Ah, thanks for being so keen, but it's probably going to be a few more hours yet (it's only the afternoon here now). I'm waiting on some last-minute feedback from my playtesters, so you may want to wait until tomorrow morning. Sorry to disappoint you. >_<
Apologies for the wait, the files are uploading now and, according to Dropbox, should be done in about two hours.
I discovered a problem in the final round of testing - basically the secret route was so secret that no one could access it, not even me >_>
So it took a while for me to work out why that was happening and fix it.
Sorry to you and everyone else for the delay.
Once the game is published, I'll be going to bed (it's like 2am here now), but if anyone has any problems please post them here or email support@blackcross-taylor.com - I'll be be back bright and early tomorrow . ^_^
No, it's really nice people are keen to play it. I wish Dropbox would hurry up - I am writing the romance guide to pass the time, but I want to go to bed, lol.
I liked the game a lot, the MC feels quite real, I would like to know her name by default. And all its romantic possibilities are attractive, it is the type of game that would play all the possible routes. My favorites at the moment are Frederique (I don´t know if he will have a route since it would be incest, but I love his personality and love for his sister), and Prince Guillaume (I didn´t intend to pursue the prince, but he has such a sweet personality (^///^)). I would like to connect more with the others, besides seeing the routes with the girls, especially Sofia, it seems to fit with the MC. I hope that soon you finish the game, although it takes all that is necessary, this game has a lot of potential.
I am glad to hear you like all the romantic possibilities - I hope you enjoy finding out more about them if you decide to get the full game which, I am happy to say, is scheduled for release tomorrow.
I actually made an itch.io account just to be able to comment on this game. I love the demo and I am really looking forward to the full game.
I chose to name my main character(MC) Minerva for two reasons. First and least importantly, I thought it went well with the main character's nickname. Second and more importantly, I felt naming a girl for the goddess of wisdom and strategy was an appropriate rejection of a culture that expected girls to be only pretty idiots.
I like how to be a bookworm you actually have to give up the book. At first I did not realize that but it was a very nice touch that only a bookworm would be willing to give up a book simply because she already had several other books to read.
Frederique is my favorite character, someone who has known the MC as long as he has and who makes clear that he would support the MC no matter what and that he only wants the MC to be happy.
My next favorite would probably be Guillaume. (He would have been the first route I played through in the full game had I not found out about the secret romance. I think the secret romance path will almost definitely be my favorite and I am so glad you included it.) I first started playing the demo determined not to pursue any one individual but just to have my character be herself as I envisioned it and Guillaume actually appreciated my character just being herself. He still can't compare to the secret romance but I do like Guillaume.
Next would probably be Lady Sofia. I'm not sure yet about romance but she could definitely become a close friend.
Lady Charlotte is so sweet. I am very glad you changed Charlotte from being a rival instead. I'm not sure if Charlotte is ready for romance as opposed to just needing an actual friend. I also like the bee scene and if Lady Charlotte had not been there, on the appropriate path I would have gladly chosen to "educate" the party about Aphesian bees, but Charlotte was there and I just could not do that to her.
My character could never end up with someone that found Lady Charlotte's terror amusing nor with someone that spends every conversation trying to pressure my character back into society's mold.
I like King Auguste's speech. It reminds me of Bilbo's birthday speech in Fellowship of the Ring. King Auguste: I know he is as eager to celebrate his birthday as you all are to share it with him… That is actually quite possibly a true statement.
MC: I… do not believe I recognize you and I thought I would know everyone in attendance. The timing of this statement is questionable considering just a moment before this the MC failed to recognize the Duke of Tremaine on sight.
MC: Hmm, you are not a stupid as you seem, are you? I apologize if this has already been noted and fixed, but it should be "...you are not as stupid as...".
During the picnic Lady Albertine: But they’re horrid creatures! There is no portrait in the lower left for Lady Albertine when she says this.
My brother finds a place beside me, Duke Leopold and Lady Sofia seating themselves across from us, while the Prince is surrounded by as many young ladies can fit upon a picnic blanket, and the group settles to enjoy the feast. Some paths say “My brother finda place beside me” but other paths say “finds”.
The topiary. It was ordered and yet fantasical. It should be "fantastical".
Lady Francesca: Ah, that recalls to me the time you asked the Duke Du Varlet where your luggage was when we arrive at Countess LaFouche’s birthday celebrations. It should be "...when we arrived...".
Lady Albertine: Oh my, you didn’t! I’ll warrent he was furious. I think it should be "...warrant..".
MC: I did and I also know that when he attended the Parisi midwinter ball last year, he got extravagantly drunk and manage to set fire to his own frock tails. It should be "...managed...".
MC: Why I once spent half of Frederique’s annual university picnic lecturing some unknown group of gentlemen about the inconsistencies in a lately published paper on the history of the Cousin’s War, only to discover than the author had been among them. It should be "...only to discover that...".
I say nothing and my brother clearly unterprets my silence for distress of some kind, Frederique taking my hand to loop it gently about his arm. It should be "...interprets" and Frederique is so sweet but I digress.
Hello, FantasyReader, thank you for the feedback and the typos you found.
I've already caught some of them, but some were new, so thanks for pointing them out.
Minerva is an interesting name choice. I wonder, sometimes, how many people like to change the main character's name and how many remain with the default.
I'm glad you've got some favourites among the cast and I hope you enjoy the full game on release.
I really like how witty and funny the main character is, she can be so relatable in many ways and I really like the large amount of answers you can choose from that the standard two. It feels more realistic and fun because you can truly mold the character's personality :)
The art is gorgeous and I like how you guys try to keep the language time accurate in a way but still easy to understand :)
Oh yeah, i was wondering, did you name Bastien after Sebastien by any chance? Just wondering ^^
Anyways, can't wait for the release of the full game and all the best of luck! Also, I hope you guys can release on steam too!
I’m glad to hear you found the main character funny and enjoyed the choices you had to role-play her (and, of course, the infamous bee scene – which option did you pick, BTW?)
I actually find it easier in some ways to write in a more formal, old-fashioned style – at least, you don’t have to worry about using modern slang that’s going to be out of date in a couple of years’ time. And, yes, you’re right, Bastien is a contracted form of Sebastien. ^_^
Thanks for playing and I hope you enjoy the full game once it is released
I! Am!! So!!! Excited!!!! For this game!!!!! I've been checking this page daily for the past few weeks. When you see a purchase within 10 seconds of game release, know that it was me.
Some random thoughts:
MC is A+. Good balance between presence of personal history/pre-established personality (raised with great expectations as a prospective royal consort or, if nothing else, a proper lady of a great noble house) and freedom to refine her characterization with the choices you're given, and I like what's there of her personality independently of the player, too. MC is a witty, clever cookie. I'd be friends with her! I named mine Élisabeth, after notorious Miss Elizabeth Bennet, and lemme tell you, I'm so READY to construct a psychological profile up in this bitch. Also, can I just say that the main 3 personality types are hilarious? You can be a bookworm, okay... a tomboy, standard procedure... and a straight-up godless slattern. I lol'ed.
I found the sprited cast universally likeable - including Albertine and Francesca, actually, who were sources of amusement. Then again I gotta admit I don't quite see them as real threats to MC, even *when* I'm actually trying to go for the Prince. Anyways, my personal #1 forever favourite is Frederique, with Charlotte (too pure, too good for this world) or Sofia (I feel like her and MC could potentially have a lot in common) interchangeably in second or third place. I'll stop myself from writing an ode but Frederique is just the best. I think his first scene was when he argues for MC's right to self-determination to mother dearest? I started liking him, like, immediately haha. And ''I am your man to the last?'' I am WEAK. Such support. Much loyalty. Plus, his role as best friend/confidante/partner in crime is very welcome in a story like this - it's a masquerade and he's the dude MC can just take every single mask off around. And unlike everyone else, he expects nothing from you and the only thing he wants from you is that you be happy. I. Love. Him. /ugly crying
Guillaume was actually the first one I went for (because I liked his hair best lmao) in the demo, though, and he'd probably be the one I'd have gone for first in the completed game if I hadn't caught wind of the secret romance (I see chu ;D ;D ;D tbh I combusted screaming when I realized that a) yes, the secret romance IS a thing and b) there is a God after all). I felt kinda bad for him throughout the demo hahah, being fought over and pulled every which way like a doll. I note that he sympathizes with MC if she says the woods are her favourite part of the estate, because she feels like she can get lost in them... A crown is such a heavy weight.
Btw, I noticed one of the updates says the demo was updated with a new scene in the inn, but I redownloaded the demo the other day and didn't see any new scenes. At least... I don't think I did? What was the new scene supposed to be, or did I misunderstand the update haha?
(Also, not sure where to put this but in real life, Frederique is a woman's name with Frederic being the masculine version. I guess it's kind of a moot point, given that the setting is a fantasy world, but it did stick out to me so I thought I'd just point it out.)
Hello, Macharomance, and thanks for the feedback - some of it had me laughing quite a bit. ^_^
I'm glad to hear your liked the main character and a good portion of the cast (secret romance included).
As for the scene at the inn, it is a talk you have with your brother about his life at the university - was it not there? It's not long and was just added to balance the pacing, but if it has not uploaded properly, I will need to check that out.
Ah, yes, Frederique's name. I did become aware after I chose it that it was a specifically feminine spelling - to that point I'd thought it was unisex like Dominique - and by the time I realised my error, it had kind of stuck. No offence meant to anyone called Frederic, but it just didn't seem to suit him. But, as you say, it's a fantasy world, so I'll probably leave it as it is. ^_^
re: inn scene, I just went through the demo again and I didn't see it. There's only the bit where you meet Leopold, then the scene with the stablehand in distress, then we're back in the carriage and off to Dacre.
So sad when I finished the demo so quickly! It looks like a beautiful game and I'm looking forward to it :) Just a note that there is a typo in the last scene where Frederique leaves the room (just before you get the option to ask Bastion if he will eat dinner with you): exhuberece (or something) instead of exuberance. If someone has already pointed it out, apologies!
Hello, scribblefingers, and thanks for the feedback. I'm glad you enjoyed the demo - with any luck the full game will be out soon.
And thanks for letting me know about the typo - I'll make sure that and any other typos the player-testers and I have found (and there are plenty >_<) will be corrected before the full release.
I'm looking forward to the full version of this game. The personality option is a nicely added feature that's not seen much in games unfortunately. I'm enthralled by the artwork, it looks lovely. All in all, I think I will enjoy the game. Are you planning on making a walkthrough once it's released?
I'm glad to hear you're looking forward to the game and I'll pass your compliments on to the artist. As for a walkthrough, I can certainly make one and post it on release day - I know the frustration of being stuck on a route and finding there are no guides up yet. ^_^
Its very rare I plan on buying a game on this website, I usually just drift and choose free games but I think this will be the first one I decide to buy on here. Its such a beautiful game with lots of fantastic characters and don't even get me started on the art I'm so excited for the release date
Ah, thank you for your kind feedback - I'm glad to hear your're looking forward to the release . I've been working on the game this week and solidly all weekend, so I will have another progress report to release in a few hours time. ^_^
I look forward to the complete game! I really enjoyed the elegant writing matching the style of art and music. As well as how the characters bow/move when then they interact. Sophia is my favorite character so far, and it's a pleasant surprise to see a cat-loving character, especially one to romance. -Anna
Hello, Darumanaut, and thank you for the feedback. I'm happy you felt the art and music matched the writing style - I'd like to say it was something I did consciously, but I think it just evolved that way.
I hope you can have fun romancing Sofia once the full game is released.
This is really an amazing game! I'm really impressed by how many different ways I could play the MC- manipulative, brash, kindhearted, or plain mean. Right now I think the Prince is my favorite romance option. He's a lot more genuine than I expected.
Hello, ArchEvangeline, and many thanks for the feedback – I’m glad that you enjoyed the demo and the customization aspects of the MC.
And hooray! A fan for the Prince! Guillaume doesn’t seem to be as popular as some of the other characters, so I’m happy to hear some people like him. ^_^
Yes, the release date is looking to be March. It was going to be late February, but a couple of things have cropped up in the meantime and pushed production back. I’ll be posting progress reports in the Devlog from next week though, so you can monitor development from there if you’re interested.
Hi. I really like this even if it;s still demo version :)
I really like like how you let the player choose what MC will tell, do and even what kind of personality has she. It's very great idea. I really felt like I'm "in controll" of what will happen.
I also really like the artstyle. Everything in this game looks great: characters, backgrounds and even menu & interface. Well eveything except gray, shadow-like placeholer characters but I'm sure that in final version of the game all them will raplaced with great looking sprites.
Music works great too. Well composed and well chosen pieces very fits the style of game and epoque.
I'm sure it's gonna be good game, when finally realised. I'm waiting :)
Hello, MrMar, thank you for the feedback. I'm glad to hear you enjoyed the demo and the control you have over aspects of the MC.
I doubt I will be replacing the grey sprites with actual sprites as they are only minor characters and this decision was made to keep costs down and means I can keep the game price lower.
That said, I will be replacing the flat grey sprites currently being used with ones that are a bit more polished. I hope their inclusion will not mar the game too much for you.
Well, you will not have long to wait now - release is still scheduled for February - so I hope you enjoy the full game once it is available.
Hi! Really liked the demo and excited about the full release. I really like the amount of customization that can go into the MC's personality (my first few times playing through, I thought that the only choice that affected personality was the initial one in the packing scene-took me a while to realize that there were more variations after that). My only question is have you considered having some sort of screen where the player could keep track of the MC's stats or the relationships she has with the other characters? In these kind of games I sometimes have a hard time figuring out what a choice corresponds to in terms of altering relationships/stats (and I have a hard enough time in reality figuring out just what I've done to offend everybody >x<) so some sort of screen where you could just check where you stand is something I really like to see in games (although I have zero ability to code so I don't know if that's a major hassle to do...).
Hello, fairfaxleasee, thanks for the feedback. I'm glad you've enjoyed the game so far.
Hmm, stat screens. I have put them in other games before, but it's usually ones with more stat-building elements to them, and I haven't ever included the 'romance levels' on the screen.
I am probably projecting here, but I find I fall into the trap of picking my conversation option and then immediately going to check the stats screen to see if they've 'liked' it or not, potentially reloading and trying again if they didn't, and that isn't really conducive to roleplaying.
So instead, I've tried to make it clear, in game, what your stats are from lines of dialogue and character reactions, where the character's reaction to the choice that has been picked should indicate if they 'liked' it or not, but if it's not coming across then that is something we need to look at.
Also, the game is written in such away that there is no specific path which must be followed to get a certain romance. It's more that you can get 'points' with characters (sometimes more than one character at a time) by picking certain options or choosing their company over another's, and these accrue over time, opening certain character routes. It's not like one bad choice is going to derail the whole romance.
Thanks again for the feedback and I hope you enjoy the full game once it has been released. ^_^
Hey, just finished the demo. Personally, my favorite is Leopold (I like how blunt he can be), followed by Charlotte (she's just so adorable!), but I thought all the characters were pretty interesting, so I like the rest of them as well. I also love how mischievous the MC could be at times! I also love the outfits, especially the dresses. Also, what shampoo does the prince use? Because I'm jealous of that hair. The ladies probably are, too. They just aren't saying anything about it.
I agree with a previous commenter on the overnight inn scene. I expected a bit more action, and I was caught a bit off guard when it kind of ended abruptly. I expected a bit more, but the rest of the demo made up for it.
Again, I just love how witty and funny the MC can be. I was cackling at some of her antics, especially the bee scene, and how you can talk about those foreign bees. Can we just date ourselves instead?
Anyway, I'm looking forward to the final release. Keep up the good work!
Hello, Watermelon Merchant, and thank you for the feedback. It's good to hear that you enjoyed the demo.
I see Charlotte is getting quite a few mentions about being one of people's favourite characters. Fun fact: in the original draft she wasn't intended to be a romance option at all, just one of the 'nicer' rivals. But as I was writing her she was just so sweet that I felt kind of bad for her being lumped in with the other mean girls, so I changed her over to a romance option instead. ^_^
And I'm glad to hear you enjoyed playing the main character - Hmm, dating yourself? Perhaps I can add that to the dlc expansion ^_~
Thanks for playing and I hope you enjoy the final game after release.
I just finished the demo and omg this is something I'm definitely gonna keep my eye on. The sprites are all beautiful and I love the variety of choices we are given. But most importantly, is the secret romance really what I think it is? I almost screamed with joy when I realized that *he* (am I allowed to talk about it here? Is it a spoiler?) is one of the male ROs. Because oh boy that amount of angst I'm feeling is coming on his path...am I right? :D I'm sorry I just love controversial romances.
Keep up the good work, I'm really looking forward to this one!!
Hello, Ell221, thank you for the feedback - I very glad to hear you've enjoyed the game so far.
As for the secret romance, I don't suppose it's much of a secret now I've confirmed there are no extra sprites, so I wouldn't worry about spoilers - maybe we could just not mention the name for anyone who's just skimming this? But yes, *he* is a romance option. ^_^
I worried it was a controversial decision, having that kind of romance available, so it has been a pleasant surprise to find that some players are keen for it. I hope the direction his path takes is one you can enjoy discovering when the full game is released.
Hi! I played a demo of “The Rose of Segunda” and wanted to leave some feedback as a thank you and also in case it might be useful :D. First of all I really enjoyed the demo! I had fun reading it.
I think for now two things that I liked the most were the choices (as they were plenty) and the main character. I really like that we can adjust her personality, it is something I am always looking forward to in visual novels. I only played it once though so couldn’t test all the possibilities, but she appeared very intriguing with a strong personality :). I got attached to her rather quickly, an MC I could spend many hours with for sure. Choices also seemed all reasonable and will be really cool to explore. I only didn’t this time cause the demo kept giving error messages every time I attempted to save, which is understandable and not a big deal, it is a beta after all.
I liked the writing too, especially witty remarks from MC. I am unsure if it’s also due to it being a demo, but in some places the pacing seemed just a tiny bit too fast. Like in the scene closer to the beginning, when MC and her brother had to stay in a town for a night, it felt like a perfect set up for an event, but not much happened there and they left it fairly quickly. I like fast paced stories and think it is always good when there are no unnecessary details, but it felt kinda lacking in such places, where it could build some depth.
I also think the sprites look very pretty, all the characters are very visually pleasing *_*. Based on the appearance and story behind I liked Frederique, Leopold and Charlotte the most (also very happy she is dateable too, cause she is just adorable)!
And I am very very curious about the secret romance rout now, I would think I figured the romance options out, but this secret one just keeps me wondering haha. If I may ask, is the secret rout present on the first image with all the sprites, or is he yet to appear later :>? Truthfully I think I just hope to confirm my suspicion :D.
All said I am very much looking forward to the game release! *O*
Hello, monsteroverdose, and thank you for the feedback - I really appreciate you taking the time to let me know what you think.
First off, the saving error you mentioned doesn't sound good at all. Do you have a screenshot of it, please?
I'll investigate and get it fixed as soon as I can. I wonder if anyone else is experiencing it.
I'm glad you like the writing and the way you can influence the MC's personality, and, of course, the sprite art.
As for the pacing, I will look into what you mentioned - perhaps a scene can be added at the inn make the beginning more evenly paced - and I will keep an eye on it going forward.
And lastly, you have seen all the sprites that are in the game in the demo so... that probably answers your question about the secret romance. ^_^
It's pretty well hidden in the game (for, I think, understandable reasons), but it is there for anyone who wants to find it.
Thanks for playing, and I hope you'll have fun with the full game once it is released.
I am very happy if it was a little bit helpful! And sure thing (hope it's the right way to post images here), this is how it looks when I press Esc to summon the menu:
This is an error when I use save button on screen:
I didn’t realise that it actually gives different errors. Just in case, I use Mac and usually load games from the itch.io app, tell me if you need more detailed specs or smth. I can also try it on Windows to see if it will still occur.
And yay, thank you so much for answering my question. Kukukuku I had a feeling he must be that pretty and cute for reason, glad I got it right! :D
Aha! I think I see the problem. Thanks for posting those screenshots. I'll adjust the demo files within the next 24 and re-upload. ^_^
**EDIT** Okay, I think the new demo I've uploaded should work if you would like to give it a try. Please let me know if you encounter any more problems.
I just had to try the demo after reading the description and it did not disappoint! I really liked it and would love to play the full game. The demo did make me snicker at one of the scenes near the end!
You have done a good job so far and I wish you the best of luck in finishing this game endeavour! I'm cheering on you from the sidelines!
I just finished the demo and I'm absolutely in love with it! You got me with all my favorite tropes and 'archetypes' , I can't wait for the final release. Keep it up and good luck!
Thanks for the feedback. I'm glad to hear you enjoyed the demo.
With any luck you won't have to wait long for the final release. Progress is going well and I'm hoping to have the finished game out sometime in February.
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It's 11PM from where I come from and I keep refreshing haha. I can't wait for the game to come out!!
Ah, thanks for being so keen, but it's probably going to be a few more hours yet (it's only the afternoon here now). I'm waiting on some last-minute feedback from my playtesters, so you may want to wait until tomorrow morning. Sorry to disappoint you. >_<
9am here, gonna check again after work. It'll be a great weekend (≧▽≦)
No problem! I look forward to playing it tmr! ❤️
Sorry to bother but is it going to be much longer? It's absolutely fine if it is.
Hello, WaverlyAlexa
Apologies for the wait, the files are uploading now and, according to Dropbox, should be done in about two hours.
I discovered a problem in the final round of testing - basically the secret route was so secret that no one could access it, not even me >_>
So it took a while for me to work out why that was happening and fix it.
Sorry to you and everyone else for the delay.
Once the game is published, I'll be going to bed (it's like 2am here now), but if anyone has any problems please post them here or email support@blackcross-taylor.com - I'll be be back bright and early tomorrow . ^_^
Thank you and sorry if I seemed impatient! I am just excited. We appreciate all the hard work! Have a good nights sleep! You definitely deserve it :)
No, it's really nice people are keen to play it. I wish Dropbox would hurry up - I am writing the romance guide to pass the time, but I want to go to bed, lol.
Ahhh I can´t wait! I´m so buying it as soon as it is released!
Thanks, Sheodesu, I really hope it's worth the wait. ^_^
I liked the game a lot, the MC feels quite real, I would like to know her name by default.
And all its romantic possibilities are attractive, it is the type of game that would play all the possible routes.
My favorites at the moment are Frederique (I don´t know if he will have a route since it would be incest, but I love his personality and love for his sister), and Prince Guillaume (I didn´t intend to pursue the prince, but he has such a sweet personality (^///^)).
I would like to connect more with the others, besides seeing the routes with the girls, especially Sofia, it seems to fit with the MC.
I hope that soon you finish the game, although it takes all that is necessary, this game has a lot of potential.
Hello, Aural, and thank you for the feedback.
I am glad to hear you like all the romantic possibilities - I hope you enjoy finding out more about them if you decide to get the full game which, I am happy to say, is scheduled for release tomorrow.
Thanks for playing
Yeeees!
I will definitely buy it and comment on it!
Will you put a guide? Please
I say it in case it is difficult to get some route.
A guide? Sure thing - I'll post one just after the game is released ^_^
Thank!
I actually made an itch.io account just to be able to comment on this game. I love the demo and I am really looking forward to the full game.
I chose to name my main character(MC) Minerva for two reasons. First and least importantly, I thought it went well with the main character's nickname. Second and more importantly, I felt naming a girl for the goddess of wisdom and strategy was an appropriate rejection of a culture that expected girls to be only pretty idiots.
I like how to be a bookworm you actually have to give up the book. At first I did not realize that but it was a very nice touch that only a bookworm would be willing to give up a book simply because she already had several other books to read.
Frederique is my favorite character, someone who has known the MC as long as he has and who makes clear that he would support the MC no matter what and that he only wants the MC to be happy.
My next favorite would probably be Guillaume. (He would have been the first route I played through in the full game had I not found out about the secret romance. I think the secret romance path will almost definitely be my favorite and I am so glad you included it.) I first started playing the demo determined not to pursue any one individual but just to have my character be herself as I envisioned it and Guillaume actually appreciated my character just being herself. He still can't compare to the secret romance but I do like Guillaume.
Next would probably be Lady Sofia. I'm not sure yet about romance but she could definitely become a close friend.
Lady Charlotte is so sweet. I am very glad you changed Charlotte from being a rival instead. I'm not sure if Charlotte is ready for romance as opposed to just needing an actual friend. I also like the bee scene and if Lady Charlotte had not been there, on the appropriate path I would have gladly chosen to "educate" the party about Aphesian bees, but Charlotte was there and I just could not do that to her.
My character could never end up with someone that found Lady Charlotte's terror amusing nor with someone that spends every conversation trying to pressure my character back into society's mold.
I like King Auguste's speech. It reminds me of Bilbo's birthday speech in Fellowship of the Ring. King Auguste: I know he is as eager to celebrate his birthday as you all are to share it with him… That is actually quite possibly a true statement.
MC: I… do not believe I recognize you and I thought I would know everyone in attendance. The timing of this statement is questionable considering just a moment before this the MC failed to recognize the Duke of Tremaine on sight.
MC: Hmm, you are not a stupid as you seem, are you? I apologize if this has already been noted and fixed, but it should be "...you are not as stupid as...".
During the picnic Lady Albertine: But they’re horrid creatures! There is no portrait in the lower left for Lady Albertine when she says this.
My brother finds a place beside me, Duke Leopold and Lady Sofia seating themselves across from us, while the Prince is surrounded by as many young ladies can fit upon a picnic blanket, and the group settles to enjoy the feast. Some paths say “My brother find a place beside me” but other paths say “finds”.
The topiary. It was ordered and yet fantasical. It should be "fantastical".
Lady Francesca: Ah, that recalls to me the time you asked the Duke Du Varlet where your luggage was when we arrive at Countess LaFouche’s birthday celebrations. It should be "...when we arrived...".
Lady Albertine: Oh my, you didn’t! I’ll warrent he was furious. I think it should be "...warrant..".
MC: I did and I also know that when he attended the Parisi midwinter ball last year, he got extravagantly drunk and manage to set fire to his own frock tails. It should be "...managed...".
MC: Why I once spent half of Frederique’s annual university picnic lecturing some unknown group of gentlemen about the inconsistencies in a lately published paper on the history of the Cousin’s War, only to discover than the author had been among them. It should be "...only to discover that...".
I say nothing and my brother clearly unterprets my silence for distress of some kind, Frederique taking my hand to loop it gently about his arm. It should be "...interprets" and Frederique is so sweet but I digress.
Hello, FantasyReader, thank you for the feedback and the typos you found.
I've already caught some of them, but some were new, so thanks for pointing them out.
Minerva is an interesting name choice. I wonder, sometimes, how many people like to change the main character's name and how many remain with the default.
I'm glad you've got some favourites among the cast and I hope you enjoy the full game on release.
I don't know who to choose!!!! XD
I really like how witty and funny the main character is, she can be so relatable in many ways and I really like the large amount of answers you can choose from that the standard two. It feels more realistic and fun because you can truly mold the character's personality :)
The art is gorgeous and I like how you guys try to keep the language time accurate in a way but still easy to understand :)
Oh yeah, i was wondering, did you name Bastien after Sebastien by any chance? Just wondering ^^
Anyways, can't wait for the release of the full game and all the best of luck! Also, I hope you guys can release on steam too!
- Yangarina
Ps. My favourite scene was the bee one XD
Hello, Yangarina, and thank you for the feedback.
I’m glad to hear you found the main character funny and enjoyed the choices you had to role-play her (and, of course, the infamous bee scene – which option did you pick, BTW?)
I actually find it easier in some ways to write in a more formal, old-fashioned style – at least, you don’t have to worry about using modern slang that’s going to be out of date in a couple of years’ time. And, yes, you’re right, Bastien is a contracted form of Sebastien. ^_^
Thanks for playing and I hope you enjoy the full game once it is released
I! Am!! So!!! Excited!!!! For this game!!!!! I've been checking this page daily for the past few weeks. When you see a purchase within 10 seconds of game release, know that it was me.
Some random thoughts:
MC is A+. Good balance between presence of personal history/pre-established personality (raised with great expectations as a prospective royal consort or, if nothing else, a proper lady of a great noble house) and freedom to refine her characterization with the choices you're given, and I like what's there of her personality independently of the player, too. MC is a witty, clever cookie. I'd be friends with her! I named mine Élisabeth, after notorious Miss Elizabeth Bennet, and lemme tell you, I'm so READY to construct a psychological profile up in this bitch. Also, can I just say that the main 3 personality types are hilarious? You can be a bookworm, okay... a tomboy, standard procedure... and a straight-up godless slattern. I lol'ed.
I found the sprited cast universally likeable - including Albertine and Francesca, actually, who were sources of amusement. Then again I gotta admit I don't quite see them as real threats to MC, even *when* I'm actually trying to go for the Prince. Anyways, my personal #1 forever favourite is Frederique, with Charlotte (too pure, too good for this world) or Sofia (I feel like her and MC could potentially have a lot in common) interchangeably in second or third place. I'll stop myself from writing an ode but Frederique is just the best. I think his first scene was when he argues for MC's right to self-determination to mother dearest? I started liking him, like, immediately haha. And ''I am your man to the last?'' I am WEAK. Such support. Much loyalty. Plus, his role as best friend/confidante/partner in crime is very welcome in a story like this - it's a masquerade and he's the dude MC can just take every single mask off around. And unlike everyone else, he expects nothing from you and the only thing he wants from you is that you be happy. I. Love. Him. /ugly crying
Guillaume was actually the first one I went for (because I liked his hair best lmao) in the demo, though, and he'd probably be the one I'd have gone for first in the completed game if I hadn't caught wind of the secret romance (I see chu ;D ;D ;D tbh I combusted screaming when I realized that a) yes, the secret romance IS a thing and b) there is a God after all). I felt kinda bad for him throughout the demo hahah, being fought over and pulled every which way like a doll. I note that he sympathizes with MC if she says the woods are her favourite part of the estate, because she feels like she can get lost in them... A crown is such a heavy weight.
Btw, I noticed one of the updates says the demo was updated with a new scene in the inn, but I redownloaded the demo the other day and didn't see any new scenes. At least... I don't think I did? What was the new scene supposed to be, or did I misunderstand the update haha?
(Also, not sure where to put this but in real life, Frederique is a woman's name with Frederic being the masculine version. I guess it's kind of a moot point, given that the setting is a fantasy world, but it did stick out to me so I thought I'd just point it out.)
Hello, Macharomance, and thanks for the feedback - some of it had me laughing quite a bit. ^_^
I'm glad to hear your liked the main character and a good portion of the cast (secret romance included).
As for the scene at the inn, it is a talk you have with your brother about his life at the university - was it not there? It's not long and was just added to balance the pacing, but if it has not uploaded properly, I will need to check that out.
Ah, yes, Frederique's name. I did become aware after I chose it that it was a specifically feminine spelling - to that point I'd thought it was unisex like Dominique - and by the time I realised my error, it had kind of stuck. No offence meant to anyone called Frederic, but it just didn't seem to suit him. But, as you say, it's a fantasy world, so I'll probably leave it as it is. ^_^
Thanks for playing
re: inn scene, I just went through the demo again and I didn't see it. There's only the bit where you meet Leopold, then the scene with the stablehand in distress, then we're back in the carriage and off to Dacre.
Ah, thanks for letting me know. I'll double check the files at this end and see about re-uploading them.
Thanks for your help ^_^
So sad when I finished the demo so quickly! It looks like a beautiful game and I'm looking forward to it :) Just a note that there is a typo in the last scene where Frederique leaves the room (just before you get the option to ask Bastion if he will eat dinner with you): exhuberece (or something) instead of exuberance. If someone has already pointed it out, apologies!
Hello, scribblefingers, and thanks for the feedback. I'm glad you enjoyed the demo - with any luck the full game will be out soon.
And thanks for letting me know about the typo - I'll make sure that and any other typos the player-testers and I have found (and there are plenty >_<) will be corrected before the full release.
Thanks for playing
I'm looking forward to the full version of this game. The personality option is a nicely added feature that's not seen much in games unfortunately. I'm enthralled by the artwork, it looks lovely. All in all, I think I will enjoy the game. Are you planning on making a walkthrough once it's released?
Hello, applepii
I'm glad to hear you're looking forward to the game and I'll pass your compliments on to the artist. As for a walkthrough, I can certainly make one and post it on release day - I know the frustration of being stuck on a route and finding there are no guides up yet. ^_^
Thanks for playing
Its very rare I plan on buying a game on this website, I usually just drift and choose free games but I think this will be the first one I decide to buy on here. Its such a beautiful game with lots of fantastic characters and don't even get me started on the art I'm so excited for the release date
Hello, RinnieDay
Ah, thank you for your kind feedback - I'm glad to hear your're looking forward to the release . I've been working on the game this week and solidly all weekend, so I will have another progress report to release in a few hours time. ^_^
Thanks for playing
I look forward to the complete game! I really enjoyed the elegant writing matching the style of art and music. As well as how the characters bow/move when then they interact. Sophia is my favorite character so far, and it's a pleasant surprise to see a cat-loving character, especially one to romance. -Anna
Hello, Darumanaut, and thank you for the feedback. I'm happy you felt the art and music matched the writing style - I'd like to say it was something I did consciously, but I think it just evolved that way.
I hope you can have fun romancing Sofia once the full game is released.
Thanks for playing
Blackcross & Taylor
This is really an amazing game! I'm really impressed by how many different ways I could play the MC- manipulative, brash, kindhearted, or plain mean. Right now I think the Prince is my favorite romance option. He's a lot more genuine than I expected.
Are you still anticipating a March release date?
Hello, ArchEvangeline, and many thanks for the feedback – I’m glad that you enjoyed the demo and the customization aspects of the MC.
And hooray! A fan for the Prince! Guillaume doesn’t seem to be as popular as some of the other characters, so I’m happy to hear some people like him. ^_^
Yes, the release date is looking to be March. It was going to be late February, but a couple of things have cropped up in the meantime and pushed production back. I’ll be posting progress reports in the Devlog from next week though, so you can monitor development from there if you’re interested.
Thanks for playing
Blackcross & Taylor
Hi. I really like this even if it;s still demo version :)
I really like like how you let the player choose what MC will tell, do and even what kind of personality has she. It's very great idea. I really felt like I'm "in controll" of what will happen.
I also really like the artstyle. Everything in this game looks great: characters, backgrounds and even menu & interface. Well eveything except gray, shadow-like placeholer characters but I'm sure that in final version of the game all them will raplaced with great looking sprites.
Music works great too. Well composed and well chosen pieces very fits the style of game and epoque.
I'm sure it's gonna be good game, when finally realised. I'm waiting :)
Hello, MrMar, thank you for the feedback. I'm glad to hear you enjoyed the demo and the control you have over aspects of the MC.
I doubt I will be replacing the grey sprites with actual sprites as they are only minor characters and this decision was made to keep costs down and means I can keep the game price lower.
That said, I will be replacing the flat grey sprites currently being used with ones that are a bit more polished. I hope their inclusion will not mar the game too much for you.
Well, you will not have long to wait now - release is still scheduled for February - so I hope you enjoy the full game once it is available.
Many thanks for playing
Hi! Really liked the demo and excited about the full release. I really like the amount of customization that can go into the MC's personality (my first few times playing through, I thought that the only choice that affected personality was the initial one in the packing scene-took me a while to realize that there were more variations after that). My only question is have you considered having some sort of screen where the player could keep track of the MC's stats or the relationships she has with the other characters? In these kind of games I sometimes have a hard time figuring out what a choice corresponds to in terms of altering relationships/stats (and I have a hard enough time in reality figuring out just what I've done to offend everybody >x<) so some sort of screen where you could just check where you stand is something I really like to see in games (although I have zero ability to code so I don't know if that's a major hassle to do...).
Hello, fairfaxleasee, thanks for the feedback. I'm glad you've enjoyed the game so far.
Hmm, stat screens. I have put them in other games before, but it's usually ones with more stat-building elements to them, and I haven't ever included the 'romance levels' on the screen.
I am probably projecting here, but I find I fall into the trap of picking my conversation option and then immediately going to check the stats screen to see if they've 'liked' it or not, potentially reloading and trying again if they didn't, and that isn't really conducive to roleplaying.
So instead, I've tried to make it clear, in game, what your stats are from lines of dialogue and character reactions, where the character's reaction to the choice that has been picked should indicate if they 'liked' it or not, but if it's not coming across then that is something we need to look at.
Also, the game is written in such away that there is no specific path which must be followed to get a certain romance. It's more that you can get 'points' with characters (sometimes more than one character at a time) by picking certain options or choosing their company over another's, and these accrue over time, opening certain character routes. It's not like one bad choice is going to derail the whole romance.
Thanks again for the feedback and I hope you enjoy the full game once it has been released. ^_^
Hey, just finished the demo. Personally, my favorite is Leopold (I like how blunt he can be), followed by Charlotte (she's just so adorable!), but I thought all the characters were pretty interesting, so I like the rest of them as well. I also love how mischievous the MC could be at times! I also love the outfits, especially the dresses. Also, what shampoo does the prince use? Because I'm jealous of that hair. The ladies probably are, too. They just aren't saying anything about it.
I agree with a previous commenter on the overnight inn scene. I expected a bit more action, and I was caught a bit off guard when it kind of ended abruptly. I expected a bit more, but the rest of the demo made up for it.
Again, I just love how witty and funny the MC can be. I was cackling at some of her antics, especially the bee scene, and how you can talk about those foreign bees. Can we just date ourselves instead?
Anyway, I'm looking forward to the final release. Keep up the good work!
Hello, Watermelon Merchant, and thank you for the feedback. It's good to hear that you enjoyed the demo.
I see Charlotte is getting quite a few mentions about being one of people's favourite characters. Fun fact: in the original draft she wasn't intended to be a romance option at all, just one of the 'nicer' rivals. But as I was writing her she was just so sweet that I felt kind of bad for her being lumped in with the other mean girls, so I changed her over to a romance option instead. ^_^
And I'm glad to hear you enjoyed playing the main character - Hmm, dating yourself? Perhaps I can add that to the dlc expansion ^_~
Thanks for playing and I hope you enjoy the final game after release.
Hi :)
I just finished the demo and omg this is something I'm definitely gonna keep my eye on. The sprites are all beautiful and I love the variety of choices we are given. But most importantly, is the secret romance really what I think it is? I almost screamed with joy when I realized that *he* (am I allowed to talk about it here? Is it a spoiler?) is one of the male ROs. Because oh boy that amount of angst I'm feeling is coming on his path...am I right? :D I'm sorry I just love controversial romances.
Keep up the good work, I'm really looking forward to this one!!
Hello, Ell221, thank you for the feedback - I very glad to hear you've enjoyed the game so far.
As for the secret romance, I don't suppose it's much of a secret now I've confirmed there are no extra sprites, so I wouldn't worry about spoilers - maybe we could just not mention the name for anyone who's just skimming this? But yes, *he* is a romance option. ^_^
I worried it was a controversial decision, having that kind of romance available, so it has been a pleasant surprise to find that some players are keen for it. I hope the direction his path takes is one you can enjoy discovering when the full game is released.
Thanks for playing.
Hi! I played a demo of “The Rose of Segunda” and wanted to leave some feedback as a thank you and also in case it might be useful :D. First of all I really enjoyed the demo! I had fun reading it.
I think for now two things that I liked the most were the choices (as they were plenty) and the main character. I really like that we can adjust her personality, it is something I am always looking forward to in visual novels. I only played it once though so couldn’t test all the possibilities, but she appeared very intriguing with a strong personality :). I got attached to her rather quickly, an MC I could spend many hours with for sure. Choices also seemed all reasonable and will be really cool to explore. I only didn’t this time cause the demo kept giving error messages every time I attempted to save, which is understandable and not a big deal, it is a beta after all.
I liked the writing too, especially witty remarks from MC. I am unsure if it’s also due to it being a demo, but in some places the pacing seemed just a tiny bit too fast. Like in the scene closer to the beginning, when MC and her brother had to stay in a town for a night, it felt like a perfect set up for an event, but not much happened there and they left it fairly quickly. I like fast paced stories and think it is always good when there are no unnecessary details, but it felt kinda lacking in such places, where it could build some depth.
I also think the sprites look very pretty, all the characters are very visually pleasing *_*. Based on the appearance and story behind I liked Frederique, Leopold and Charlotte the most (also very happy she is dateable too, cause she is just adorable)!
And I am very very curious about the secret romance rout now, I would think I figured the romance options out, but this secret one just keeps me wondering haha. If I may ask, is the secret rout present on the first image with all the sprites, or is he yet to appear later :>? Truthfully I think I just hope to confirm my suspicion :D.
All said I am very much looking forward to the game release! *O*
Hello, monsteroverdose, and thank you for the feedback - I really appreciate you taking the time to let me know what you think.
First off, the saving error you mentioned doesn't sound good at all. Do you have a screenshot of it, please?
I'll investigate and get it fixed as soon as I can. I wonder if anyone else is experiencing it.
I'm glad you like the writing and the way you can influence the MC's personality, and, of course, the sprite art.
As for the pacing, I will look into what you mentioned - perhaps a scene can be added at the inn make the beginning more evenly paced - and I will keep an eye on it going forward.
And lastly, you have seen all the sprites that are in the game in the demo so... that probably answers your question about the secret romance. ^_^
It's pretty well hidden in the game (for, I think, understandable reasons), but it is there for anyone who wants to find it.
Thanks for playing, and I hope you'll have fun with the full game once it is released.
I am very happy if it was a little bit helpful! And sure thing (hope it's the right way to post images here), this is how it looks when I press Esc to summon the menu:
This is an error when I use save button on screen:
I didn’t realise that it actually gives different errors. Just in case, I use Mac and usually load games from the itch.io app, tell me if you need more detailed specs or smth. I can also try it on Windows to see if it will still occur.
And yay, thank you so much for answering my question. Kukukuku I had a feeling he must be that pretty and cute for reason, glad I got it right! :D
Aha! I think I see the problem. Thanks for posting those screenshots. I'll adjust the demo files within the next 24 and re-upload. ^_^
**EDIT** Okay, I think the new demo I've uploaded should work if you would like to give it a try. Please let me know if you encounter any more problems.
Wow thank you so much for fixing it! It works great now and I can mess around with the options some more! :DD
Ah, I'm glad it worked. Hope you have fun! ^_^
Hello!
I just had to try the demo after reading the description and it did not disappoint! I really liked it and would love to play the full game. The demo did make me snicker at one of the scenes near the end!
You have done a good job so far and I wish you the best of luck in finishing this game endeavour! I'm cheering on you from the sidelines!
Thanks for the feedback and the well-wishes!
I'm glad to hear you've enjoyed the game so far (and that it made you laugh) and I hope you won't have to wait long for the finished product.
I just finished the demo and I'm absolutely in love with it! You got me with all my favorite tropes and 'archetypes' , I can't wait for the final release. Keep it up and good luck!
Thanks for the feedback. I'm glad to hear you enjoyed the demo.
With any luck you won't have to wait long for the final release. Progress is going well and I'm hoping to have the finished game out sometime in February.