A lot happened in the last week or so.

Firstly, it was Canada Day this week. Happy Canada Day. Today it is also the 4th of July. Happy America Day.

Secondly, my latest indie game “Unfinished – An Artist’s Lament” has just been Greenlit on Steam! This is unusual: based on the data, games in general are easier to get passed on Greenlight since last year because older popular stand-outs are slowly being passed through, even-ing out the playing field a bit. The game was around 60% to the top, similar to my last game “Drew and the Floating Labyrinth” when it got greenlit. I can’t say my game is at all popular, the only big difference is that, overall, the game received more positive votes than negative compared to “Drew.” That alone seems to have helped me in getting passed. Which is strange, since I uploaded “Unfinished” long before the gameplay was finished enough to make sense, and despite this unclear design it seemed more universal. Further, no bundles were used to help get me ahead in votes, so if I’ve learned anything here, “up” votes are more important than I thought.

Greelight stats after passing to Steam for “Unfinished – An Artist’s Lament”

What this means is that I can debut “Unfinished – An Artist’s Lament” on Steam the same day as other online stores, most likely before the end of July. No bundles (at least right away) means I can get a much clearer indication of whether the game can sell on its own, and what people think of it.

Thirdly, I just hired Jake Butineau to help provide music for “Unfinished – An Artist’s Lament.” I was still curious to see if I could make this game entirely on my own, but when it comes down to it, my music just isn’t good. Even in this game, where emptiness and subtlety is the vibe, a trained musical ear can do wonders. Just as much as visuals, if not more so, music can do a lot to stirring emotions and memories while playing the game. A number of other musicians offered their services for this game, and I’d still consider them for larger works, but for this small project I think Jake is a good choice. As soon as he has samples available, expect a new trailer in the coming weeks.

Latest Screenshot for “Unfinished – An Artist’s Lament”

Fourthly, Dust Scratch Games is coming to ConBravo in Hamilton, Ontario for Saturday only July 25, 2015. Play “Drew and the Floating Labyrinth,” “Unfinished – An Artist’s Lament,” plus peruse the tarot card deck “Arcane Bullshit” while meeting the developer of its mobile app. More details of ConBravo closer to the event, but we look forward to seeing you there!

I think that’s all. I have some work to do.