I finally played
Zero End's latest chapter, and I can't believe how much I loved it. No other VN so expertly balances gravity with levity. One minute, you have perfectly in-character humour like:
... and soon have it followed by Brianna's most excellent
rooftop sequence. It's so wonderfully well done, especially if you've
failed to save her, as I have.
With this chapter, I felt even more strongly that this game is meant to be played without pursuing any LIs, save perhaps
Marie. The game actively rewards celibacy with smarter dialogue, insight and intrigue. I love it!
From the beginning, my favourite characters have been the ostensible villains - Marie, Silver, and Swansong. I now feel a bit vindicated for my faith in Marie. Her
backstabbing was telegraphed well in advance, but the possibility of her real motivations being agreeable to Caleb is looking stronger than ever. Similarly, Silver and Swansong both have more heart to them than their roles might otherwise imply. Especially for Silver, her connection to Marie and her
inability to defy Marie must be related to the
Daughter of Eve bit, but it's hard to see the whole picture just yet.
Likewise, Lilith has been a brilliant introduction to the cast. Her motivations are shrouded, but I didn't expect the game to steep her background so heavily in Jewish mythology. It has much creative potential, but I wonder if the dev might write himself into a corner? Lilith's fate in the mythology might not fit fell with the
Son of Adam / Daughter of Eve thing that's going on. Still, it should be exciting!
Anyway, it's high time Zero End made it to the list. Better late than never