I had originally created an entirely different idea for this project, called Imprints. It was a game with a much more serious tone but was going to be designed with the same framework and engine. However, the scope became entirely too large, and it stopped becoming fun for me, as much as I loved to be stubborn and push for something I had a passion for. And so, I decided to place the project on hold and focus on what I love to do most—laugh.  

I ad-libbed this entire game as I developed it and learned RPG Maker, using the provided tilesets and sprites generously provided by the engine itself. It was the perfect tool for me to ‘play dolls’ and see where the story went—and it surely went in ways I didn’t even think of. I knew I wanted to include themes of identity, faith, and human curiosity. I wanted to have fun and encourage the player to explore concepts with nuance. Shun is an absurd character, but he becomes someone who has his own voice. I am an absurd person—that's not a bad thing! I’m different. But I think this game might help people learn it’s okay to be different and forge your own path. Following rules gets pretty boring, doesn’t it? 

I wanted to think, laugh, and explore while making this game. In this game, you as a player think, laugh, and explore. You are more than you think you are, and sometimes you need a little laughter to get you to where you want to be. Shun, is, funnily enough, a reflection of me. He sees himself as a ‘jobless dirtbag’ and fills the void with random humor. I used to see myself as talentless compared to my peers. But I learned to think critically of myself and understand my own strengths, just as Shun realizes he can use his knowledge of his own world to navigate Vernia.  

Be weird. Think differently. Question your own path in life. Actually, just question everything. And, have fun doing it! We’re only here for a limited amount of time. 

Artist’s Statement