July 18 Update

Last week I was missing three major maps. This week I have one more and some promises. I would very much like to release TLS 0.57.0 on Friday, but it's going to be a stressful week.

I finished everything that isn't built on top of maps. After that, I began pushing forward in a linear fashion with testing - not checking every single branch and alternate dialogue, but trying to run through all events. My plan is this: if I get to a point that needs unfinished maps before the mapper gets back to me, I'll make them myself. This is an unfriendly thing to do to someone I am commissioning, but their communication about the last maps has not been what I'd prefer.

I'm not going to be able to relax until this update is out. The reason is that, for complex updates like this, I try to hold the entire thing in my head at once. There are many details, from the variables to the order of which event bounces to which map on which branch. I can hold a reasonable number of things mentally, but not an infinite number, and not stretched out over so many days of achronological work. The longer it extends, the more it will suck for me and the more oversights will make it into the released version.

Some Positivity: Process aside, I believe that you will all have a very fun time with this update. There's a lot of payoff that I've been building toward for a long time. I've added some screenshots to show work done so far, from the tactical map (which is a much bigger headache than anticipated) to Qum's eloquent commentary. ^-^

Trailer Post: Go look at the new draft of the OEA trailer. Discussion in that post.

OEA Maps: This is actually the last set for feedback, believe it or not.

• The Last Path: This dungeon has magic spheres with glimpses of other Tales in them. Those who have played will see how it's appropriate, and I hope it will make the map stand out from other "void" dungeons.
• Cutscene Maps: A platform for the big final battle and then the little ending map.
• Crucible of the Abstract: We decided to make this more of a mysterious library, to emphasize the meta angle. Originally there was a carpet in the center, but I didn't like it. Do people feel the second type of wood works, or should it be swapped out?
• Gallery: Also a library, and rearranged a bit for aesthetic reasons.
• Ending Maps: The forest is straightforward, but I hope people like the final clearing. This is the one where two characters are planning to build their new home, and accordingly it has scenery that's a blend of their natures.

This process still needs more steps of checking, integration, and refinement... but those will be delayed until after the TLS update. For now, a major task is done. The mapper and I finished negotiations and began working on maps on June 18 of 2020. From then to today, we've exchanged 1326 emails... about 3.3 per day. Though I think this was worth the price, both in money and time, I am relieved that the core work is finally done.

Anyway, as I said: I hope Friday. I don't want to discourage people from contacting me, but if you have questions or issues that are easily delayed, maybe leave them until next week.