I don't think i've new saved since V 16 or so, how strongly would you recommend doing so? I just kinda dread the early game since i'm mostly familiar with the story.
Also I think marias succubus outfit is bugged, eve after buying it the option is grayed out and says "you need to purchase this outfit first"
I highly recommend restarting! The new garden content is meant to be experienced in the early game.