Hi everyone! 

This isn’t quite a devlog but moreso just an update now that Chapter 1 has Officially Dropped! First, I’d like to thank everyone who has downloaded the Sample Release so far <3 If you haven’t gotten a chance to check it out and play it, feel free to give it a look here! I'll also have the downloads available at the bottom of this post for easy access :) 

For those who enjoyed the game or are waiting for more content, I have some updates for Chapter 2 and what will be in store for the next release:

• [Definite] Another ~10,000 words, potentially more depending on the features I decide to include
• [Definite] A Full Personality Feature that includes choices that shape personality, a Stats Page to help monitor personality and relationship points, and Storyline Events that Change depending on MC’s personality
• [Definite] Full and Completed GUI, including an Extras Page that will have CGs, Music Box, and Codex
• [Definite] More Artwork, including CGs, Sprites, and BGs
• [Potential] Free Time, where players can decide what they want to do during the designated “free time” in the story and go on dates or explore the town/ story more depending on what you choose!

As you can see, there’s quite a few features I have in store, and I’m hoping Chapter 2 will be a more accurate representation of the gameplay I have in mind for Alaris. My main two pieces that I really wanted to focus on were choice-centric and dynamic experiences with personality as well as a “Free Time” piece that helps the game feel more immersive. My hope with these features is that it makes people feel like the game and story of Alaris is immersive and interactive, and they can truly feel like they are “living” in the world of Alaris. 

At the same time, I’m hoping these features don’t feel too overwhelming or like there are too many elements going on, especially since I know things like Stats Building or Dating Sim elements aren’t very popular. My main goal is to integrate small pieces that feel reminiscent of these types of games without feeling too much like “grinding” since I do want the focus to still be on the story and world! Rather than feel like a traditional Dating Sim, where the main gameplay is focused on leveling things up, I hope these game mechanics just add to the story to make it feel more immersive, interactive, and engaging. I’ll be play-testing this to see if it feels like a cohesive game, but if I’m able to integrate these two elements together (the personality and free time), I think I’ll be really happy! 

Anyways, I’d just like to thank everyone again who has downloaded the game so far. All the reception, from the downloads, to the Tweets, and ko-fi donations have meant so much, and I’m so honored and happy that Alaris has been received positively, even if it’s just a sample so far! It’s so incredibly motivating to know people like it, and I’m glad I’m finally able to share something with you all <3