Weekly Update 13/2024


Hi!
The weekly update has arrived!
This week, I delved into creating visuals for the upcoming game update. Initially, I contemplated leaving it at that, but I can't overlook our engaging brainstorming session. Many of you actively participated, making it a delightful experience. During my absence last weekend, the marketing team conducted a small survey revealing that the title "Special Request" lacks significance for those unfamiliar with the game. This realization threw me into an analysis paralysis as I pondered potential titles. The discussions on Discord were instrumental, and the tipping point came with the poll. While the options didn't quite resonate with me, your collective preference for the keyword "corruption" was unmistakable. Although pairing it with the MC name felt somewhat clichéd, the perfect solution emerged from the comments. Therefore, SR's full title today is "Special Request: In the Web of Corruption". A heartfelt thank you to all who contributed to the Discord discussions, voted, and shared their opinions! Your support has been invaluable.
Another essential aspect is my overall thoughts on the game SR.
Firstly, in recent updates, the length of events in the game has been shortened, typically comprising around 40-60 images along with some animations. This adjustment is primarily influenced by my full-time job, which serves as my primary source of income. Consequently, my time for game development is limited, restricting the number of images I can include in each update to around 400-500. Additionally, the game features a considerable number of events per update. If I were to allocate approximately 100 images to each event, the development cycle for each update would extend to around four months. However, given that 3.5 game weeks remain, such an approach would indefinitely prolong the time needed to reach the end game.
Secondly, the protagonist, Laura, is experienced; therefore, extensive introductions detailing her feelings for each event are no longer necessary.
Am I concerned about shorter events? Yes and no. On one hand, it enables me to maintain a sustainable work-life balance. Gone are the gruelling 16-hour workdays, allowing me to enjoy quality time with my family during holidays. However, I do yearn for more substantial events in the game.
Next, I'm considering integrating other female characters, such as Laura's colleagues, into the game. I aim to showcase events involving them outside of the typical office routine and unrelated to Laura's personal story. While this may not be necessary from a strictly story-driven perspective, it could enrich the gaming experience. Considering the narrative coherence, I'm brainstorming how to execute this seamlessly.
I know how to add colleagues to the NTR series (I acknowledge that the term might not sit well with everyone, but it's an element I enjoy. It will remain optional). However, I'm also open to involving colleagues outside the NTR context.
Lastly, I anticipate that some players may advocate for Beatrice's return. While I have planned some events involving him, I'll be transparent - I dislike this character. It's a sentiment I find challenging to articulate.
Reflecting on the abovementioned considerations, I face a dilemma - the need for more images per update that I simply cannot accommodate. So, what's the solution? Should I reduce the number of events? Perhaps opt for fewer events but make at least one per update longer? These questions weigh heavily on my mind, and I'm unsure of the best course of action.
Which events should I consider eliminating? I intended to launch a poll today to gather your feedback on your favourite event series. This would have provided valuable insights into the room temperature. Unfortunately, I won't be able to do so today as my wife is eager to take advantage of the beautiful weather outside and put me to work.
Therefore, I'll postpone the poll for a few days. In the meantime, I encourage you to share your thoughts and insights in the comments. Your input is precious to me as I navigate these challenges.
Have a great holiday!
Nemiegs