So I finished the first chapter. I'm pretty captivated, I want to know what this is all about! The sound is great, the visuals work. The only thing I'd change is more choices in how to proceed or what to say to people. I often feel the main character moves forward in a way that doesn't resonate with me at all.
Reviews for "Exit/Corners"
Percon responds:
Thanks! You're not the only person to bring that up and I'll definitely keep that in mind for my next game. I hope you enjoy the remaining episodes!
Good, very good.
A strong entry into the visual novella genre. My main cope with them is that there's usually little interactivity involved, so puzzles help to spice things up somewhat. The four side characters are well written, distinct and, while coming down as a bit cliched (especially looking at that certain spoiled brat), are definitely interesting. Story's good and, while it doesn't make a truckload of sense as of the ninth episode, is fun to follow. I especially love the writing, since it's somewhat clever, with some chuckle-inducing jokes and covering of things that may rise up during the game (like cheating attempts and the like). I do feel that the story could use some more hard hits, and not conflicts that resolve themselves after an episode (like the distrust among the group). Some more advanced development of character's traits during the game, despite them being clearly established, (like Rae's lone wolf attitude, Lisa's distrust or Beth's compassion) would be appreciated even more, but since it's only the ninth episode, the slow pacing isn't the problem.
The puzzles have decent variety, and are not as challenging, but still interesting. The main downside is that you don't even need to solve them, since you can learn the solution from your group almost upright without any consequences and repercussions (though i personally do solve every puzzle without hints). Puzzles range from easy (like the infinity one, or the temperature one) to, pardon the wordplay, puzzling (like #26), and i do feel that there could be less "Negative space" puzzles. Other than that, they fill in nicely. There are choises of course, but, as in every linear novel, there's only an illusion of choice (like "Ink refuses to listen" when you don't choose a green door, not even taking about even less relevant ones). I'd also like to compliment the music: it's very good and not tiresome in the slightest.
I'll defiitely check back in a month or two and finish this up and write another review wrapping up my thoughts about the story and the like. As it stands now, this has very great potential. 5/5, 8/10.
[s]Also, what do standings in the extras do? Hope that'll play a role in the future[/s]
Percon responds:
Hey there! Thanks so much for this thorough review. I'm glad you had fun and I'll be excited to hear your thoughts on the new chapters whenever you decide to revisit the game.
Since some of the puzzles are pretty abstract, I wanted to make sure that no player would get permanently stuck if they simply didn't get it, which is a big reason why I implemented the system in the first place. The balance and rate at which answers are given to you could definitely use some tweaking, though. Kudos to you for solving them all without hints - that's quite a feat! If you ever decide to replay any episodes, keep an eye out for some cheeky jokes and minor backstory blurbs tucked away in some of the hint trees.
The Standings screen shows Ink's current trust levels with his fellow Contestants, Ink's paranoia level, and one other, more hidden element. Trust and paranoia levels change some of the dialogue as you play, and if you've played every available chapter then it has already influenced some of the information you're getting in a number of places. These values will come into play in a more obvious fashion near the end of the story.
Loved the game, but i cant find a solution for the chapter 10 puzzle, i hate cyphers haha
I have such a mix of emotions. Happiness, sadness, anger; it's an array of feelings, and it's all thanks to this game. I've become attached to it, and I couldn't handle that distressing final moment in the second-to-last chapter's ending. I'm honestly desperate for the final chapter to release. My mind is basically begging for its arrival. This game has been perfect from start until now. I hope you finish it off with a bang,
Percon responds:
There will actually be 13 more episodes! ...but not until next year, so I hope you don't mind waiting!
In the meantime, I invite you to check out the subreddit & Discord to get connect with some other fans. :)
I suspect Aether from the 1st chaper. With each chapter my suspicion rose. I wish there was a real interrogation scenario.