Yeah I'm not sure what ways you can reward backers in a fair way tbh.
I backed Dead Dating and one reward was that we got 18+ content but no one else will get it, just like this game.
Even though I got the 18+ content I still feel uncomfortable with that set up and wish everyone could get it.
I get that was my 'reward' as a sponsor/backer and I'm not sure what other reward would be better but I think it feels like backers who had money or knew about it early enough get the full game and others don't, even if it's not 'storyline' stuff.
I wouldn't make use of desktop background images and outside of physical rewards (which many devs can't afford to make), I'm not sure what they CAN offer us as a reward...
Also to say, I don't think it means devs 'don't need your money', but like, if you think this is unfair (like me) perhaps suggesting alternative rewards might help them have more options that'd make everyone happy in the future?
I have no ideas so I've not suggested any, but if we grumble without giving suggestions, what are they supposed to do?
Offer no rewards to backers who are the ones that make sure the game is actually MADE in the first place? They need that funding in the first place to make their dream projects a reality, we can't spite that.
I dunno, just seems a tough situation.
OH one more thing, I think I've seen some things where comics artists will have backers added in background scenes. Not sure if there's a chance backers could add lines of dialogue or something cheesy that doesn't change things too much but otherwise not really sure what could be done as a 'reward'.
Well - Giving the 18+ content to backers for free, while other consumers have to pay extra for it looks like a decent reward to me.
Just make that 18+ content available for a decent price to other buyers that have committed the crime to be "late at the show" looks like punishment enough for those horrible, horrible people that noticed this VN too late (like me). But in stead of getting some extra money, the developer have chosen to get no money at all.
But I really respect that choice by honoring those wishes, and not buying this VN at all. I am sure that must be a satisfying feeling for the developer.