In regards to Steam and Itch censorship (Patreon)
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So in light of recent news where itch has begun de-listing indecent games (which includes Aria's Dreamland) I just wanted to make a quick statement on this. Whether or not there are issues with the game being hosted on platforms such as Steam, I'll continue making the game. As I have said previously, once the game is done I will, bare minimum, email links to everyone who has put in the 10$. I would recommend that if you want to ensure 100% that you will receive the final version when it comes out that you make sure that you have access to the email you used here.
To my understanding, Itch is just de-listing which means it just won't show up in searches. It should still be available though when directly linked to. Here is the page for those who may have lost it: https://silverearsentertainment.itch.io/arias-dreamland-dissonance In the case of Steam I'm not quite as sure what it will mean for the release, but we'll get there when we get to that point. If I have to censor the game to release it on steam, I may do that, and if I can I will have some kind of patch for it how you sometimes see with games on steam.
I really don't know what the future holds, but I am always hopeful and when we are closer to an actual release, I'll examine my options for release more closely. It may even come to be that by the time the release is ready that there is nothing to worry about, but I simply wanted to assure that I'm continuing to make the game in spite of all this and that so long as you maintain access to the email you signed up with, you will receive the game.
As for how this could affect Patreon, it is certainly possible that it could affect your ability to support me. As of right now I really don't have any backup method for this as every other site I am on goes through these same payment processors. If I figure out any alternatives, or if you have suggestions, please feel free to let me know.
To add to this, I am also open to other listed platforms to release on if necessary. I am also considering creating a discord. I've been nervous to do this because I worry the time it takes to moderate would take away from time I can spend on the game, but it's seeming that it might be necessary to keep up with everyone and actually show work and the likes.
Finally I just want to thank you all. I know... a big thanks doesn't feel as meaningful, but I really don't know any other way to put it than that. I'd love to thank you all individually if I could, but maybe the time would be better spent just working on the game.