Backstage Pass

by sakevisual

The Developer Says...

A visual novel/sim game about life, love, and working in the entertainment industry. Play as makeup artist Sian Goodin as she navigates the world of showbiz. Make friends, forge business relationships, and maybe even find romance!

Players Like...

❤ Strategically Manage Sian's Stats

Players must carefully balance and develop Sian's various stats, including Academics, Makeup Skills, Connections, and Stress, to progress through the story and unlock different routes and endings. This stat-raising system allows players to tailor Sian's development to their preferred playstyle, whether that be focusing on her career, her relationships, or a balance between the two. Many players praise this stat-raising system for adding depth and replayability to the experience. It requires players to think strategically about how they allocate Sian's time each week, juggling her responsibilities and priorities. However, some note that repeatedly performing certain tasks like baking cupcakes to boost specific stats can become repetitive and tedious over time.

❤ Meaningful Choices Shape the Narrative

In addition to the stat-raising elements, the game features a choice-driven narrative where players' decisions directly impact the story and the relationships Sian forms. With over 15 unique endings, players must carefully consider how they interact with the diverse cast of characters and which storylines they pursue. Players appreciate the sense of agency this gives them in shaping Sian's journey. The choices feel meaningful, with clear consequences that alter the direction of the narrative. This choice-driven structure, combined with the game's varied cast, incentivizes experimentation and multiple playthroughs. However, some reviewers note that the specific requirements for unlocking certain endings can be opaque, leading to disappointment when a playthrough does not result in the desired outcome.

❤ Navigating the Weekly Schedule

A key aspect of the gameplay loop is the weekly schedule that players must manage. Each week, players decide how Sian will spend her time, allocating her efforts between academic work, part-time jobs, socializing, and pursuing romantic interests. Many praise this time management element as adding a strategic layer to the experience, requiring players to carefully plan and prioritize Sian's various responsibilities and obligations. However, the repetitive nature of certain weekly activities, such as attending classes or baking cupcakes, can feel tedious to some players, who suggest the inclusion of a "skip" or "fast-forward" function to streamline these repetitive tasks.

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