Poll: Would you like a Walkthrough?

Edit/Update: The initial results are very strongly in favor of including a walkthrough, so I’ve put something together through Chapter 6. I’ll try to keep it updated going forward provided it doesn’t get too complicated or distract from making the actual game.

Original Post

While a visual novel is a relatively linear experience compared to a typical game, some developers of visual novels include walkthrough files for those who like to have them. But for a visual novel such as Bound by Night, your choices will still have some consequences. So, I'd welcome your input on whether you think this would be worth including in BBN. Here are some pros and cons as I see them, followed by a more long-form discussion.

Pros

• Some people like them
• Help to map out an optimal playthrough for a particular experience
• Would grant some insight into BBN's relationship tracking system

Cons

• Not everyone uses them
• Requires additional development time
• Takes away some of the mystery behind what is happening in the game

Long-Form Discussion

As discussed in previous posts, BBN has a relationship tracking system. As you play the game, Alex (and, to a lesser extent, Nick) will develop their own relationships with other characters. What is probably obvious is that your relationship score with one character will influence what dialogue and romance options you have with that particular character. But what may not be obvious is how your relationship with characters who are "off screen" can impact your choices with those are are "on screen".

Now, I'll be honest, I'm disinclined to include a walkthrough in BBN because my intent behind every dialogue is there is no bad choice. You're developing a story or narrative, and even the choices that have a negative impact on a relationship score will still unlock dialogue and images you wouldn't see with a positive score. Additionally, in a game that where I'm trying to build a sense of suspense and mystery, a walkthrough or map of choices' impact can be very detrimental.

But one of the reasons I'm doing this through Patreon is to get input from the people who are actually playing the game! So, let me know what you think.