Ferry

Progress update 05.10.2025

Added 2025-10-05 16:38:12 +0000 UTC

Hey guys, thank you so much for hearing me out and giving your input!

I've realised I wasn't very clear about the possible issue with an early release on Itch, so I think it'd be good to clarify. It's not because I think I'll get backlash for it, but more so for basic marketing reasons. It's something I've talked over with my professional gamedev friends/family, and here's what that point boils down to.

This VN is a one-and-done kind of thing, it's a linear story that a person will read through once and that'll be it. There will be no reason for the people who played the Itch version to engage with the Steam version at all, unless they're some sort of huge fan that will go out of their way to get the game everywhere.

Preferring Itch isn't an issue if both versions are released at the same time. But objectively speaking, the Steam release (with all the extra effort/expenses it requires) has the potential for a far bigger reach. When given the option, that's what most players will choose. However, if everyone who's actually excited for the game rushes to read it on Itch first, there won't be that many people left for that initial push by the time the Steam version comes out.

Itch is a great side option and I'm going to release Z.A.T.O. on there either way. But this is why the split up can be an issue. It was never going to be a profitable project of course, but if I could recuperate some of the expenses through little things like the supporter art pack, it'd help a lot. And a stronger Steam release is important for that.

So I hope this clarifies why I'm hesitating to go Itch first! I do apologise for potentially putting the release off for reasons like that, it's something I still need to think about regardless.

The cool PAFL merch thing is coming up really soon, though! Like next week soon. So for now, please look forward to that!