The second i laid eyes on this game on Instagram i was hooked!!
I myself am a learning seamstress and this was right up my alley. I had waited patiently for a while and it was definitely worth the wait. Honestly my favorite parts are drafting my design then shopping around for fabric.
Here's a few things that bothered me that id maybe like to see improvementon:
- Drafting stage:
So, I loved the options and visuals, however there's a few things I didn't like. one thing is that I wish there was a way I could see what options give what vibes. Like is this bodice more classy? or is it casual? its left up to my interpretation and its a little confusing at times. My only other complaint (which is understandable.) is that I wish there was more components where possible. for example with bodice 5 (v shaped one) i cannot put sleeves. i think it should have that option. Also maybe accessories? like scarves or belts would be amazing!
- Fabric selection
I do wish a little UI image of my draft could follow me so I can see exactly what it would potentially look like, or at the very least i could see my shape so i don't forget since I like to take my time and forget the shape I picked. also the "requirements" UI is covering some of the fabrics and it makes picking the ones in the far left column difficult. It would suit better over to the right side. Lastly I wish the showing screen that shows all your buying options was larger so i could see more of them at a time so less scrolling (considering more options will be added later).
- Cutting table
It would be nice if the selection of fabrics in my gallery were easier to choose from then sifting through them all to find a specific one. For example maybe similar UI to the shop where there's a scrolling menu? Or even better, rolls of fabric in the back that i can just pick from and maybe a sliding animation? My only other complaint is the scissors having to be placed in a specific spot for them to rest. There would be moments i was moving quick and id just try to place it off to the side struggling to click the exact spot for them to be placed back.
- Mannequin
My only comment here is I hope to see other body proportions that effect the price and fabric needed. Like a bigger chest, hips, or tummy. ( maybe even suggested accessories. Like a scarf or hat that I mentioned earlier.
- Sewing
The mechanics were definitely hard to maneuver. Moving my mouse up and down to control the speed with such precision was a challenge of its own. I understand a mechanic like this might be hard to brainstorm. Here's a recommendation I thought of: use the mouse to control the direction its moving and the W and S keys to control the speed. I really struggled to stop and turn certain pieces making me fail many many times. Also id love to see more thread, color and, or quality options soon! My only other thought is maybe teaching about thread tension and stitch types and how they effect the fabric you're using. Make it an easy point (like adding it as a side note on the screen), but maybe later stages with busier designs would add this fun challenge and be a learning moment. Additionally I think maybe this could also just be a difficulty setting instead. like choosing if you wanna play in easy or hard mode.
- Sandbox mode
I'm not sure if its intentional or not, but having a budget and also requirement for Sandbox mode is a bit weird to me. I have run out of money already. Also I think Sandbox should be available at all times from the title screen, and not until after you've finished all your missions with clients.
Conclusion:
Anyways all in all the game so far is so so amazing and has so much potential to be better and a huge learning experience for those who want it! I cannot wait to see where it goes and I hope this project stays alive for something that I personally am so passionate about in real life! I will do my best to stay a supporter even through my small donations! <3
Lots of love - Xe