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Well, we made it through another week folks!

My week wasn't terribly productive, but at least it was a little better than last week. I had a headache through the whole thing 😂 [ I get week-long headaches sometimes, having anxiety attacks basically guarantees one after unfortunately ]

I did do a tiny amount of writing, but honestly it's not enough to even justify posting the chart. I wrote out the 'waking up' scene for day 2, which involved 3 versions because MC can be in different places/etc. Then I realized that I fucked it up a little because I forgot to offer the opportunity to let MC go the bathroom [ similar to the original ], so I'll have to go back and edit that little bit that I wrote x_x

I keep trying to figure out the reasons for my writers block. I think it's a combination of things. I do think I'm tired/burnt out, but I also think I'm severely daunted. I never really had this issue with Strade's game.

It just felt like lower stakes with him. And his script was a lot simpler. Lawrence's is technically shorter but the different possibilities multiply fast and make my head spin.

And I know that so much of it is just my own personal expectations. I've seen people here comment things like 'I know it'll be great!' and that's so kind, I don't want to seem like I'm ignoring these people, but what I mean is that the issue of writing expectations is truly between me and me. I feel like I've come up with some genuinely great ideas for the outline of the script, and Lawrence is so much more personal to me than Strade. I have this ideal in my head that no one else can see and it's a tower I'm not sure I can climb.

But I want to make this art so badly. I frustrate myself. I paralyze myself.

The solution is simple. I just keep trying. I'll show up again on Monday, and again and again, however much it takes. I feel small and stupid, but I am also stubborn.

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I did decide to switch gears on Thursday/Friday to hopefully shake my brain up. I decided to buy a bundle of samples [ https://ovanisound.com/products/apprehension-engine-three-volume-bundle ] that was on sale for 115CAD. It's basically a collection of recorded sounds that are geared for horror stings and effects. They include a ton of scrapes and drones, and a bunch of cello stuff - exactly what I was hoping to use a lot in Lawrence's soundtrack.

I wanted to open Ableton Live 12 Suite again and mess around because I haven't used it for several months and I was getting kind of worried that I'd forget how to use the progrem [ it's a very complicated program and took me many hours of youtube lessons to learn the first time LMAO ]

I tried to make a track/song entirely out of samples from the bundle:

Certainly not my best work, but it was really mostly just taking two days to get used to the program again. It was a good reminder, and a good way for me to explore all the samples in the packs. I also tried to make something that embodies the slow and upsetting vibe I want for Lawrence's eventual soundtrack.

I've attached the song/mp3 at the bottom of the post [ lawrence_experiment.mp3 ]

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In personal news, like I mentioned in my mini update, I don't expect any more issues with UPS, so that's a big relief. Willow is also doing well- she's still adjusting to her new food but I think she's starting to fully stabilize and get fully healthy. She's certainly been happier, playing more and asking for pets/cuddling a lot.

^ This is her wanting some attention in the morning

^ And this is her being pissed off because her automatic feeder went off while the roomba was going next to it so it was too noisy to go eat right away [ yes my apartment is full of robots now but in my defence I gotta run a business and do everything myself 😂 ]

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Anyway, I'm gonna take it easy this weekend and I'm really hoping that I can get back to normal next week and actual get serious writing done again. I have to get over this hump.

Hang in there guys. Hang in there me. Stay safe next week, and of course, see you next Saturday!

Files

Comments

Vee

You will get over this hump 🙂‍↕️🙂‍↕️🙂‍↕️

evelyn

take ur time with everything gato ,, writers block sucks and u deserve to give ur brain a break >.<

gurogoth

I have been fed my full course meal yippee 🙏 I can now skitter back into your walls and stare at silly murderous men until the next time the dinner bell rings

DAKIMAKIU

I just had an ear orgasm. Excellent musical section, Gato!

Pastel

Take care, Gato 🫶

Sly

I know its early days but would you consider opening up a Lawrence tier support like you did with strade? I loved the month by month rankings. Its like leveling up in a video game 😂

theirlimerence

Can I just say I absolutely adore the music it is literally perfect for Lawrence! It’s so creepy and dark perfectly suitable for him. Also take your time it’s okay 💕

m3lody_XoXo

Oh, you're COOKING with that tune. Genuine shivers holy shit

Morizo

That experiment sample is so so good, you have such a talent for music, i often listen to strades soundtracks over and over again. I love it. And it is imo understandable to feel this way especially since Law is much more personal to you. I am sure with more time itll get easier and easier until u will be able to pat yourself on the back for a job well done. It is a huge project and u are but a single person. Be sure to rest alot🙏🫶🏻 mental health is most important, anxiety fricking sucks

Pineapplecasket

Knowing Lawrence is so personal to you I think will make this game so much more special 🩷 it's a tower to climb but once you reach the top and look back on how much you changed and improved Lawrence to the vision you truly wanted him to be, it'll be well with all the mental anxiety. Changing and remaking a game based on something close to you, especially taking the route of making him more nsfl to the image you truly believe should be, it's no double mentally and even physically exausting. Take one day at a time. It's a journey and not meant to be done in a day-- you have all the time in the world! Unfortunately frustration is just part of the process, but you can do this!!!! Willow looks adorable ;; I love her special desk cubby. And those PAWS.

Gotno:N

I am eating up that clock-like motif in the Lawrence experiment audio. Has that spooky feeling of just waiting. Have a good weekend yoo!

݁˖ 𝔙𝔦𝔳𝔦𝔢

in my honest opinion, i think everything’s turning out great so far! the sample sounds amazing and the art you’ve made, even though many have been sketches, never fails to impress and amaze me. with headaches, i totally get it. for maybe two years or three..? i’ve been suffering from chronic migraines but i started taking this tincture and it’s worked better than any medication i’ve been put on. i would absolutely recommend it if you have been struggling to find any relief for them. i promise you i’m not trying to advertise anything, lol, but that’s what’s been helping me. ❤️

Madeleine Johnson

Oh my god that music eats it's so sinister... and don't hesitate to take breaks when needed, take your time to build a game your proud of. All the greatest works take time.

kajerone

If this project is that personal to you then it makes sense you’d feel these moments of fear and the daunting expectation. One step at a time is the only way to do it. I hope it turns into something you are happy with and proud of! You deserve it with how hard you work. You got this 💪 Also that sample music def encapsulates the feeling of anxious anticipation and dark foreboding. I dig the vibe! Godspeed, you’re doing great!

Peoni

Love the music. Feels like being hunted. Prowling stages, under the watchful eye of something that can kill you the second you lower your guard. I don’t wish to comment on the more personal aspects as I feel that is not my place. Buuuut my noisy arse sees a playlist 👀🌸 I loves a good playlist~ May things look ever upwards. I do however feel I can ask my question, though massively understandable if it is unanswered. But I think the elephant in the room is… Is THIS version of Lawrence a lil too close to corpses? LOL apologies - you made us sit through Strade Day 4 death, we’re gonna ask!

parascyth3

the music sounded great!! also take things slow and do give yourself some grace, youre working so hard ♥︎

Gatobob

I admit I'm a little apprehensive about it... I'll keep considering though ^^; Right now I just don't want to add more pressure, and taking more money really piles on the pressure

Lawrence’s potted plant 🪴

The music sounds great so far!! Take all the time you need, love reading your updates! Keep up the good work

Azazel

take your time. if u r burned out just take a break go find something relaxing. please do not stress urself out. anyway the soundtrack sound so good it kinda give me that creepy horror vibe, goodjob ! (willow is cute as always aaaa😭🫶🏻)

ResidentReptile

hhhnnrrggg I LOVE the vibe of the song. could definitely imagine that playing ambiently in the mentally ill kidnapper's musty apartment I'm tied up in ♥️

Gatobob

LMAO oh yes, I think Lawrence has retained that little personality quirk

Spookycereals

You are absolutely cooking on this Lawrence song honestly. It's giving me fear and hunger 2 and American McGee's alice vibes and I LOVE IT! Willow is looking as cute as ever too!! Love the angry little face she is making. You have yourself a great and relaxing weekend, you deserve it honestly

Silent Fox

Take it easy, and give yourself some grace! You cant fight the sun when you yourself are burned out. That was a bad analogy but you get what I'm saying hopefully!

Sly

Im gonna speak for myself when I say I dont want you to feel pressured because im already willing and able to pay for higher tiers. Youve got credibility behind you that you will make good on your products and stories. So im not worried about my money going to waste. I just really looked forward to the monthly updates 😅 but ultimately this is up to you. If its gonna be a pressure on you, do what you need to do. I just liked the strade updates and seeing my "monthly sub" line grow 😂 its entirely selfish on my part

Lolhopetch

WE GET TO WAKE UP IN DIFFERENT PARTS OF THE APARTMENT OMGGGG😭😭😭 that's actually so cool! You would use the renpy randomization for that wouldn't you? Or would it be a different place every day 🤔 that's still so cool to think about! Dont stress out about not writing a whole bunch with the stress from last week and the post office strike headaches are bound to happen 😞💔 glad willow is doing better :DD!! See you next week good luck and stay safe!!

DAKIMAKIU

What do you think about people who make AUs with your characters? With more emphasis on those who do it without profit, such as comics or blogs on Tumblr

words

i definitely feel the week long migraines, lowkey i think our migraines synced up 😭 i'm very glad that you try try again but remember that being tired and scared is just life, so don't be too hard on yourself! i speak for myself but im sure everyone will agree that we will love everything that comes out of the game :)

Dove

As a fellow writer (albeit I write mostly just for myself and friends) I understand the frustration completely. I especially relate to it being about Lawrence lol since I do enjoy writing about him. He is a very interesting character that I know you will definitely be able to capture well with your writing, especially with the improvements I've seen as you've continued to make games. I'm very glad Willow is doing well too and that mail carrier is out of the picture now. I hope things become easier for you over time, it sucks feeling like you keep writing but nothing is coming out the way you want it to.

words

also YAY WILLOW AND YAY MUSIC!!!

sShadowHuntress

I wish I could attach pictures to my comments bc I just realized my own kitten has a very similar face pattern to yours 😂 Willow is too cute. EDIT: Changed my profile pic instead to her.

NikoNikoi

Take ur time! Tbh idc about the game if you risk yourself to stress/headaches and burnout! You are only human See you next saturday Gato! Stay safe! And give Willow lots of pets, she deserves em! She is just a baby

Kjer

Can you take a break from everything? I know that's a big privilege to have, but if you need it, that's the best way to get new energy and then come back to it later. Sending you lots of positive energies!

FarShootingStar

Aw, I'm glad Willow is feeling better (aside from that mean roomba getting in her way, lol)! I hope you make sure to have a little time off, doing something you enjoy. This is a stressful time of year in general and I think we could all stand to pressure ourselves a bit less (easier said than done, I know).

SomeGuyWithAFace

Oooooh loving the slight distortions in Lawrence's test mp3! If I can throw some inspiration music at you, I think Fragmented from Look Outside OST has some good unsettling vibes! It's a nice piece, sort of gentle but also off-putting. Other than that, maybe take a break, get other things sorted. If there's anything I know about Law fans, we will wait an almost disturbing amount of time for content about him. A couple of weeks or a month off is nothing for us >:0

SomeGuyWithAFace

Also: how did you go about learning music? What's the process? I'm curious as I'm trying to make music for my own stuff and it's difficult.

Miranda Rothermund

I love the new track you made! It sounds unstable like Lawrence, and I like the beats that sound like a ticking clock and scissors (fitting his theme of death and plants) Stay safe!

wlf_grl

I'm getting more hooked with every update. I love the feeling this song gives me, literally chills everywhere. You're making so much progress, so I don't think that every weekend you *have* to give us some big update. We're here just to support you, and even if it will takes more time than expected, we will wait.

Peoni

Oh that is both hilarious and morbid sobs Thank you for answering

LykWolf

HI GATO HI WILLOW OMG THE SOUND

Lil Rafflesia

Honestly I think it's better if you take time to recover, it's awful if you have to force yourself to work through a headache, still must feel really frustrating for you, I hope the pain goes away soon, please don't rush yourself! 🫂🤍 Also, Willow looks so adorable I wanna boop her little nose 🥺🤍

Cas

As a newer fan I feel obligated to echo others and tell you I feel like your previous work speaks for itself. But as someone who also loves writing and has gone many a round with writers block simply because of my own expectations of myself and delivering the justice to my own characters that I feel they deserve—— Breathe dear, and remember that even if the cake you bake doesn’t quite match what you’d imagined, we’re all still gonna be sitting here excited as hell cause YAY CAKE! …. That’s such a stupid way of putting it but I also just woke up and I am also not wrong. As someone else already put it, you need to leave room for yourself, give yourself patience, and the grace you deserve to create the art you’re imagining, what you are doing isn’t something that is meant to be rushed and doesn’t need to be so give yourself the time you need to bring what you have in mind to life in all the wonderful ways you imagine so you k ow when it’s finished it’s something you’ll be proud of. I’m sure I speak for the majority when I tell you whatever the final game looks like will be well worth the wait, it always is 🫶. I feel like that’s especially easy to say given the experimental track you gave us SMOLY HOKES THAN YOU FOR THE DELICIOUS FOOD GATO!!!! Oh maaaan I’m already in love with the vibes!? Just listening to this has me thinking about some tracks from Ethel Cain’s Preacher’s Daughter album, specifically August Underground. It’s unsettling and physically distressing by way of tightening that specific spot just below my shoulder blades and above the middle center of my back, the kind of feeling that’s not quite a stinging sensation but you know it’s gonna eventually if you don’t deal with or confront whatever the source of tension and dread is that’s threatening to leech into your stomach the longer the feeling is allowed to last aaaaaaa I’m babbling but it’s all excitement ITS SERIOUSLY GREAT, I don’t even care if you end up using it I’m just jazzed knowing this is the kind of vibe the soundtrack is gonna have cause it’s all the more to look forward to, cause if this was just meant to be an experimental sample I can’t fathom how amazing the actual tracks are gonna be 🩵 Also, It gladdens my cat mama heart to know Willow is doing well and taking to her new food 🥹 she always looks so precious in pics, I wish her all the luck in all her future battles with the roomba 🫡

Basket

As someone who also does art and hopes to one day make a game or some media for my oc’s. And I just want to say no one would be upset if you felt the need to take a break! If anything it’ll help refresh ideas and to help make your piece come to life! Sending love to willow as well💕

pebbles

Song is hella fire💃🕺

Mae Mae

i’m stoned listening to this song and it’s lowkey horrifying and i hate it but i love it so much im obsessed it’s so good and unnerving it makes me thinks things are crawling in my skin

Crypted

Just woke up and all I can think about is the possibility of naming your roomba after one of the little robot death dogs that Strade uses in TNR

Gatobob

oh goodness, no you're imagining it to be way more than it is 😂 it's just that MC can get free at night, so there has to a be a version where they never messed with the chair, a version where they did get free, and one where they got free and chose to sleep elsewhere

Gatobob

Very happy! I always intended for my work to be like seeds for other people to grow into their own stories. Art is my religion and my games are proselytization. Nothing makes me happier than hearing that other people want to make more art and think of more stories to tell.

Gatobob

I might schedule something like that for myself later this winter perhaps...

Gatobob

I found a youtube video [ https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=0iuRsiKtObw ] that has a guy teaching the program I use for beginners! I was able to follow along step by step and make the exact same thing he makes in the video. The video itself is over 8 and half hours long but with all my pausing and doing the stuff myself, it probably took 3 times as long to complete the course LMAO

Gatobob

I named it Crumb Dumpster 😅

Taheca

Ooh, I can definitely see myself sitting there anxiously getting more and more unsettled by Lawrence with that music in the background 💛

Birdy

Ooooooo! I love that music, it's a bit unpredictable, unstable, definitely would get shivers while playing. Definitely enjoy your break, you deserve it!

Summer

Gato’s cooking up some fire beats in the studio! Also with the writing, the first draft doesn’t have to be perfect. In fact, it’s supposed to be crappy lol. You can always go back and edit it to make it something you are proud of. I love what you do! Have a good weekend.

lila LM

Song so peak,i really admire your skills, you're such a cool person, take things easy, there's no need to rush, maybe you could consider taking a break, i hope you have a nice week take care♡

Nixzy

Animo! pasito a pasito se llega, tómalo con algo de calma si tienes un bloqueo creativo trabaja en otras partes como hiciste con el audio, animo!!

Para_Doxical

The song is SO GOOD AUGH! Even for a fun experimental test it really captures what I’ve seen from where you want to take Lawrs character, its not BTD2 Lawr but YKMET Lawr and I live for it! I think the music alone speaks for the development in where you’re taking Lawrs character and its so fun! :0D Even these tiny updates are fun cause they’re a little slice of life! As long as you’re enjoying yourself and pacing yourself thats what matters :0))

Unifuckincorn

No doubt you’re burnt out. You honestly blazed through Strade’s production and then IMMEDIATELY started a new project after releasing his game fully. So I completely see why you’re stumbling with starting this one. Don’t hurt yourself by pushing too hard. I understand the pressure of an expectant crowd but it's eventually or death. You are a huuuuuumaaaaan. Not a robot. Take care.

↜𝚁𝚒𝚜𝚊↝

Gotta give willow her attention🫶 doing amazing work even when your burnt out (I would’ve procrastinated so bad lmao) Track sounds good, I can definitely hear the similarities it has w Strade in a way I know it’s from your art works. Idk maybe just me but at the beginning it definitely gave me the somewhat uneasy and kinda creepy feeling/vibe like Lawrence was gonna jump us again like in btd2 w a .1 second reaction speed to doge LOL legit amazing work, keep it up gato I can’t wait for the next update<333 obv stay safe and healthy also, happy early thanksgiving!!

Kuroguromii

Your music making skills are improving in leaps and bounds!! Im obsessed! I love how the beat in the background sounds like a ticking clock and the low droning sounds that fade in and out make it sound like things are going in reverse. Really fits Lawrence so well! Take care of yourself! I know how quickly I can burn out especially after moving from one project to another 😖 Ps. Im glad Willow is doing better!! She’s adorable i love seeing her 💕

K7

Love the vibe of the track ! Though I think it could do with some lower frequencies, even if it doesn't take a lot of space in the mix. Just a deep droning sound would work wonders, or a "bassline" if you feel like it'd work with the track. Currently it feels like most parts of the track sit a bit high with no lower counterpart. Aside from that, I kind of get what you mean with Lawrence. I feel like Lawrence was always a more fleshed out character who felt very tangible. We know less about him in his original route than we do Strade, but it feels like there's a lot of "meat" to him if that makes sense. I can only imagine how much more defined he probably is in your mind. It's always scary to write a character who means a lot to you, because what if you don't write him the way you want to, or people see him differently than you did when you wrote him? At the end of the day though, there's always going to be people who don't get it, and that's okay. And for those of us who have immense imaginations, there's always going to be so many more details in our minds than we can realistically put on paper. It's still worth making it exist, even if the rest of the world gets a "low-res" version of what we can picture.

Kiki

As someone who has tried to write their own visual novel, I’m floored even by your ability to plan the scope of the routes, especially for Lawrence’s game! That alone is already so impressive- no wonder writers block onsets quick, the whole thing seems like a lot to keep track of (I’ve tried and failed myself lols).

Car

I think it makes total sense that this project is weighing heavier on you. Working with a character who holds up such a personal mirror to the world means feeling that pressure (and desperation) to depict that reflection in a way that others can understand and connect to. And it's clear why that weight wasn't there with Strade, who is the type of character that is more a celebration of what the creator loves creating rather than an exploration of the self and inner struggles the way Lawrence is. Both characters have their purpose. I know Lawrence and Ren resonated with the fandom a lot because they delve into personal human experiences, and I feel for you about the additional weight that adds and empathize with how paralyzing that's at risk of being. I just wanted to say that Lawrence will continue to resonate with people even if you need to change him to better say what you wanted to say in the first place, or depict something you understand more deeply now. You've changed with your experiences and years like every human does and it makes sense that your art would too. It's a beautiful thing. And if Lawrence changes, it will only open new opportunities for new people to connect with him in new ways. And all the people who like his first iteration aren't losing anything, they'll always have that snapshot of what your art expressed at that time. You got this! Don't let that analysis paralysis get you down. Sometimes all you need is some time and space to process where the block is coming from. Thanks for sharing your experience working on these projects week to week, it's really inspiring to understand the ups and downs of creating projects with this scope.

ResidentReptile

Lawrence waking up to find his captive breaking out of their bonds just to sleep on the couch and do nothing else: "????"

PurpHallow

Unsure if it's just me but I can't find the mp3 test sound for Lawrence.... But rest if you can. I know no matter what people will love the 'new' Lawrence <3

Lolhopetch

Ohh I get it! Yeah omg what I thought would be way harder to code idk why i didnt think of it that way 😭😭 but being able to choose a different place to sleep is still fun!

Lolhopetch

Sometimes I think abt this but mc breaking free at night and strade waking up to find them asleep on his couch using the couch cushions as a blanket 😭😭🙏

Sky Kitsune

oooo I like the uncomfortable feel of the song

Li Yang

Strade's soundtrack was like a steady heartbeat, a subconcious reminder that you are an animal. The Lawrence test hits hard and chaotically, almost like every little thing you observe makes you flinch and struggle to catch your breath. Basically, I love it already :] 👍🏼

Gatobob

Not sure if it's different on mobile but on desktop it's right at the very bottom of the post!

PurpHallow

I am on desktop and its not there for me

Gatobob

weird! I'm not sure then!

Ellie

This is my weekly cat serotonin boost, thank you so much lmao. I live for her. Although Gato, I must ask, if you could depict each of your characters as animals, what would you chose? (Outside of the obvious fox in the room we're not looking at rn lmao)

Богдан Тян (edited)

Comment edits

2026-09-05 23:00 Hi Gato! Sorry for being off-topic, but I subscribed again just to find out the answer to this question: How Strade Would you react to a victim whose nervous reaction is laughter? For example: He brings the knife to the victim, and instead of fear, screams, tears, and pleading, he hears hysterical, loud laughter.
2025-11-23 19:14

Gatobob

I’ve thought of Strade as a boar and Lawrence as a Jackalope [ or jackrabbit or deer if I have to stick to real animals ] For the Tpof gang, Maybe a cat for celia, bear for mason of course, and maybe a hyena or weasel for derek 😂

Gatobob

His whole thing is just being curious about what he’ll get so I think he’d find it interesting and try to test it like most other reactions. I don’t usually answer character questions like that and often don’t have much to say, so you might not wanna subscribe for answers or you’ll be disappointed 😅

Nasa T

Oh my god, the lawrence experiment file is amazing wthhhh 😮😮😮 Like, if this what you come up with on a WHIM? I cant wait to hear the full length soundtracks and you dont even have to worry about it being bad cause thats simply not possible. You’ve been serving us banger after banger, i dont know how you can be so creative but i admire it sm 😭🩷

[⌆] Ellen

Hello Gato, sometimes the body reacts before the mind realizes what's happening. Lawrence's story is way more personal than Strades, and maybe you're unconsciously reliving things from the past for the sake of the character. Get some rest

PurpHallow

I have checked on both desktop and phone and its not there. I still can't see it in your comment.

Ellie

I def see Derej as a hyena but like specifically the idiot from the Lion King lmaooo. I do think these are are fun, especially jackalope Law! What about TINR group? what animals do you think you would assign them? I love those silly guys still despite how old the comic is <3

Alice

Love the music production so far 💖 your work has grown so much within these newest projects, it’s very inspiring to see. It takes a lot of energy to be the kind of person that pushes through despite all the feelings of burnout. Take care of yourself and remember to take lots of breaks! Much love Gato : D

Gatobob

I feel like Farz would be an angry sparrow LMAO Raven is a bit of a shoe-in like Ren, and Sid... well maybe he's a seagull 😂 I guess that crew could all be birds