0.5.35 - Testing the Waters - Complete Arc - [Platinum Early Release]

Hey everyone!

Testing the Waters Arc is finally here.

Download Link for 0.5.35v2 (Windows): [Download] [GDrive]

Download Link for 0.5.35v2 (Mac): [Download]

Download Link for 0.5.35v2 (Android): [Download]

DISCORD LINK: https://discord.gg/7NaMXpfZpx

(I will try to add Google Drive links later today, need to setup a few things)

What's In This Update?

• 40,000+ words

• 250+ CGs (inc. variations)

• Key story moment

• 4-way branching paths (TQ/SP × Ari/Terrace)

• Mix of saucy scenes and slice of life moments

• Some reimagined scenes from the OG with significantly higher quality

Due to the branching, individual playthroughs may feel shorter than the raw numbers suggest. Feel free to explore and find all the possible scenes - this will be easier once Gallery is implemented.

On This Release:
This was genuinely the hardest update to nail. The delays weren't just about scope. In my opinion this is THE chapter that needs to show the core exploration theme of the game. Every branch needed to feel natural and meaningful.

I'm deep enough in development tunnel vision that I'm genuinely curious about reception. Will the experimental branching work? Is the chapter intent clear? Does it feel organic? Is it engaging enough? Some scenes will feel familiar from the OG but hopefully the quality jump is noticeable. I'll probably do a comparison post later.

On Branching Complexity:

The interweaving complexity that I mentioned (branches that split then merge back multiple times) made this way harder to write while keeping characters and world events consistent.

Good news on this front: From Day 4 onwards, routes will be more isolated, meaning more flexibility and easier development.

On Animation:

This update doesn't include any. I'm working on a new workflow that needs more time to nail down. More news on this later. There's some cool new tech available! Just need a bit more time cooking.

I'll likely revisit and refine some scenes post-release based on feedback. Even some CGs could use another polish pass, but perfect is the enemy of done and it has been delayed enough.

Thanks for weathering the storm with me on this one. Your patience (and occasional prodding) kept me going through the crunch.

Looking forward to your feedback.

Cheers,
Tori