Addressing the criticism
Hi everyone!
We've had a few negative comments on our last progress report, because we had to delay the School of Lust version 0.4.2 update again, so I (Lawina) would like to take this opportunity to address this matter.
I completely agree with most of the criticism. Although, one patron went really - and I mean REALLY - overboard, by blatantly harassing us, and I've had no other choice but to suspend him, which is something we rarely do. He/she is also one of the main reasons that I decided to post this, because I want everyone to know that we do listen to all your feedback, either positive or negative, and we do agree that we have our faults, which should be addressed.
I'm aware that some of you are quite passionate about School of Lust, which is the sole reason that keeps us going, and seeing some of the hostility (even if it's only from one patron) immensely affected me and the rest of the team.
It started a while back, before the whole unexpected character re-design incident, when we decided against announcing a release date for the content updates here on Patreon, as we've had a few unexpected delays happen before that. However, some patrons did not appreciate not knowing when to expect the next release, which is the reason that we decided to announce the "planned" release dates instead and that's also back when we decided to make sure to at least post a progress report biweekly.
However, we've frequently struggled with the planned release dates since, because we would like to make sure the game is as good as it can be, and we also want to make sure that the updates we release are worth playing.
Those of you who are familiar with game development will know how time consuming and complex it can be, especially a rather big and entwined RPG like School of Lust. Putting the unexpected issues we've had lately aside, we could've probably rushed the version 0.4.2 update within these past 2 months, if we didn't want the best for the game, but we certainly do (and hopefully the upcoming version 0.4.2 update will show that).
That said however, we also care about you and appreciate your generous support. We understand that not all patrons are here only to support the development. Most of you would want something in return for your pledge. This is also the reason why we decided that something has to change to avoid having to break any future promises again.
From version 0.4.2 onward, we will do our very best to release whatever content is ready every single month, even if it means releasing a small content update. There could still be months where we may end up having to delay again for whatever reason, but we will do our best to address those beforehand - not on the promised release day.
In conclusion, if you ever find anything that you would like to criticize us about, please don't hesitate to do so. It's the only way to make sure that we're aware of our mistakes, and find a solution. As long as you don't harass us, we'll always listen =)
Thank you as always V●ᴥ●V
-Lawina
Boner Games
PS: We will post about the status of School of Lust version 0.4.2 soon.
Comments (45)
Amy new futa stuff?
I still like you guys! Updates shouldn't be forced out the gate like everyone is wanting it to be, get everything working and then put it out when you're ready. It's as easy as that and everyone can wait till it comes out.
Easy way to fix this is have a poll again monthly updates or large longer release date updates
PS: We will post about the status of School of Lust version 0.4.2 soon How soon is soon?
January probably and then release the update for February! Awesome
Dont let it bother you guys you're making a really good game compare to all the other hentai game out there. the more hentai scene in the game the better. There will always be unsatisfied people even if you bend backward for them. I learned that you cant please everyone. Have a good holiday in advance !
Naw Y'all are good your game is great to me and you still have my support until I'm unable to.
I think a lot of the negative criticism has to do with the $10 ($120 a year) tier is the lowest tier with a latest release reward. That is a lot of money for a patreon, so if you promise them monthly releases and that promise is not fulfilled, there will be backlash. I would suggest that you add a $5 tier and have the reward being a delayed latest release by 1 or 2 weeks. If that worries you that people will switch from a $10 tier to a $5 tier, maybe you could make a small but worth while feature for the game that is not included with the $5 tier (basically having 2 different versions of the game).
i agree with Soul....i pledge to other erotic game developers and you're the only one with this kind of pledge reward ranking....cant say im impressed....10 dollars is just to much for only getting to wait for updates, and as for the 50 dollar pledge that just sounds like a damn rip off
Honestly I personally feel it would be best to get rid of monthly releases and just say new releases *roughly* every month. And whenever you feel you have enough done for a worthwhile update, post a new build. I prefer that than hearing about missing the deadline every month (no offense) haha.
I dont mind waiting, but when you have these "planned" release dates are not a good idea. I feel it would be best to take after the creators of Summertime Saga. Those guys do not give any release windows; nor do they try to over extend themselves. They are not perfect, but it works. I will say you are better than ICSTOR with how fucked he is with release dates/windows. I say this because you guys can do better, and I hope you do!
Any news on the build
many do not understand the difficulty in managing and creating new content, they want results thinking that it does not take anything so much or that they prefer monthly contents even poor thing that you do not do you constantly strive to always give us the best and inform us constantly that point you are with the update and you always apologize if for some unexpected you delay what many do not do. thanks for the splendid contents you give us even if they take time. keep it up you are great
This might have been better to be a public post than a post that required me to pledge 10 dollars to view, but that's also on me for being irresponsible with my money. More communication is definitely the way to go, and to counter claims that this would incentivize people to stop pledging for a few months and come back when there's bigger content updates: People already do that. I'm proof of that, I go dry for multiple months at a time until there's an actual update. There's no reason to let that stop you from putting out more updates. Just cater to your core base, don't try to chase some fantasy of acquiring more patrons.
being real with you guys, I'm skeptical of the claims of releases every month because I've seen the claim made multiple times with not a lot to show for it. With this kind of situation, you guys are shooting yourselves in the foot because you're giving people little to no reason to stay subbed month after month when it'd be more cost efficient and maybe even smarter to sub for one month to check out the release, and then come back 2 or even 3 months later for the next one. I think you guys should look into getting more help in or simply some other way of guaranteeing monthly updates before you start hemorrhaging subs and their money. Wish you luck for the time being, but don't expect this from everybody, or even me in the near future depending on how this goes.
Look, i found a demo of this game on some janky nutaku/newgrounds knock off. It was a fun game then, and i've been subbing to you guys since. I'd even up my member level if i could afford to. You're making something well thought out and fun, thats whats important. You have the self respect to not give in to others when you know what needs to be done to release a good release. Thats traits of a REAL game dev not just a porn one. You guys are doing great and i hoipe you keep up the great work. I'll be patiently waiting for 0.4.2. It'll be here when it's good and ready.
I'm okay with waiting for the game cause that what I'm supporting. I really good or great game. I enjoy the little details, thought out conversation, plot development. That what make it worth playing. Keep at it team and dont stress yourself.
honestly i have been waiting for a long time for a new update but i also dont like playing unfinished games so the fact you guys are putting your all into it is all i need to know i appreciate the updates but as long as you guys are trying i am happy so thank you for all your hard work
I agree with R3sistance its a tough nut to give monthly content, but I also don't believe in take as much time as needed. Just a thought, change the release dates from once a month to every two months, but adjust the pay systems to reflect this.
It's a case of the vocal minority I feel, a few bad and loud eggs. Most people understand that content on a monthly basis is pretty unreasonable when it comes to software development.
I'm with the consensus here. I just appreciate the small messages. I would hate to see half done works to get a monthly update. Anyone who loves the game shouldnt want to sit down for 10 minutes at a time.
I know that a lot of us will happily wait as long as you post updates, even if it's a short one so we know you're still alive! haha I think what was most worrying was the long silence, which is understandable when you're working super hard and crunching! There will always be people with negative comments, stay strong! We love you <3
take your time guys. waiting for quality is not a waste of time. keep up the good work
Would be worse to get a half ass update with like 5minutes of new content. Rather wait and get some quality game time!
sorry for interrupt,but i still cant download this game after i pay 10$
What issue are you having? If you haven't had a link yet, go directly into Boner Games Patreon, hit download on the left and then click the link in Patreon post for the login portal. Login -> Allow and then you should get to the Windows or Mac download.
I'm not one to criticize over this sort of thing. Do what you do, it will come when it comes. In another line of thought though, because the community is so enthusiastic, would you consider mod support? Perhaps an option for mod integration where people could design and upload mods, skins, stories, etc into the game itself? We could share them in the community areas of discord.
I mostly lurk, but just know I always appreciate that the team tries their hardest to try to meet goals & deadlines. I think most can agree we would rather have a mostly solid patch than a rushed buggy mess. Developing a game with quality takes time & I'm sorry there are those that don't understand that. Always know the whole team is appreciated :)
Take all the time you need. If you say it needs more spit and polish then by God then use that spit and polish. The game is defiantly worth the wait.
Was getting tired of a few certain faces in the "community", anyhow~
I appreciate all the work your team puts in to get us this amazing content. I’ve never come across a game in this genre that has been as enrapturing and well-done as yours is. Even with the hiccups along the way from both Patreon and coding itself. What you’re doing isn’t easy and it certainly isn’t a quick process. But keep that chin chin up, cuz you’re doing amazing work and we’re all eagerly waiting to see what else you have in store for us!
Sorry that person was being a jerk. There's getting your point across, then there's whining and harassing people to get what you want. Their behaviour was unacceptable, I hope they learn from this and grow as a person so they never bother someone like this ever again. We're here to support amazing creators like yourselves and we appreciate all your hard work and your dedication! XOXO <3
I don't care having to wait longer than usual. As long as the delivered content is of quality. Even though, I'd like to suggest posting artwork or teasers more often.
I understand that development can take time and energy especially when bugs come up in the testing so take your time when it's ready it'll be ready
Also i'd love one day to see if you guys/gals do something outside this field granted you probably wouldn't be able to use boner games on a non porn game title but I'd love to see what you'd create who know maybe you'll create the next postal style game
I think the idea of small content is a great idea like pick two scenes to make I've been working on my own skills in this field so I'm impressed you are able to push out what you do. You guys/gals are amazing and have some serious talent I hope to see what you accomplish in the future. Again I think you should focus on only two or so scenes and anything else you get done is bonus it's a great way to boost morale.
Rome wasn't made in a day. Keep sculpting your craft to near perfection
<3
Honestly if people complain this much about a game to go beyond that point it means they legit need to go outside more. Good work as always and keep up the work. Quality over quantity.
Thats the lowest iq statement I have read in my life, maybe people are complaining because they are paying for something that is not being delivered to them?? I bet you are not paying with your own money
I do very much enjoy the work you guys do. You’re the only people I would want to support. You guys are my favorite porn game creators. Sure I would love to have an update every month of you guys making this game. But I know it takes time. This is the best nsfw game I’ve ever played! Plus the sph~ What other good porn game had sph?!? Like none of them! Plus the cute females?! Like omg they’re good and they look different! Many others have the characters look exactly the same! I love your work guys and I hope you will never stop until the very end! And I will support you guys until the very end! One rude supporter can drag you down but remember you have many others who want to support you too. ❤️❤️
Just tell me one thing, should we expect the update in the earlier half the month or the later one?
Sad to hear someone affected the team so much with going way out of line. Do know lots of the patreons support you no matter what. I’ll be waiting for the update patiently :) Much love!
As far as I'm concerned, take as much time as you need. We don't need anymore Sonic '06 or Sonic Booms out here.
I have no problem delaying the release date as long as the content is good