The directions are on the download page.
But when the game asks you to go left or right, go right. After that, swap seats with John
https://retrospring.net/@Basket/a/111936184078983122
He mentioned this during a QnA. It doesn't mean it's short in general, but it's definitely shorter than the main routes
I narrowed down the bug, but these were my choices in this update:
- Come clean to Izashi
- Decline going with Mac to Bareleaf Park (Mac Route)
The bug seems to happen when going to the residential area on the last clock. This resulted in automatically going to Bareleaf Park despite having no more time. Despite going there before, the text says that this was Killigan's first time. Afterwards, he pulls out the map and it looks like this:
(Banni's Ship isn't there. Clicking where it should be also doesn't help)
Also, the clock on Bareleaf Park is inconsistent. Hovering over it show one clock, while clicking on it shows two
I would say for us all to chill, but it seems there is a sorta "high" over this, so I just want to add on to this.
Yes, I'll agree the game is a bit generic and bare-bones. The characters follow tropes and what they call the first build has such little content compared to other FVNs that it could be called a demo of a demo. But I think the point is just seeing how people respond to the setting, characters, and art style. And with how many people show their support on Kofi, Itchio, and the survey they did, it's clear that people love it all.
Now, let's go over your points. You complain about how the core elements are "difficult to change"/"Stuck that way". These core elements being art or the major plot points. That was actually a concern of the creators as well. So much so that the artist's name wasn't initially added to the credits, most likely to reduce bias or in case they phase the art out. People actually recognized it and even positively replied about it. And about the writing? It's actually been done from the ground up! That's another reason they are slow, but that's explained a bit further later.
Also what other elements are there?
Puzzles? There's none of that!
Major plot points? Aside from the crash, all other plots are up in the air(ironically)
Routes? "In development", know what that means?
And sure, there are anime references (Hisoka and Demon Slayer) and the like, but it can just be seen as a quirk of the game. You can see other FVNs use memes and references, and are incredibly popular.
For the last of your points, which is that the game is dead... it may be silent, but not dead. Shy of their discord(for now), I followed their sources to see that they still are trying hard. The reason they're so silent is because they want to release the game on a monthly basis. You can see them sometimes answering itchio questions, looking for people's responses, and posting updates to show they aren't dead. Alright, they haven't released build 2 despite being promised, but hey, there's other games to play while waiting. That's not to mention them looking for a new story writer
All in all, the game has been in development for around 2 years with barely anything to show for it. I have been here since the demo was released, and the days will continue. It's frustrating to wait for something to update, but at least I'm keeping an open mind over the whole thing. We all have different likes and dislikes. You're allowed your own opinion, but that doesn't make it other people's opinions.
The survey: https://rentry.co/fotte
AAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAHHHHHHHHHHHHHHH
I WAS WARNED YET STILL HIT BY THE FEELS
The story keeps adding more and more layers. It's really enjoyable to see it be funny or dark, sometimes both. I do have a question: how heavy are the changes in the story based on your choices? Chapter 2's endings have quite the different buildup.
Also, Would it be possible to add a marker for the end of a text box? It's hard to tell if I should wait or press to continue
If you're fine with some reeally minor spoilers, they did a survey a long time ago, giving little hints for the direction of the fvn
The results of the survey: https://rentry.co/fotte
Gotta say, it's pretty nice to have voicelines since it helps make the characters feel more fleshed out. Maybe it's too early for me to think this, but, like a comment I saw somewhere, they sometimes feel like they don't fit the situation or are just simply jarring to hear. I'm fine with the current setup(Few dialogue boxes have voices), but if you don't like it, I think the more generic voicelines will work just as well.
This is mostly a nitpick though, I'm thoroughly enjoying the story. The voices really help make FVN feel more real. Hope you keep up the good work!