#other project

I think your idea about making the team rescue MC but then not being immediately involved with recovery would work well here. The idea of shaping MC a bit more before meeting is very neat and allows the characters to get to know each other on more even footing. It also makes MC feel more like an individual instead of being so defined by what happened to them, if you get my meaning? And I must say I'd love to define a behavior issue like aggression for my MC. Also by sticking to the rescue you do still have the initial connection, which is a lot better than what I suggested. I definitely like the direction you're going here and am certain you could do something great with this story! 🫶🏻

And about the darker tones: I do enjoy heavy and serious topics involving trauma etc. but it's different when MC is currently in such a situation, I guess (though the kind of trauma also is an important factor, naturally). That's probably why Howl and Daddy was a Killer feel different as you noted. For example I could definitely enjoy a story with a MC with a SA past and read about the trauma that followed from it etc., but could never handle a MC that's currently trapped in the position of a SA victim. Just wanted to share some more thoughts on this, haha.

I'm all for an MC who comes with the risk for biting, lol.

I want to discuss my other project again! This will be relevant to Introdemo, promise. Anyways...

Like Introdemo, the Other Project lets your choices shape your relationships with characters. However, it's much more nuanced: not only does your actions affect friendships and romance, your connection with your hometown plays a significant role.

Your mood also plays a key role, influencing your choices and emotional state. Your state of mind impacts the story just as much as your relationships.

(There are a few more variables involved but I don’t want to spoil anything - but they are the most fun variables in the game [they're environmental and psychological]).

And, also like Introdemo, I applied the same approach here. I want each playthrough to feel different for the player.

Though, this also got me thinking with ID...: what if Fennel has a strong relationship with Bailey but is in a bad mood? Or if their relationship is strained but he’s feeling great? How would that affect his interactions with others? Right now, everything is funneled into ‘good_points’ or ‘bad_points,’ which lacks nuance. Mood and relationships should influence behavior in a more layered way.

The good/bad point system has its benefits though. It simplifies tracking and it makes outcomes clear. In the survey, many players figured out what triggers positive or negative results, which is great. However, as the story progresses, I need something more nuanced than just 'good' or 'bad.' For example, Fennel's (lack of) trust in Clyde is crucial, and that can’t be captured with a simple point system.

Just wanted to share.