Dev Log #6 | Version vs Episode

For quite some time now I've been asking myself a certain question. Should I call the first installment of the new game episode 1, or version 0.1.

A question I might be overthinking, but that honestly plaques me every day. Here is my thought process.

What is the difference between the two?

For me personally calling updates versions and naming them as such, implies that the game as a whole isn't finished. It seems to be more open to change. Like the entire UI could still change with version 0.8 or dialogue from the beginning is rewritten in 0.5. It gives more freedom to the creator but also feels like there is less content and the whole game isn't done till update 1.0

On the other hand episodes seem more closed. It feels like the game up to that playable point is finalized and the only thing missing is the content itself. It is less flexible and doesn't allow as many mistakes but also feels like there is more meat to the bone in comparison to versions.

Now what is my problem?

Right now I think I would like to release the game as version 0.1 and not as episode 1. And the reason for that is quite simple. With the new systems I am using comes a chance that If I need to add or change major things in the future, saves won't be compatible anymore. It isn't something I am planning on, but I am aware of the possibility.

Something that feels very wrong with the concept of episodes in my opinion. And that is not all. I am also not done introducing all mechanics in the first installment. There is more to come that is essential for the feeling of the game.

So overall calling it version 0.1 would make me feel a lot more comfortable with the game. Knowing that I am seeing it as a work in progress that will be finished once it is complete... Makes sense right?

But this is where something is bugging me. I am honestly polishing this thing. Calling it version 0.1 doesn't do it justice in my opinion. There is no missing art, no unfinished story branches or something similar. Everything is in place and in order for the content that is in it.

The decision

First of all I am sorry for the rambling. I am very close to release and it has been a bit stressfull. How am I going to decide? No clue. You will find out once I've released the game. Maybe you have some input on that or ideas? Let me know. Apart from that, I am finally sharing the name of the game with you. It is the picture of this post. Who would have thought.

So Mist is now the name. It is quite simple and straightforward I think it is fine. See you next time!