End of Month Update (August 2022)

Hey everyone. It's getting to be that time again, so here's another general progress update.

As you know, Build 0.9 went out to Patrons via early access on July 31 and went open to the public a couple days ago. In addition to the new content in Chapter 12, this build included some updates including a new image gallery as well as a change to the code that allowed unavailable options to appear but be greyed-out (previously they were hidden, so you never knew if there was something you missed). That's sparked a lot of questions, so I just updated the Walkthrough and put up a new post on the topic here as well as on Itch.Io.

Meanwhile, I've been working on Build 0.10. I've decided to put this into a new chapter rather than as a continuation of Chapter 12. The writing for it is already at 1,000 lines of pure dialogue and I still have a little more to write, but the big notes have all been hit. Check out the end of this post for some teaser information and very mild spoilers.

As you know, I've also been working on setting up some new environments for this update, including Mayhew's personal art gallery and a sky lounge from which he can observe his city in style while indulging in a little sip of the good stuff. I've also been working on the renders to finish up the final locked-out option in Chapter 12 with Ronan (in which Alex gets to top). 

The writing for this update is taking a little longer than is typical, but I'm going to set it aside for now and start working in earnest on the renders. I've been having a bit of writer's block that's required a lot of effort and concentration to compose these scenes, and I think setting those challenges aside while I start working on renders will give the different pieces of the puzzle time to fall into place.

Meanwhile, I had another personal milestone as I completed another orbit around the sun. So, yay, happy cake day! 😂

Final note, it's the end of the month, which means Patreon billing is right around the corner. You know I hate to see people leave, but I always want to give this reminder so you can pause your support if you want to.

Now, that said, only keep reading if you want the mild spoilers for what to expect in the next update...

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Alright, first, the "bell tolls" mechanic which I started to implement in Build 0.8 is going to begin in earnest. That's right; as of Build 0.10, Alex can die. On the flip side, unlike in real life, in BBN you'll be able to "un-ring" the bell, and bring the counter back down by choosing other dialogue options. Hopefully this will let those who want to antagonize and provoke Mayhew but also continue the story by strategically making certain concessions. There are going to be other threats to Alex's safety in Acts 2 and 3, but for now this is the big one.

Second, most of this update is going to be dialogue and exposition, but it's also Alex's first real one-on-one time with Mayhew. And it wouldn't be a proper BBN scene without some, well... "one-on-one time". So, for those of you who are pursuing a pro-Mayhew playthrough, you'll get some extra special time with the object of your affection.