Skip to main content

Indie game storeFree gamesFun gamesHorror games
Game developmentAssetsComics
SalesBundles
Jobs
TagsGame Engines
(+1)

Just finished v0.2, which compelled me to write a "review" (comment), so here it goes.

I decided to paste the long version (with spoilers) in Rentry as its length might be hard to read and obstruct other comments:
https://rentry.co/an_apo2059_review

In short (no spoilers):

If you haven't played it yet and are looking at the comments to decide: play it. Give it a try, especially if you're tired of many other slice-of-life AVNs. The story is captivating and unique compared to most other AVNs in the sense that it tries to present the harsh life in the wasteland optimistically whilst maintaining a certain grittiness and the grim fact that one wrong move can kill you. It's not afraid to explore the darker aspects of humanity in such a wasteland. But that doesn't mean there's no room for love to bloom. The pacing and balance between violence, reflection, and thought-provoking moments are just right, and I found myself getting lost in a whirlwind of emotions. 

The visuals, while not the most realistic, nicely convey the post-apocalyptic atmosphere whilst catering to the AVN genre. There is a sense of cold emptiness in each scene which is contrasted to the humanity and liveness of the characters. Every material and surface is worn from radiation and time itself, and there's a certain bleakness to the settings. This applies especially to the character designs—stylish yet realistic, making them different to what I have seen in most other AVNs, a breath of fresh air. The atmosphere and models reminds me a lot of Fallout 3/4.

As for the characters, mainly the "love interests", they are so very three-dimensional. Each of them is different from the other in terms of unique personalities and weaknesses that make them feel real. And most importantly, they aren't just there for the sake of being there or to just serve a fetish. Sure, they aren't as grim and dark as one would expect for a wasteland genre (since it's supposed to be lighthearted), but the main characters are far from generic. You should definitely check out the "Character Tales" in the "Profile" menu (top right) in the game. They serve as diary entries (sort of) of the characters' backstories and recounts of important events from their perspective. For me, that is an epic idea that allows readers to further empathise with the main characters.   

All in all, a very unique and interesting game. Although the apocalyptic nature of the story is a bit niche, I find myself liking it more than any other AVN I've played. Oh, and when you do decide to play it, try to think of it as an alternate world you're escaping into instead of just an "Adult Visual Novel". Focusing on the story will let you enjoy it more, as there are no lewd scenes as yet.

Minor bug note: Not sure if it's intended, but the character Tales reset when you close the game. Reloading a save doesn’t re-unlock them, so I’ve had to restart and skip through. Maybe the Boolean values are stored in a temporary storage?

Dear nicknocknick

Thank you so much for your thoughtful and detailed review! I'm truly touched by how deeply you connected with the world and characters of Apocalypse 2059. I'm particularly happy that you enjoyed the "Character Tales" - it was designed to give players exactly that deeper connection to the characters as you mentioned. And thank you for pointing out the bug with the tales resetting when closing the game. You're right about it likely being a Boolean value storage issue, and I'll make sure to fix this in the next update.

I look forward to creating more memorable experiences for you in future versions. Your detailed feedback is incredibly valuable and motivating for me as a developer.

Thank you again for taking the time to write such a comprehensive review :D

(1 edit) (+1)

Thanks a lot for the reply. I'm really glad the feedback was helpful and motivating (I was worried it would be too tedious to read and end up wasting your time) as I also had fun writing it.

Apocalypse 2059 really has the potential to blow up... just like The Cataclysm, but in a good way of course.

Anyways, I don't want to take up any more of your time so I wish you a fun and epic creative journey! :D

(3 edits)

I finally gathered the courage to read your 'long version' review. I was hesitant at first - reading thoughtful feedback on something you've poured your heart into can be both exciting and overwhelming. But now, let me honestly express my feelings.

Your thoughtful analysis and kind words have genuinely moved me. Your understanding of the themes, characters, and world I've tried to create in Apocalypse 2059 is astounding - you've captured exactly what I hoped to convey, and even noticed details and connections I wasn't sure anyone would discover. I've put considerable effort into character design. I love each character, treating them like my own children, trying to think from their perspectives. I wanted each character to have a compelling story and three-dimensional personality, maintained through their consistent motivations and deeper contradictions throughout. Each character is vibrant and alive, not just placeholders or inferior products designed out of plot necessity.

Moreover, your observations about the visual design, the symbolic meaning of focal length changes, and how lighting choices reflect the emotional tone of scenes - these insights are incredibly validating for me as a creator. I did incorporate some small design elements, and I'm delighted you discovered them, although they aren't fully refined. I've never formally studied these techniques before, and I'm still exploring these skills and designs, but I hope to do the best within my capabilities.

Beyond these two aspects, I have many more reflections and feelings, but I cannot summarize them clearly at the moment. I'm sure I'll spend a great deal of time reading and rereading your review, as its value speaks for itself. Please rest assured that this feedback won't create any artistic obstacles or pressure for me. Instead, it has strengthened my resolve, confirming that all my efforts and designs are worthwhile - they're simply waiting to be discovered.

Most importantly, thank you for reminding me to enjoy telling my stories. Creation can sometimes feel overwhelming, but passionate players like you make it all worthwhile. I'll keep your suggestions close to heart as I continue developing this world.

With gratitude,
BigH4nd

(+1)

Wow, I'm happy you understood and received all the points in the review! And I'm more happy that they motivated and encouraged you in the right direction instead of pressuring you. 

I didn't know your native language was not English before writing the review. So, I'm sorry if it was too complex and informal. Rest assured though, the English in the game is perfect and "different" from other games (I can't pinpoint how). You're Japanese right? If so, that's honestly so cool since I'm also into a lot of media from Japan. I appreciate how you treat your characters, "treating them like my own children" because that reminds me of Japanese creative masterminds like Hayao Miyazaki.

Judging from your replies, I'm glad that this story is in good hands. I don't know you personally but you seem very passionate and true about your work. You know to appreciate the beauty of worldbuilding and storytelling while being familiar with technical aspects.

I would love to support you on Patreon but my financial situation is not so stable right now, so maybe in the future! That's why I'm so happy you found the review moving because that's all I can do to support!

Thank you for your time and stories dear BigH4nd! ( ´ ▽ ` )