Hey, folks! So. As the previous post mentioned, in this one, we'll discuss Episode 1 adjustments, Steam Demo preparation, etc.
So, the Steam Demo and overall free Demo will contain Episode 1. Like the old demo did. But this one will have the latest code, functions, music, some amended dialogues, some content cut, AND some added. The biggest of which is the Lewd scene. I always wanted one for a showcase, but I never got around to changing it up because I was constantly focused on the next episode.
So why have it? I want to showcase my animation quality, poses, my 'artstyle', and overall sexy scene direction earlier on in the game. That doesn't change the slow-burn part of the rest of the game. It's just an insight into what to expect (Lewd-wise) without having to play through several hours to finally see something sexy. Of course, the player will have a choice about whether to engage with that girl.
My current plan is to have a lewd scene when MC and his friends go to the party. The first day, when Annika is introduced. I'm redoing the entire scene to have the changes make sense. The new scene will be some 140 renders, or more, including the lewd scene itself. MC will have the option, after Annika leaves, to approach a girl and strike up a conversation with her, as is usually the case at parties. The rest is up to you. That part will also showcase the attribute system, which by itself is just a role-play flavor on how players want to approach situations, whether you're charismatic, or show your 'BIG' brain :D Or get relatable by having street smarts. So that's that. Let me know what you think. It will not be a forced interaction.
Next is music. As I mentioned, the entire Episode 1 will fully contain new music. But I'm doing my best to fit the vibe; in fact, in some places, I think it's even better now. But the music situation is fluid. Things might still change.
Further on, I have cut several things from Episode 1. I've made several scenes shorter and reduced filler text and renders. Trying to make the Episode a bit 'tighter', while still having a decent pace. In a few other places, I have done the opposite. Added renders to better show the narrative and story. So, some filler was removed, and some renders were added, where more story clarity was needed (Main story stuff) .
Scenes that will see changes:
Main story-related: Meeting the sheriff and delivering drugs will have a more ominous vibe now.
Some slice-of-life scenes will be shortened, like the lake scene, and some filler conversations with Riley, Richard, and Billy and others. Stuff that lengthens without reason.
Party scene.
I haven't gone through all yet, though. But I will have a full changelog once I release the demo.
I apologize if a few bits that some of you liked have been cut. On a separate occasion, I could add an 'uncut' version that includes all the cut content and everything I made that never made it to release, if people would like. But that's in the future. :)
Lastly. This Demo will be available for you all to play through before I post it anywhere else. I will aim for a release next weekend.
That about sums it up. If you've got any more questions, let me know.
I truly appreciate your support!
Onyx
P.S. The girl in the image is Claudia. She's a great track athlete who's finished the college year and will be leaving for the summer. Before that, though, she'd like to squeeze in a party to say goodbye to friends and... perhaps forge a few new relationships. You'll have the opportunity to get to know her better. I'll try to make the scene organic in a party context.