OL2: Release Structure Poll
Added 2025-02-07 19:00:05 +0000 UTCHello!
It’s me, GB. I’ve been doing some thinking and have an important poll for all of you. I’ve gone on record to say there was something I didn’t ever plan on, but I’m reconsidering it. I want to know what players think of Our Life: Now & Forever releasing Step by Step instead of waiting for Steps 1, 2, and 3 to be completed before launch.
Google Form Poll Link
Honestly, things have been extremely upsetting with the state of the world. I’ve been stressed about it, wanting to do something that could comfort or reassure anyone, just lift people’s spirits a little. Having to accept that OL: N&F is not gonna be out any time this year has felt worse and worse every day. Though, players aren’t being unkind about it. Everyone’s been understanding; it’s my own internal anxiety troubling me. But that’s why I’m considering changing the release structure of the game. If getting to experience all of Step 1 in five or six months and Step 2 at the end of 2025 would be a positive development, then we’re gonna do that.
I’m a little self-conscious and think people need the whole growing up experience to be sold on the OL games. That’s a major reason I’ve not considered an episodic launch. But I think our player base knows the series well enough to decide for themselves if they’d rather play just a single Step or hold off on the game until more is done.
But the early access versions of Steps 1 and 2 would have some bells and whistles missing. Not all the MC Doll customization options would be included, a more advanced MC Detail system that listed things like if you’re good in school and if you have a bad relationship with your mom likely wouldn’t be there either, etc.
And another reason I tend to avoid early access is because it’s helpful for developers to gain income to finish the game. OL: N&F doesn’t need that. It’s already fully funded. I wouldn’t want players to buy DLCs at a bad time thinking they’ve gotta support this early access build.
So, there’s things to consider. I did think it was at least worth floating, whether it ends up happening or not. Please feel free to vote in the poll and comment any thoughts/opinions you have. The poll will close on Saturday February 15th.
The episodic launch will have to be the clear winner for us to switch to that. If people are split on it or don’t care either way, we’ll stick with the original plan of launching Steps 1-3 together.
Take care, everybody 💖
Comments
I’ve thought and rethought this a few times as to what I personally would prefer and I think I would like episodic releases to stretch it out a bit, as I’ll replay the entire thing with all the bells and whistles anyway. Having said that, I still think what I thought at the beginning which is that no matter what I think I will not support an option that will put more pressure on you or the team. I’ll be here for anything you choose, as long as it supports your artistic process and wellbeing. Without you, there is no product and everyone will be sad for a much longer time in that scenario, so whatever you need to get there is what I’ll support x
Jac
2025-02-12 23:53:24 +0000 UTCMy personal preference is a full release when the game is ready! But I would encourage any route that reduces pressure on you and the team. if an episodic release helps you all to feel like you have permission to take your time working on the story, then I’m all for it! If the opposite is true, that’s what I would prefer. I love following the monthly beta updates and they build my anticipation for the full release, and for me that feels like more than enough at this time, though I completely understand not everyone will feel the same. In any case, thank you for thinking of us. This story is worth the wait ❤️
dolly
2025-02-09 16:30:30 +0000 UTCI can see the value in both sides, but I think that while episodic isn't everyone's favourite, it can work very well. Most people who would rather play a complete game are usually very patient and willing to wait until the game is far enough along for their liking, so it should work well for both sides. (Whether I'll have self control and wait, or jump on anything I can get my hands on, I don't know yet. I tend to do either depending on my mood.) However, please do whatever you feel is best. Your peace of mind matters and we'll be understanding either way!
Mialiya
2025-02-09 08:14:36 +0000 UTCI definitely prefer episodic releases and I see it as something similar to how TV show seasons are released. I feel like if it’s released episodically it sticks with you for longer, and it creates a more meaningful experience that you can sit with for a while. When I played OL1, I purposely played through the game once. Waited a little, then did a run through with DLCs. Waited a couple months, played Baxter’s DLC. And I’m almost ready to play Derek’s DLC. And along with waiting for the development of OL2 and playing the demo for that, I’ve been able to get a fulfilling and entertaining experience from Our Life for a long time. But that’s just how I personally like to enjoy things.
Ame Drawsz
2025-02-09 02:22:13 +0000 UTCI would rather wait and experience the whole game complete at once, personally. I understand the hesitation but imo it works better emotionally when it is played in succession.
Laina Sunflower
2025-02-09 01:13:44 +0000 UTCI feel the full release would be the best option. I'm playing a game right now were I have to wait for the chapters to come out and after a long wait for the next chapter. I feel like I've forgotten about most of what I've done and have to go back to find out what I did. Cause I like playing with different personalities and having it all together helps keep it all organized for me.
DragonX4D ;3
2025-02-08 18:54:49 +0000 UTCHonestly, those who wanted to play the full game could still wait until 2026. Their desire for that complete finished package shouldn't stop those who enjoy episodic releases from also getting what they want out of this. I can't wait to start more of our life together with Qiu and Tamarack and maybe episodic releases would help me take our relationship slow when I tend to rush into things. I personally love GB Patch and appreciate all the content I can get. You have created a wholesome world full of love and support where the community can feel safe. We can't thank you enough for that. 💚
Emeril Wren
2025-02-08 18:51:17 +0000 UTCi feel like i'd personally rather have the complete game instead of... diluting the experience over time. episodic releases with a big spacing make the emotion and story thin.
Lex Gray
2025-02-08 17:41:09 +0000 UTCI think I'd prefer to wait for the complete game, as I tend to immerse myself in stories.
Astrama
2025-02-08 15:50:40 +0000 UTCHmmm on one side to normal people that's like general public. They want the product now. For a person like me who lurking in the back. I wouldn't mind part by part. I'm like looking forward to part 2, but I'm a chill guy and I'll wait for chefs to get done.
Specky-X3
2025-02-08 13:07:38 +0000 UTCPersonally, my preference is waiting for the completed game. Being able to progress through each step of the game was so integral to my OL:BA experience and my fear is that it would feel disconnected if playing with long intervals in between releases. For my part, I think it would also place more pressure on devs to rush releases and I don’t want to do that. Playing a completed story – with additional DLC added over time was how I played OL:BA, and I think it was probably the reason I was so invested in the gameplay. I haven’t felt that way with the OL:NF beta because I know there’s so much more story and relationship building to come. It’s something I can look forward to. I hear you when it comes to wanting to do something to comfort and reassure people but, honestly, I think this community is pretty great <3 Don’t undervalue that! I’m so happy receiving frequent updates on how everything is going and appreciate the obvious love and care you all have for both the game and players. I guess I wanted to say that the OL games have already brought me a lot of comfort.
oswin
2025-02-08 04:35:00 +0000 UTCI wanted to echo what others have said here and re-iterate how much you all are appreciated. The work you do brings so much joy to so many people. To me, one of the key elements of the Our Life series has been a sense of community, of belonging and acceptance. When I come here, I feel not just the love you all put into this game, but the love the community has for each other. I don't have a preference in regards to the release schedule. The real treasure for me has been knowing that I can always come here to share in something beautiful. No matter how you all decide to go forward, I will be here and I will be looking forward to what comes next. To everyone, please know that you matter, your existence is a bright spark in these dark times. We are going to get through this passing darkness together, and we will all be a part of making the world a more vibrant place. Be safe <3
Lythik
2025-02-08 04:20:27 +0000 UTCWhile I enjoy the steps coming out one by one, I'm 100% fine with whatever decision is made. I stumbled upon the first game by chance one day, tried it and fell in love with the series. This series is worth the wait, no matter which direction you all choose to publish the content. :)
Starseeker Azura
2025-02-08 02:39:08 +0000 UTCIt's very kind of you to think of us during these times and I agree, seeing how OL:BA was received, and how I received it, I don't doubt OL:NF will also bring comfort to many players. Personally, an episodic (or in this, case a step-by-step) release isn't a bad idea. It's not like they're uncommon in the indie VN scene so I'm sure it's nothing new for some players. Also like, let's be real, even if your audience isn't fully composed of nerds and dorks (kidding guys <33), episodic media is pretty common so I don't think this is a huge adjustment for us. I am concerned though about the work needed to make the episodic releases cohesive in the long run. Like, at the end, once everything is out you and the team have to refine everything to make sure it's all in tip-top form. And I feel like that kind of work could be avoided by a one-time release. I also feel like the pressure of an episodic release is much different from a one-time release so I don't know, it might make you and the team more stressed. Although going off of what you mentioned, it feels like you're gonna get anxiety either way. So yeah, those are my concerns. I surrender myself to the democracy of the Google Poll link above and I'm fine with whatever choice the community makes. I hope you and the rest of the team will take care of yourself, as well as anyone reading this. Times are hard, the world is shit, but please don't lose hope. There are more people who care for you than you think and there are more people on your side than you will ever know. You will be alright. You will make it.
Audi
2025-02-08 02:17:50 +0000 UTCI know it from the Life is Strange game, they also release episodes and I always waited until it was completely out because I wanted to experience the finished game. Since I have beta access to OL 2 anyway, I'm happy about these little insights. I also have to admit that I often read what's new first and if I don't think it's enough, I'll wait until next month so I can have more fun. I can bet that the majority will agree that it's better to wait, so please don't put any pressure on yourself.
locke 281
2025-02-08 02:12:09 +0000 UTCLike others have said, please take care of yourself first and do what works best for you. No game is more important than that. With that said, my preference is for the full game to release with steps 1,2, and 3. I think if you're worried about providing updates the demo is the best way. It can be updated with some scenes/features to keep everyone excited and happy, while the full game can still release later.
Badguy101
2025-02-08 02:06:17 +0000 UTCMuch rather have the full release. I'm a slow gamer, so one at a time wouldn't be a bother to me but if it means that certain features are going to be missing compared to the full game then it's better to just wait. Otherwise it would feel like playing a slightly more polished version of the Beta that I would then have to restart anyway to get the proper experience for my MCs. Which I dont mean as a slight because the beta builds have been really enjoyable as is, but that's what I've already been doing is restarting my runs with every build.
LukkaDev
2025-02-08 01:23:44 +0000 UTCimo i think a full release is definitely the better option, even if the game releases date has to be pushed back, i love being a patreon and getting updates every month because i truly love your games, but when i’m a new fan of a game that’s still incomplete i sometimes lose interests while waiting for the next update, which is why i think a full release with the demos getting updated is better for public release! don’t push yourself too hard kab 🫶
rory 𖤐
2025-02-08 00:13:54 +0000 UTCSame lol
idis91
2025-02-07 23:24:15 +0000 UTCSometimes it feels like every day is getting worse and the news is full of nothing but bad news. Playing games, drawing, and reading has always been a source of comfort to me in troubling times. I’m glad that I have Patreon so I can see all the updates as they come out, but I have friends who don’t have Patreon! They adore the demo that’s available on Steam. I personally, would love to see the game in its full glory once it’s completed. Whatever works best for you and your team!! I think the demo and patreon updates are wonderful. But whatever you decide on, I’m very grateful I get to experience the games you guys create ❤️
Sapphira Dae
2025-02-07 23:16:17 +0000 UTCYou all are doing such a fabulous job and i think everyone will agree with me when i say we are more than willing to wait for all the steps if it feels like the best option for GB and all of the team. regardless of the poll vote results. this is such an amazing game that is so worth waiting for. we appreciate all your hard work and i don`t doubt for a second that the game will be amazing
idis91
2025-02-07 22:56:33 +0000 UTCWell said
idis91
2025-02-07 22:50:48 +0000 UTCI think it's so kind of you to include all of us in this decision. I personally think releasing the steps one by one could be a potentially fun community experience if that option wins, but I hope you will ultimately do what works best for you and your team. If full release is what would make you and your team happy and feel more confident in the game, that's what you should do regardless of what option wins. Everyone will be willing to wait if that's what's best.
Eglantine
2025-02-07 22:47:26 +0000 UTCHey everybody, David here. In case you all don't know, I'm one of the team members quietly helping GB in the background, working on all the scripts. Seeing all the support coming out for this thread is really touching. Thank you all so much for being with us, and helping us know how best to get this game out to you. Trust me when I say this story has so many wonderful moments in store for you all, and I can't wait to help get them to you in whatever way we can.
David Clark
2025-02-07 22:40:12 +0000 UTCI think a full release would be better. Following the patreon is fun, but for general public I feel like it's best to offer a more polished experience
Konoi Kurozora
2025-02-07 22:12:08 +0000 UTCPersonally, I'd prefer to wait for the full release so I can play the game all at once. The demo has me chomping at the bit for the full game as it is. 😂
Ash
2025-02-07 21:58:48 +0000 UTCI actually said the same thing! I'm glad I'm not the only who thinks that. It's like a little of both worlds.
Spikemare
2025-02-07 21:36:02 +0000 UTCTotally understand, it’s been very stressful and hard not to doom scroll on social media lately. I’m down for whatever the outcome is, just love this game so much 🥰 hope you and the team aren’t too stressed.
Alys Arya
2025-02-07 21:32:39 +0000 UTCI personally have a hard time coming back to things once I’ve finished them and I’m definitely willing to wait for a full release rather than step by steps. I just enjoy being able to play through all at once. The anticipation of waiting for step4 for OL1 was actually fun for me. But I’m okay with whatever outcome.
chloe
2025-02-07 21:14:33 +0000 UTCWhile I get why wanting to do it in the steps I think for new fans it’s better to have the full game released, I don’t doubt that current fans wouldn’t mind it and would for sure play it I think it’s good the way it is as of currently people on Patreon get demos and get to support you while potential new fans get a complete game to experience and get to become invested in
Flux
2025-02-07 21:08:28 +0000 UTCI've mentioned this in the Kickstarter, I hope it's ok to mention it here too; but I think it's ok doing it as it is right now, with updates to the Public demo (such as colour wheel, some of the upcoming MC doll items, etc. when they are available) to keep up the interest in the game in the meantime. Development has been proceeding at a nice pace, with regular updates to the moments. 😁
Psykes
2025-02-07 20:54:10 +0000 UTCAs someone who deals with horrible anxiety believe me, you should definitely take care of yourself first that’s what always matters in the end I’m happy to wait as long as it takes, but I’m also happy with episodic release ^^
Dolph 0w0
2025-02-07 20:40:46 +0000 UTCI would totally be happy with episode release. I still play OLBA regularly. I just bought more DLCs because these games are amazing! I'll wait excitedly as long as you need for another few moments with my friends.
Pixus Mousanny
2025-02-07 20:32:41 +0000 UTCas someone who suffers from anxiety i hope you do what best for you and take care of yourself. and as someone who been supporting for years since Our life Beginnings and Always, I think it been worth every cent i have given and i would love for the episodic release because you and the team put a lot of love and care into Our life and i know that with more care, time, for both the game and yourselves it will be amazing. Thank you for asking.
Bobcatll G
2025-02-07 20:10:09 +0000 UTCIf the episodic route wins, I don't think that'll be a bad thing! You're 100% right in that with everything going on, letting people see more of OLNF could be a huge boost to them, maybe it might be a good idea to see a more public opinion of what general players might want? And besides that, if you're concerned about the released steps missing certain things, I think at the end of the day, players would need to be clear on the fact that this is still a game in development, regardless of how much there is to play. As a current beta player, I'm always aware of that and appreciate how hard the whole team works on these games, so I'd be hoping that non-backer players would also hold that same respect to you all.
Minty
2025-02-07 20:07:27 +0000 UTCFrom a psychological point I do think these games give people who are feeling targeted by the world right now(myself included) a sense of safety and happiness. On the other hand, this community and the members of staff are a supportive place. Those of us who have been here since the beginning believe in the way you do things. Please don’t do things you don’t want to do. We will still be here.
Jessica Flynn
2025-02-07 20:04:11 +0000 UTCI don’t think you have to worry about doing more to compensate for the fact you need more time to work on the game or that things are difficult right now. I still enjoy the betas immensely and play OL1 regularly, you just do the schedule your already comfortable with, doesn’t matter that the game might come out a little later than you expected <3
ItaLii
2025-02-07 19:59:16 +0000 UTCI want to play it all at once but I’m fine with episodic releases as I can just choose to wait for it to be complete before I play it
Lance corporal rivaille
2025-02-07 19:58:29 +0000 UTCI think releasing them in an episodic format is a fantastic idea. With the world the way it is right now, I’ve found myself returning to the first OL game time and time again, as well as the beta for this entry, seeking the comfort of the world and the characters, so having even a portion of the next game would be such a bright spot. You’ve created something truly wonderful with these games, and I can only speak for myself, but they’ve really been such a blessing for me. Ultimately, I’m happy to receive the game in whichever way you feel is best, but I definitely wouldn’t be opposed to getting more of Qiu and Tamarack and the whole of Golden Grove! 💚
Jasper
2025-02-07 19:53:18 +0000 UTCRegardless of the outcome I’m just grateful to have been included. Not all gaming devs listen or include their players in discussions like these and I appreciate the amount of communication and transparency you’ve shown us. As the old saying goes: “The real journey was the friends we made along the way,”
Lien Hua
2025-02-07 19:48:22 +0000 UTCDon't normally comment. But I wanted to say that as someone who both backed the project on Kickstarter, and as someone whose been supporting you on Patreon. I've been happy with every £ I've sent to support this project. I'll also be happy with whichever outcome of the poll. As someone who suffers from anxiety I know there isn't anything I could type to alleviate that. Though I hope you'll feel better eventually. And I know this game will help others feel better regardless of when its released in whatever structure. I hope everyone at GB Patch takes care as well.
Michael Clynes
2025-02-07 19:38:57 +0000 UTCThis is a very unique thing to ask to the fandom! But no matter what is decided I want to make sure everyone in the game development team takes their time and use their big brains in a healthy matter, never stress yourselfs for any reason. We all love you 💕
Orange
2025-02-07 19:38:07 +0000 UTCI think you should do what feels right to you and something you can remain proud of. Having said that I'm a more recent join but have thourghly enjoyed ol1 and the ol2 beta/demo. I'm totally fine with it remaining as is, but I also understand releasing the steps as they are finished. Since other games have followed a similar format and been successful. I would say one benefit, if you did do it by episode/step is it might alleviate some stress since you could focus on each step versus the whole game. Which may in perspective be less stressful and daunting of a task breaking it up that way. It could also open the door for you to make changes and try things you might not have felt comfortable doing or felt were possible due to time constraints etc. So having said that I would prefer you do something that you're comfortable with and enjoy. I appreciate you asking for feedback and input. But I trust you to do what feels right to you. Ultimately I know I'm gonna love it regardless of how it's delivered to me! Thanks for making such amazing games truly!
Patricia Gaillard
2025-02-07 19:36:30 +0000 UTCIt might be odd to say about a game so focused on player agency, but I’ll be happy to play the game in whatever form best suits your artistic vision! If more frequent releases can be done without compromising that, then great- but either way, I’ll be there day one!
solaslow74
2025-02-07 19:34:36 +0000 UTCI have completed the poll, thank you for asking the community for their desires in the future of production. As always, I wish to support GB Patch Games as much as I can. I hope everyone knows that we are here to support each other, especially including you, GB Lady, as well as your entire team. Regardless of the results of the poll, I hope everyone takes their time and doesn’t overwork themselves. We love you GB Lady!
Doc_Witch
2025-02-07 19:31:16 +0000 UTCI also love to play the beta i look forward to it every month:) i am fine with whatever causes you the least stress
idis91
2025-02-07 19:29:26 +0000 UTCRegardless of what option wins i fully support you and your fantastic team the most important thing is for you to do what feels right for you and your creative process but thank you for giving us a choice too:)
idis91
2025-02-07 19:25:17 +0000 UTCIt would include the optional DLC for the Step. If Step 1 came out, it would be all of Step 1! And Step 2 wouldn't launch until the base version and the DLC scenes were completed, but it'd come out long before Step 3 was finished.
GB Patch
2025-02-07 19:20:05 +0000 UTCFor clarification, will the episodic releases include the DLC option for purchase as well at the same time as the base game? Or will this only be releasing the base game to the public? (I'm mostly asking for Step 2. i.e: Will the release of step 2 in this new format be done when the *base* game is completely, or after all the DLC moments are finished and programmed and betaed and what not?) Sorry if my question is a bit confusing, I'm not gonna lie, I am running on a few hours of sleep and haven't had enough coffee in me yet to function properly. ^^;
Deniese Stacy
2025-02-07 19:18:03 +0000 UTCI think the most important thing is that you guys are happy with how the game is released! Fans of the series know how hard you guys are working and I don’t think anyone would want you to release on a schedule that, for any reason, causes you stress. I’m always happy to play the beta build so would be very happy play in steps rather than all at once, but equally have no issue waiting for the entire game if that’s the preferred option ☺️ Thanks for being one of the most considerate game devs in the business, you guys deserve all the patience and success!
Emily Hughes
2025-02-07 19:17:14 +0000 UTCIt means Step 1 will come out when it is done, it won't be held back until 2026 when the other Steps are done. And Step 2 will be released whenever it's done. The original plan was not to release anything other than a demo until Steps 1, 2, and 3 were all done.
GB Patch
2025-02-07 19:15:52 +0000 UTCthank you for always including us in decisions and keeping us in the loop!! we love you gb patch!!!
batman
2025-02-07 19:14:58 +0000 UTCNot gonna lie, I don't understand what this means. So it's either we vote to continue as it already is but loose detail? Or we wait till 2026 with the detail?
Anime Yay
2025-02-07 19:14:13 +0000 UTCThe poll is linked! This is for all players, not a Patreon specific poll that's built into the post.
GB Patch
2025-02-07 19:14:13 +0000 UTCI think you forgot to add the actual poll? XD
Lily the Litten
2025-02-07 19:09:23 +0000 UTCregardless of which option wins, i want to say thank you gb for giving us the choice! <3
mia
2025-02-07 19:03:03 +0000 UTC
