In just under one month, the first chapter of Ashen Reverie will be available in Early Access!
The first chapter focuses on character introductions and worldbuilding. Choice-based mechanics and other narrative systems are present, but they’re intentionally lighter in scope compared to what’s planned for future chapters. As of now, nine chapters in total are planned for Ashen Reverie.
The Steam storefront includes a brief Early Access questionnaire, but for those interested in more context, please see below. A full FAQ page will also be published on the Tidalspire website later this week.
What’s the Plan for the Full Version?
While the phrase may sound familiar, Ashen Reverie is designed to be a game where choices truly matter. What sets it apart is how these choices influence the narrative flow. Instead of shifting into fixed linear paths, it tracks a combination of trust, fear, and more to shape how your story progresses.
My vision for the game is to create a story that evolves based on how the characters perceive you, ranging from minor changes in tone during conversation to rejecting you entirely, as well as how your character perceives the world around them. An overly cautious or wary player might later struggle to think rationally, while players who are too agreeable might miss red flags. Players who are indecisive may find no one on their side by the end.
One feature I’m excited about is the player notebook. It automatically records key decisions and observations for easy reference, and it allows you to jot down your own notes. It’s already implemented in the game, but I plan to add more functionality based on community feedback. What’s currently being worked on is a dedicated section in the game menu for a full screen view.
I plan to refine the Live2D character animations and expressions as development continues. While not the top priority, expect incremental improvements throughout Early Access. Although the core assets for all nine planned chapters are complete, more visual content is planned to be added if resources allow.
Due to the nature of the visual novel genre, one last point I’ll mention: Ashen Reverie does not include romance routes. None of the characters will be romanceable.
When to Expect New Chapters
The current release schedule is roughly every eight weeks. If this needs to change, an updated timeline will be shared.
The estimated final release window is between late 2026 and early 2027, based on continuing as a solo developer. This may shift depending on future developments.
What to Expect with Each Chapter Release
New story content that continues directly from the previous chapter.
Refinements to earlier chapters based on community feedback.
General updates to the notebook, animations, and/or UI. The scope of these may vary with each release.
Patches and fixes will be issued as needed.
How Will Development Stay on Track?
All core assets are complete, and the full story with branching paths is outlined (though not set in stone). Much of the script is already written or drafted, so the focus is primarily on implementation.
For the sake of transparency, the area that’s impacting development time the most is coding. I am brand new to programming, something which is proving to be very time-consuming. Once it’s financially feasible, I plan to add a programmer to the team to help streamline this part of development.
Above all else, I love this game and want to see it completed!
How Will the Community be Involved?
I’ll be actively gathering feedback from Discord, the Steam forums, and direct emails, while also keeping an eye on other social media platforms. While I won’t be able to implement every suggestion, I genuinely want to hear what you think! As well as answer any questions, or even just say hello.
I’ll be upfront, I’m not good with social media and will likely stumble in the beginning. I’ve used it more in the last two months than I have in the last ten years combined, if that’s any indicator.
So if anyone’s interested in helping mod the Discord server, please feel free to reach out 🙂
In all seriousness, thank you for taking the time to read this announcement.