- Aug 26, 2016
- 45
- 203
We will be running tournaments and a few other events during these off months. Also with the Newgrounds game coming out that will fill a month on it's own. If we can get another out by the end of the year we really only have 4 months of non-content per say. We want to avoid having people vote for certain characters due to the overwhelmingly popular characters get voted in. SR7 also likes to work on what ever inspires him, so if he has an idea about a character he wants to run with it. Like I said in the post, it isn't about not have the content ready to implement (it's there and ready) it's about the time it takes to implement and test.I think you guys got the right idea. If you need more time to be able to meet the standards, and expectations of your supporters, then go for it. The only problem I can see arising from this is if after that long gap of development, people don't get the content they want. I think a great idea would be to announce the contents of the upcoming updates, and even open it up for a vote. That way supporters can have a say in who, and what they want to see more of. You're putting more power/control into your backers hands, ergo minimizing the potential discontent with each update. Yes, not everyone will be happy with certain updates, but at least you know a majority of your fanbase will be. That can also give you a general idea of where to go next with runner ups in the polls you use.
We are experiencing the dips already! The weak builds are very noticeable when it comes to pledges. We still are growing but people are showing us with how they pledge that good solid builds are what they desire. With this new development cycle we will avoid any technical builds, every build will have content in it. Also this seems to be the norm among h-devs lately, and we are one of the last who continue with the monthly builds (and the game is huge!).I think taking some extra time to make larger more complete updates is a good idea. But I don't think you can expect the same level of consistent patronage month to month. I understand patreon is about supporting developers and artists, but a lot of people view it more transactionally. I think if you go to a bi-monthly release schedule but continue billing on a monthly basis you will lose patrons in the off months. You have built up a level of trust which has helped you to gain loyal patrons, but I dont know that that loyalty would extend throughout your fanbase.
Perhaps you've taken potential dips into account already, either way I think anything that leads to a better product is the best choice. Although, it doesn't really affect me one way or the other (I only pledge a few months a year) I think you should go with whatever will allow you to make the best game you can.