instalments, essentially, not a finished product, and I think that an important distinction to remember. The steps along the way matter just as much as the final form.
However, I am still wholly behind this game, and I trust where you're going is good. I would not be surprised if the stuff I'm looking for starts dropping soon. I get the sense you're reeling things back so you can slingshot things forward later. I guess I only wish I could feel the rubber brand stretching, and maybe see something of the destination. I understand why there is a lull, but unfortunately I can't make myself enjoy it from mere understanding--but you do have my respect! Don't doubt that!
Ultimately, I realize that what I feel is missing is very subjective, though I've tried to base it in story structure, and yeah, I'll leave it for discussion in the far future, and let you cook. You're doing great work overall. The physical restructuring of the game's container is elegant and helpful in many ways; the animation quality has gotten way better too. It's clear your skills are evolving, so I'm gonna shut up for the time being, cause I don't want to detract from the good work you're doing.