VN - Ren'Py - Wild Cats [April Fool's Special] [LopaPhi]

Review as of version 0.2:
Writing 4/5:
The writing in the game is good. It’s not going to blow you away or anything, but the bar for VN writing is low and this is one of the better written games on this site. There are a few typos and capitalization errors here and there, but nothing major or immersion-breaking.
Art 4/5:
Renders look solid, girls are cute, animations are decently smooth. Overall, some of the best I’ve seen come out of Honey Select. Some things can look a little janky and times, and the girls’ fingers are all weird and wrinkly for some reason, but overall, the game looks good.
Story 2/5:
This is the major issue I have with the game. Most of the time, the story is actually enjoyable and intriguing. But there are some parts that just really piss me off to play – and they are not the parts that the dev intended to be upsetting.
The MC can be a massive simp sometimes. It’s only in a few scenes and its totally bearable. The bigger problem I have with the game, is that it feels like the game is telling you that being a simp is the correct course of action – like its morally wrong to be mean to a girl that is being mean to you.
So, the game starts out by warning you that the MC is a no-good-very-bad-man in the beginning, but that he progresses into a better person over time. But what actually happens is he’ll make a snarky comment sometimes, usually to someone that is actively being an asshole to him, but then immediately backpedal and apologize for it. And the game acts like this is him being terrible. This can be mildly annoying sometimes, and absolutely infuriating other times (Zoe and Fiona’s storyline).
There is exactly one time in the game when the MC is actually a terrible person (start of Eve’s story), and it kind of just comes out of nowhere and feels wildly out of character considering he doesn’t act like that before or after. The idea of the MC being a shitty person who slowly gets better over time is totally fine…but that isn’t what happens. During the first in-game-day, he’s a bit snarky a few times and very shitty exactly once. By day two, he’s being nice to all the girls. At that point, why try to include this redemption arc when it just feels forced and barely-existent?
Girls 3/5:
Some of girls are actually very solid, but some of them just kind of suck.
Eve – good. Her storyline feels kind of weird just because, as mentioned earlier, the MC blew up at her and started screaming at her and almost hit her for…teasing him a bit?? And then suddenly treats her entirely differently the next day? It’s whatever though, I enjoyed playing through her scenes after the beginning.
Zoe – fine. I don’t actually dislike Zoe as a character. I think she’s totally fine. What I do dislike with a passion, is every scene Zoe has been in so far. Their first meeting involves the Zoe being a bit of an ass to the MC, while making snap-judgements about him and the other girls of the team, without really knowing what she’s talking about. The MC responds by being a bit of an ass to her, and making snap-judgments about her without really knowing what he’s talking about. The game acts like he did a terrible thing, and he spends the next several scenes groveling for her forgiveness. More than anything, this is what made me want to drop the game.
Fiona – terrible. I will make every story decision possible to fuck this girl over in any way I possibly can. Why would you have a girl physically assault the MC and expect people to want anything to do with her later on? Why would the MC, who was ready to hit Eve for teasing him like two scenes ago, just sit there and take it instead of hitting her back? Why is the MC ready to make amends with her as if nothing happened??
Lexi – bad. This is more of a personal thing, but I have no interest in the school slut trope. I guess some people out there will be into that. At least you can reject girls, so you’re not forced to romance her. I actually think she’s totally fine as a character. Just not crazy about her as a love interest.
Desiree – good. Haven’t seen much of her, but what I have seen is very sweet. Can’t wait for her to be more fleshed out as a character.
Saki – good. She’s by far the most three-dimensional feeling character at the moment. Her most recent scenes were actually pretty touching.
Overall, the game is okay. It would be good if I wasn’t fighting the urge to quit playing for 1/3 of the scenes.

Writing this while finishing chapter 2

Technical part is nice: UI, renders, music choice are good.

Main problem is the text - it's obvious that guy don't have a lot of experience in writing believable character, at least right now, I see only archetypes. Also, there are enough moments where characters start inappropriately and early on pouring out their souls when they don't even really know each other: Saki, Fiona as examples.

Well, and enough people have already written before me about the impossible protagonist at the beginning. That's not even the problem. I don't see anything wrong with such a move. It is clear that the author wants to indicate in this way the initial state of the hero and that we then in the course of the story see his changes, that's how any work with character development works. It's just that it's all spelled out in a very clumsy and obvious way: he starts to humiliate himself in front of the principal at the beginning of the game, as if he wants to hear compliments in return, then after a couple of game days he'll just whine a bit, and then he'll quickly correct himself and become a normal and aware guy.

And here I want to give credit to the author. Perhaps in comparison with other VNs from this site, where characters usually do anything only to get laid, I'm comparing this novel to something less degenerate, although there are enough clichés like standard archetypes, broken protagonist, who is not understood by the world and fights against unfair circumstances, you know.

Not without some BUTs, but I'm enjoying the story, looking forward to the updates

Glad I found this gem in the making, still in the early stages but the quality is topnotch.

Pros:
Dialogue is believable and smooth
Characters are unique and fleshed out (growth can be observed throughout the story)
Characters models are gorgeous and each have their unique striking features/characteristic
Plot is interesting and there's hook after hook, keeps me engaged to say the least

Cons:
Gotta wait for the next update

4.5*

Some spelling mistakes in the latest chapter, but is otherwise pretty polished. Well written overall, characters have unique voices. There aren't really any choices so far, as picking the "wrong" choice will end the game.


Lot of content for a game that is 6 months old. Will keep an eye on this one

Blew my expectations away. Nice writing, nice setting, nice characters and really good renders. Impressed, would play again (and will, honestly).
First game ive felt compelled to give 5 stars on here.

[Reviewed v.0.2 Public]

Strong start to a sports-themed game. The production value is high with beautiful girls, renders and animations using the Honey Select 2 engine. The story has a lot of familiar themes but introduces some fresh twists and dynamics.

Premise: MC, a famous but disgraced former college volleyball star, transfers to a new university looking for a fresh start after an unexpected scholarship offer from the dean -- on the condition of coaching the disastrous women's volleyball team.

The Good ()

• Gorgeous Honey Select 2 models
• A diversity of emerging love interests with different personalities, ages and body types
• Well-crafted cinematography and visual storytelling
• Mostly-believable relationship building between MC and LIs
• The sports content is (mostly) well-executed
• The MC is (mostly) easy to root for, though some decision-making and elements of the character's background is frustrating

The Not-So-Good ()

• Not a ton of H-scenes yet
• Game encourages MC to pursue multiple LIs but given the team dynamic, this may result in a very messy outcome for MC
• Your mileage may vary with the volleyball content

Overall, this is a well-paced, believable story in the early stages. Worth checking out and I will be following its development.

renders looks good. story and characters are interesting. each one is uniquely developed, with their own motivations, flaws, and arcs. the dialogue feels natural, avoiding the typical corny pitfalls, and instead delivering interactions that are sharp, engaging, and authentic. the mc is a breath of fresh air in the genre. far from relying on luck or plot armor, is smart, resourceful, and charming. makes me wanna follow mc's journey until the end.

So, i am a volleyball player and a sucker for college drama stories, so i picked up this game to play as soon as i saw it, and let me tell you, it surpassed my expectations.

The story is really well written, i was kinda pissed with the MC, but his growth made me enjoy it even more, as a "coming of age" story, and made him realistic in a way. Also, none of the characters is perfect, everyone is struggling with something, so they are really "saving" each other. I was really invested and loved every second of it.

The sex is not shoved down our throats every time, it's more like a relationship building thing, which makes the times it happens more enjoyable and believable.

I'm really looking forward to next updates, keep up the good work.

Well, kind of an honor to be the 69th review of this game I guess

As of Chapter 2

Normally I have a ground rule of not playing an AVN unless it has at least one vaginal sex scene, so I've not made up my mind to play Wild Cats even though I have put it on my wishlist for quite some time. When I finally decided to try it out today, however, this game just completely exceeded my expectations.

One thing I absolutely ADORE this game is how the story flows so smoothly, which really comes down to the skillfully written dialogue and an engaging main story. You can really tell the dev has a clear idea of what he sets out to tell a story when you're 10 minutes into the game, and the experience just gets better and better. Good sex scenes aren't common but they're still easier to find, but a well-structured and interesting story? So far not that many from my encounter. So this alone already deserves 5 stars for me.

Another thing, which is closely related to the aforementioned point I've made, is the characters. They feel ALIVE, simply. Often times I feel like I'm actually dealing with actual persons instead of stale Honey Select renders, because they are so lively and unique. Every LI has her own unique trait, characteristics, and even quirks that make each one of them lovable in her own way. Even one of the LIs who looks like a succubus incarnate and a party animal, a trait that I'm usually not a fan of, is depicted as passionate, genuine, and funny as hell, who gradually becomes one of my Top 3 LIs. Also, there's MC. I understand some people's impatience or displeasure with him especially at the start since his character isn't really the most attractive you usually find in AVN MCs. However, I have a soft spot for him because his history hits a bit too close to home as I had been in a similar mindset for the past two years because of a major setback (thankfully I'm in a much better place now with a lot of people's support). Therefore, seeing his journey from self-deprecation to self-respect and respect toward others really makes me feel so empathetic toward this character, which in a way does help me get more immersed in the story.

Right now there are only two chapters, so whether this game will become the next big thing or fumble tragically still remains to be seen, yet if the dev manages to maintain the same vitality in future updates, I'm quite sure this game will go down as one of the best AVNs ever made, as one of my favorite directors the late David Lynch said, "I'm seeing the future, and it's looking very bright!"

As of Chapter 2.

Pretty good game, only two updates so far, but very long with a nice build up of the characters. Probably it should step up the pace in the next one or two updates because I could see not doing it would not be good for some people (not my case).

I like all the characters with pretty defined personalities so there can be a favorite for everyone.

Good luck to the developer for the future.

I really enjoyed this game. The protagonist feels like an actual character for once, with real problems that aren't just window dressing to make him seem edgy or badass. Similarly, the girls are all endearing and sweet without being same-y or devoid of depth.

5/5 game
Recommended to all, especially those who wants good story, and those who want high quality graphics, honestly the sex scene is great too.

This game checks out a lot of boxes.

Pros: This game is beautifully written, and the hook and the stakes. This game is a package and was a blast to play.

Cons: The start might be tough and hard to swallow.
Pass that and you're playing one of the best game around in the making.

Great game with a interesting story and characters.
I like how each character have diferent personality and how the mc its just not a perverted but someone who trying to do right choices.
Once you start playing, you get so immersed that you dont want to reach the end of chapter.

MC is such a fucking moron it hurts..

..at first. The trigger warning about MC being a little dipshit is 100% correct. That being said it is actually part of his little coming of age story and its actually quite relateable.

I'm not much of a VN enjoyer, still I loved reading through this game.

5/5

Oh man, let’s get the worst part out of the way first. Eve really triggered me at the beginning of the game. Her constant teasing was just too much for me (yeah, sorry, but it almost made me quit the game). I’m glad I didn’t, though. Sure, the MC is kind of a pushover, but honestly, I can understand where he’s coming from it actually makes sense in the story.

As for the other girls, they’re alright. But Desiree? Easily the best girl for me so far she’s by far the most likable. Saki and Zoe have their moments too, and they’re growing on me.

Now, enough of my personal preferences. Let’s talk about the game itself. It’s very well made with great quality overall. There’s a solid amount of content, and the story feels engaging and flows nicely. Saki’s storyline, in particular, stands out it’s the best one right now. It’s well-written and emotionally solid.

I do hope the game lets us choose who we get to pursue in the long run. Personally, I’m ready to break Eve’s heart, and as for Fiona… that punch? LIKE SERIOUSLY, BITCH, SCREW YOU! (Yes, I’m still triggered, okay?)

Anyway, amazing work to the dev. This game is AMAZING. Keep it up!

Review for version 0.2
Loads of people have written really nice, fleshed out reviews so you know its a good game.

Here is a summary of the game from my point of view.

The story is 'impeccable', pacing is swift, the sex(whatever there is so far) has substance to it and feels like genuine lust woven between mutually attracted characters and there is choice in romantic involvement with characters.

The visual side of things is good too. I won't sing exaggerated praises of this being the best graphics, the most gorgeous models or the crispiest animation ever but its really good. The girls are attractive. The MC looks cool and not the ugliest MF around. I'm certain things will be more polished as well as time goes on.

The character development is especially good. The tropes , challenges and attractive traits of each individual character are all good enough to draw your attention and keep it there. Many times I wished that I wasn't coming to an end of the content, which goes to show how enjoyable the story is.

All in all, its a really solid effort. I hope it picks up where it left off in chapter 2 and turns it up to eleven.

Try it, honestly. You won't waste your time.

Review as of 0.2

There's a saying that this game encapsulated very well.

"You claim you're a master at your craft. You've kicked the best goals, shot the best hoops, hit the most home-runs, or even... served the most volleys. But to be a true master of your craft, have you... taught someone to do the same?" If you really want to be the best, the try teaching someone to be the best.

One thing this VN does very well, it's the male character. Of course, having a MC that identifies with the LIs always makes for proper story-telling, but the MC for this is done in one of the most masterful ways that I have seen. First off, the MC, isn't perfect. He has so many flaws that you can't help groaning that you have to be someone like him, but the flaws are what make the MC very compelling. Might actually be one of my favorite MCs to date. One would be surprised how hard it is to find an MC developed, and still developing, in ways like this. Of all the characters in the novel, I actually like the MC the most, which proves you can make an asshole-ish type character and still make them a beloved part of the novel, especially when it isn't even the "eye-candy" you're really there for.

The choice of music helps you feel the weight of every scene. The LIs aren't personality-less. They each have their own quirks, faults, and strengths. A way that speaks to each of them. You can truly sense them as a person instead of a cliche. The beginning themes and lessons forming between them all are done exceptionally well. You even quickly begin to realize you're not playing a 'porn' game. You're playing a game with 'porn' in it, and that makes an incredible amount of difference. Nothing feels wasted, extra, or unnecessary, everything is right where it needs to be when it needs to be there.

Now, yes, the game has very minor grammar mistakes, but those can't even begin to outweigh the positives.

5/5 Stars!

just finished the update 0.2 and I am pulled into the story quite nicely.

What I liked
distinct LIs - they all look pretty and interesting and even the ones who would not usually be high on my list grew on me.
the writing - there is nice banter and humor but it does not shy away from darker topics
pace - overall a slow burn which I like when it is done right, like here

I'm curious how the story continues beyond bringing the team together.

Is the game good? Yes. Do I recommend it? Yes.

This is a good one. The summary may seem generic and yes, the main story seems to be shaping up to be that kind of feels-good movie where the coach unites the underdog team despite their differences and sweeps the nationals. What makes this game good and special even with that in mind are the characters.

Again, the story is at the moment nothing to write home about. It may seem harsh since we're just in the what seems to be a prologue so I can reserve judgement on this part of the game until there's been a couple more progress made and because of a certain aspect of the game.

Next we've got our characters. For our LIs, they're all amazing girls. Distinct from one another personality- and looks-wise but not by too much that they become weird and so far from the girls we've interacted with the most, they're surprisingly not one-dimensional. This makes them far more interesting and makes us readers even more invested in the game because who doesn't want happy ending for their best girl?

As for our MC? There's a disclaimer right after starting the game that our MC may seem like an ass and lo and behold he certainly was. Weird decision right? Don't worry, he doesn't stay that way if you don't want an early bad ending and that's what makes him so endearing. Everybody loves character developments and thankfully, we get started on his right from the beginning.

Now how do we know that an MC turned from asshole to non-asshole is good decision?

The dialogue - I wholeheartedly enjoyed the dialogue so much so that I personally believe that this is one of the better written Western AVGs right now. It may seem like an exaggeration but even if the story sticks to what I think its going to turn out to be, I'd still play and keep up with each update so long as the quality of writing doesn't drop. With our reformed MC, his conversations with the girls are so much more personable, more entertaining and more satisfying to read.

Now for sex scenes well, there's not much sex happening yet since the author is still setting everything up BUT the few spicy scenes we've had so far are incredibly well done. With great dialogue, you can always expect good sex scenes because a good sex scene isn't just a slideshow of the 3D models doing the fun stuff. It's with how descriptive the writer can get with the actions being done and not just the words being exchanged. If you've read a good book or played a Japanese eroge - VN or not, you'll know what I'm talking about.

All of this adds up to a game that I am surprised to like so much because again, the story was generic and volleyball isn't a sport I follow so me not skipping the text and actually reading everything is a nice surprise. So with this much appreciation I have for the game, it's not going to be a surprise this time that I give this a 5-stars.

My message to LopaPhi: Great work, I am actually impressed! I thought I'd give playing the game a shot from the visuals alone but I wasn't expecting to be hooked yet here I am. So much so that even if the game becomes a slow burn action-wise, I'd still play it solely for how enjoyable and entertaining I find your writing to be.

Review of version 0.2
I'll start with a premise: I'm not a big fan of VNs as a genre and have enjoyed just a select few of them. Wild Cats, however, piqued my interest from the very beginning of the story.

The one flaw other people have been pointing out (fully addressed by the dev in a warning before starting the game) is that the MC is a bit insufferable in the first part of chapter one. While I do agree, I have to admit that the author did a great job writing the MC's dialogue to be enjoyable, even if you disagree with his POV. Just bear through the first part of the game and enjoy the rest.

All the girls have a distinct personality and are well written, some of them have more depth than others (at least for now), but are all very enjoyable. It's a slow burn for sure, with just a handful of spicy scenes in the whole of 2 chapters, but it's not a flaw in my book.

Overall an awesome project with great potential, will be keeping an eye on future updates.