VN - Ren'Py - The Missing Part [Ch. 2] [jPk vns]

  1. 5.00 star(s)

    _FY_

    To begin, I want to include the spoiler-free content warning that's given to us before we start reading.

    "You are an adult, used to making decisions every day you walk your unknown path through life. You are aware of your mental state and how certain things can affect it. You are also aware that you are interacting with an unknown medium which, like life itself, can hold anything in store further down the track.

    You have downloaded the game, started it, and every click that moves the story forward is your choice. Who knows what emotions this story could evoke? If you're unsure you wish to accept responsibility for your decisions of this unknown path ahead, please close the game now."

    Don't take this warning lightly. I've cried more playing this avn than in every other one I've read combined and we're only getting started. I adore The Missing Part. It's an emotional rollercoaster, and I have no clue what's in store for us down the line. If you're on the fence about playing, I’d say take the plunge anyway. Even if it's unbearably sad at times, it also delivers some of the most tender moments you’ll find in this medium.

    What baffles me the most is the quality of this project with such little support compared with some of the behemoths in the avn world. TMP is still relatively new, so I understand it takes time for word to spread, but if you do enjoy it, please consider supporting jPk vns on Patreon. Every little bit helps.

    One of the GOATs in the making. I feel it already. <3
  2. 4.00 star(s)

    slick97

    Review Version: Ch. 2
    Review Score: 4.4/5

    Story
    “The Missing Part” is a heavily cinematic story with a specific theme in mind: dealing with loss. The plot - following the “Tragedy” style of storytelling - immediately sets the tone by exposing the audience to not just one, but two instances within the prologue of an inflection point. A key issue slowly arises though as the inflection points also fill the role of an inciting incident, which puts the author in the uncomfortable position of further creating tragedy to justify the following three acts in order to maintain an interesting story.

    With the project still being early in development it’s difficult to provide further analysis of the story. So far the audience is exposed to three separate subplots to follow - each of which can be avoided if the audience doesn’t enjoy a particular character - alongside the primary plot tying it all together. It’s unclear how much influence each subplot will have in driving the story forward, but each one appears to bring unique revelations to the table that beautifully add depth to the world.

    Characters
    Within the prologue we’re introduced to several characters that play a prominent role in the story, three of which are the focus of the subplots mentioned above. While the protagonist’s best friend and his wife are interesting in their own regard, it’s obvious the author has invested considerable time and resources fleshing out the love interests as each one is foreshadowed cleverly within the prologue.

    Lisa is the most interesting of the three love interests as she appears to come from a sheltered background. The juxtaposition of her empathetic nature contrasted with her mother’s blunt behavior incorporates a wide range of personalities she can fit into at any given time. She’s perhaps the best match for the protagonist in terms of long term love as she compliments his reserved nature (triggered by the grief from the prologue). It’s easy to feel her warmth every time she speaks, or to hear her excitement when discussing her passion. Lisa is the logical choice in partner if the audience was unable to exert control over the protagonist’s decision.

    Complimenting Lisa is Hailey: a motivated young woman with a streak of immaturity at times. Her potential relationship with the protagonist faces some difficult hurdles though due to the age difference of two decades, the power dynamic between her and the protagonist, and her history of issues with her parents. Any relationship that forms will always be plagued by the questions of: “does she really love the protagonist?”, or “does she feel indebted to him?”. It’s a tough romance plot to navigate as an author as few avenues lead to a satisfying outcome. However, Hailey’s youth may become irrelevant if her story arc can sell her maturity through her history growing up.

    Sarah is perhaps the odd one out as she fills the gap between Lisa and Hailey. Her bold personality also compliments the other two love interests by filling out the trio of desirable traits. Her status as a bachelorette is supported by her sharing traits with Madelyn (the protagonist’s daughter), which alleviates the issues with her feeling the most incompatible with the protagonist. Ironically, her personality partially mimicking Maddy’s also contradicts the protagonist moving on from his past. Sarah could potentially serve as a constant reminder of what the protagonist lost.

    Conclusion
    Why the 4 stars? Despite glowing praise in most of the project it’s difficult to overlook the issues surrounding the oppressiveness of the tragedy element driving the story. Sarah and Lisa are examples due to them serving as reflections of Maddy and Ella respectively, which positions half of the love interests as more grief prone than Hailey.

    Additionally, the protagonist abruptly shifts personality in each of the subplots. In one scene he’s hesitant to take action due to his crippling grief, only for the next scene to show him suddenly acting confident. His character growth is hindered as the audience doesn’t experience the methodical transition from a broken, empty husk into someone full of warmth and life. It’s a shame too as all of the characters were elegantly positioned to grow synchronously with intricate paths for them to impact the other.


    Overall I still highly recommend this project. The care and passion is on full display by the author, and that ultimately prevents the above mentioned shortcomings from detracting from the experience.
  3. 5.00 star(s)

    doc-jones

    God, this, THIS, is how you introduce a character with a tragic backstory. Don't tell us about it, don't brush off the details, have us EXPERIENCE it. Tons of games go for the tragic hero/protagonist, but you learn about his sad past in bits and pieces, and it's terrible story writing, at least for a main character. Spoilers ahead if you haven't played yet and are checking our reviews before you play.

    You don't have permission to view the spoiler content. Log in or register now.
  4. 5.00 star(s)

    KoolMe

    Just wrapped up my third playthrough,
    and I’ve gotta say this VN is absolutely amazing. The character development and story progression are both top-notch, everything feels really well done.

    It also doesn't cheap out on visuals
    The characters actually look unique, not like the usual recycled models you see everywhere.
    Even the steamy scenes are really well animated and looks f**cking lit.

    All in all, one of the best VNs I’ve come across here.
    Highly recommend it.
    Easily a solid 10/10 so far.
  5. 5.00 star(s)

    louisamay

    As I said on you P*****n, well, you rock. The only holy hell I visit upon you is that my girl Sarah is given this white water-line eyeliner look on the roof!? She's a ginger showstopper bae! OMG, why bruno gericurl my Gaelic lass? (fans self) She WAS so GORGEOUS. BeFORE.
    Okay, done, but still... Love love love your stuff, keep on keepin
  6. 4.00 star(s)

    jarbas404

    This VN has an interesting proposal, being halfway between a sensual game and a game more focused on the story.

    At least until this version, don't expect any significant decisions during gameplay: the choices only lead to the routes, which aren't self-exclusive until then, making this a very similar experience to a Kinect Novel. The story uses a lot of clichés, but that's not necessarily a bad thing, since at least it seems to be trying to get away from the commonplace, taking aim at more serious themes precisely by handling these clichés for good.
    The 3D artwork is beautiful, even if it's average for games of this type (but you can see that an effort has been made to give the animations a much better visual experience). The writing is good. The characters are reasonable, and there is some promise that they will become more charismatic over the course of the story in the coming chapters.

    It has potential, it's worth it (for those who like narrative games and don't mind too much not having such varied and impactful choices during progress). I have very good expectations for what's to come in this game.

    (played Ch.2)
  7. 5.00 star(s)

    plz12345

    I couldn't stop playing it. This VN is written so damn well, and the render quality, LN personalities, and overall polish is really, really good for such a new game. The prologue is an utter gut punch of emotions, so if you're looking for something light-hearted, look to another game. If you're looking for an excellent story, this one has it. I haven't played a VN this caliber since Leap of Faith, and this one definitely deserves all 5 of the stars. I can't wait for the next chapter.
  8. 5.00 star(s)

    sk thunder

    Tears are coming down from my eyes. Visual novels should not be this good.
    You don't have permission to view the spoiler content. Log in or register now.
    The plot of this VN is so prime that none of the other aspects matter. I just hope it continue to deliver.
  9. 5.00 star(s)

    Ffdream

    Ch 2
    So first off, I really want to give this AVN 4 stars because of the hurt / gut punch it gave me in the Prologue. For a moment there I didn't want to finish it because I felt lost and sad for my MC (Bravo to the Dev for that). There were moments where I thought does the MC just give up now, since what is life / the point after losing so much. I can't wait to see where the Dev leads us for the rest of his story!

    Pro's:
    • Really well written.​
    • Unique characters (back-stories).​
    • Decent looking models.​
    • Well detailed renders.​

    Con's:
    • Deeply emotional story. (Wouldn't say it's a con but, it is extremely sad / heavy hitter.)
  10. 5.00 star(s)

    santaokay

    The Missing Part is an excellent game in every factor: story, character and sex scene.

    It's a story-driven game first and foremost,. But don't let it scares you, the dialogue flows naturally in this game, even the most mundane topic seems so interesting. The plot is nothing crazy, yet keeps me hooked from start to finish. It's a simple story done extremely well.

    All the characters are so alive and distinctive comparing to the hundreds of games on this forum. At first glance, you might find them tropey, but within a few minutes of screen time, you won't forget them. The way they talk, the way they carry themselves and their appearances are so authentic and appealing.

    There's only one sex scene in the latest update (Ch. 2), and it's totally worth the wait. For a game that doesn't focus on sex, the scene itself is really well made. Good animation, good pace and above all pleasing to the eyes.

    Do yourself a favor and give this masterpiece a try.
  11. 5.00 star(s)

    Rez E Dent

    I love it when even the title music chosen to represent the game fits perfectly into the deep emotional journey I am about to embark on with an AVN I haven't played yet and this game checked a lot of boxes especially the choice in soundtrack.

    I was impressed how long each episode is and I hear there are 8 more in the works.

    What a splendid story and game this is.

    Bravo.
  12. 5.00 star(s)

    Username78945

    I usually don't give those story-driven games too much of a shot, but this one got me.

    The Missing Part is grounded, dialogues are rich and nuanced, expressions matching the words, and a fantastic ambiance. A VN in the true sense, so much so, at some point it caugh me off guard thinking I was watching some new series.

    As of Ch.2 I can only but wonder where your choices can drive you, will they change MC's behavior? Maybe conflict with other choices? In any case, at this point Im certain I would enjoy learning more.
  13. 5.00 star(s)

    m0us3r

    A good story, very well written, though I don't like how sad it is.

    The LI models seem like nothing special, but that helps to focus on the story.

    The lips of the nurse Sarah might look a bit too rough sometimes. I would correct that.

    I love Lisa, she is surprisingly attractive for a mostly ordinary face. And her personality and everything make me like her a lot.

    I don't like Hailey. At least for now she seems to be a vulture. Not my type. Her model reflects that very well though, kinda typical professional career-oriented bimbo.

    (I get it that her further story should reveal some depths, and she is smart etc., but I'm already not interested, thanks).

    So it's Lisa and perhaps Sarah for me (or the girl introduced at the Chapter 2 finale). Could there be some harem or a throuple eventually?

    Good attention to side characters and details in general.

    Perfect quality of renders (a few a bit dark for my usual monitor settings, but it's not a problem), good composition, posing and expressions.

    The interface is nice.

    Only one problem: when you turn off naming saves, they start to be named "Unnamed save". Totally unnecessary, even annoying for someone like me. I hope the dev would change that and leave unnamed saves with just blank names.

    Other than that, the game is very enjoyable. 20/20!

    [Ch. 2]
  14. 5.00 star(s)

    WolverineCTX

    First of, congratulations to the Dev jPk vns for making this great AVN!(y)

    Now to the Game:
    You should be in a stable Mental state to start this AVN as the Prologue already gives you the biggest punch to the Gut I have ever seen in an AVN so far.
    The Story is very well written and pulls you in right from the Start... it's an emotional Novel and as such very well made.
    The Renders are top and can hold up to the best AVNs out there, the animations are well done too. Nothing looks out of the Place.
    The (few) Characters we met so far are well done and do all have there own characteristics and feel like People you could meet IRL.

    The Second Chapter was also great, not as much a Roller-Coaster as the first/prologue but still got it's "surprising" Moments and some new Characters - especially the Ending is again a huge "Surprise"!

    The Dev surely knows how to write some great Cliffhanger! (y) ;)

    Over all this is definitely an AVN worth the Time to play and in my Top 10 List now. It deserves to be seen and played by much more People! 5 Stars from me.
  15. 5.00 star(s)

    Ursus4321

    A magnificent game. It moves you deeply and makes you feel emotions. The characters are endearing, and the story is beautifully told. I discovered it by chance, and I can assure you it's one of my favorites. I don't understand why it gets so little support. Congratulations to the developer because it's clear he's done it with extraordinary care and is surely putting a part of his heart into it.
  16. 5.00 star(s)

    Rake Tyler

    One thing that already draws attention in this game right from the beginning is the courage the creator has to kill two important characters for the protagonist, this is not something you see often and when the story really starts it is very good it is not at all like a depressing story quite the opposite the writing does not waste time with drama instead it tries to develop both the protagonist and the other characters, the love interests are very good and beautiful each one with their stories and personality and as there are not many there is time to develop them well, anyway this is a great game with a lot of potential.
  17. 5.00 star(s)

    Bruce F. Lee

    Review thru Chapter 2

    Masterpiece level storytelling. I cried during the Prologue. I cried during the first episode. It pulls you in and makes you care deeply about the characters. If you like characters that matter, this is a Top 3 VN of all time. If you are only in it for the lewd scenes, there is only one so far. That one, however, is very well executed.

    If you are still reading, then this is the right VN for you. It takes a long time to go through because it uses cut scenes extensively. Those cut scenes are worth it. They are not used as an excuse for pretty visuals. The cut scenes are used to tell the story directly through facial expressions and actions that matter.

    This VN matters. We need to support. it.
  18. 5.00 star(s)

    bateauivre

    Woof, the prologue was truly a punch in the gut. This AVN is a little gem. What shines the most is definitely the writing, but the renders and animations are also well done. Pleasantly surprised by the SFX during the scene with
    You don't have permission to view the spoiler content. Log in or register now.


    Kudos to jPk. I’ll be recommending it.

    P.S. In my humble opinion, I think it’s time to lock the three paths in the next chapter and make them mutually exclusive. Narratively speaking, it wouldn’t make much sense—nor would it really fit the MC’s character—to continue three romantic relationships at the same time.

    Great work! Looking forward to what's next :)
  19. 5.00 star(s)

    Blackheartz_

    My first initial thoughts after having finished Chapter 2:
    Holy fuck.

    Now let me catch you up from the beggining. One of the greatest visual novels i have ever played on this site and this is only 2 chapters in. The Prologue alone is worth becoming its own game. I actually really implore the dev to explore making a prequel to this once completing it.

    The Missing Part. The title is actually perfect for this VN. Once completing the Prequel i felt emotionally drained. Add on top during the initial stages of Chapter 1 you really feel like you are missing a part of the MC after the *spoilers* death of ella and their daughter. I dare to say i felt a part of myself missing too.
    I wont lie it took me a bit to get over the initial loss of both Ella and their daughter, but especially Ella. She felt like the perfect LI and I was really looking forward to explore that path with her and the MC.
    It really made it hard to connect at first with any of the three main LI's. Eventually after getting over the sadness of it all, i started enjoying myself way more.

    First of all i would like to applaud the dev on how amazing all 3 of the LI models look...very original from the looks of it, haven't really seen any of them in other VN's (I have played most of the good ones on here) Sarah, Lisa and Hailey are wonderful women, each having their own personalities and different aspects to enjoy.
    I will add that i like how this game handles sex scenes. It's alot more of a slow burn story wise, so of course this also translates into the sex. If you were looking for a game with constant sex scenes this unfortunately isnt the one for you. We have had one sex scene so far and it is used to further the story with Sarah, and not just to make this into a porno. Also it was really crisp and looked fantastic. The renders felt really real. 10/10 visuals.
    Personally Lisa is my favorite, mostly due to the connection she seems to have to Ella in some way. Close seconds though are both Sarah and Hailey. The two other possible LI's seem to be Emily and Linda whom to me don't really appeal to me enough to warrant their own separate paths but good additions to those who love a good variety.

    Chapter 2 is where this goes from a great VN, that just doesn't reach the ceiling post Prolugue, back up to me after an emotional Prologue ending. While yes, i still miss Ella at points and yes i still wish to explore her in maybe a future prequel spinoff...I finally am able to grasp to the fact that everything that happened, needed to occur to get us this invested in the MC and what his future holds. I have never felt this attached before to a virtual novel and its characters, it honestly feels like watching one of my favorite series on Netflix. Plus talk about that ending!

    Summing things up back to my initial reaction of the end of Chapter 2 *spoilers* I did not see that coming at all. I really hope this is some sort of long lost twin story, because as much as this "Madelyn" character isnt our Ella...This would be the next best thing. Of course i expect this to be slow burn...but i would love it if she is a planned new LI in the future. I am sold already on her. (Even if it is weird that she would be the twin sister of your dead wife and having the name of your dead daughter)

    Keep up the outstanding work Mr. Developer @jPk vns
    Until Chapter 3.


    PS: This should be among the top 10 games out there. I would gladly put it among the likes of Being a DIK, Leap of Faith, Artemis, Become a Rockstar, City of Broken Dreamers, Race of Life, Move the Chains, Summer's Gone, Chasing Sunsets and Acting Lessons to name a few of the great ones out there.
    Obviously there are other great VN's and some may prefer others but this definetly deserves to be among the highest rated.

    I really hope this doesn't end up just being a hidden gem that gets lost in the shuffle.
  20. 5.00 star(s)

    DIKHammer

    This game may not have a ton of lewd scene but holy shit does it grip at your emotions.

    The writing is one of the best I have seen so far, the 2 of the 3 LI's are extremely attractive - Sarah is just alright. Emma is hilarious and much needed comic relief.

    There really is nothing I can say about this AVN that is terrible except that I don't have more of it to go through right now