Invitation to a dream

This was the Sundaysky's (Game Designer) first attempt at a game on RPG Maker so I feel some slack must be given and feedback should be constructive. Along the same lines, I am also totally new to RPG MAker XV Ace and to this community. So there's always firsts for everyone.

I thought this was actually a cute little game with a little twist on who is saving who formula. One thing Sundaysky mentioned was that is was based on a ballad and I wish we could have read the lyrics/words a little bit along the way. It would give some depth to the story and also explain more of what was going on.

I also think some introspect into Eva's character would make her more relatable to us. We don't need long brooding scenes but the girl has spunk and dedication... it would be neat to learn a little bit about what events made her into this person.

The game has its issues - there is no doubt. But it also has some nice charm that helps you to overlook some of the minor problems.

In terms of gameplay, the side-scrolling action is a nice change from the usual fights we see in RPG's. I wish there would have been at least a couple new items and gear that Eva could wear along with some healing potions. Adding some magic based attacks to the fight scenes would have been great.

As they stand - they aren't boring but they don't engage the player too much. I didn't mind going through them, though. If Sundaysky is using this as a testing base and would add some of these suggestions in the future, then it makes more sense and I can't be too harsh on it.

You'll have some minor puzzles and mind-quests to break up a little of the fighting. These are generally easy but I know a couple people who actually were having a hard time with them. Hard time with a game that they might see as just mediocre often = they stop playing. So maybe some hints could have been offered somewhere and other passages to the Queen's castle; one focuses on fighting, the other on puzzles, one on mind-teasers, etc. Just an idea and it would give us a chance to explore this new world we find ourselves 'invited' to just to see what all is out there.

The game gives you few hints for the brain-teasers by how many letters the word contains. But if its not exact, or capitalized exactly, or you don't talk to the NPC from the exact angle... you won't make it.

The graphics are nothing too special for a first-run. Not bad, not good, just RPG maker fare for getting started. There are some pretty pictures drawn for the intro, character profile, and ending... this, I believe is where this little game has its charm. She didn't just use standard fare but put part of herself into it. There's just something special when that happens. Very nice job on that one!!

The sounds and music are also pleasing. They are standard in some places and pretty in others. But certainly not negative.

Overall, I liked this game. I really did. I would even entertain the thought of a sequel or re-imagined version with some of these suggestions added. Make it longer, add more "you", allow for some actual exploring and different items, add some nice music befitting a fairy forest, reveal the ballad to us as we go along and get to know Eva as well. Spice up the combat with some better control, magic, variety of enemies, and so forth. The puzzles are fine but give a little wiggle room when a player is having a hard time.

So SundaySky, if you reading this... I'll be waiting for "Invitation to a Dream - Remix" or perhaps "Invitation to a Nightmare"!! 0_0

I actually would recommend this game to a friend and I have. They are just like me in getting started. I wanted to show them they can do something as simple as this, a quick yet fun game, yet it connects to you, and isn't that what gaming is all about??

Its far from a perfect game. But it IS cute and for getting this done in five days and making her first game ever on RPG maker - I'd say its okay. ^_^