iomramh

[iomramh]

They say no one is living here — but lights come on, once every year.

[iomramh]

Hello, and welcome to Barracuda Shark Games!

My name is J.V. Cruz and I am an aspiring writer, currently focused on the Interactive Fiction genre. Links: F.A.Q. | Ko-fi | Linktree

I have two major projects planned: Binary Stars and Bloody Prophecies. Stay tuned for more information on those!

I am currently working on my first title, Bethroned, which just published its alpha version on September 12, 2024!

Alpha version available to play here!

You are a royal heir, third born to the King of Arevikland, yet tenth in line for the throne. While your older siblings were being groomed for politics, you were being wielded into a weapon of war. Your coming of age ceremony was followed by a declaration of war on a neighboring empire; your gift: you were placed in command of your father's troops.

It's been 12 long years of a bloody war with no end in sight, and everyone knows that this war would have ended poorly years ago if it weren't for your leadership. Yet suddenly your father is pulling you from the frontlines... a betrothal to the enemy is on your horizon.

In Bethroned, you will play as a customizable (male or female; gay, bi, straight, or asexual) spare heir in a fictional world, living amongst the people with whom your homeland had until recently been warring for over a decade.

Play the cards you've been dealt as you try to shape your destiny. Will you befriend those who were once your sworn rivals? Or will you pull strings in hopes of granting advantages to the homeland that used you as its pawn?

Uncover a plot that could destabilize the peace between your homeland and the empire you married into. Will your royal spouse become your greatest ally, against all odds? Or will they rue the day they agreed to your father's terms?

You might even find love in the unlikeliest places, with six unique romanceable characters: - a loyal bodyguard who is as sensitive as he is brave - an austere advisor who keeps her bleeding heart closely guarded - a noble knight whose trust is hard-won - a cunning spymaster whose only blindside might be her own feelings - a kind priest whose dedication to his faith mirrors his dedication to his loved ones - a charming noblewoman who offers more than meets the eye...

What kind of consort will you be?

[iomramh]

After The End

Premise 

Your former fiancé and heir apparent of the Aurelian Kingdom, Prince Ædan, has married the love of his life, the fair Saintess Helene. As the nation celebrates their union, you are left alone to pick up the pieces of your broken heart... until you receive two letters. One is an invitation to the office of Prince Ædric, the crown prince's younger brother and rival for the throne. The other is a letter filled with concern from your childhood friend and secretary-in-training, Cyfrin, who is currently assisting your father at your family’s ducal estate in the countryside. Each letter contains a proposition that will change the course of your fate forever.

Which one will you choose?

Features 

Play as the male lead’s abandoned betrothed of a historical fantasy romance that has reached ‘The End.’ You will be able to customize your character’s identity and appearance with a variety of options. 

Choose between two routes for your next course of action. Will you accept the offer of an alliance with the crown prince's younger (and more capable) brother and become the monarch you were always meant to be? Or will you take a step back from the noise and hubbub of high society in the capital and return to your family's estate in the countryside, where your best friend promises to arrange such a great vacation for you that you’ll forget about your ex in no time? 

Characters

The Second Prince: Ædric Aurelius

Ædric is known throughout the kingdom as the Dark Prince, not just because of his ebony black hair, but also because of his unsociable disposition. While it is true that his deep violet eyes and usual scowl can be intimidating, he has been nothing but kind to you in all the years that you have known him. Sometimes you would catch him looking at you with a small smile on his face, but he would always deny it ever happened.

(Ædric's introduction post)

The Future Secretary: Cyfrin Galanthus

You have known Cyfrin your entire life, and your father has known him for even longer, given that he discovered your best friend on the doorstep of your home when he was just a baby. Even though he is the older one between you two, he often trails behind you like a duckling following its mother when his break times align with yours. He has often been compared to a dog: always eager to spend time with you, fiercely protective and loyal, sullen and moody whenever you are apart.

(Cyfrin's introduction post)

The Crown Prince: Ædan Aurelius

Handsome and charismatic, Ædan is the definition of a fairytale prince… just not your fairytale prince. With his golden blond hair and crystal blue eyes, he easily captured the hearts of the people upon his social debut. When he unleashes his soft smile upon a crowd, there is a very high chance that more than half of those present will swoon. You, too, were once enchanted by that smile, back when you thought your love would last until the end of time.

(Ædan's introduction post)

The Fair Saintess: Helene

If your world was the setting of a typical romance novel, there would be no doubt who the protagonist would be. People say that her beauty is a blessing from the gods, and that her silver hair and golden eyes were meant to set her apart as the Favored One. Helene may have almost the entire kingdom wrapped around her little finger, but you know that her true colors are lurking just beneath the kind and naive front she puts up.

(Helene's introduction post)

Status

Chapter 1, Part 1: releasing on January 5, 2024 9:00 PM EST

Chapter 1, Part 2: in progress, estimated release in April/May 2024

Chapter 1, Part 3: in progress

(MC's introduction post)

(Frequently Asked Questions)

Game Link

[iomramh]

Misplaced

Misplaced is a fantasy romance interactive fiction WIP, wherein your choices not only determine your own fate, but that of an entire kingdom. Let me take you an adventure filled with both whimsy and tragedy alike.

The current public demo goes up to the end of Chapter 7, available here: https://calliopefiction.itch.io/misplaced

The demo on Patreon goes up to the end of Chapter 8: https://www.patreon.com/CalliopeFiction

The Story:

For decades, the human kingdom of Gaiapeia has been fighting against the fae living in the surrounding lands. How this conflict started depends entirely on who you ask.

You are the child of Lady and Sir Grahm, a noble familiy who has been serving the crown for generations. Eager to follow in your father's footsteps, you have been training for years to become a knight worthy of being Prince Az'Lean's Champion - his right hand, his closest confidant, the one who protects his life from the growing danger of the fae.

When the time finally comes and you are chosen for the position, it's a dream come true. You couldn't be happier. But just one day later, on your 21st birthday, a terrible truth is revealed to you.

You are a changeling - a fae child that was smuggled into a human family with only one purpose: to gain the prince's trust and use it against him.

A war between humans and fae is surely brewing and the outcome depends entirely on you.

Features:

Customize the appearance of your MC, play as non-binary, female, or male and romance whoever you like however you like, including the choice for asexual or queer-platonic relationships.

Enjoy the story without having to worry about stats - you will be a competent knight no matter what. There is no failure or success, only different choices and their outcomes.

Shape your personality, and your trustworthiness, with your actions. Other characters' disposition to you will change depending on how they perceive you.

Pick a side early on, play the long con, or refuse to make a choice at all. There are multiple split paths that will feature the same romancable characters - but their relationship to you might vary greatly (including villain romances).

Romance:

Vynn (nb):

Vynn is one of your fellow knights and a long-time friend. Unlike you, they aren't a knight by choice and don't care much for fighting. You get the feeling they'd much rather be a bard if they could, seeing as they love playing the lute, spinning epic tales and generally being a source of levity. They are fiercely loyal and good-natured, though there is that bit of resentment that will never quite leave their heart.

Prince Az'Lean (m):

Az'Lean is your prince, the one you are sworn to protect. At a glance, he is the very picture of a fairytale prince: charming, chivalrous, and powerful. He is an excellent fighter, loves animals, and prefers to be treated like an equal. Anyone who cares to look will soon notice the darkness lurking beneath that shining exterior, festering ever since the death of his mother.

Lady Meave (f):

Maeve is a powerful dryad who was sent to educate you on the ways of the fae. She is usually playful and soft, but can get eerily intense at times. As much as she cares about decorum and courtly things, she finds joy in the simplest things and easily turns into a giggly mess. For all her humour, you can never quite tell if she is being serious. Sometimes it feels like she's just playing with you.

Thianne (f):

Thianne is a sorceress and one of Az'Lean's most trusted advisors. She is intelligent and hard-working, though sometimes at the expense of her own well-being. Although she comes across as abrasive and rude, she is always willing to help those who need it. Her dry sense of humour and brutal honesty have endeared her to just as many people as they have made her enemies.

Lester (m):

Lester is a half-fae servant, working in the castle. As with most half-fae, his presence isn't entirely welcome and his reasons for being here seem complexer than he lets on. Lester is known for his mischief and his crude humour, often pulling pranks that border on malicious. Despite the way he presents himself as laid-back and uncaring, it's clear that there's a lot he isn't opening up about.

Warnings:

This story contains potentially triggering content. There will be graphic depictions of violence, death, discrimination, body-image issues and mental illness (including panic attacks, suicidal thoughts and paranoia). Discretion is advised.

Support:

Thank you so much for showing any interest in this project at all! If you would like to receive biweekly update posts, participate in polls, and get access to bonus short stories, consider supporting me on patreon: https://www.patreon.com/CalliopeFiction

[iomramh]

Within Your Eyes Intro Post

DEMO [Last Updated June 22nd, 2024]

You are a Warden, a monster hunter who has come to the Kingdom of Auris which has become the forefront runner in it’s acceptance of magic and supernatural alike within the West Highlands. But when strange happenstances occur, you are called upon not just because of skill, but also because of your condition. A condition you’ve lied about for last 12 years.

Unearth the secrets that magic holds as a new form is discovered.

Befriend or romance those who attempt to worm through the cracks of the mask you wear. Or will you fight to keep them at arms length?

Regardless of where your journey takes you, your feathered friend will be at your side. As he always has been.

This story will be 18+ for the following reasons:

Explicit and erotic intimate scenes

Death, including of a child

Violence, blood and gore

Thoughts of suicide

Mentions of suicide

Self harm

Explicit language

Mental trauma

Horror elements

Feelings of being watched

NOTE: Your character will be pretending to have a disability (blindness), not because of a disorder but out of self preservation.

This list may be updated.

You are running away from your past. As you take a this new job, you're forced to confront it. What vices do you use to cope? Will you learn to rely on others or will your raven be your only source of comfort? Will you feel guilty for your lies? Yours will be a journey of self-forgiveness, or maybe you'll only fall deeper into despair.

Play as a man, woman, or non-binary. Gay, straight, or bi.

Plenty of customization options from physical appearance to clothes.

Φ Admos de Le Wren ─ Male | Draconian | Second-Born

Admos, the Dragon Lord of Auris, ascended to the throne following a devastating conflict with his father, bypassing his older brother's claim. This decision deepened the rift among his siblings. As he enters his fifth year as sovereign, Admos grapples with guilt and uncertainty about his role in the family's discord. Will you help him find clarity or fuel his doubts?

Φ Lyth/Lyari de Le Wren ─ Gender Selectable | Draconian | Tenth-Born

Ly took on the role of Viceroy/Vicereine in Auris and became their brother Admos's Right Hand, playing a vital part in the kingdom's recovery after a conflict with their father. However, an incident they triggered over a year and a half ago almost led to another war, casting doubt on their suitability for their position and their aid to their brother. Will you help Ly grapple with their past actions and uncertainties about their role as Viceroy/Vicereine, or will their internal conflicts remain unresolved?

Φ Leese/Lea van Laere ─ Gender Selectable | Human | Vampire

Born into nobility, Lee's life as the child of prominent figures in Lenia took an unexpected turn when they were turned into a vampire. Forced to leave their home, Lee now wrestles with their new identity, desperately seeking meaning in their existence and if it's worth maintaining.

Is Lee a monster consumed by instinct, or can you help them reclaim their humanity?

Φ Xiang Xiaowen/Xiaodan ─ Gender Selectable | Human

Xiao, an ambassador dispatched to Auris to aid the Dragon Lord in Council matters, fought hard to secure their role. Serving as an unofficial advisor, they frequently share insights to assist Admos. Yet their unwavering dedication to obtaining this position hints at a deeper motivation. Perhaps they will reveal it to you.

Φ Gabriel Duarte ─ Gender Selectable | Human

Assigned to you as an assistant of sorts, the recently knighted guard is searching for their place within the Order. Perhaps their new mission will set them on a path for glory, or sink them beneath the turmoils it takes to obtain.

Φ Hestia ─ She/They | Elf? | Witch

Even the most kind have their secrets.

Φ ???

Poly Routes: Lyth/Lyari and Gabriel | Leese/Lea and Gabriel | Xiaowen/Xiaodan and Hestia

Love Triangle: Admos and ???

------------------------------------------------------------------------------

FAQ

Romance Information Post

Ko-Fi

Tumblr Asks are disabled for the time being.

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WYE will always be free with chapters released once they are finished.

This is a planned trilogy.

Thank you for reading and for your support! ♥

[iomramh]

The Sugarcube Version is LIVE

Updates 08/16/2024, Version 0.6.9

Updated storyformat to Sugarcube, overhauling the UI

Overhauled naming your horse

Overhauled chosing nationality, splitting it into skincolor and whereabouts. Right now only the whereabouts that are somehow acknowledged in text (published or planned) are standalone options. This might change down the line.

Added option whether or not MC is alright with physical contact

Added in a few name-easter eggs and naming restrictions.

Various bug- and prosefixes

NO new chapter yet, that will come soon.

Enjoy the new version, and report all the bugs and errors that managed to sneak past our testers.

[iomramh]

Gods and Villains is a superhero/horror story set in a dystopian future where Earth is filled to the brim with crime and corruption—a.k.a MCU meets The Boys.

Warning! injury to major characters, gore, body horror, trauma and PTSD, amnesia, death, and sexual content. Rated +18. More specific content warnings will be provided at the start of each chapter.

You take control of a powerful metahuman, an otherwise ordinary human on the outside but who has the meta-gene, a potent mutation deep engraved in their DNA, which gives them superhuman abilities. This next step in human evolution comes with a setback, however, for the curse of madness seems to follow their every step. It lurks in the shadows, patiently waiting for the opportunity to strike—many metahumans fall prey to its alluring promises. 

With a dark and traumatic past filled with untold horrors and inhuman experiments, you are rescued from the clutches of crazy terrorists by a team of heroes that might lend you all the tools you need for redemption or complete self-annihilation. 

As the only metahuman with the ability to wield the powerful Chaos Magic, your very blood holds the answers to unlocking the secrets behind the control of time and space, but it has the drawback of being almost completely volatile. 

Who can you trust to keep you safe other than yourself? Trust no one, and maybe you can get out of this literal hell alive.

Play as male, female, or non-gender specific, along with transgender choices;

Romance one of seven characters, and if your heart is big enough fall in love with two of them. There's three possible poly routes available: Archon and Stardom, Archon and Mars, Paladin and Wildcat;

Customize your appearance, personality and powers;

Struggle against the shackles of madness trying to take hold of your psyche;

Battle a multitude of villains or become one yourself;

Uncover the secrets behind the meta-gene and your abilities;

Help the public fall in love with superheroes or forever destroy that chance;

In total there are seven romance options, each with their own personality, and dark secrets for you to uncover. You can read more about them below:

?

The villain, or anti-hero, whatever you want to call them, Mars is an enigmatic figure; the very concept of life seems to hold no value to them. A trail of bodies follows wherever they go, and on the news, they are regarded as the biggest menace of the century. They will have the unique ability to sway your loyalty. Beware, their sweet words and promises may drip with honey, but they also drip with the blood of their victims.​

Trope: Forbidden love, emotional scars, blood-play

Zev/Zena Hammer

The oldest of the bunch and not a metahuman per se. Hammer acts as the spokesperson for the team, mitigating the often tenuous relationship between humans and the so-called "mutants". As a retired police detective they've learned firsthand how rotten the world can be for the innocent, and they've vowed to protect them at any cost. Their analytical and communication skills will go hand in hand when dealing with various crimes, just as their implants.

Trope: Widow/widower, age gap, don't-call-me-daddy/mommy

Adam/Ada Armstrong

The current leader of the Alliance Team. Headstrong and dauntless, they are regarded as the strongest metahuman in modern times and the most enigmatic of them all, whose past is shrouded in mystery and unknown even to their closest friends. On the outside, they might seem apathetic and unconcerned with human suffering, but their true feelings are hidden beneath layers of deep trauma. Superhuman strength and invulnerability are their greatest assets when fighting villains.

Trope: Nobody thinks it will work, love/hate, fucking-your-boss

Edward/Evelyn Osborne

The former leader of the Alliance Team and Archon's best friend. On the surface, they are the stereotypical showboat: cocky, greedy, and egoistical. Stardom does whatever they can to gain attention, fame, and riches. For them, the best feeling in the world is an adoring fan and a beautiful person fawning over their heroics. The meta-gene gives them a genius-level intellect, which in turn is used to develop several pieces of equipment that are employed by themselves and the team during fights.​

Trope: Billionaire, belated love epiphany, good-people-have-good-sex

Johnny/Johnnie

If Archon's past is shrouded in mystery, Paladin's is drowned in it. For all you know, their name is not even Johnny/Johnnie but an alias of their choosing. They are known to be the silent loner type and are somewhat socially withdrawn from other members of the team, only speaking when called upon to do so. Behind their silver mask, they harbor more than a few inner demons, and together with their superhuman weapon and combat proficiency, they fight for the innocent.​

Trope: Secret identity, oblivious to love, weapon-fetishization

Pedro/Pilar Flores

The youngest of the team, considered by many a lighthearted jokester without any real talent beyond their obvious powers—which set them apart from every human that walks the earth. With their metahuman status so evident for everyone to see, hiding just didn't seem like an option, so they chose the next best alternative. Known to be playful, energetic, and often immature, they are responsible for balancing the team's more serious side, and when someone can take the form of any living being on Earth, the repertoire of pranks is endless.​

Trope: Beauty and the Beast, broken in some way, begging

Doctor Malik/Malika Aziz

The renowned Doctor Aziz, a famed archaeologist and considered to be the most powerful sorcerer, or magic user, in the world. They wear several enchanted artifacts that, in turn, accentuate their already tremendous knowledge of the mystical forces. With an extremely strong moral compass and kind demeanor, they will show themselves to be the best teacher you could ask for, but why do they seem to be everywhere you look?

Trope: Time travel, twin siblings or clones?, teacher-student

LINKS

DEMO ✶ PATREON ✶ KO-FI

[iomramh]

What if I was a lonely brooding man but my features softened as I stared at you adoringly?

[iomramh]

Shepherds of Haven

Shepherds of Haven is a dark fantasy interactive fiction game. In it, you play as a Mage living in a world where magic is outlawed and your people—those possessing supernatural powers—are oppressed and reviled. The world is ruled by humans who believe in science, technology, and industry: at best, you and your kind are nothing more than a fairytale, and at worst you are the state’s greatest threat. 

Thus, using magic has been illegal for centuries. But after years of persecution, you are suddenly offered an opportunity to use your powers for good: demons are now returning, and the world needs fighters like you to protect the population from their invasion. Guns and bullets do no good against monsters pulled from primeval nightmares; only your people and your supernatural powers have the ability to fight fire with fire. 

So you join the Shepherds: an order of elite heroes and fighters comprised of the very people the world once feared more than the demons themselves. As a Shepherd, you’ll solve magical crimes, slay demons to protect the citizens of Haven, and build your reputation throughout the capital. Explore the world of Blest, recruit allies and factions to join the Shepherds’ cause, find romance and companionship, investigate mysteries, lead rebellions and exorcisms, and uncover answers to the crises plaguing the world. Where are the demons coming from? Where have the gods or God gone, if they ever existed? Who are you, really? 

And will you be the world’s true savior… or will you be its ultimate downfall?

Customize your protagonist: choose names, gender, sexuality, appearance, weapon, magic specialization, educational background, racial heritage, and much more

Play as male, female, or non-binary; straight, gay, bisexual, or pansexual; as well as aromantic, asexual, aro-ace, or allo

Thousands of choices and role-playing variations: build your character’s personality and worldview from the ground up, test your loyalties and morals in every chapter, and make meaningful decisions that will change the story and world of the game in large and small ways

15 companions to recruit and befriend, each with their own unique story

10 romance options (5 male, 5 female) and 2 one-night stands/flings

Fulfilling friendship and romance routes, culminating in dozens of different possible endings for each major character, as well as diverse endings for the protagonist, their relationships, and the state of the world

An ever-changing codex, character guide, journal, inventory, and stats page that grows and adjusts as you play

A hubworld-style exploration system between chapters: interact with the city and explore the world on your days off; take quests or side jobs; train; shop; gamble; pray; read; and spend time with or date companions between story missions

Dozens of mechanical secrets to reward your playthrough: achievements, a new game+ system, a save system, unlockable art, collectible trading cards, room decorations and souvenirs, a planned “stupid mode,” and planned DLC

Much more!

✨ Play Here ✨

Completed Prologue, Chapter 1, Chapter 2, Chapter 3

Approx. 270,000 words

Last Updated: August 2021

FAQ

⭐️ Play here ⭐️

Prologue, Chapter 1, Chapter 2, Chapter 3, Chapter 4, Chapter 5, Chapter 6, Chapter 7, Chapter 8, Chapter 9 [In Progress]

Approx. 1,160,000 words without code

Last Updated: June 2024

Currently only available to testers and Patrons until the beta build

Keep reading

[iomramh]

Your kingdom has lost the war. The Royal Family is dead, including your mistress, the Old King's beloved concubine. Following her last command, you are forced to bend your knees to the new ruler. You continue to live your life as a dutiful high servant, striving to maintain normalcy as best you can, until one moonlit night, you accidentally uncover a terrifying secret... and attract dangerous attention.

Thus begins your new life as the Royal Consort, navigating the intrigue of your old-yet-new Court, all while guarding The Secret with your life.

"May Luxen always shine upon you."

Play as a male or female bearing the title of Royal Consort.

Romance the Ruler with a questionable reputation who is your now lawful partner; the Knight with a piercing gaze who follows you like a devoted shadow; the scandalous nouveau riche who happens to be the Minister of Entertainment; the striking Cousin who prefers the company of books; or a secret... something?

Join the exquisite intrigue of the Court by planning lavish parties, attending charitable events, or simply lying in your pavilion all day in hope to avoid assassination attempts—or perhaps even plot some yourself.

Acquire an expensively crafted dagger... and stab a few people in the back—or you know, a charming smile works too!

Embrace your new royal life with all its privileges and responsibilities—or find yourself trapped in misery, contemplating your choices.

Secrets. Hidden Truths. Lies. You name it.

Here's the list of romantic options who may or may not desire the demise of the Royal Consort. Questionable information. Proceed with extreme caution.

MALLORY d'ASTRUM | THE RULER (M)

Formerly the enemy commander who slew the Old King, Mallory now become the new Ruler who reigns over the Court of Crescent—your beloved kingdom's new moniker. A member of the Imperial House Astrum, you were familiar with his rumors long before the Empire invaded your kingdom. Wolf of War, they said, so that's why you are quite... baffled when you find him as tame as a pampered royal dog, for lack of better words. Did you hear the right rumors? Were all the bard's tales lies? Is this sweets-loving gentleman truly the same vicious commander once called the Beast of Battle?

"My Moonshine, would you care for a dance with your partner?"

VIVIAN d'BENITO | THE KNIGHT (F)

Every royal family member always has a loyal personal Knight, and so do you. Vivian is the very epitome of a guard on duty, according to your etiquette book. Silent yet attentive, her gaze never strays far from you. Obedient yet firm, she grants any wishes of yours as long as they do not clash with Mallory. Vivian has sworn an oath to protect you from any external threats, however can you trust your life to a knight who serves the Imperial House that destroyed the former royal family? Can you trust any oath that passes the lips of a former member of the Knights of Raven?

"I'm yours to command, Your Serene Highness."

ELLIS EDSELLY | THE MINISTER (M)

Scandal, scandal, and more scandal. Ellis's life is never dull, if the rumors are true. Raised to power by the very incident that destroyed the former royal family, he has garnered quite a reputation. Some despise him, some commend him, some licking his boots—or licking much more. Ellis accepts them all with a grin and a wink. If life is a stage, surely the Minister of Entertainment has the center seat. A commoner turned merchant turned noble, he has certainly climbed the power ladder quite high. You wonder, will he continue to ascend even further?

"Let us raise our glass to the night of merriment!"

SORIN FLAVENY | THE COUSIN (F)

You don't know why your reclusive, anti-court great uncle grants his blessing to send your second cousin to the Court. The last time you met Sorin was when both of you were still nursing, thus your impression of her mostly comes from your other cousin's words. Citrine of Flaveny, or so you've been told, her beauty shines like gems under the sunlight, captivating countless suitors. A face of great asset, yet from her very first gathering, you hear that Sorin always curls herself up in the solitude of the palace library. Why does she even bother to come to the Court?

"Cousin! Ah, I mean, Your Majes—Serene Highness! You have a very nice home. So... yellow."

???? | T̵H̸E̸ ̶E̴N̵I̶G̵M̸A̷?̷

G̶o̶.̵ ̷S̴t̵a̴y̶.̷ ̷G̷o̵!̶ ̵S̴t̷a̴y̴!̴ ̵N̶o̸!̸ ̴D̸o̶n̴'̸t̴!̶ ̸Y̷E̷S̸!̸!̴!̴

"Y̶o̷u̴.̵ ̴A̸r̸e̶.̷ ̷M̸I̷N̵E̸!!!!"

Court of Crescent is rated 18+ for mature themes, death and near death experience, blood and violence, alcohol and drugs, sexual content, morally questionable behaviours, really morally questionable behaviours, and more.

[DEMO COMING SOON]

FALL 2024

[under construction]

[iomramh]

Another age of strife. Another war, another prophecy.

Another Chosen One.

But you are not them. No, it is not you who will draw the fabled sword named Radiance. It is not you who shall recover the golden armor of Heptra. It is not you who will pierce the heart of the Dark Champion, bringing light and order back to the land of Koverria.

Your role is to die. You have seen it, clear as day, in the flames of the future: to attain victory, your blood is the price to pay. Will you accept it as your fate? Or will you refuse, turning your back against destiny and plunging the world into the Dark Lady’s shade?

Features

Play as Male, Female, or Nonbinary and romance one of three possible RO’s, all of whom are gender-selectable

Follow your destiny till its tragic end, or seek out loopholes to save your life

Explore the fantasy world Koverria and shape its fate

Interact with a cast of interesting NPCs; experience friendship, love, and betrayal

RO List

Discover your destiny

[iomramh]

The Ballad of Devil's Creek - INFORMATION POST

The West is Wild and the West is Weird. Take up the role of an outlaw who gets wrapped up in an adventure of a lifetime. Face bounty hunter, ghosts and a doomsday cult as you travel cross the Old West, trying prevent the end of the world at the hands of eldritch horrors.

‘The Ballad of Devil’s Creek is an Interactive Novel WiP set in an alternate timeline of the ‘Old West’. It is to be published on itchio and potentially steam, app- and playstore..

A new century is around the corner, and you are an outlaw traversing the towns and terrains of the Frontier, only to one evening get wrapped up in chasing down the means to stop a doomsday cult from bringing forth the end of days.

You’ll have to deal with hustlers, grifters, gunslingers and vengeful brides as you make your way to the ghost town of Devil’s Creek to find answers, and hopefully get out of there alive.

Where to Play the Demo

HERE For the Choicescript Version on dashingdon. (20 Saveslots)

HERE For the Twine Version on itch.io (1 Saveslots)

For bugreports please contact me for the discord server. (see below)

NOTE: Please see tags and warnings below. While this isn't a 'historically accurate' story, it is still dealing with some heavy topics of the time (late 19th century America) and might not be for everyone.

---

Current Statistics:

Words per playthrough: 67k (147k with code total)

Who can I play as and Who are the Romantic Options?

You can play as cis, trans, non-binary and genderfluid. Inputting your own pronouns and addresses is also possible.

Having interchangeable pronouns is not possible, though. (Because I don't know how to code that).

There's a growing list of races/ethnicity to pick from, all having an impact on the gameplay, big and small.

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ROs:

Charlie Mulligan : (white, 39, male, Irish-American): MC’s oldest friend and partner in crime. Blue-Ribbon conman, gambler and part-time medium, lost an eye during a job a few years prior.

Seán O’Brian : (white, 28, male/genderfluid, Irish): Another excellent conman who approached MC and Charlie, asking for help with speaking to the dead. [Only romancable in a polycule with Tommy]

Tommy Burke :  (mixed (mother black (French-Canadian of French Descent), father white(Irish)), 29, male, Irish-French-Canadian): Arsonist and pragmatical grump. Was about to be hanged, now travels with the MC. Has a relationship with Seán. [Only romancable in a polycule with Seán]

Mrs. Lian Meadows: (chinese, 35, female): Doctor and sharpshooter, widowed. Pretty cold, no-nonsense approach to life. Travels with the MC to make sure they fulfil their task.

Lynwood: (white, 43, male, British/French American): A Pinkerton agent on O'Brian’s trails, trying to bring O'Brian in for murder.

Josie McKee: (mixed (mother white, father black, both Scottish), 34, female, Scottish): Widow, runs the saloon and bordello in Potter’s Springs. Bit snarky, good with poisons.

‘Preacher’: (white, 40?, male, probably Irish?) A mysterious, almost legendary gunman/bounty-hunter who takes a certain interest in the MC and their posse.

Therese 'Tess’ Lynwood: (white, 37, female (?), British/French American) Lynwood’s younger sister. Bit of a scatterbrained worrywart, but extremely caring. Follows the posse out of worry for her brother and Isaac.

Isaac Delgado: (Latino, 38, male, Mexican-American) Friend and former colleague of Lynwood. Ended up in the area by chance. Very pessimistic due to past events.

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Charakter Birthdays:

Seán: March 11th

Josie: April 17th

Charlie: May 1st

Tommy: June 9th

Lynwood: June 27th

Preacher: August 13th

Finley: Sept 27th

Meadows: Nov 5th

Discord:

If you followe the blog longer than a week, send a message to get an invite link. We had some trouble with some people, so we're rather safe than sorry.

Tags and Warnings:

Warnings and Taglist.

Warnings:

Violence 

historical bigotry (nothing explicit but present, alluded to and mentioned)

historical use of language (for the most part the game will, however, be using modern terms)

Death

Blood

Alcohol and alcoholism

Mild Gore

Injury (general and eye-specific)

Mentions of abuse

Guns

Mentions of miscarriage

swearing and suggestive language

hallucinations

(Note me if there are other things that need a mention. See below for Warnings concerning the RO in detail)

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Taglist:

#The Ballad of Devil’s Creek (general tag for things game related)

#baodc (general tag for all things game related)

#baodc development (status updates and insight into the work being done)

#baodc spoilers (spoilers)

#baodc ros (posts concerning any of the ROs)

#baodc (name) (leads to posts specifically about the character (replace name with the name you want))

#not baodc (everything not directly game related)

#baodc askbox (the majority of answered asks)

#baodc ramble (rambles and generally more negative stuff)

#baodc stream (for stream announcements. Writing and Let’sPlay Streams)

#unrelated yet relevant (vaguely game related nonsense)

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Most of the ROs come with some baggage that might not be everyone’s tea:

Charlie: outlaw, gambler, medium, missing an eye, conman. The story of how he lost his eye will be retold ingame.

Seán: Grifter, notorious liar (bad at it outside of cons), cleptomaniac tendencies

Tommy: pyromanic. arsonist and explosive expert, loves blowing things up. likely to lash out verbally at others when pissed off, sometimes physically. short fused.

Meadows: Snarky, cold, and cutting. often condescending and too judgemental.

Lynwood: Ex-confed (didn’t subscribe to the views, forced into service), pinkerton, stubborn, little self-care priorities, low self-esteem, alcohol abuse.

Josie: poisoner, sex-worker, bar owner, promiscuous.

Isaac: former pinkerton, history of drug abuse, depression.

Standalone Post HERE

How to support the game:

SEE HERE

[iomramh]

They say that small towns hide the darkest secrets. At least that’s what your mother always said about this one. You thought she meant how Father Simmons has a well-known drinking problem, how Mrs. Gladstone’s son looks more like his uncle than his father or that the mayor has been in power for 15 years because of voting fraud. Things everyone knows. Human Things.

But now as partially eaten bodies have been left in alarmingly rates all over this small town the world has no record of, you now know she meant something else.

Play as peculiar and disturbed individual surnamed Crown after the very town your ancestor founded, returning after a traumatic event two years prior that landed you in a psychiatric hospital. As your comeback coincides with a rapid increase of disappearances you find yourself embroiled in a town conspiracy, a past that’s more alive than ever and the ever shifting self interested motives of those who claim to be your allies.

Who can you trust? What’s the truth behind your family? What are things that you see in the dark?

Sometimes it’s hard to tell what shapes monsters come in.

Customize your MC from looks to gender

Reveal your sister’s disappearance

Rely on a group of complimentary polar opposites to find out the mystery and save your life

Befriend or romance a choice of three from enemies to lovers, childhood friends or an eternal admirer

Rating: 18+

Crown - Playlist

You. A person with some personal issues, some family issues and some murder issues.

Imre Duran - Playlist

Quintessential good-boy-next-door. The most most-liked teenager in town. As son of the mayor and pageant queen, Imre has an image cultivated by him and maintained through his status which is why his back door activities are his cherished secrets. He is rather eager to help you… isn’t he?

Nia Mir - Playlist

In the very real and present high school hierarchy Nia would be one of the nobles. As a wannabe doctor with a loathed father and an absent mother her dream is to leave behind this backwater town and all it’s weird phenomena that she doesn’t care to know more of. She liked you, once.

Lorcan Stark - Playlist

Every town needs its bad boy and so Lorcan has aimed to be as every bit worthy of that title. The shunned son of a murderer and his victim, he is not really thought of as having a future beyond prison and petty crime especially in a town like this. You don’t remember a time when he didn’t hate you.

Salvatore Crown

Your brother. The heir to whatever fortune your family has left and the only one of the family who seems to like you.

Orla Crown - Playlist

Your sister. No one ever knew what she thinking, a closed box full of unknowns. You knew she kept things, especially from you.

Mayor Duran

Seems like every other politician. Oddly enough no one ever really sees him, an entity watching over the town.

Mother

She never acted like one to any of her children. She’s never sober anymore.

Mrs. Mir

Disappeared years ago without a trance. No one remembers her first name. Was thought to have been clinically insane.

Demo (updated 5/29) | Spotify | Patreon

To episode 3, half of episode 4

[iomramh]

woof

been thinking about @barbwritesstuff‘s Sergi again…

[iomramh]

Destroyer - enamel pin concept

[iomramh]

Free Demo ✦ KoFi ✦ COG Forum ✦ Blood Moon

Story

You’re a newly created vampire. After an encounter with the city’s werewolf population, you’re thrown headfirst into the turbulent politics of the undead. Take control of your domain and make the night your own.

It’s time for the vampires to bite back.

Features

The option to play as a woman, a man, or a nonbinary person.

Multiple story paths and endings.

Nine romanceable characters, all with unique personalities. In the current demo you can meet: Tracy, Iliya, Marcel, Freya, Erin, Nathan, Ravima, Minjo, and Chris.

Content Notice

This game contains strong language, violence, major character death, optional explicit sex scenes, and other mature themes. Please use discretion when deciding if this game if for you.

Also:

I’m really nervous about this. I know there are so many good vampire games out right now, many of which are probably better than anything I’ll ever be able to write. I really don’t know if I will be able to finish this game. But, it’s my birthday this month, so I thought I’d share it, just in case.

I really hope you enjoy it.

I have a website now: BarbaraTruelove.com

And, if you enjoy my writing and are able, I would feel honoured if you’d consider buying me a coffee: Ko-Fi

Current Word Count: 132,971 (excluding commands)

Art by the amazing @dahliadrawthings

[iomramh]

Steam ✦ Demo ✦ KoFi ✦ Forum

Story

You’re a werewolf.

One night, while guarding your territory, you find a packless werewolf. This seemingly random encounter pulls you into the city’s paranormal underbelly, populated by witches, vampires, ghosts, and hunters.

You’re not alone. Your pack is with you. They’re your allies, friends… and maybe more than that.

The choices you make not only determine your fate, but theirs as well.

Features

The option to play as a woman, a man, or a nonbinary person.

Multiple story paths and endings.

A total of seven eight romanceable characters, all with unique personalities. You can find out more about them here: Carrie, Marco, Vicky, Ed, Shawnie, Roe, and Farro. Also, check out this post for more details about them and other characters.

Content Notice

This game contains strong language, drug references, violence, optional sex scenes, and other mature themes. Please use discretion when deciding if this game is for you.