Motivations, designing Narcisse’s character, writing. Let’s leave a record of this experience, shall we? And let’s hope it’s the right amount of chaotic :)

Breezy

This is my first devlog ever. So this is my first game jam and first game I have ever made.

I was told to talk about Narcisse, my experience making this game, and working with the amazing Sloth. So … that's what I will do, but I decided to do it in a way that makes sense to me. I’ll do that by using a series of questions.

Why did I join the O2A2 JAM?

I always wanted to make my own visual novel, but was nervous about my writing and workflow. I was afraid that I would bite more than I could chew, and then I would build up expectations about the game with people, expectations that I could not fulfill. That's why I joined O2A2, a chill jam with limitations and a deadline.

I had some of the abilities necessary to make a visual novel (basic knowledge in art and programming), but I lacked writing abilities. That's when I met Sloth. I wanted a writer that would take care of the creative part, and I couldn't have found someone better. Sloth is not only an amazing writer but also an amazing and supportive person to work with.

That's when Narcisse was born.

Character Design Notes:

After reading the first draft of Narcisse I already had a picture of her in my head. I wanted her to look like melancholy in person, sad eyes and basic colors with no shine. Nothing about Narcisse's appearance makes her stand out in a crowd or makes her special. She's the type of person that you wouldn't look twice at since there's nothing to look at. Maybe if you passed by her in a crowd you would be drawn by her sad expression and dark mood. Maybe you would grow weary of her or be sad with her, thinking that she can't look more miserable.

Even though words like miserable and sad can be used to describe Narcisse, and those words definitely define her, I also think that she shines in a way that no one expects her to. In my vision, Narcisse is caring and helpful. She doesn't initiate conversation on a daily basis, but if anyone approached her she wouldn't be afraid to talk. I hate this word, but Narcisse is motherly. She likes to be helpful and has a need to be needed, that's why her character's design is also very soft and loose. Her face is melancholy but her presence is comforting.

Well, that’s what I wanted to show in her design, a sad person with a lot to think about, but also someone you could go to if you ever needed help with anything.

The Sloth

Not my first devlog, but it’s the first time I don’t just say “Game is out” so yeah, this is kind of my first devlog. Well, I’ll start by the beginning.

I got into VNs this year and, as it seems to happen a lot with me, once I consume a certain amount of content I have the need to create something out of it. That’s probably the reason I browsed jams, looking for one to try my first shot at, and found O2A2. I was afraid I wouldn't have time to complete a game or the scope would be too great, but then I read the page’s content. There were strict limitations, and the jam started the same day winter break began: perfect. I decided to join.

Then it began. I was almost done with the script by day 2, but I still didn’t know what I was going to do about the art. When I thought I’d have to wing it, I got a notification on DevTalk’s channel “recruitment”, and there it was! Breezy could do art (stunning art)  and programming, but was looking for a writer. You know what goes next: a DM and we got started. By the end of the process not only could I see Narcisse come to life, but was also left with such a positive experience thanks to Breezy’s dedication, reliability, and understanding.

Writing Narcisse:

While my first idea was sort of yandereish, and the second, obviously the one that ended up being Narcisse, was just a person having what was probably their last conversation with the girl who was their childhood best friend. I chose the latter solely because it was of way smaller scope, and I’m glad I did. I usually add a twist on what I write and keep it really separate from myself, but not this time. I made a vague outline and immediately felt like Basil Hallward. If you’ve read “The Picture of Dorian Gray” you might know what I mean. Basil didn’t want to exhibit the portrait of Dorian because he felt he put too much of himself into it. In my case, I knew that the idea could not be if I kept my own feelings completely out of the way. Thus, I embraced a different approach to writing Narcisse. Though I’m still not the kind of writer who likes to draw inspiration from their own life, I’m learning to become more comfortable leaving fragments of myself on some of my pieces.

Speaking of writing, I’d like to thank Drew Cook, Norbert Daniels Jr., and Luna for lending me a hand in the editing process.

Conclusion

Forgive me for the chunk of text, I am a writer after all, but I tried not to do it so long. So, this is it, the end of the devlog. If you read this and haven’t played the game: you’re welcome to try it out and give it a rating :D

For fun, final question: what do you think will happen to Narcisse and MC after the game?