Dear fans,
It's been 5 years since Dark Nights' release. I started working on the DLC after February 1st 2024. I thought about completing it within 1,5 years, but it grew a bit ambitious. In this update, I'll tell about the current progress and plans for this project.
The script progress stages:
Chain: 100% proofreading
Roya: 100% proofreading
Secret: 50% writing
Extra stories: 10% writing
CG art: 20/36
Background art: 16/24
Music: 99%
The word count for Chain's route is 79k while Roya reaches 80k. This is about 300 pages per route, an average novel length. I tried fleshing out the characters more, including the MC, by exploring new topics not mentioned in the main game. Occasionally, I check Asks on the Tumblr blog and some of your questions are inspiring! It's fun writing little details about the characters, so they feel closer.
I'm thankful for the continuous feedback on Dark Nights. I want to add some practical features. The complete list:
- Quick Save / Quick Load
- Move the manual to the main menu instead of hidden
- Colored names in dialogue
- Scenes Gallery
- Already chosen menu choices marked
- Toggle on and off the main character sprite
- Toggle on and off hint sound
If you have more ideas or think some are unnecessary, please leave a comment!
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Background Art
Lately, I've been focusing on drawing new backgrounds for the game. As a player, you'll discover many new places. Let's explore the rooms of some characters. We start with Roya. I always pictured it as a large, victorian-esque style bedroom. I added some personal touches like a body mirror and bookshelf. Roya reads a lot in his free time. Topics like science and philosophy intrigue him the most.
Kaichi's old home vs new home. In the main game, I was lazy to draw a new design. It was simply a reused background, but flipped and slightly recolored. I kept some similar elements like high ceiling and a lot of windows. I think an earthly color palette suits him. Surrounding his house is a garden. Being close to nature eases his stressful life.
Chain's place is modern with a dark palette. Initially, I thought of going for a rustic vibe, but instead went for a chique design. At night, he would sip espresso while reading a newspaper on the couch. The space is a lot larger than he needs, but he prefers larger homes over small apartments. He also has a basement...
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Character Expressions & Outfits
While working on backgrounds, I started drawing expressions and more alternative outfits. Before, it felt like the faces I drew are all the same. It's my focus to improve that this year. I hope that in the DLC the characters more look expressive. So far, Miyoko is done. Now 25 characters to go!
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Music
The DLC comes with a lot of new soundtracks. You can preview 5 of Wytesong's works
These will be added to the music DLC pack. Those who purchased before it will get a free update.
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While completing every task is a closer step to completion, there is still a lot to do. This year, I underestimated the workload with my freelancing job and convention trips. I got sick in the middle of July after 2 back to back events, then strained my arms in September. In total, I went overseas 5 times this year. In 2025, I want to reduce these trips and focus on finishing this project. My goal of release the DLC around summer 2025. If that is too tight, I'll aim for 31st October 2025, 6th anniversary. With all these additions, this looks more like a fan disk. I plan to post updates more frequently until the release because I want to be transparents with behind the scenes. Please keep an eye on Dark Nights' Twitter or Tumblr.
Lastly, thank you for the incredible support over these years. Dark Nights Discord is still growing to this day. Feel free to join and chat with fellow players! If you have questions, you can ask them directly to me. Another perk is the free stickers I drew for the server:
