Of course, the art book is completely optional and only provides more context about how and why the game was created. Donations are always appreciated, but the game can 100% be enjoyed for free!
Thanks for answering I only wondered as I don't like to go into a game not knowing what is going on I like to know who the characters are what the goals they have are and why. After all how is one to care what happens to characters if they know nothing of them?