[h1] A Fine Start for an Indie Dev [/h1]
On the 5th of this month, the Dev (Nick) reached out to me about trying their new game to try out, and by their [i] new game, [/i] I mean their first EVER visual novel. I was excited to aide and check it out, and give my feedback. So, for this review, I just finished the story and I am playing on launch day, so I will hold back any criticisms about any grammar issues as those can be fixed. I will be critiquing the game; giving my praises, dislikes, and final verdict. Nick, this review is for you.
[h2] THE PRAISE OF THE STORY [/h2]
So.... This first game is a linear story, you will NOT be making any choices in this game, which is OKAY. Some visual novels are a literal novel that is visual. [i] A Short & Simple Pixel Love Story [/i] is like that, as there is not any branching paths, but tells the tale of a single dude go from the "women are something to bang, but I really want one to date", to genuinely wanting to date and have a real connection, and it all sprouts from a bad dating life. GRANTED, he did get some good dates in (including an unforgettable date scene where the women is being drawn all hot and attractive, and the plain grinning face of Lance (Our main lead) fading in, which absolutely broke me and made me die of laughter). This game actually has so many fun and genuinely hysterical moments that had me keeled over laughing in my seat. From a date that made me remember my past blind dates from the ONLINE site of things (Hannah's date), to the tube top scene regarding Rita, to a scene that made me feel uncomfy to one that made me laugh out loud as Lance got the consequences of trying to be a pervert at a baseball game. Yeah, this story has some genuine funny moments that make it feel real. I also like the way every character you met will appear at another point in the story. Every date reappear, and it adds to the story, and makes the game feel like every character is a local. ALSO, Rita being my favorite girl not from the initial scene at the ballpark, but the genuine "get to know her" scene in her room to watch a film was nice and sweet. Reminds me of Yukana Yame from "My First Girlfriend is a Gal", and it was nice. However, not to spoil the story as much as I did already, I do like the ending, as it feels genuine, if not a bit rushed. Overall, still fine tho. Its good. Real good. Also, the music was nice as well, as the repeating tracks were good and did not distract you over the actual story, so that is a win.
[h2] THE FIRST TIME ISSUES [/h2]
As a first time visual novel, it does show it with some of the writing. I will not lie, some of the writing in the beginning to halfway point, I did not like Lance's writing. He was UNBEARABLE at points, and his writing... was a bit much. The way he verbalized women was, much. The writing was cringe for him, was a lot of cringe. I did not enjoy that little tangent, and the way he was wayy too into checking out Rita than the actual date, yeah the consequences was funny, but that scene was bad. I felt bad for our date. However, I will say, that is just for me. I also do not think that some of the many repeated same shots being over and over, was a bit dull. I like the fact it does stand for the repetitive nature of said scene wearing you down, but, it is kinda boring. On a technical standpoint, I am unsure if its a bug or what, but I was unable to capture any screenshots, which sucks, but maybe its on my end. I also saw where the PNG of characters also did also cut a bit onto the scene pic, which, yeah, is a technical error, but yeah.
[i]NOW ONTO THE ELEPHANT IN THE ROOM, [/i] [b] THE AI USAGE. [/b]
I did talk to Nick (The creator of this game), and his words exactly were "I used AI to make the original background images, but then I pixelated and made some adjustments afterwards. And 2 minor side characters like a librarian and a vendor at a baseball game". I will admit, that is in fact, true and noticeable. The AI use is definitely noticeable. I also spoke to him and we talked about how he will not do that, and he will be doing better in that regards (using free assets, making his own, etc.), and heck, I would kill for his passion to share a story he wrote. Nick, take this criticism with a grin, and grow from it. You got this, and I hope your next game becomes better.
[h3] CLOSING THOUGHTS [/h3]
This game is a definite first story ever posted. Its not a bad thing, but shows. In time, and in confidence, you will grow. [i] A Short & Simple Pixel Love Story [/i] is a good story, and has a genuine fun time. However I know some people will be turned at the AI usage, and I will not blame them. I strongly believe Nick will only get better, and this game story will stay as a, well, good, simple love story. It did not waste anyone's time, and was a fun time. I will say, this is a good start and a good learning point. That all in mind, I will give [i] A Short & Simple Pixel Love Story [/i] a "Play it" ranking. If you like a short game that is fairly priced, and just want to kill an afternoon with a lot of laughs, some cringe, and a good heartfelt ending, go for it. Also, all 7 Achievements are non-missable, so its a free completionist ranking. So, why not pick it up, and give an indie dev some support. Til next time, I am the Cutest Neko, bu-bye!
