Hi everyone! Things are becoming clearer and more focused in terms of what’s working, what’s missing, and what needs to evolve. The path toward a proper demo is shaping up well. It’ll still take several more months (no rush!), but the overall shape of the game has been greatly clarified.
A huge thank-you to all the playtesters and supporters for your feedback and encouragement!
1. Map Overhaul
One of the milestones already well underway is a redesign of the city map. This is more than a visual update: it’s a structural and narrative improvement, with several key goals:
No more empty or underused areas ; every space will now have purpose
A more logical and intuitive street layout for better navigation
More varied terrain and elevation - the city will feel more alive and vertical
Clearly defined neighborhoods, each with their own style and identity
This new modular layout will also define the boundaries of the upcoming demo, with locked/unlocked areas to give a clear, satisfying slice of the city, while still teasing what lies beyond.
2. Gameplay Loop and Mechanics
The recent playtests have helped clarify the game’s core mechanics and identity.
Core Gameplay Loop
Explore ➜ Talk to characters ➜ Make narrative choices ➜ Live with the consequences
Supporting Systems
Investigate situations, characters, and clues
In-dialogue gun mechanic in 3 steps
Manage your loyalty: your choices shape the story's path
More investigation-focused mechanics are on the way to strengthen that side of the experience.
3. Narrative Structure
The story content for the demo is nearly complete
For the full release, I'm also considering an approach based on interconnected short stories, each told through different characters, rather than one long continuous narrative. This would allow for:
Tighter, self-contained chapters
Different perspectives on the world and factions
Shorter is sometimes better, and also more easy to maintain technically!
It’s still in reflection, but the idea is growing!
4. Character Design
Improving characters and facial expressions has been mentioned often in the feedbacks. Technically, it's quite modular, so there's no rush. I think I'll take care of that in the final stages
5. Sound Design
Sound design work is ongoing in parallel thanks to the amazing ; ambient audio, character voices, and music are being crafted to support the atmosphere
Thanks again for your feedback that help shape the game at every step 🙌