Progress Update - April

While we are still working on the game, I figured we ought to share with you all a more complete look at the character build system, which will play a large part in the next update.

I’m certain you’re all familiar with the Strength, Intelligence, and Charisma stats that are currently in game and we’re not exactly treading new ground there. But so far, these stats have done little besides unlock new dialogue options and new ways to approach quests.

Well these stats are going to become more than just your character’s abilities. They’ll also shape his psychology. During this next content update, you’ll have the opportunity to select one of these three stats that you want to be your primary focus. This will have huge implications for how you approach romancing the girls. Once you pick a main stat, think of your stats more like how you respond to the world around you. A strength character is going to mostly rely on his gut feeling and may not give you the chance to think about doing something rash. But he’ll also have access to unique options to assert himself and be decisive. Ever think someone deserves to get curbstomped? A strength character will not just be ABLE to do that, but he’d also be willing.

An intelligence character is rooted in the idea that the world around him is inherently terrifying. Whether that be the prospect of social interaction, commitment, the threat of forced labor, or the government, an intelligence character is driven by fear. But it’s because of that fear that he gains access to unique dynamics with the other characters (If you like the prospect of the girl taking charge, this is your winner) and also unlocks more cunning and strategic ways to solve problems. Intelligence characters are more than just their brains. They can pick up on new skills faster and have access to a more diverse array of tools to solve problems.

A charisma character is inherently driven by insecurity. A core belief of “I’m not good enough.” That might sound like you’ll have to listen to a bunch of self-deprecating moaning, but people rarely say the quiet part out loud. A charisma character will be focused on image, more than anything. But I don’t think I need to reiterate all the positives of having a high charisma stat. Not only will it give you unique options for building relationships, but a charisma character will also unlock unique options for destroying relationships. A charisma character works relationally, but whether that manifests as camaraderie or manipulation is up to you.

All three main stats will make the route of about a third of the girls slightly more difficult. Strength will make it hard for your character to be truly intimate with those who need it the most. Intelligence will make it hard for you to commit to those who need that investment. And Charisma will make it difficult to be authentic and drive away those who can see through your facade. But I said hard, not impossible.

There’s another milestone we’ll talk about later that can truly put the relationships with the girls at risk.