A exciting story that you don't want to tear yourself away from. very vivid characters that are easy to believe in, drawn wonderfully. I'm really looking forward to the continue. ^-^
Oh my! Thank you!! Thank you for your lovely words! I'm putting all my heart and soul into the game and with comments like yours it really feels worth every sleepless night.
hi! I’ll have a look on monday when I have access to a computer again. I’m on holidays at the moment 😅
But knowing my poor coding skills it might be that i code them wrong and they dont show. (the first one im pretty sure that it doesnt exist. It was a mc shower scene that was used later on when u surprise Gabriel in the shower, sorry 😅
Hi! Sorry for the late reply! I just have access to the script (holidays are gonna kill me) and checked into the code. The first one is not in the game (it should display a "Not ready yet" message) and the second one, I made a mistake when I re-codede that scene. Originally was only one image and I added a second one when I removed the awful sketch for a proper version. It should be fixed for next version. Im so sorry for all the trouble. (BTW, that second pic is Adam drinking coffee)
I've just begun "From the Top" and am really enjoying it (the graphics, the character dialogues). I was wondering if there is any background sounds or (music at the intro)...if so, I am having problems with the audio. I've downloaded the MAC OS, latest version.
I have a question, please. On page 5 of the gallery after the MC and Blake in the toilet scene, there are 2 scenes that I can't find. I have been through this part dozens of times but l keep missing them. The last 2 scenes on page 5. Thank you for your help.
Hi! Yeah, there was some mistakes in the code on that scene before this updates, but I believe we fixed it this time. Have you tried from this update or the previous ones? Basically it depends if you did the measurements correct or you failed.
The way is coded you need to do both paths to unlock the scene. I'm sorry I wish I knew how to code things better 😔
If you keep having trouble, contact me on discord and I will go through it with you until you unlock it 😀
Got it on the first try, thanks. Also, this new update is GREAT. I've been waiting for something like this. Really blew me away. Thanks for the great VN.
Hello! I wanted to know if there is a guide for the routes, I recently started playing it but mixing my bad English and my lack of patience to translate the conversations, it's hard to know if I'm doing the route of any character or I'm ruining everything.
Hi! Im very sorry for the late reply! I dont know why i didnt get the notification!! Not guide for now I’m afraid, it would take me too long to make one and being a WIP you never know…
You can contact me on Discord and I can help you with any route or for unlocking any CG you might still be missing.
Btw, you dont get locked into certain charater’s route (if that is what you are afraid of)
I am playing the latest version of FromTheTop!-0.15-pc.zip
**Spoiler warning**
I have gone to Blake's trailer to ask him to do the student dating thing.
I have gotten the all of the boxes checked except for the "Other Clues" box.
I did get errors when I clicked on the bed and the red briefs next to the shoes, but I clicked ignore and it let me continue. I have clicked on everything I can find in the bedroom (bed, pile of clothes,mirrored closet, safe, clothes , sneakers, objects on the bedside self, cabinet, picture, teddy bear, bowl, flower vase, outlet). I have clicked on the bathroom. The living room I have gotten the cupboard and all of the doors by the television, the script, and the stack of tabloids. I don't see anything else?!? Unless there was suppose to have been something when I got the errors?
I tried a re-install but I still get the errors .
I'm still stuck in the trailer at this point and hoping you are able to assist.
Update: I managed to cheat by running the previous version and loading a save from when I first entered the trailer and then saved after Blake returned. Then I switched back to the current version. But there does seem to be a bug in the script.
Did you get my previous message? For some reason, I don't see it.... anyway, just in case you are still stuck. The solution for the "Other Clues" is click on the items next to the bed (perfumes and stuff) and the click on the small purple card under the small brown box in the same place.
After seen so many people getting stuck there, for the next update will be fixed. That and the other bugs you've found. I'm so sorry
PS. For some reason, I get the notifications of post like many hours after. If you need a more fast answer, I'm always on discord.
Everything but the Other Clues is checked on the list. When I checked on the perfumes and stuff I found the card but it did NOT check off the box for the Other Clues. Blake will not return to the trailer?
I love this game so far, the story and characters are really enjoyable but something I wanted to point out:
(Spoilers I guess)
A minor thing really, but in Blakes trailer for the second time where you have to look for clues, the "other clues" item is so tiny, I spent a good 10 minutes clicking fruitlessly and had to go into the games files to find out what I was supposed to be looking for before I could progress. Idk something to consider?
Without giving too much away, you're looking for a small card sorta hidden underneath the perfume bottles on the bedside table! You'll probably have to hover around a bit a little precisely to find it.
hi! Sorry for the late reply! Someone reported those error and would be fixed in the ext update and the “other clues” thing too. Many of you are getting stuck there. I apologise.
The solution is: click first in the items next to the bed (perfumes and stuff) then, just in the small purple card under the small wooden box.
At the time of writing this review, the game is in Version 0.14.1. This game is turning out to be one of the rare treasures in western gay porn games, on the level of Coming Out on Top. It builds a creative setting, and world and characters. It avoids many of the cliches of the genre - to its benefit. It has crafted a unique and interesting setting and leaves the player wanting more with every update.
The Characters
I was completely surprised how charming the characters are in this game. I went into this, as I do all games, expecting to like some guys and hate others. However, over the course of the two chapters currently available, I feel in love with basically all of the guys. They are all worth a shot and are all interesting in different ways. A big reason the characters stand out is because the game does not “lock” you into a route early on. This allows the player the freedom to visit and do every character’s story without restriction. The characters also have relationships with each other outside the player’s influence, which often leads to seeing the characters interact.
For example, I went into this game expecting to hate Blake (the blond “straight boy” LI). However, I encountered him more when interacting with Dante, as they were friends, and these interactions made me like him. It was the same with me for hoodie guy and Oliver. This game also does something interesting in giving side-characters some depth and connection to others. The barista is friendly, has a backstory and other characters talk about him, even though he isn’t a main love interest (so far). There are also teases for several other LI’s coming down the road and/or could be added later when the game is in a more complete state.
The Plot, Art and Sexiness
There are several hours of gameplay included in the current build of this game. The developer has not rushed directly into the porn and has taken the time to set up a mystery, the setting and all the characters. This means unlike most in-development games, it is easy to become invested in seeing where the game will go beyond just getting to the bits where your hand is stroking the sausage. The art in this game is unfinished, particularly towards the start of the game.
Many of the CGs aren’t finished but the deeper into the game you get the better the CG quality is. The dev gives warning for many of the CGs that it isn’t final and just a rough sketch. The CGs towards the end are amazing, even if not all of them are coloured yet. There is no outright sex in the game at the moment, but the developer has indicated it is coming in the updates. There are a lot of tease shots of the guys in skimpy clothing, bulges, or even tasteful nudes. There is plenty of horny CGs even if the characters do not outright have sex yet.
One thing I REALLY have to give credit for is that none of the guys so far are really “vanilla”. The game has several “opt out” scenes set up for certain content (including, but not limited to, watersports and rough sex). There are a variety of kinks among the guys (ranging from public sex, daddies, “straight boys”, etc). It isn’t one of those boring dating sims where all the guys basically have the same basic vanilla sex with the MC and the developer deserves props for that. To me, that is always a sure sign a game is made for a gay audience interested in porn, instead of a female audience to fetishize gay romance.
In the online version (on another gaming platform) ...
After all the drama, and having managed to get the director back to work, the game freezes completely (and so does my browser, Google Chrome), there is certainly a problem with the game.
What is a shame, then it seems like a rather very nice novel.
I'll try the downloadable version, but I'm afraid it might do the same ...
It surprised me enormously, all the turning points that his history can have, depending on our choices ...
In a way, it's a very beautiful story. - the biggest important point in this case is the fact that can be there changes almost continuously from start until the end. (well, I'm talking about the current ending)
Then for my part, I spent moments unexpectedly rich in several types of emotions.
And in addition some characters are absolutely beautiful. (like Blake, the "Boss" (Adam), and that "Hero" officer... - dear Lord, why all the men aren't like him...)
:(
Whatever ... The real "boss" is a very handsome man too.
Thank you! Yeah, the game tends to brach out a lot and it's giving me headaches, it's difficult to re-direct the story. But at the end of the day, that's why this is a "game" and not a novel.
Emotions are good. That's exactly what I'm looking, not just a "happy-fun" time.
I see you are on the side of those player that prefer the hunkier characters. That's fine, I like them too xD
I'm quite divided between agreeing with you, and not agreeing with you, with regard to the "game" category ... - then there is enough dialogue to be a novel, so I am more to say that is a rather very successful game-novel mix.
There are not many cases like this. - not that are so well designed.
Hi! Online version? The game has no online version, if someone has made an online version of the game and post it in other place other than Patreon, Itch.io or F95Zone, I'm not responsible of malfunctions. Those are the places I upload the game.
To be sure the game works "properly" use the links on those places.
P.S. If you can give me more information I can look into the problem.
I'm glad I was helpful, especially since I don't really approve of this stuff / that kind of act (copyright theft) ... - I think from now on I'm going to be even more vigilant with that, then it could be dangerous for the players too.
even tho it is messed up their you should leave it. its where i seen the game to gave it a try liked it and found you and probably gonna grab it off pateron a few times.
Of course! It's some sort of promotion! As long as it is the FREE version I don't mind were it ends, really. If it was the Patreon version would not be fair for people who are contributing and spending money in the game.
Quite enjoying the game so far, and one aspect I am looking forward to is how you flesh out the scenes based on the "kink" questions the game poses to you throughout (e.g. When you tell Adam it is sexy when he sniffs himself, or when you say you're open to the idea of sharing partners).
But one thing I do find a little disappointing is the limitations when it comes to underwear/clothing - since everyone seems to wear the same plain white briefs. Would be nice to see a little variety in that regard, like when Carter is throwing clothing at you for Adam, maybe you should actually have the option to choose something sexier like the jockstrap? Just a thought.
Keep up the good work :) looking forward to the next update.
We are going to start seeing those answers for the "kink questions" very soon once we start "dating" the guys. If you are playing the free version, it will be in 2 updates time.
And don't worry, as you can see they guys are changing constantly the clothes, so it won't be a problem to add more sexy underwear or other king of clothing. I'm a fan of white plain underwear tbh, so that's why probably I haven't introduce them... yet. But I'm very open to everything! I'll keep an eye in that to make sure I put sexy clothes in further updates!
HIII I LOVE IT SM PLAYING IT FOR 4 HOURS ALREADY AAAAAAAAA. thank you so much for this lovely game, can't even imagine how much time and energy you put into this!!! cause of your game i was reading english words all night and it worth it, i'm also not from any english-speaking countries but your language is very clear and understandable for me!keep doing it man(btw love gabriel i was wondering sooooo long about his name)
THANK YOU!!! You have no idea how much your kind words mean to me!! I'm very happy you are enjoying the game so far! And good new, very very soon (I mean, like just now) you'll have a new update to play!!
I can’t recall exactly, cos for this version I forgot to write the changelog. 2 scenes with Oliver and 1 with the Hoodie Guy. Lots of backgrounds painted. And the conclusion of Chapter 01
I really enjoyed the game! Just wondering when the next update will come out since every love interest path ends right about after you decide who you want to go after. Also, will NSFW CG's and scenes be coming in further updates? I loved playing through it so far and I can't wait to see what else you will be adding into the game!
Thank you! Next update is happening very very soon (in the next day or so!) And as for your question... YES!! I just wrote and draw a couple of them for version v0.13!!! And we will definitely see more and more!
I’m so excited !! Thanks for the reply ! Also, I’m pretty new to this cite so when you implement the update, would I have to do anything or will the game do it by itself ?
The update will be ready in the next few hours (v12 free) Just download it and open the file. Load any previous save and enjoy! just a warning. For the next one (v13) I’m afraid you’ll have to start over. We made so many changes in the script what old saves wont be compatible.
This was a one helluva lit game. If you can ignore the minor grammar mistakes; overall gameplay was nice.
First of all, a nice startup to the story. Not so slow, not so fast. Detailed just enough.
Characters are talking in their ways. Their dialogues are unique to themselves. Even if out of context, if you focus, you could easily say which character said a phrase.
These little intros are nice too. It makes the player curious and makes'em want to play.
Overall artwork is not the best but still quite nice. Actually, character drawings are quite decent looking.
Back to the story; It is written on really strong pillars and easy to understand. Sometimes sweeps you away from reality.
Really enjoying this game and I can't wait for the next update! I really enjoy this story and there's only a minor amount of typos and whatnot but it doesn't take away from the plot. Can't wait to see the finished product!
enjoying the English version of the game. I would recommend proof reading it a bit more. other then that, i really have enjoyed the story and I am waiting for the next installment.
Will you colour in the other scenes as they are in black and white still? Do you mind if I help colour them for you? lol Also, will there be a new update with everything fixed?
Hi! I'm actually planning to start finishing everything next month, during the holidays. I never wanted to piled up too many scenes and never start a Chapter without everything completed. I failed xD
You'll see them finished most of them soon, I promised.
My idea is to replace the sketches with the final one and it will show in the gallery straight away.
I didn't like my past feedback so decided to try posting again.
I've played until the end of the beginning chapter (so just after the interrogation) and the biggest problem so far is the many typos in the game. Plus some weird phrasing that doesn't sound natural in English. This is natural since it isn't your first language and you're working on your own. Still, I would suggest eventually hiring a proof-reader to look over the script and weed a lot of these typos out.
At first I kinda just assumed the game would be set in Hollywood because movie studios, but it ended up being in the UK instead which is nice. If characters using words like bloody set off my radar an underground mention made it concrete for me.
I won't comment on the WIP art or lack of music since the game is very much still in development. I hope making this goes well for you, especially since we're all going through rough times right now.
I'm not a game dev expert but I assume this was likely made in Ren'py. If so, I would like to see a log added so you can look at/ reference past dialogue. I realise that if you're going for a more detective style visual novel, this might conflict with wanting the player to remember things rather than just look back. But given that some people like myself make way too many saves, that might be a problem either way.
I guess if I'm complaining about typos, I should actually point some out and help. When something is going to happen for a certain period of time, it's temporary; not temporal. During the interrogation scene, you're asked if Hayley had a boyfriend. One of the answers is that you saw her with Blayke when it should be Blake.
I'm looking forward to future updates of the game. Hopefully I haven't come off as obnovious. I was actually a little worried about posting feedback.
Obnovious? Is that even a word? or is a typo? I guess I'm not the only one! Just kidding, don't be mad!
I agree with everything you've said. Really. But know if you allow me to explain...
I'm very aware of typos and weird phrasing, even though I've been living in the UK for a decade I'm not a native and sadly I wouldn't never sound or write as one. Yes, I thought of working with someone to help me fixing that, but is difficult when I barely make any money with the game. If someone spend time doing some proof-reading the least I can do is paying for the time. I spend 30-40 hours a way on every update (not counting all the planing and thoughts) and get less than £100. Most people would have abandoned the game by now.
WIP art. If you play till the last update you will see it some scene are not WIP anymore, some of them are final and other just the lineart. Next month or the following one, once I finish the current Chapter, I will start finishing all those WIP art from the very beginning. Some audio is also on the way (I play all my games without a sound xD)
I will definitely look into that log thingy you're saying cos I have no idea what it is. Never used it.
And don't worry, you can write any feedback you want. How would I improve the game if nobody gives a feedback!?
Hope you stick around, and if you feel like instead writing long feedback you can always hit me up on discord and have a better chat
It was indeed a typo. When it comes to me, I am a natural English speaker so it's more just accidentally pressing something on a keyboard. It was meant to be obnoxious and I must not have realised. My apologies for any confusion caused.
I understand that it isn't something you can do at the moment. Finding a good proof-reader could be expensive, and right now a lot of people don't have the money they used to. Paying for rent etc. is to be expected but now with the COVID outbreak a lot of people have lost their jobs. So they're not going to have as much money free to put towards Kickstarters, Patreon etc.
I do hope that things get better for you financially. Obviously my point of view is somewhat selfish as I'm soneone interested in the game and want it to be completed. But you do have to put yourself first before anything else.
When it comes to audio, a lot of indie visual novels like this on Itch seem to just license music using creative commons if the developer can't afford to hire a composer. So you could always just go the Kevin MacLeod route like a lot of other people. I'm not an expert on copyright, so I'd recommend just googling if an idea like that interested you.
I used saves to go through all the little Christmas variations, which definitely caught me off guard at first. It makes sense in hindsight realising that update would've been released around the holidays. It being a dream sequence makes sense, so unfortunately the protagonist didn't get the kiss they wanted from *insert love interest of your choice here*.
I know it was a typo, I was being silly/funny. Don't worry.
I understand that people are going to struggle these days with money (so am I, I'm afraid.) But like I said since the very beginning, money is just a way to feel appreciated and loved after the hard work. If I wanted money I would have gone for a furry approach (usually they have more followers).
They game will have an ending. I cannot stress this enough. Even if have to be some kind of rush ending, I hate leaving things unfinished and you guys don't deserve that.
I'll look into that music, thank you.
The Christmas thing... well, the kiss was a last thing addition. I had a long debate myself if including or not cos I didn't want to show the first kiss yet. You were suppose to lean to kiss him and then.... wake up. I decided to give you a bit of "action" especially after you do all the paths (you know what I mean? xD)
Thank you for the wonderful feedback. I really really really appreciate it
Yeah, I’m trying to finish the art (instead the sketches in previous version) and that takes time from writing. Also the more options and branches require extra writing... if everything were more lineal would be easier to write. I’m just one guy doing all the work 😪
This game has so much potential, I would love to help if i was good on something and had time, but the only thing I can do for now, is promising that I will save some money and subscribe to your patreon whenever I'm able to. Hope to hear about the game soon (sorry for my english this is not my first language)
Thank you for the kind words! Love and support are amazing. I know not everybody have money to support (I've been there) so the game would always be free. Money is a way to show extra commitment and love for the game, give me an idea how much really people likes the game and a way for me to keep doing what I like and to push me to keep updating regularly . By the way, don't worry for your English, is not my first language either. X
Hey! Sorry for the late reply! I don't know why I didn't get the notification for your post. I've been doing the Xmas update (patreon version) for the last few days. Got a bit delayed, but once I'm done with it, the free version would be post here. Probably tomorrow or the day after. Thank you for the support!
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A exciting story that you don't want to tear yourself away from. very vivid characters that are easy to believe in, drawn wonderfully. I'm really looking forward to the continue. ^-^
Oh my! Thank you!! Thank you for your lovely words! I'm putting all my heart and soul into the game and with comments like yours it really feels worth every sleepless night.
Thank you!
Okay
from these three pictures there are some pictures that I can't open and I tried again and again but still confused
hi! I’ll have a look on monday when I have access to a computer again. I’m on holidays at the moment 😅
But knowing my poor coding skills it might be that i code them wrong and they dont show. (the first one im pretty sure that it doesnt exist. It was a mc shower scene that was used later on when u surprise Gabriel in the shower, sorry 😅
Hi! Sorry for the late reply! I just have access to the script (holidays are gonna kill me) and checked into the code. The first one is not in the game (it should display a "Not ready yet" message) and the second one, I made a mistake when I re-codede that scene. Originally was only one image and I added a second one when I removed the awful sketch for a proper version. It should be fixed for next version. Im so sorry for all the trouble. (BTW, that second pic is Adam drinking coffee)
x
androιd verѕιon?
https://mega.nz/file/sv4h2CpA#3EY9Viux5eEl8PBTP5CuFT_UHR75dqZK9HWoEuy8iMI
This is a port made by Caxhub. I can't check if it works or not, though. But is worth a try!
ty for the update loved the game back then even with the spelling etc ( back then ) still felt it was a heartfelt vn.
best of luck and please dont stop <3
Thank you! I'm happy you are still around!
X
I've just begun "From the Top" and am really enjoying it (the graphics, the character dialogues). I was wondering if there is any background sounds or (music at the intro)...if so, I am having problems with the audio. I've downloaded the MAC OS, latest version.
Sorry, no audio or sound at the moment. I mute all the games I play Lol
But I'll working on it during the summer. 😀
Hi! Thank you for your reply...appreciate it!
My pleasure! X
I have a question, please. On page 5 of the gallery after the MC and Blake in the toilet scene, there are 2 scenes that I can't find. I have been through this part dozens of times but l keep missing them. The last 2 scenes on page 5. Thank you for your help.
Hi! Yeah, there was some mistakes in the code on that scene before this updates, but I believe we fixed it this time. Have you tried from this update or the previous ones? Basically it depends if you did the measurements correct or you failed.
The way is coded you need to do both paths to unlock the scene. I'm sorry I wish I knew how to code things better 😔
If you keep having trouble, contact me on discord and I will go through it with you until you unlock it 😀
Thanks so much. I will try your suggestion. Keep up the great work you are doing, this is one of my favorite VNs.
If it doesn't work, don'e be say to ask me again!! ;-)
Got it on the first try, thanks. Also, this new update is GREAT. I've been waiting for something like this. Really blew me away. Thanks for the great VN.
Awesome! I'm glad you liked it! Hopefully the wait was worth it!
This is getting good! I hope there's a route for Connor on the next update! Keep it up!
No Connor route yet! He’s a side character for now. But we will see more of him later on. He’s kind of popular after all!
Hello! I wanted to know if there is a guide for the routes, I recently started playing it but mixing my bad English and my lack of patience to translate the conversations, it's hard to know if I'm doing the route of any character or I'm ruining everything.
Hi! Im very sorry for the late reply! I dont know why i didnt get the notification!!
Not guide for now I’m afraid, it would take me too long to make one and being a WIP you never know…
You can contact me on Discord and I can help you with any route or for unlocking any CG you might still be missing.
Btw, you dont get locked into certain charater’s route (if that is what you are afraid of)
Again, sorry for the late reply! X
Hey I was wondering how do you choose who u want to be your love I interest
I am loving this Visual Novel! It is absolutely one of my favorites! I can't wait for the next chapter.
Thank you so much!
Sorry again for the hard time with the minipuzzle. uWu
I'm stuck!
I am playing the latest version of FromTheTop!-0.15-pc.zip
**Spoiler warning**
I have gone to Blake's trailer to ask him to do the student dating thing.
I have gotten the all of the boxes checked except for the "Other Clues" box.
I did get errors when I clicked on the bed and the red briefs next to the shoes, but I clicked ignore and it let me continue. I have clicked on everything I can find in the bedroom (bed, pile of clothes,mirrored closet, safe, clothes , sneakers, objects on the bedside self, cabinet, picture, teddy bear, bowl, flower vase, outlet). I have clicked on the bathroom. The living room I have gotten the cupboard and all of the doors by the television, the script, and the stack of tabloids. I don't see anything else?!? Unless there was suppose to have been something when I got the errors?
I tried a re-install but I still get the errors .
I'm still stuck in the trailer at this point and hoping you are able to assist.
Update: I managed to cheat by running the previous version and loading a save from when I first entered the trailer and then saved after Blake returned. Then I switched back to the current version. But there does seem to be a bug in the script.
Did you get my previous message? For some reason, I don't see it.... anyway, just in case you are still stuck. The solution for the "Other Clues" is click on the items next to the bed (perfumes and stuff) and the click on the small purple card under the small brown box in the same place.
After seen so many people getting stuck there, for the next update will be fixed. That and the other bugs you've found. I'm so sorry
PS. For some reason, I get the notifications of post like many hours after. If you need a more fast answer, I'm always on discord.
I did that ( objects on the bedside self) and I got the card but it would not continue for some reason?
you have the other things in the list? Once all of them are done, click the “continue” button.
Everything but the Other Clues is checked on the list. When I checked on the perfumes and stuff I found the card but it did NOT check off the box for the Other Clues. Blake will not return to the trailer?
Click again but just the small card
Really fun game so far are there going to be side love interest or side hook ups like with Alek? Also any word on when the next update is coming?
Side characters will have some sort of path and of course hook up... but main characters come first
Next update??.... i just published the latest one like 3 days ago... uWu
I love this game so far, the story and characters are really enjoyable but something I wanted to point out:
(Spoilers I guess)
A minor thing really, but in Blakes trailer for the second time where you have to look for clues, the "other clues" item is so tiny, I spent a good 10 minutes clicking fruitlessly and had to go into the games files to find out what I was supposed to be looking for before I could progress. Idk something to consider?
where it was? im stuck there
Without giving too much away, you're looking for a small card sorta hidden underneath the perfume bottles on the bedside table! You'll probably have to hover around a bit a little precisely to find it.
Sorry 😔
Yeah, sorry. I will change it for the next available update. Few people struggled with it.
I posted the solution where to find the things in the Patreon website when was released couple of months ago, so everyone could find it.
And the text saying "I return it on top of the shiny card with a fox and flames engaved on it." would be enough to figure it out. I guess i was wrong.
Sorry 😀
hi! Sorry for the late reply! Someone reported those error and would be fixed in the ext update and the “other clues” thing too. Many of you are getting stuck there. I apologise.
The solution is: click first in the items next to the bed (perfumes and stuff) then, just in the small purple card under the small wooden box.
Characters: 5/5
Plot: 4.75/5
Setting: 5/5
Art: Incomplete TBD
At the time of writing this review, the game is in Version 0.14.1. This game is turning out to be one of the rare treasures in western gay porn games, on the level of Coming Out on Top. It builds a creative setting, and world and characters. It avoids many of the cliches of the genre - to its benefit. It has crafted a unique and interesting setting and leaves the player wanting more with every update.
The Characters
I was completely surprised how charming the characters are in this game. I went into this, as I do all games, expecting to like some guys and hate others. However, over the course of the two chapters currently available, I feel in love with basically all of the guys. They are all worth a shot and are all interesting in different ways. A big reason the characters stand out is because the game does not “lock” you into a route early on. This allows the player the freedom to visit and do every character’s story without restriction. The characters also have relationships with each other outside the player’s influence, which often leads to seeing the characters interact.
For example, I went into this game expecting to hate Blake (the blond “straight boy” LI). However, I encountered him more when interacting with Dante, as they were friends, and these interactions made me like him. It was the same with me for hoodie guy and Oliver. This game also does something interesting in giving side-characters some depth and connection to others. The barista is friendly, has a backstory and other characters talk about him, even though he isn’t a main love interest (so far). There are also teases for several other LI’s coming down the road and/or could be added later when the game is in a more complete state.
The Plot, Art and Sexiness
There are several hours of gameplay included in the current build of this game. The developer has not rushed directly into the porn and has taken the time to set up a mystery, the setting and all the characters. This means unlike most in-development games, it is easy to become invested in seeing where the game will go beyond just getting to the bits where your hand is stroking the sausage. The art in this game is unfinished, particularly towards the start of the game.
Many of the CGs aren’t finished but the deeper into the game you get the better the CG quality is. The dev gives warning for many of the CGs that it isn’t final and just a rough sketch. The CGs towards the end are amazing, even if not all of them are coloured yet. There is no outright sex in the game at the moment, but the developer has indicated it is coming in the updates. There are a lot of tease shots of the guys in skimpy clothing, bulges, or even tasteful nudes. There is plenty of horny CGs even if the characters do not outright have sex yet.
One thing I REALLY have to give credit for is that none of the guys so far are really “vanilla”. The game has several “opt out” scenes set up for certain content (including, but not limited to, watersports and rough sex). There are a variety of kinks among the guys (ranging from public sex, daddies, “straight boys”, etc). It isn’t one of those boring dating sims where all the guys basically have the same basic vanilla sex with the MC and the developer deserves props for that. To me, that is always a sure sign a game is made for a gay audience interested in porn, instead of a female audience to fetishize gay romance.
In the online version (on another gaming platform) ...
After all the drama, and having managed to get the director back to work, the game freezes completely (and so does my browser, Google Chrome), there is certainly a problem with the game.
What is a shame, then it seems like a rather very nice novel.
I'll try the downloadable version, but I'm afraid it might do the same ...
I just managed to play the whole of this novel ...
I didn't expect to cry ... - but with certain situations it's impossible to remain insensitive.
I am rather very impressed.
Oh my! I'm glad you managed to play it!
And please don't cry! I know it can be a bit heavy sometimes, but the purpose of the game is to have fun!!
Thank you for the kind words! They mean a lot to me!!
X
Otherwise, speaking of the game itself ...
It surprised me enormously, all the turning points that his history can have, depending on our choices ...
In a way, it's a very beautiful story. - the biggest important point in this case is the fact that can be there changes almost continuously from start until the end. (well, I'm talking about the current ending)
Then for my part, I spent moments unexpectedly rich in several types of emotions.
And in addition some characters are absolutely beautiful. (like Blake, the "Boss" (Adam), and that "Hero" officer... - dear Lord, why all the men aren't like him...)
:(
Whatever ... The real "boss" is a very handsome man too.
<3
I remain impatient to know the rest ...
Thank you! Yeah, the game tends to brach out a lot and it's giving me headaches, it's difficult to re-direct the story. But at the end of the day, that's why this is a "game" and not a novel.
Emotions are good. That's exactly what I'm looking, not just a "happy-fun" time.
I see you are on the side of those player that prefer the hunkier characters. That's fine, I like them too xD
X
I'm quite divided between agreeing with you, and not agreeing with you, with regard to the "game" category ... - then there is enough dialogue to be a novel, so I am more to say that is a rather very successful game-novel mix.
There are not many cases like this. - not that are so well designed.
Hi! Online version? The game has no online version, if someone has made an online version of the game and post it in other place other than Patreon, Itch.io or F95Zone, I'm not responsible of malfunctions. Those are the places I upload the game.
To be sure the game works "properly" use the links on those places.
P.S. If you can give me more information I can look into the problem.
Oh okay, I see ...
Here is where I first played it:
https://porngameshub.com/one-more-time-from-the-top
Oh thank you for letting me know! I definitely have nothing to do what that one. I didn't upload that game there.
X
I'm glad I was helpful, especially since I don't really approve of this stuff / that kind of act (copyright theft) ... - I think from now on I'm going to be even more vigilant with that, then it could be dangerous for the players too.
Yeah, thank you so much! At least is the free version that is available for everyone!
Thank you for everything 😀
even tho it is messed up their you should leave it. its where i seen the game to gave it a try liked it and found you and probably gonna grab it off pateron a few times.
Of course! It's some sort of promotion! As long as it is the FREE version I don't mind were it ends, really. If it was the Patreon version would not be fair for people who are contributing and spending money in the game.
Hope to see you around :)
This new polished art is so good! Can't believe it's just one-person project... You are super tallented.
Oh thank you! I'm trying my best to keep all the old art updated but days only have 24h!
I'm glad you like it!
X
Quite enjoying the game so far, and one aspect I am looking forward to is how you flesh out the scenes based on the "kink" questions the game poses to you throughout (e.g. When you tell Adam it is sexy when he sniffs himself, or when you say you're open to the idea of sharing partners).
But one thing I do find a little disappointing is the limitations when it comes to underwear/clothing - since everyone seems to wear the same plain white briefs. Would be nice to see a little variety in that regard, like when Carter is throwing clothing at you for Adam, maybe you should actually have the option to choose something sexier like the jockstrap? Just a thought.
Keep up the good work :) looking forward to the next update.
Oh thank you!
We are going to start seeing those answers for the "kink questions" very soon once we start "dating" the guys. If you are playing the free version, it will be in 2 updates time.
And don't worry, as you can see they guys are changing constantly the clothes, so it won't be a problem to add more sexy underwear or other king of clothing. I'm a fan of white plain underwear tbh, so that's why probably I haven't introduce them... yet. But I'm very open to everything! I'll keep an eye in that to make sure I put sexy clothes in further updates!
Thanks for the feedback!
HIII I LOVE IT SM PLAYING IT FOR 4 HOURS ALREADY AAAAAAAAA. thank you so much for this lovely game, can't even imagine how much time and energy you put into this!!! cause of your game i was reading english words all night and it worth it, i'm also not from any english-speaking countries but your language is very clear and understandable for me!keep doing it man(btw love gabriel i was wondering sooooo long about his name)
THANK YOU!!! You have no idea how much your kind words mean to me!! I'm very happy you are enjoying the game so far! And good new, very very soon (I mean, like just now) you'll have a new update to play!!
Thank you!!
x
hi! how can I skip the text? When I'm clicking on the skip button, nothing happens
You only can skip the text once you have seen it.
that's kinda sad
What's new in the newest version?
You have to start a new game I'm afraid. Lots of changes due to the side images implementation
-------------------------------
Beginning of Chapter 02!
- 6 New scenes. (MC, Dante, Adam and more characters) Some of them with variations. Only one of them is in colour.
- 4 New Items and 4 new clothes (Hoodie Guy)
And from the previous updates...
- 2 New backgrounds (Wardrobe department)
- 2 Hoody guys scenes coloured
- 1 Oliver scene coloured
- Mr. York intro scene
- Visitor pass updated xD
What's new in 0.12?
I can’t recall exactly, cos for this version I forgot to write the changelog. 2 scenes with Oliver and 1 with the Hoodie Guy. Lots of backgrounds painted. And the conclusion of Chapter 01
Is Oliver the sun tanned older man?
That's Adam. Oliver is the Police guy
I really enjoyed the game! Just wondering when the next update will come out since every love interest path ends right about after you decide who you want to go after. Also, will NSFW CG's and scenes be coming in further updates? I loved playing through it so far and I can't wait to see what else you will be adding into the game!
Thank you! Next update is happening very very soon (in the next day or so!) And as for your question... YES!! I just wrote and draw a couple of them for version v0.13!!! And we will definitely see more and more!
I’m so excited !! Thanks for the reply ! Also, I’m pretty new to this cite so when you implement the update, would I have to do anything or will the game do it by itself ?
The update will be ready in the next few hours (v12 free) Just download it and open the file. Load any previous save and enjoy!
just a warning. For the next one (v13) I’m afraid you’ll have to start over. We made so many changes in the script what old saves wont be compatible.
This was a one helluva lit game. If you can ignore the minor grammar mistakes; overall gameplay was nice.
First of all, a nice startup to the story. Not so slow, not so fast. Detailed just enough.
Characters are talking in their ways. Their dialogues are unique to themselves. Even if out of context, if you focus, you could easily say which character said a phrase.
These little intros are nice too. It makes the player curious and makes'em want to play.
Overall artwork is not the best but still quite nice. Actually, character drawings are quite decent looking.
Back to the story; It is written on really strong pillars and easy to understand. Sometimes sweeps you away from reality.
And this is just beginning.
God, I can't wait to play more!
Why thank you! I really appreciate the kind words! I'm really trying my very best! And hopefully you stay till the end of the adventure! <3
Really enjoying this game and I can't wait for the next update! I really enjoy this story and there's only a minor amount of typos and whatnot but it doesn't take away from the plot. Can't wait to see the finished product!
Sorry for the late reply! I don't know why I don't get the notifications!
Thank you! Still a bit far from the finished product but, hey, very soon the new update will be ready! Hope you like it!
So what does this update include?
enjoying the English version of the game. I would recommend proof reading it a bit more. other then that, i really have enjoyed the story and I am waiting for the next installment.
I’m glad you are enjoying the game so far! So happy!
I proof read a few times (after the third time my brain stops working). My english is what it is... still learning
<spoilers> and bugs?
At the greek cafe it wont let me choose "You said you come here with DS Foley?" It just says 'an exeption has occured'?
Also when DI Cavendish comes back from his call his sprites start to overlap.
DI Cavandish did have 4 arms in the cafe.
sprite overlap is now fixed (I hope). Thanks for pointing it out!
I can’t find in my version the error with DS Foley. Wha it says in the error? Can you printscreen it and send it to me?
Thank you for playing!
Will you colour in the other scenes as they are in black and white still? Do you mind if I help colour them for you? lol Also, will there be a new update with everything fixed?
Hi! I'm actually planning to start finishing everything next month, during the holidays. I never wanted to piled up too many scenes and never start a Chapter without everything completed. I failed xD
You'll see them finished most of them soon, I promised.
My idea is to replace the sketches with the final one and it will show in the gallery straight away.
x
I didn't like my past feedback so decided to try posting again.
I've played until the end of the beginning chapter (so just after the interrogation) and the biggest problem so far is the many typos in the game. Plus some weird phrasing that doesn't sound natural in English. This is natural since it isn't your first language and you're working on your own. Still, I would suggest eventually hiring a proof-reader to look over the script and weed a lot of these typos out.
At first I kinda just assumed the game would be set in Hollywood because movie studios, but it ended up being in the UK instead which is nice. If characters using words like bloody set off my radar an underground mention made it concrete for me.
I won't comment on the WIP art or lack of music since the game is very much still in development. I hope making this goes well for you, especially since we're all going through rough times right now.
I'm not a game dev expert but I assume this was likely made in Ren'py. If so, I would like to see a log added so you can look at/ reference past dialogue. I realise that if you're going for a more detective style visual novel, this might conflict with wanting the player to remember things rather than just look back. But given that some people like myself make way too many saves, that might be a problem either way.
I guess if I'm complaining about typos, I should actually point some out and help. When something is going to happen for a certain period of time, it's temporary; not temporal. During the interrogation scene, you're asked if Hayley had a boyfriend. One of the answers is that you saw her with Blayke when it should be Blake.
I'm looking forward to future updates of the game. Hopefully I haven't come off as obnovious. I was actually a little worried about posting feedback.
Hi TheOpheliac!
Obnovious? Is that even a word? or is a typo? I guess I'm not the only one! Just kidding, don't be mad!
I agree with everything you've said. Really. But know if you allow me to explain...
I'm very aware of typos and weird phrasing, even though I've been living in the UK for a decade I'm not a native and sadly I wouldn't never sound or write as one. Yes, I thought of working with someone to help me fixing that, but is difficult when I barely make any money with the game. If someone spend time doing some proof-reading the least I can do is paying for the time. I spend 30-40 hours a way on every update (not counting all the planing and thoughts) and get less than £100. Most people would have abandoned the game by now.
WIP art. If you play till the last update you will see it some scene are not WIP anymore, some of them are final and other just the lineart. Next month or the following one, once I finish the current Chapter, I will start finishing all those WIP art from the very beginning. Some audio is also on the way (I play all my games without a sound xD)
I will definitely look into that log thingy you're saying cos I have no idea what it is. Never used it.
And don't worry, you can write any feedback you want. How would I improve the game if nobody gives a feedback!?
Hope you stick around, and if you feel like instead writing long feedback you can always hit me up on discord and have a better chat
Lots of love
Jubal
It was indeed a typo. When it comes to me, I am a natural English speaker so it's more just accidentally pressing something on a keyboard. It was meant to be obnoxious and I must not have realised. My apologies for any confusion caused.
I understand that it isn't something you can do at the moment. Finding a good proof-reader could be expensive, and right now a lot of people don't have the money they used to. Paying for rent etc. is to be expected but now with the COVID outbreak a lot of people have lost their jobs. So they're not going to have as much money free to put towards Kickstarters, Patreon etc.
I do hope that things get better for you financially. Obviously my point of view is somewhat selfish as I'm soneone interested in the game and want it to be completed. But you do have to put yourself first before anything else.
When it comes to audio, a lot of indie visual novels like this on Itch seem to just license music using creative commons if the developer can't afford to hire a composer. So you could always just go the Kevin MacLeod route like a lot of other people. I'm not an expert on copyright, so I'd recommend just googling if an idea like that interested you.
I used saves to go through all the little Christmas variations, which definitely caught me off guard at first. It makes sense in hindsight realising that update would've been released around the holidays. It being a dream sequence makes sense, so unfortunately the protagonist didn't get the kiss they wanted from *insert love interest of your choice here*.
I know it was a typo, I was being silly/funny. Don't worry.
I understand that people are going to struggle these days with money (so am I, I'm afraid.) But like I said since the very beginning, money is just a way to feel appreciated and loved after the hard work. If I wanted money I would have gone for a furry approach (usually they have more followers).
They game will have an ending. I cannot stress this enough. Even if have to be some kind of rush ending, I hate leaving things unfinished and you guys don't deserve that.
I'll look into that music, thank you.
The Christmas thing... well, the kiss was a last thing addition. I had a long debate myself if including or not cos I didn't want to show the first kiss yet. You were suppose to lean to kiss him and then.... wake up. I decided to give you a bit of "action" especially after you do all the paths (you know what I mean? xD)
Thank you for the wonderful feedback. I really really really appreciate it
x
That's really cool ! The guys are all too cute ><
A bit frustrated by the shortness of this update, but hey, that's a good point !
That suspens at the end, can't wait for the next update !
Aww thank you! I’m glad you like the guys 😀
Yeah, I’m trying to finish the art (instead the sketches in previous version) and that takes time from writing. Also the more options and branches require extra writing... if everything were more lineal would be easier to write. I’m just one guy doing all the work 😪
Oh Don't worry, I totally understand ! It was not a critic^^
On the contrary, I find it quite an amazing work if you're alone in this ! Keep up the good work !
I know, I know, don't worry, I was just explaining... cos some games are made with a team or at least a couple o people (writer and artist usually)
I'm glad you like it and keep playing future updates!
A - amzing!)
I'm glad you like it 😀
This game has so much potential, I would love to help if i was good on something and had time, but the only thing I can do for now, is promising that I will save some money and subscribe to your patreon whenever I'm able to. Hope to hear about the game soon (sorry for my english this is not my first language)
Thank you for the kind words! Love and support are amazing. I know not everybody have money to support (I've been there) so the game would always be free. Money is a way to show extra commitment and love for the game, give me an idea how much really people likes the game and a way for me to keep doing what I like and to push me to keep updating regularly . By the way, don't worry for your English, is not my first language either. X
I hope it'll be updated. I can't wait to see more of this game !
Hey! Sorry for the late reply! I don't know why I didn't get the notification for your post. I've been doing the Xmas update (patreon version) for the last few days. Got a bit delayed, but once I'm done with it, the free version would be post here. Probably tomorrow or the day after. Thank you for the support!
Cool !
Thank you! Those backgrounds suppose are temporal until I have time to do it properly!
x
Nice start. Love how you did the backgrounds.