I'm hoping to launch v0.20 around this weekend sometime. I'm finishing tests and stuff on it now. That will go up on the Patreon site for $5 and up donations and then will be posted there and here for free 3 weeks after that.
It gets kinda weird with payment stuff because I use the automated system over on Patreon. Last update has had over 100k downloads so managing those individually would have been a nightmare. So over on Patreon, the update is unlocked for anyone who donates $5 during the month the update releases in. That's my hub and the main place that I keep managed and updated. It's kinda like paying for that "episode" if you will. That being said, if you paid $5 for each episode, the entire game gets really expensive and I'm not onboard with that so that's another reason that I release it for free 3 weeks later. But the donations are also how I fund the project but you can see that's voluntary.
Over here, on itchio, it's different. The game is still free but it's not regulated like that and I have no way to release the update over here separately behind a paywall. Over here, you can download free but you have an option to donate-it's not required. I don't like the idea of putting the game behind a required paywall because I've vehemently opposed charging for the game. I've marketed the financial aspect as "donations" since I'm not able to release on a regular schedule.
So short story is, if you donated over on Patreon, during October, you'd unlock it. If you just donated over here, you wouldn't. If that's a concern of yours and you feel it's unfair, let me know and I can try and work with you. I'm not here to take money from people and financial contributions to the project are strictly voluntary. I will mention, i'm not sure how to refund over here on itchio if that was a concern, i've never had anyone ask. Patreon has an easy system in place for that.
Hope that answers your question, if not, hit me up
Thx for the big explentation. Sad that i have to wait 3 weeks, I donated around may so i thought mayeb there was kind of record. Because you can click on the download and say that you've already paid than you need to fill in your email. And i thought with that you can also get it asap. But if it's to much wotk i understand and will just wait until it's free. Thank you
I'm not sure. I've had others suggest that but I haven't looked into it very seriously yet. My first concern is that Steam would charge me or make me charge others for the game when I specifically wanted it to be free. I'm not going to charge on one platform and make it free on others. My main focus thus far has been to get the update done then I usually take a little break between updates and focus on business stuff like that. I'm also not happy with the beginning part of the game and that needs redone before i dropped something on a large platform like Steam so that could be something for the revised edition in the future. I'm keeping things open... I'm just not charging for it so if Steam forces me to charge, I wouldn't use it
Yes, you will have to download the new version and start a New Game. However, when you click New Game, there's a prompt that will let you jump to the end of the last chapter and start Chapter 10. You won't have to play all the way back through. Using old saves will corrupt the save file and you WILL get errors and the game will crash. Some people tend to snoop in the code and look for game clues as spoilers so I never include things for future updates in the code. Because of that, you have to start a New Game with each update so that it loads all the new variables.
My god, I have to say the day I found out this game was available for Android devices, I was just jumping. There is no words to express how much I love your work of art. I'm sorry about my bad English, but my god, I love your work tbh. Cannot wait for the next update :"3 Thank you so much for everything *heart*
First of all, this was my first time playing/seeing one of theses and now I don't think I can get this out of mind. The characters, the story, the drama i love it all. I can't believe how accurate you got these characters like Zack reacts the same way I would and is way to relatable. The only thing I found that i was missing was for Braden to catch Zack in the act. And chapter 9 for what ever ending you chose was unbelievable and suspenseful. Can't wait for the next chapter and final release so I can replay scenario to see how the story evolves. Also wondering waht wil happen in next up coming scenes ;)
SO!! I decided to replay the game again and I'm just as sin love with it as I was before. What brought it on was seeing the update to getting it on android ( although I don't have one and I just recently got a new computer earlier this year. Currently I am on Part 2: Chp 5, so half way though it.
Getting to the point though on what I want to touch on. It did not cross my mind that Braden had a small tooth gap and it's so adorable. I feel the need to redraw the pic I did of him back in 2020. While playing though it this time around it also got me thinking how Braden's POV would be and how he felt when interacting with Zach, like just peaking through his mind, especially when it came to the nsfw parts LMAO.
The game still holds up since I first saw it and played through it and I'll continue to keep it as my hyperfixation even after it's done. I really wish AI had more people to talk about it because all I do is spam on my insta story about it.
ALSO ALSO, the second hand embarassment is way too strong because Zach fr be having the same thoughts as me. I'll def tag you on TWT when I do more art of them.
Funfact, Braden was my last piece before my last laptop broke, but now I got a tablet. I'm also planning on subscribing to your patreon, I can't keep missing content. Steady job so I'm ready to support tf outta you and seeing hte completion of this game.
Keep up the good work and don't push yourself too hard xoxo
I'll definitely leave another comment when I finish the rest of the parts again.
ok, this fan art is amazing and i love it! It's so humbling to see people draw your characters in their free time and words will never truly express how appreciative that I am, when people share stuff like this. I'd love to see more
i just went through the game again. It was different. Maybe my choices changed things. The first time Zach touched Braden's leg, but this time he stuck his hand down his underwear. Braden's explanation at the end of chapter 9 left me feeling much better this time. I am not sure if you made changes or I changed...I enjoyed the story even more this time through. Looking forward to the next update.
Yep, you probably chose differently this time. I've made a rule about not going back to change the way things play out. I think it's bad writing for me to go back in episodic story and change stuff. Once the game is finished, I plan to redo the beginning part specifically and make it more linear as well as improve the overall writing and stuff.
Straight? is my first visual novel. I love it. I am addicted to the genre now and can not get enough. This was my first and still my favorite. I just wanted to thank you.
I was going to wait until the next release and then try to get the android port but there's been a lot of demand for this recently so I'm pushing it up. Stay tuned. I'm working on one for v19.5 and I'll post here when I get it
This is one of the best games that I have ever played. Honestly was not what I was expecting. It sucked me in and I can't wait for the next chapter. What program did you use to make the characters and scenes? It looks great
heh, that's a bold statement to say it's one of the best games but thank you and I appreciate it. I use Daz3D for the art stuff. It's a free program but the assets cost. We've also used Blender to create some of the environments and movies
So I’m just gonna cut straight to the chase and say that this VN wasn’t what I was expecting when I originally downloaded it. I went in blind thinking that I was going to play another point and click erotica visual novel with some saucy scenes and be able to call it a day, but to say I was pleasantly surprised with the depth and emotional nature of the story would be a gross understatement.
I don’t really identify as a writer, don’t have the discipline despite having the imagination, but I’m generally a pretty hard person to please in terms of character development and character arcs, but what you’ve done with Zack and Braden’s story is pretty magical. I feel like the slowed pace of the novel adds a lot of weight to your narrative giving the reader time to really sit in their choices (which is probably why other commenters had such a visceral reaction to the pervy route in chapter 9 lmao). It’s not just some race to get to the saucier parts of the story (which admittedly are very much there and very enjoyable) or to the next H scene. Obviously no disrespect to VNs like that, it’s just refreshing to see a tender story of identity, friendship, and found family really be explored with this sense of solemnity and respect.
I’m hooked pretty heavily and even joined up on your Patreon so I could follow development more closely so I won’t be behind on how Zack and Braden’s relationship continues to grow and blossom. Not gonna lie though I love slow burn fluff and I’m really hoping to get to see the catharsis of Braden calling Zack his boyfriend at some point!
Heh, chapter 9 turned out to be one of my favs. I've been worried about that, fearing I'd hit the apex of the story much earlier--especially given how much I liked chapter 8 so I was honestly surprised how happy I was with it.
I'll also say thanks for jumping onboard for the Patreon support. That really does help and there's honestly a lot more content over there with some behind the scenes as well as more of the adult stuff if you're into that sorta thing. Thanks a lot of the warm words and for just saying that the story moved when when you identify as a tough critic; comments like that mean a lot to me
I'm gonna try and release an official android build before long. it's on my list, i'm just spending more time writing the next update and stuff versus those things but I'd like to have the next update on android
I feel like I'd want to do a more in-depth review after the story's been released in its entirety, but, for now, after two weeks of being unable to get this game out of my head, I want to say thank you.
Thank you for the long hours, stress, and effort you've put into this game. Thank you for creating something equal parts beautiful, magical, and so damn real. Thank you for putting into visuals the honest struggles that countless people are/have been dealing with on a regular basis, especially as a free download. Thank you for the balance of excitement, apprehension, and doubt throughout the meticulously-paced story that make those moments of payoff so much more worth it. Thank you for creating a compelling and authentic cast of characters, from their dialogue to their actions and thoughts, flaws and all. Thank you for introducing more genuine love in a market/world saturated with superficial bursts of lust.
And lastly, thank you for inspiring a fire of emotions (tears and all) within me that I've not felt in a long while, for crafting something that I've been craving out of media for years, and for showing me that I want to contribute to the world in a similar way.
I hope that the rest of development goes smoothly, and I'm so looking forward to what you have in store!
This was a really sincere post and I really appreciated it. Made me smile so I'm going to return your list of "thank you's" by saying thank you for taking the time to be thoughtful and just checking in about it. two weeks is a long time to be quasi-haunted by a game so I'm going to take that as a compliment, especially for this genre. Things are progressing and I hope the next installment lives up to the hype. This post meant a lot so thanks again. seriously <3
Definitely intended it to be a compliment! The more a game consumes my life, the better it is, and the glow still hasn't faded, haha. So the least I could do was share how much of an impact it's made. <3
no spoilers but hopefully things in the story will work out appropriately (i know, super lame answer). It's up to the characters more than it is me. I lost control of this thing a long time ago
Like Moggie there, I too made an accout to comment here.
This was probably the coolest thing I have ever downloaded. I went through it in both directions. It is so well thought out. The Characters are utterly Amazing!...The mix of personality in the entire story is utterly incredible. Like Zack & Barden, I am not really sure what I am. I despise labels, I think they are the problem & not the solution. I am just not one to advertise. But I would give anything to find a Braden in my life. But Jesus, this was a story that I believe every human being needs to not only see, but need to live. I am pretty old at this point. Much of life behind me. But Wow, Just Wow. What a story. Please keep me updated on future releases, if they are half as good as this story, You got me. Bravo, AWESOME JOB & Best of luck to you. Please keep this going. The world needs Zack, Braden, Mikile, Ash & even Cody. I will come back to this story, often. Sorry I don't wish to look at it as a game, but a truly interactive book. And a Damned Good one, on par with Excellence.
Hey Dave, thanks for the kind words. I'm glad you were able to vibe with this on an emotional level because that really is the intention here. I will say that I give less update news on here becuase it's too many sites to manage but I do put the information out on the Patreon. That's mostly for people that sub over there but you can also check our Discord if you use that. Joining that is free and you can talk to us directly and I usually end up spilling the beans on update stuff anyway because I'm terrible like that. I'm hoping for an update soon. it's been forever and I ran into sooo many problems (mostly real life stuff and my own ambition) but I'm back on track again now so stay tuned. I post it here about 3 weeks after I release on Patreon (the Patreon release is based on donations to help pay the bills) but it will still be free
Thank You Aaryn for your response. Not only did I vibe with it. It bordered on a Life Altering Experience, that validated many of my own beliefs about the broader community & that they may not see, But they are a greater challenge to the direction of the " movement " than the general public. I could go into much greater detail, but I will save that for patreon or discord should I ever get the time to chat with you. I am not sure you even have any idea what you have unleashed with this story. It simply could not be any more perfect!.....This is so deep on so many levels, It is almost incomprehensible. I have simply not been able to get it out of my head. Again, Thank You, I do not think you even know, the impact this has had on me.
Sure thing. i'm glad it hit the spot for ya. a lot of that was hopefully intentional but I also like the way that a lot of people have personalized this more as a very adult learning experience, too. it's empowering to know that it hit its mark and is helping people <3
Hey, I made an account here just so I could comment! I’ve not been following this story for long, but I’ve blitzed through it. Ngl it’s made me horny, made me laugh, and made me cry. I identify with Zack so much, his inner monologues are stunning. I have a dissociative disorder so can barely concentrate most days, this story is the first thing in years that’s kept me outta my head for longer than a few minutes. I’m actually excited to not dissociate so I can keep reading! Literally for that I can’t thank you enough! I know that sounds sappy af!
Thanks again for making this... keep up the good work! <3
haha. glad you went through the trifecta of horny/laugh/cry. it's not usually the reaction you get from these types of games but i wanted to do something different. I'm also glad it's helping you work through your own challenges. I write it to work through mine so it's nice to see that benefit someone else <3
this game is really amazing, the characters and the plot i really wonder how anyone can do something so perfect, i'm so grateful for the story of the game... it's helping me to accept myself...
thanks for checking in. It's def far from perfect and I have a lot of plans to polish it up but I really appreciate you enjoying it so far. Honestly, I appreciate that it's helping you out even more, though. That means a lot just to hear it's helping someone else out there. Take your time. For some of us, that road to acceptance can be a long one
no worries at all. that's the great thing about translate. glad you like it. it's a nice upgrade from the one before and it's been on my list for a long time
okay I loved this game no joke I actually saw a guy play the parts of this game on pornhub…..I know shut up…… anyhow he was taking forever drawing it out and I just couldn’t resist to find out what would happen sooo I just downloaded the game myself and played all night cause I was that wrapped up into it anyhow I can’t wait till the next update do you know when it will be cause I can’t wait even though you said it will be the last chapter I just can’t wait it’s soooo good anyhow that’s it keep up the awesome amazing work!!!! Ahhhhh I can’t wait hopefully you say like in less than a week ha ha ha
haha. it'll def be more than a week. i ran into some problems early on and have made some life adjustments to compensate so i'm back on track again. I'm working 7 days a week on it right now to catch up. I'm planning on putting out a devlog on the patreon page as an update but it's getting closer. Just a ton of pics to do for the next one and a little more setup. I'm glad you liked it though, means a lot to me <3
I think that's something that we'll all have to wait on and see. there's so many things that could go right or wrong with how they're set up. no spoilers tho :p
omg I love this, it's the best visual novel I've ever played! It's awesome! When is the next update coming? And I saw one comment of you saying the next episode is the last one, but I wish it would be longer, I like it a lot, hoping there'll be more content than that, no pressure though
Ohh That sooo Bums me out. I can see so much to happen in this story. My imagination goes crazy thinking about how summer brake goes & next school year. How Ashley fairs. I really feel bad for him. Such a jerk & yet a Hero. I do hope, that after you get 10 done, you come back to this eventually. This is a must story for all. I am Sooooo Looking forward to 10 though. Albeit Bittersweet now......:(
hey I can’t wait for your next update I just finished the game i almost cryed at because of Ash did and how many more chapters do you think there will be I don’t want this game to end!!!
I do what you said and it happened the same. I have the carpet of the game but when I opened there is only the records of all the game but I can opened it normal. If not there is a way to download it on the mobile??
Also Windows has a built in software that will extract files too. In your downloads folder, if you left click on the file in the explorer window, you should see an "extract" highlighted up in the top of that window. If you click just under that you'll see it says "compressed folder tools". If you click that, you'll see "extract all" pop up.
the location shouldn't matter. what are you stuck on? Some people had problems starting the game because they didn't realize the folder is zipped. Not sure if that's where your problem is or not
All I can say is I wish so much I could have played this when I was a closeted youngster. It really is that impactful. I hope it will help many young people who haven't come out yet or are still discovering themselves in the often painful but also beautiful process of discovering who they are. Thank you for this game.
Jesus Christ...That's about all I can say after playing through this game in a day and a half. I feel like for any young person out there, this can serve as a reference that you are perfect the way you are and to not judge things before you experience them. It also serves as a guide to love yourself the way you are and to be forgiving with yourself when things don't go your way. This really captures a lot of the struggles of real life, coming to terms with your insecurities, trying to find out who you are, and deal with the social anxieties we all have. This VN single handedly made me create an account on here just to give you the props you deserve. This is right up there with Being A DIK for story telling and I am so glad to have come across both of them. As a bisexual man this speaks a lot to me and I felt myself sympathizing a lot with Zack and understanding a lot of his struggles. Every chapter I kept getting more invested and was dreading the time that I would hit the point of "To Be Continued"...I just couldn't stop playing because I was encapsulated by the story more and more. I am glad that things are finally starting to pick up and am dreading the wait to continue the story. This is by far the most tame Adult VN I have come across, but it's by far one of the best ones out there. I can tell you put a major emphasis on story telling and I can't tell you how much that's appreciated. Keep up the amazing work
First off, I'm sorry about the slow response here. I got behind and I'm sorta working backwards on replies. I really appreciate everything that you've said: your reactions, the fact that you made an account on here just to comment; things like this are amazing. I do want to specifically note that the game still checks boxes for the bi crew out there. Specifically with these types of games, you dont see that role used very often. While I don't want to overtly put labels into this game (mostly because people get so fucking extra about them that I was afraid they'd focus more on the label than the actual person behind them). I'm glad that you can relate here and it means a lot that you feel it's still applicable to the bi crew out there so thanks for letting me know that :)
I am not sure how long this comment of mine will be, but I really need to send this message to you.
I have always been a huge fan of deep and REAL stories in any kind of media. Things that feel fleshed out and truly meaningful always get me in all the right ways. And this game of yours did exactly that.
I will admit that I was simply perusing through several games for simple, mindless entertainment or something to itch my gay brain. I am simply speechless when it comes to this game.
I had no idea what to expect, but the premise hooked me pretty easily. From the moment I started playing, I could already tell that this game was special. I could not stop playing and literally had to force myself to take breaks. It was just so easy to become immersed into the story and truly invest in all of the characters and their relationships with one another. I have played many games, but this is SO up there with one of the most memorable, most heart-wrenching but emotionally gratifying games I have ever played. And it's not even done!
I cannot tell you how many times I cried. Everything felt so real and so heavy, but all in good ways.
I am probably being way too passionate about this but you should proud of yourself for creating such an amazing experience. I cannot thank you enough for the joy you have given me through this game. Not to get too into it, but I am going through a tough time, and as someone who is 20 years old, being able to live through such a beautiful experience with incredible characters has made the last week or so so worth the time I invested in this game.
Extreme and major kudos to you. Please take all the time and care you need to work on this because whatever you are doing is above and beyond. I am eagerly, yet patiently, waiting for the next continuation piece to this wonderful story. Thank you from the bottom of my heart.
heh....nah....you're not being too passionate. I really appreciate this. I'm very passionate in writing it. It's such a vulnerable place that I have to go to write this so it's very meaningful for people to write long comments and have emotional reactions to it. I've cried writing some of the scenes so I'm glad that was passed along to you over the course of playing. I'm just as invested as you are <3
Please tell me an update will come out soon. I'm passionate about this game and I'm super curious to know how this story will end. Since already grateful, P.s: I love your work.
you can follow the patreon site here . Supporters there get the game on release. 3 weeks after release, i then post it there for free. I do post it here but it's a little further down on the priority list but it will eventually be posted here. You can also keep an eye on my twitter as I'll post something on there when the new version comes out as well as additional stuff regarding the development
I beg your pardon. My English is not as good as it should be. But I feel I have to write some thoughts down here.
I could write thousands of words about. But ... I better skip a few hundred I guess. ;-) I discovered „straight!?” by chance. Was looking for nice 3D Artwork. Found a picture from Braden (a real cutie!), clicked on it and ended with an “Let’s play”. On Pornhub! …
I watched for a few minutes and thought: “Wow. A typical American-college-roommate-bromance-cliché-shit. Boooring! I’m to old for this kind of shit” But at least: “Great artwork and it’s free (and Braden is really a cuitie). So give it a chance!”
So I started. And I couldn’t stop. OK, just a minute to grab some fruits from the kitchen or going to the bathroom.
I couldn’t stop until I fall asleep on the sofa in living room, with still the fu**ing mouse in my hand. Rolled over, had a nap, rolled back and continued the story. I was kinda spellbound. And of course: “straight!?” is a lot, but not “typical”, not “cliché” and no “shit”. Not even a really “bromance”. It is … unique! And great artwork (did I mention Bradon is a real cutie? :-D)
I remembers the time I was 19 yo. I was a bit shy about nudity (specially when I was hard) like Braden. I overthought too much and had this “straight-Mode-Switch” like Zack. I was a bit an actor / a drama queen like Ash. I cared more about my friends as about myself, like Mikhail. I was a bit a game freak like Braden. I was a bit interested in psychology like Zack. I had two faces (one for my friends and one for others) like “Mom-fucker Max” and I was a bit a dick, like he was. And my favourite language was – and is still - “sarcasm”, like all of them. :-D
I didn’t read the novel or played the game. I was a kinda in it. I – or better: my 19 years old me - was part of it. All these problems and thoughts, all these “I don’t know how”s and “What is when”s and “Who or what am I?”s and “What do I really feel”s. All these skipped chances. They were so familiar for me.
I can’t put in words what I felt during playing/reading “straight!?” But, in the spirit of honesty, I have never – really never!! – had thought it could be possible to be laughing, being moved to tears and being horny the same time. It is! This was an absolutely new experience for me!
“Dear 19 years old me,
please do us a favour and stop overthinking to much. Don’t give a shit of what other people think or could think. Be honest, be open minded. Try being a bit less shy (I know it’s easier said than done, but it will be ok). Your friends will support you, whatever you are or feel. Dare to make the first move and hold your eyes open for others doing the first move in your direction - you just missed three fat chances. You know what I mean! If not, you will regret someday.
In the age of 54 you’ll find a visual novel in internet (what an internet is, you’ll find out later) called “straight!?” that will proof what I just told you right. Oh… and don’t throw way your commodore C64 as soon as you’ll buy the new Amiga500. You’ll need it again later!”
Back to the present. Free or not, I'll send you a few bucks. Let's see if becoming a Patron is an further option. Your work is great. The story, the artwork (especially Braden. He is a real ... ok, this running gag gets boring XD) I really love it!
Thanks for the note and no worries on writing a few hundred (thousand) words in response to the game. I like having that effect on people and I always like hearing that someone started it for the adult content and quickly got lost in the story-- that's really something that I want to change about the adult genre, or at least give people options that it's ok to have that type of content in something but the story has to matter over all.
I also appreciate the age demographic here. I'm glad this story holds up to your version of 19 year old you as well as 54 year old you. I really wanted to make something that was going to appeal universally. Thanks a lot for the support in this <3
Well, I can't agree with "(I) got lost in the story" I guess ... Depending on what you mean exactly. Usually when I read a book or watch a movie in the cinema - if it's a good one - it takes a few minutes to get back to the real world.
If it was a really, r e a l l y good book (let's take - maybe you know one or the other: Michael Ende - Never Ending Story, Stephen King - The Dark Tower, George Orwell - 1984, JRR Tolkien - Lord of the Rings... ), well, I guess it could take a little longer (especially "The Dark Tower" which I've read for years) maybe half an hour? One hour? Two?
And now we take "Straight !?" During the game and after finishing it, I really felt like I had a crush on Braden (you know, the cutie I mentioned a couple of times). I don't mean "I love this guy" like "I love this Ash-guy, 'course what he did for his brother, for Cody, for Mikhail, for Braden and Zack ...". I mean, having a crush on him, like on a real, living, human person. With all these butterflies, all this heartache (don't ask me how I felt on the beach scene! My heart skipped a beat. Really! And I cried like a baby). I really believed (!) That I had a crush on an animated, fictional, digital character! No matter how strange this fetish sounds. Not for an hour. Not for two after the end. For more than 12 (twelve) fu *** hours. It took another 6-8 hours before I was fully back into the real world and had my mind clear and knew, "No, I don't have a crush on Braden. But I still love this character".
I've never had this weird feeling and I've never been "lost" for so long time. I can hardly put it into words. Not in German, and even less in English. I can't call it "lost in the story" anymore because it's so next level. Another "first" for me. ;-) I am still overwhelmed!
When I say "lost" I sorta mean absorbed or just really into the story so sounds like that's about where you were. I'm honored to think you'd rank me up there with a lot of the classics considering this is an adult piece . Also, it's nice to see the crush factor here because at least you were able to sympathize with Zack's character more
Thank you so much for this game! I really love it! This game make me feel sad, happy, anxious... wow! Its really amazing to feel that with just the life of Zach and Braden (and Mikhail and Max)! I'm french so i don't understand all sentences but i really feel the feelings of caracters! Thank you so much!
Thanks a lot. I know the game hasn't always translated perfectly into other languages mostly because i use so much slang in the dialogue but I still appreciate that it's mostly universal and it's humbling to hear it impact others on the other side of the world. Thanks so much
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When is the last update going to be completed?
v0.20 will hopefully come out tomorrow. After that, production will begin on the next update after that. v0.21 is set to be the last one
Hey, just wanted to say I LOVED the game, having played it for some hours already. Really nice story and dialogues. Can't wait to play further :)
Thank you. I really appreciate it <3
is the any news about when the update will come? I'm just so excited to see!!!
I'm hoping to launch v0.20 around this weekend sometime. I'm finishing tests and stuff on it now. That will go up on the Patreon site for $5 and up donations and then will be posted there and here for free 3 weeks after that.
If i paid for the game do i also get it this weekend?
It gets kinda weird with payment stuff because I use the automated system over on Patreon. Last update has had over 100k downloads so managing those individually would have been a nightmare. So over on Patreon, the update is unlocked for anyone who donates $5 during the month the update releases in. That's my hub and the main place that I keep managed and updated. It's kinda like paying for that "episode" if you will. That being said, if you paid $5 for each episode, the entire game gets really expensive and I'm not onboard with that so that's another reason that I release it for free 3 weeks later. But the donations are also how I fund the project but you can see that's voluntary.
Over here, on itchio, it's different. The game is still free but it's not regulated like that and I have no way to release the update over here separately behind a paywall. Over here, you can download free but you have an option to donate-it's not required. I don't like the idea of putting the game behind a required paywall because I've vehemently opposed charging for the game. I've marketed the financial aspect as "donations" since I'm not able to release on a regular schedule.
So short story is, if you donated over on Patreon, during October, you'd unlock it. If you just donated over here, you wouldn't. If that's a concern of yours and you feel it's unfair, let me know and I can try and work with you. I'm not here to take money from people and financial contributions to the project are strictly voluntary. I will mention, i'm not sure how to refund over here on itchio if that was a concern, i've never had anyone ask. Patreon has an easy system in place for that.
Hope that answers your question, if not, hit me up
Thx for the big explentation. Sad that i have to wait 3 weeks, I donated around may so i thought mayeb there was kind of record. Because you can click on the download and say that you've already paid than you need to fill in your email. And i thought with that you can also get it asap. But if it's to much wotk i understand and will just wait until it's free. Thank you
Hi I've done the download but I can't seem to get it started, I think I'm clicking on the wrong file
did you unzip it. the file comes compressed so it's smaller to download.
yes the file's unzipped but i'm not clear about what I do next
just double click the str8.exe file
will this be coming to steam?
I'm not sure. I've had others suggest that but I haven't looked into it very seriously yet. My first concern is that Steam would charge me or make me charge others for the game when I specifically wanted it to be free. I'm not going to charge on one platform and make it free on others. My main focus thus far has been to get the update done then I usually take a little break between updates and focus on business stuff like that. I'm also not happy with the beginning part of the game and that needs redone before i dropped something on a large platform like Steam so that could be something for the revised edition in the future. I'm keeping things open... I'm just not charging for it so if Steam forces me to charge, I wouldn't use it
if there is an update later, do I have to reinstall the application?
Yes, you will have to download the new version and start a New Game. However, when you click New Game, there's a prompt that will let you jump to the end of the last chapter and start Chapter 10. You won't have to play all the way back through. Using old saves will corrupt the save file and you WILL get errors and the game will crash. Some people tend to snoop in the code and look for game clues as spoilers so I never include things for future updates in the code. Because of that, you have to start a New Game with each update so that it loads all the new variables.
My god, I have to say the day I found out this game was available for Android devices, I was just jumping. There is no words to express how much I love your work of art. I'm sorry about my bad English, but my god, I love your work tbh. Cannot wait for the next update :"3 Thank you so much for everything *heart*
No worries at all. Your English looks really good and I appreciate the support. Stay tuned <3
First of all, this was my first time playing/seeing one of theses and now I don't think I can get this out of mind. The characters, the story, the drama i love it all. I can't believe how accurate you got these characters like Zack reacts the same way I would and is way to relatable. The only thing I found that i was missing was for Braden to catch Zack in the act. And chapter 9 for what ever ending you chose was unbelievable and suspenseful. Can't wait for the next chapter and final release so I can replay scenario to see how the story evolves. Also wondering waht wil happen in next up coming scenes ;)
glad you enjoyed the ride <3
Stay tuned. Hoping to get the next update out in October for Patreons so it would be free over here sometime in November *cross fingers*
SO!! I decided to replay the game again and I'm just as sin love with it as I was before. What brought it on was seeing the update to getting it on android ( although I don't have one and I just recently got a new computer earlier this year. Currently I am on Part 2: Chp 5, so half way though it.
Getting to the point though on what I want to touch on. It did not cross my mind that Braden had a small tooth gap and it's so adorable. I feel the need to redraw the pic I did of him back in 2020. While playing though it this time around it also got me thinking how Braden's POV would be and how he felt when interacting with Zach, like just peaking through his mind, especially when it came to the nsfw parts LMAO.
The game still holds up since I first saw it and played through it and I'll continue to keep it as my hyperfixation even after it's done. I really wish AI had more people to talk about it because all I do is spam on my insta story about it.
ALSO ALSO, the second hand embarassment is way too strong because Zach fr be having the same thoughts as me. I'll def tag you on TWT when I do more art of them.
Funfact, Braden was my last piece before my last laptop broke, but now I got a tablet. I'm also planning on subscribing to your patreon, I can't keep missing content. Steady job so I'm ready to support tf outta you and seeing hte completion of this game.
Keep up the good work and don't push yourself too hard xoxo
I'll definitely leave another comment when I finish the rest of the parts again.
heres the pic from 2020
ok, this fan art is amazing and i love it! It's so humbling to see people draw your characters in their free time and words will never truly express how appreciative that I am, when people share stuff like this. I'd love to see more
i just went through the game again. It was different. Maybe my choices changed things. The first time Zach touched Braden's leg, but this time he stuck his hand down his underwear. Braden's explanation at the end of chapter 9 left me feeling much better this time. I am not sure if you made changes or I changed...I enjoyed the story even more this time through. Looking forward to the next update.
Yep, you probably chose differently this time. I've made a rule about not going back to change the way things play out. I think it's bad writing for me to go back in episodic story and change stuff. Once the game is finished, I plan to redo the beginning part specifically and make it more linear as well as improve the overall writing and stuff.
Straight? is my first visual novel. I love it. I am addicted to the genre now and can not get enough. This was my first and still my favorite. I just wanted to thank you.
heh, well glad that you picked this one to start with and I'm honored that it's still your fav <3
Pls make this game available for android
I was going to wait until the next release and then try to get the android port but there's been a lot of demand for this recently so I'm pushing it up. Stay tuned. I'm working on one for v19.5 and I'll post here when I get it
Thanks😊
I'm gonna do a post but there's an Android link now thanks to DarkAssassin
Thank u veryy muchhh
<3
This is one of the best games that I have ever played. Honestly was not what I was expecting. It sucked me in and I can't wait for the next chapter. What program did you use to make the characters and scenes? It looks great
heh, that's a bold statement to say it's one of the best games but thank you and I appreciate it. I use Daz3D for the art stuff. It's a free program but the assets cost. We've also used Blender to create some of the environments and movies
So I’m just gonna cut straight to the chase and say that this VN wasn’t what I was expecting when I originally downloaded it. I went in blind thinking that I was going to play another point and click erotica visual novel with some saucy scenes and be able to call it a day, but to say I was pleasantly surprised with the depth and emotional nature of the story would be a gross understatement.
I don’t really identify as a writer, don’t have the discipline despite having the imagination, but I’m generally a pretty hard person to please in terms of character development and character arcs, but what you’ve done with Zack and Braden’s story is pretty magical. I feel like the slowed pace of the novel adds a lot of weight to your narrative giving the reader time to really sit in their choices (which is probably why other commenters had such a visceral reaction to the pervy route in chapter 9 lmao). It’s not just some race to get to the saucier parts of the story (which admittedly are very much there and very enjoyable) or to the next H scene. Obviously no disrespect to VNs like that, it’s just refreshing to see a tender story of identity, friendship, and found family really be explored with this sense of solemnity and respect.
I’m hooked pretty heavily and even joined up on your Patreon so I could follow development more closely so I won’t be behind on how Zack and Braden’s relationship continues to grow and blossom. Not gonna lie though I love slow burn fluff and I’m really hoping to get to see the catharsis of Braden calling Zack his boyfriend at some point!
Keep doing what you’re doing!
Heh, chapter 9 turned out to be one of my favs. I've been worried about that, fearing I'd hit the apex of the story much earlier--especially given how much I liked chapter 8 so I was honestly surprised how happy I was with it.
I'll also say thanks for jumping onboard for the Patreon support. That really does help and there's honestly a lot more content over there with some behind the scenes as well as more of the adult stuff if you're into that sorta thing. Thanks a lot of the warm words and for just saying that the story moved when when you identify as a tough critic; comments like that mean a lot to me
will be on android?
I'm gonna try and release an official android build before long. it's on my list, i'm just spending more time writing the next update and stuff versus those things but I'd like to have the next update on android
thanks!
I feel like I'd want to do a more in-depth review after the story's been released in its entirety, but, for now, after two weeks of being unable to get this game out of my head, I want to say thank you.
Thank you for the long hours, stress, and effort you've put into this game. Thank you for creating something equal parts beautiful, magical, and so damn real. Thank you for putting into visuals the honest struggles that countless people are/have been dealing with on a regular basis, especially as a free download. Thank you for the balance of excitement, apprehension, and doubt throughout the meticulously-paced story that make those moments of payoff so much more worth it. Thank you for creating a compelling and authentic cast of characters, from their dialogue to their actions and thoughts, flaws and all. Thank you for introducing more genuine love in a market/world saturated with superficial bursts of lust.
And lastly, thank you for inspiring a fire of emotions (tears and all) within me that I've not felt in a long while, for crafting something that I've been craving out of media for years, and for showing me that I want to contribute to the world in a similar way.
I hope that the rest of development goes smoothly, and I'm so looking forward to what you have in store!
This was a really sincere post and I really appreciated it. Made me smile so I'm going to return your list of "thank you's" by saying thank you for taking the time to be thoughtful and just checking in about it. two weeks is a long time to be quasi-haunted by a game so I'm going to take that as a compliment, especially for this genre. Things are progressing and I hope the next installment lives up to the hype. This post meant a lot so thanks again. seriously <3
Definitely intended it to be a compliment! The more a game consumes my life, the better it is, and the glow still hasn't faded, haha. So the least I could do was share how much of an impact it's made. <3
well, i really appreciate the time you took to do that so thank you :)
Since there is only one chapter left, please make them finally to have a sexual relation. We have been waiting for this for soooo long
no spoilers but hopefully things in the story will work out appropriately (i know, super lame answer). It's up to the characters more than it is me. I lost control of this thing a long time ago
When will the next episode be released? I'm so excited for the next parts. Great work, please let this project to keep going :D
I don't have a date yet but I'm crossing my fingers for October some time. No promises but I'm trying
I can't wait and I know you are doing your best. Amazing work! Thanks.
thanks a lot <3
I love this game, its history, everything (especially Braden), too bad that there is only one chapter left.
Thanks for the support. One more to go. Hopefully, it's worth it
Like Moggie there, I too made an accout to comment here.
This was probably the coolest thing I have ever downloaded. I went through it in both directions. It is so well thought out. The Characters are utterly Amazing!...The mix of personality in the entire story is utterly incredible. Like Zack & Barden, I am not really sure what I am. I despise labels, I think they are the problem & not the solution. I am just not one to advertise. But I would give anything to find a Braden in my life. But Jesus, this was a story that I believe every human being needs to not only see, but need to live. I am pretty old at this point. Much of life behind me. But Wow, Just Wow. What a story. Please keep me updated on future releases, if they are half as good as this story, You got me. Bravo, AWESOME JOB & Best of luck to you. Please keep this going. The world needs Zack, Braden, Mikile, Ash & even Cody. I will come back to this story, often. Sorry I don't wish to look at it as a game, but a truly interactive book. And a Damned Good one, on par with Excellence.
Thank You
Dave
Hey Dave, thanks for the kind words. I'm glad you were able to vibe with this on an emotional level because that really is the intention here. I will say that I give less update news on here becuase it's too many sites to manage but I do put the information out on the Patreon. That's mostly for people that sub over there but you can also check our Discord if you use that. Joining that is free and you can talk to us directly and I usually end up spilling the beans on update stuff anyway because I'm terrible like that. I'm hoping for an update soon. it's been forever and I ran into sooo many problems (mostly real life stuff and my own ambition) but I'm back on track again now so stay tuned. I post it here about 3 weeks after I release on Patreon (the Patreon release is based on donations to help pay the bills) but it will still be free
Thank You Aaryn for your response. Not only did I vibe with it. It bordered on a Life Altering Experience, that validated many of my own beliefs about the broader community & that they may not see, But they are a greater challenge to the direction of the " movement " than the general public. I could go into much greater detail, but I will save that for patreon or discord should I ever get the time to chat with you. I am not sure you even have any idea what you have unleashed with this story. It simply could not be any more perfect!.....This is so deep on so many levels, It is almost incomprehensible. I have simply not been able to get it out of my head. Again, Thank You, I do not think you even know, the impact this has had on me.
Dave
Sure thing. i'm glad it hit the spot for ya. a lot of that was hopefully intentional but I also like the way that a lot of people have personalized this more as a very adult learning experience, too. it's empowering to know that it hit its mark and is helping people <3
Hey, I made an account here just so I could comment! I’ve not been following this story for long, but I’ve blitzed through it. Ngl it’s made me horny, made me laugh, and made me cry. I identify with Zack so much, his inner monologues are stunning. I have a dissociative disorder so can barely concentrate most days, this story is the first thing in years that’s kept me outta my head for longer than a few minutes. I’m actually excited to not dissociate so I can keep reading! Literally for that I can’t thank you enough! I know that sounds sappy af!
Thanks again for making this... keep up the good work! <3
haha. glad you went through the trifecta of horny/laugh/cry. it's not usually the reaction you get from these types of games but i wanted to do something different. I'm also glad it's helping you work through your own challenges. I write it to work through mine so it's nice to see that benefit someone else <3
this game is really amazing, the characters and the plot i really wonder how anyone can do something so perfect, i'm so grateful for the story of the game... it's helping me to accept myself...
thanks for checking in. It's def far from perfect and I have a lot of plans to polish it up but I really appreciate you enjoying it so far. Honestly, I appreciate that it's helping you out even more, though. That means a lot just to hear it's helping someone else out there. Take your time. For some of us, that road to acceptance can be a long one
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ist ein richtiger Hingucker
sry that i don´t wrote it in english but its difficult for me
no worries at all. that's the great thing about translate. glad you like it. it's a nice upgrade from the one before and it's been on my list for a long time
okay I loved this game no joke I actually saw a guy play the parts of this game on pornhub…..I know shut up…… anyhow he was taking forever drawing it out and I just couldn’t resist to find out what would happen sooo I just downloaded the game myself and played all night cause I was that wrapped up into it anyhow I can’t wait till the next update do you know when it will be cause I can’t wait even though you said it will be the last chapter I just can’t wait it’s soooo good anyhow that’s it keep up the awesome amazing work!!!! Ahhhhh I can’t wait hopefully you say like in less than a week ha ha ha
haha. it'll def be more than a week. i ran into some problems early on and have made some life adjustments to compensate so i'm back on track again. I'm working 7 days a week on it right now to catch up. I'm planning on putting out a devlog on the patreon page as an update but it's getting closer. Just a ton of pics to do for the next one and a little more setup. I'm glad you liked it though, means a lot to me <3
I was just horny but this game got deep wtf
oh, it gets pretty deep :)
just out of curiosity will we see zack and Braden do the dirty and will they ever become a couple because they are so cute I totally ship them
I think that's something that we'll all have to wait on and see. there's so many things that could go right or wrong with how they're set up. no spoilers tho :p
omg I love this, it's the best visual novel I've ever played! It's awesome! When is the next update coming? And I saw one comment of you saying the next episode is the last one, but I wish it would be longer, I like it a lot, hoping there'll be more content than that, no pressure though
heh, it's already like 45, 000 lines of code. 95% of that is dialogue so it's long already. But yeah, chapter 10 is planned to be the last one for now
Ohh That sooo Bums me out. I can see so much to happen in this story. My imagination goes crazy thinking about how summer brake goes & next school year. How Ashley fairs. I really feel bad for him. Such a jerk & yet a Hero. I do hope, that after you get 10 done, you come back to this eventually. This is a must story for all. I am Sooooo Looking forward to 10 though. Albeit Bittersweet now......:(
hey I can’t wait for your next update I just finished the game i almost cryed at because of Ash did and how many more chapters do you think there will be I don’t want this game to end!!!
heh. glad you liked the ending oft he latest one. There's one more chapter to go so 10 total :)
just out of curiosity will we see zack and Braden do the dirty and will they ever become a couple because they are so cute I totally ship them
I do what you said and it happened the same. I have the carpet of the game but when I opened there is only the records of all the game but I can opened it normal. If not there is a way to download it on the mobile??
Sorry for being so heavy
what error are you getting? Or what is doing or not doing? I don’t have an official Android port yet
When I download the game on my computer I have to opened with WinRar and it's not free. There's another way to opened that is free??
I use 7zip instead of winrar and it's free.
Also Windows has a built in software that will extract files too. In your downloads folder, if you left click on the file in the explorer window, you should see an "extract" highlighted up in the top of that window. If you click just under that you'll see it says "compressed folder tools". If you click that, you'll see "extract all" pop up.
This was the best visual novel i have ever played, can't wait for the next chapter!! Keep up the good work!!
Thanks a lot. I really appreciate that <3
the best and REALEST vn ive ever played i need this full thing pronto lmao (but no pressure on the devs lol take your time )
<3
Someone knows how to download straight?! in Spain?? Please help me
the location shouldn't matter. what are you stuck on? Some people had problems starting the game because they didn't realize the folder is zipped. Not sure if that's where your problem is or not
All I can say is I wish so much I could have played this when I was a closeted youngster. It really is that impactful. I hope it will help many young people who haven't come out yet or are still discovering themselves in the often painful but also beautiful process of discovering who they are. Thank you for this game.
Thanks a lot. I'm glad that you appreciate the perspective here and that means a lot. That really was the angle that I was going for <3
Jesus Christ...That's about all I can say after playing through this game in a day and a half. I feel like for any young person out there, this can serve as a reference that you are perfect the way you are and to not judge things before you experience them. It also serves as a guide to love yourself the way you are and to be forgiving with yourself when things don't go your way. This really captures a lot of the struggles of real life, coming to terms with your insecurities, trying to find out who you are, and deal with the social anxieties we all have. This VN single handedly made me create an account on here just to give you the props you deserve. This is right up there with Being A DIK for story telling and I am so glad to have come across both of them. As a bisexual man this speaks a lot to me and I felt myself sympathizing a lot with Zack and understanding a lot of his struggles. Every chapter I kept getting more invested and was dreading the time that I would hit the point of "To Be Continued"...I just couldn't stop playing because I was encapsulated by the story more and more. I am glad that things are finally starting to pick up and am dreading the wait to continue the story. This is by far the most tame Adult VN I have come across, but it's by far one of the best ones out there. I can tell you put a major emphasis on story telling and I can't tell you how much that's appreciated. Keep up the amazing work
First off, I'm sorry about the slow response here. I got behind and I'm sorta working backwards on replies. I really appreciate everything that you've said: your reactions, the fact that you made an account on here just to comment; things like this are amazing. I do want to specifically note that the game still checks boxes for the bi crew out there. Specifically with these types of games, you dont see that role used very often. While I don't want to overtly put labels into this game (mostly because people get so fucking extra about them that I was afraid they'd focus more on the label than the actual person behind them). I'm glad that you can relate here and it means a lot that you feel it's still applicable to the bi crew out there so thanks for letting me know that :)
I am not sure how long this comment of mine will be, but I really need to send this message to you.
I have always been a huge fan of deep and REAL stories in any kind of media. Things that feel fleshed out and truly meaningful always get me in all the right ways. And this game of yours did exactly that.
I will admit that I was simply perusing through several games for simple, mindless entertainment or something to itch my gay brain. I am simply speechless when it comes to this game.
I had no idea what to expect, but the premise hooked me pretty easily. From the moment I started playing, I could already tell that this game was special. I could not stop playing and literally had to force myself to take breaks. It was just so easy to become immersed into the story and truly invest in all of the characters and their relationships with one another. I have played many games, but this is SO up there with one of the most memorable, most heart-wrenching but emotionally gratifying games I have ever played. And it's not even done!
I cannot tell you how many times I cried. Everything felt so real and so heavy, but all in good ways.
I am probably being way too passionate about this but you should proud of yourself for creating such an amazing experience. I cannot thank you enough for the joy you have given me through this game. Not to get too into it, but I am going through a tough time, and as someone who is 20 years old, being able to live through such a beautiful experience with incredible characters has made the last week or so so worth the time I invested in this game.
Extreme and major kudos to you. Please take all the time and care you need to work on this because whatever you are doing is above and beyond. I am eagerly, yet patiently, waiting for the next continuation piece to this wonderful story. Thank you from the bottom of my heart.
heh....nah....you're not being too passionate. I really appreciate this. I'm very passionate in writing it. It's such a vulnerable place that I have to go to write this so it's very meaningful for people to write long comments and have emotional reactions to it. I've cried writing some of the scenes so I'm glad that was passed along to you over the course of playing. I'm just as invested as you are <3
Please tell me an update will come out soon. I'm passionate about this game and I'm super curious to know how this story will end. Since already grateful, P.s: I love your work.
thanks for the support. still working on it but it's being focused on more heavily now. I always end up trying to create more work for myself
Please tell me there is a way I can find out when there will be a new release!!
you can follow the patreon site here . Supporters there get the game on release. 3 weeks after release, i then post it there for free. I do post it here but it's a little further down on the priority list but it will eventually be posted here. You can also keep an eye on my twitter as I'll post something on there when the new version comes out as well as additional stuff regarding the development
I beg your pardon. My English is not as good as it should be.
But I feel I have to write some thoughts down here.
I could write thousands of words about. But ... I better skip a few hundred I guess. ;-)
I discovered „straight!?” by chance. Was looking for nice 3D Artwork. Found a picture from Braden (a real cutie!), clicked on it and ended with an “Let’s play”. On Pornhub! …
I watched for a few minutes and thought: “Wow. A typical American-college-roommate-bromance-cliché-shit. Boooring! I’m to old for this kind of shit”
But at least: “Great artwork and it’s free (and Braden is really a cuitie). So give it a chance!”
So I started. And I couldn’t stop.
OK, just a minute to grab some fruits from the kitchen or going to the bathroom.
I couldn’t stop until I fall asleep on the sofa in living room, with still the fu**ing mouse in my hand. Rolled over, had a nap, rolled back and continued the story. I was kinda spellbound.
And of course: “straight!?” is a lot, but not “typical”, not “cliché” and no “shit”. Not even a really “bromance”. It is … unique! And great artwork (did I mention Bradon is a real cutie? :-D)
I remembers the time I was 19 yo.
I was a bit shy about nudity (specially when I was hard) like Braden. I overthought too much and had this “straight-Mode-Switch” like Zack. I was a bit an actor / a drama queen like Ash. I cared more about my friends as about myself, like Mikhail. I was a bit a game freak like Braden. I was a bit interested in psychology like Zack. I had two faces (one for my friends and one for others) like “Mom-fucker Max” and I was a bit a dick, like he was.
And my favourite language was – and is still - “sarcasm”, like all of them. :-D
I didn’t read the novel or played the game. I was a kinda in it. I – or better: my 19 years old me - was part of it.
All these problems and thoughts, all these “I don’t know how”s and “What is when”s and “Who or what am I?”s and “What do I really feel”s. All these skipped chances.
They were so familiar for me.
I can’t put in words what I felt during playing/reading “straight!?”
But, in the spirit of honesty, I have never – really never!! – had thought it could be possible to be laughing, being moved to tears and being horny the same time.
It is! This was an absolutely new experience for me!
“Dear 19 years old me,
please do us a favour and stop overthinking to much.
Don’t give a shit of what other people think or could think. Be honest, be open minded. Try being a bit less shy (I know it’s easier said than done, but it will be ok).
Your friends will support you, whatever you are or feel.
Dare to make the first move and hold your eyes open for others doing the first move in your direction - you just missed three fat chances. You know what I mean!
If not, you will regret someday.
In the age of 54 you’ll find a visual novel in internet (what an internet is, you’ll find out later) called “straight!?” that will proof what I just told you right.
Oh… and don’t throw way your commodore C64 as soon as you’ll buy the new Amiga500. You’ll need it again later!”
Back to the present. Free or not, I'll send you a few bucks.
Let's see if becoming a Patron is an further option.
Your work is great. The story, the artwork (especially Braden. He is a real ... ok, this running gag gets boring XD) I really love it!
Heya :)
Thanks for the note and no worries on writing a few hundred (thousand) words in response to the game. I like having that effect on people and I always like hearing that someone started it for the adult content and quickly got lost in the story-- that's really something that I want to change about the adult genre, or at least give people options that it's ok to have that type of content in something but the story has to matter over all.
I also appreciate the age demographic here. I'm glad this story holds up to your version of 19 year old you as well as 54 year old you. I really wanted to make something that was going to appeal universally. Thanks a lot for the support in this <3
Well, I can't agree with "(I) got lost in the story" I guess ... Depending on what you mean exactly.
Usually when I read a book or watch a movie in the cinema - if it's a good one - it takes a few minutes to get back to the real world.
If it was a really, r e a l l y good book (let's take - maybe you know one or the other: Michael Ende - Never Ending Story, Stephen King - The Dark Tower, George Orwell - 1984, JRR Tolkien - Lord of the Rings... ), well, I guess it could take a little longer (especially "The Dark Tower" which I've read for years) maybe half an hour? One hour? Two?
And now we take "Straight !?" During the game and after finishing it, I really felt like I had a crush on Braden (you know, the cutie I mentioned a couple of times). I don't mean "I love this guy" like "I love this Ash-guy, 'course what he did for his brother, for Cody, for Mikhail, for Braden and Zack ...". I mean, having a crush on him, like on a real, living, human person. With all these butterflies, all this heartache (don't ask me how I felt on the beach scene! My heart skipped a beat. Really! And I cried like a baby).
I really believed (!) That I had a crush on an animated, fictional, digital character! No matter how strange this fetish sounds.
Not for an hour. Not for two after the end. For more than 12 (twelve) fu *** hours. It took another 6-8 hours before I was fully back into the real world and had my mind clear and knew, "No, I don't have a crush on Braden. But I still love this character".
I've never had this weird feeling and I've never been "lost" for so long time. I can hardly put it into words. Not in German, and even less in English. I can't call it "lost in the story" anymore because it's so next level. Another "first" for me. ;-)
I am still overwhelmed!
When I say "lost" I sorta mean absorbed or just really into the story so sounds like that's about where you were. I'm honored to think you'd rank me up there with a lot of the classics considering this is an adult piece . Also, it's nice to see the crush factor here because at least you were able to sympathize with Zack's character more
Thank you so much for this game! I really love it! This game make me feel sad, happy, anxious... wow! Its really amazing to feel that with just the life of Zach and Braden (and Mikhail and Max)! I'm french so i don't understand all sentences but i really feel the feelings of caracters! Thank you so much!
Thanks a lot. I know the game hasn't always translated perfectly into other languages mostly because i use so much slang in the dialogue but I still appreciate that it's mostly universal and it's humbling to hear it impact others on the other side of the world. Thanks so much
Je suis absolument d'Accord!
I'm absolutely with you! :-)