Finally took the time to read the visual novel from chapters 1 to 3. Looking forward to any future updates.
Overall, it's a very wonderful fantasy story. Interesting fantasy worldbuilding. Tender, occasionally sobering, often funny, and... optimistic.
The main trio are sympathetic and unique in their own ways, but they really shine when they bounce off each other and the colorful supporting cast. I find the character dynamics to be very compelling and well-written. Plenty of humor on the side, such as the 'reading it for the plot' gag, Sidd's harem, plus everything to do with Sidd's mom having a super hardcore renegade bard past (and present). Plus the pompous Carter guy who swiftly got beat up by Cole, Artemi and Sidd's mother (I hope he sticks around as a comic side character on the side. Can't say I wish the same for the street urchin, all things considered. That kid's long overdue for some slapstick.)
Cole's archetype (charming, flirty bard guy who is super casual about physical intimacy because he's just as equally against anything to do emotional stuff, much like his dads in that regard) isn't exactly new compared to certain prominent characters from to Critical Role / Vox Machina or Helluva Boss... but I really like Cole's role in the story because his best moments come from bouncing off of Sidd and Artemi. Didn't find Vox Machina or Helluva Boss to be super compelling in that regard (with B x S being 80% horny and 20% drama), but I like how it was used in Temptation's Ballad. Sidd's earnest nature was enough to nudge Cole into stepping in the role of a responsible leader and mentor (I doubt that Cole would have stopped to help just anyone read using bardic imagery), and Artemi was... the first person, narratively wise, who firmly shoved Cole into taking the additional steps of that better path when she yelled at him and threatened to punch him for wanting to abandon Sidd in chapter 1. Considering all of the baggage Cole had regarding his fathers and himself (given that one of them was the fun dad so the other had to be the nagging house-dad), Artemi really broke through his inward-facing melancholy in a way that nobody else did before then.
Sidd is a relatable character with understandable fears and struggles that come from a humble mind with a humble upbringing. It could be said that he has... slightly less baggage than the rest of the team, but that doesn't mean his feelings are any less important. He's already come a long way, mentally and emotionally, over the course of the three chapters, and it was becuase fate put him on a crash course with two unlikely non-frog friends. He found the will and the resolve to harness the physical strength he already had to begin with, he's made a great number of friends and acquaintances, and he's also acted as a stabilizing positive influence for Cole and Artemi.
And... I really like Artemi. Noble crusader with a huge dorky side... I'm fairly certain it's been done often enough, but I haven't seen a crusader who really stuck out in the sea of fantasy literature. Not since Lalatina Ford Dustiness, and she's mostly a designated gag character. Artemi's very passionate about chivalry and duty... and is thus the source of countless gags where her sheltered worldview clashes with everyone she meets and everything she witnesses. Especially the adults only library section. And as much as Cole pushes Artemi out of her comfort zone, she was very quick to start pushing back in funny ways once she got to know him better. Through Cole and Sidd and their families, Artemi gained a very strong and supportive network to lean on, and I wish her the best with her personal journey.
TB is currently being worked on! There's been a few small QOL updates on the Patreon that include a UI overhaul, gallery menu, and some other small tidbits. They will be available to the public in about a month or so!
Im just thinking. What if the house of shannesy or whatever guy gets an inn. But its the bone breaker tavern. And im just thinking about what if this happened. anyways good story staple of approval
For anyone wondering about the status of this Visual Novel, I'm here to tell you some information.
Yes, the development of this is still in hiatus. The developer is currently finishing up the last major content update for one of the character routes in their other Visual Novel, Repeat. (Although it should be noted that it will likely come out first for patrons of their Patreon, and non-subscribers will be an update behind in comparison.)
However, let it be known, that the moment the update for Repeat is completed, Shirokoi plans to resume their work on Temptations Ballad. They have many things in store for us.
Don't worry, development is NOT dead, just on hold, and it will pick up once their current project is finished. For now, if you're still antsy from waiting, try reading Repeat. It is also a great Visual Novel to enjoy.
I mean the bat lady said that one of his fathers broke in her lab that night and stole something, I don't quite remember anything but I think she said about creating life or stuff like that
it's implied that it's a plot point that'll be expanded upon later. remember the bat lady (I forget her name)? she was studying that sort of stuff, and it's implied that Cole's conception is the result of her research
My guess is Cole's dad has just sprayed sperm on the magic egg like how fish fertilize eggs. Cole's dad whom he got DNA from probably is Hamish since the two look somewhat identical plus both Hamish and Cole can do magic.
Plot, humor, characters, animations — everything is of such high quality, it feels a bit unreal tbh. Shirokoi definitely makes some of the best content I've seen here on itch.
I think he mentioned something about working on this game sorta soon? I'd hope that it's going to be worked on within a year but it might take a bit longer.
Are the midi files or piano sheet music for the themes (ie: Cole theme) publicly available? Tried searching for the sheet music for which the themes were derived from online, but they were somewhat different from the game files. (I have the original files in the form of MP3s, also mp3 to midi conversion stuff doesn't work too well for slightly out of tune, very sustained music)
The artist has been posting some art that seems to be up and coming. They normally do a 6 month hiatus but completely re-did the sprites in their other game as well as new routes. They have no intention of abandoning this game as far as anyone can tell right now, you just have to be patient.
Went in to give it a shot and came out starting my own bar to serve it liters. The pacing is top-notch, the characters are wonderful, and the humor is actually funny. "I'm not afraid to throw hands with a child" is living rent-free in my head.
i played this game not long ago. Let me just tell you... I wasn't fond of visual novels at first, but this game is just on another level. I LOVED the comedy, I LOVED the nfsw scenes (although i felt like there should've been more but it's alright) and I LOVED the storyline. This game made me so excited and at the same times broke my heart and made me cry ffs IT MADE ME CRY. Thank you for this amazing game. I will play it again when u make chapter 4. i wanna forget it all and play it again so baaaad. Oh yeah and f*** Katrina.
Yeah, f**** katrina.... Although, we don't know the reason why she's an a**hole.... Btw this is the only VN so far that made me cry so much that i wanna confess to everyone i know, that i'm a fURRY! (except for my nephew, cause he already know and he does not care). Can't wait for the next update ( btw. I love your art (^ω^).
I was actually blown away by how good the writing is in parts of this game, I haven't had a laugh like the one the duel scene gave me in a long time. Lovely characters and storytelling with a lot of potential too, really looking forward to seeing where this goes! Also, Hamish best dad.
Just finished the game today, and I can't even verbally express how much I love it! 10/10! looking forward for the next chapter, please we need an update~ QwQ
Quickly fell in love the story and its characters. When I was already at chap 3 I was sad as there was still chap 3, but on the bright side I was happy that cole change. Looking forward for the next chapter! Thank shirokoi!
I just fell in love with this short story, but when I went through version 2.3, I decided to download 2.4, but there is a problem "I'm from Russia" and I'm not very good with English, if the translation into Russian would be great
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Finally took the time to read the visual novel from chapters 1 to 3. Looking forward to any future updates.
Overall, it's a very wonderful fantasy story. Interesting fantasy worldbuilding. Tender, occasionally sobering, often funny, and... optimistic.
The main trio are sympathetic and unique in their own ways, but they really shine when they bounce off each other and the colorful supporting cast. I find the character dynamics to be very compelling and well-written. Plenty of humor on the side, such as the 'reading it for the plot' gag, Sidd's harem, plus everything to do with Sidd's mom having a super hardcore renegade bard past (and present). Plus the pompous Carter guy who swiftly got beat up by Cole, Artemi and Sidd's mother (I hope he sticks around as a comic side character on the side. Can't say I wish the same for the street urchin, all things considered. That kid's long overdue for some slapstick.)
Cole's archetype (charming, flirty bard guy who is super casual about physical intimacy because he's just as equally against anything to do emotional stuff, much like his dads in that regard) isn't exactly new compared to certain prominent characters from to Critical Role / Vox Machina or Helluva Boss... but I really like Cole's role in the story because his best moments come from bouncing off of Sidd and Artemi. Didn't find Vox Machina or Helluva Boss to be super compelling in that regard (with B x S being 80% horny and 20% drama), but I like how it was used in Temptation's Ballad. Sidd's earnest nature was enough to nudge Cole into stepping in the role of a responsible leader and mentor (I doubt that Cole would have stopped to help just anyone read using bardic imagery), and Artemi was... the first person, narratively wise, who firmly shoved Cole into taking the additional steps of that better path when she yelled at him and threatened to punch him for wanting to abandon Sidd in chapter 1. Considering all of the baggage Cole had regarding his fathers and himself (given that one of them was the fun dad so the other had to be the nagging house-dad), Artemi really broke through his inward-facing melancholy in a way that nobody else did before then.
Sidd is a relatable character with understandable fears and struggles that come from a humble mind with a humble upbringing. It could be said that he has... slightly less baggage than the rest of the team, but that doesn't mean his feelings are any less important. He's already come a long way, mentally and emotionally, over the course of the three chapters, and it was becuase fate put him on a crash course with two unlikely non-frog friends. He found the will and the resolve to harness the physical strength he already had to begin with, he's made a great number of friends and acquaintances, and he's also acted as a stabilizing positive influence for Cole and Artemi.
And... I really like Artemi. Noble crusader with a huge dorky side... I'm fairly certain it's been done often enough, but I haven't seen a crusader who really stuck out in the sea of fantasy literature. Not since Lalatina Ford Dustiness, and she's mostly a designated gag character. Artemi's very passionate about chivalry and duty... and is thus the source of countless gags where her sheltered worldview clashes with everyone she meets and everything she witnesses. Especially the adults only library section. And as much as Cole pushes Artemi out of her comfort zone, she was very quick to start pushing back in funny ways once she got to know him better. Through Cole and Sidd and their families, Artemi gained a very strong and supportive network to lean on, and I wish her the best with her personal journey.
WE ARE STARVING PLEASE GIVE US SOMETHING
TB is currently being worked on! There's been a few small QOL updates on the Patreon that include a UI overhaul, gallery menu, and some other small tidbits. They will be available to the public in about a month or so!
THANK YOU. THANK YOUUUU! (I honestly even forgot the plot of the entire game, I just know Sidd is really cute and he should get a boyfriend)
best vn ever just like repeat frfr
Im just thinking. What if the house of shannesy or whatever guy gets an inn. But its the bone breaker tavern. And im just thinking about what if this happened. anyways good story staple of approval
hes gonna start working in TB this year after hes done fixing some spelling mistakes in Repeat
No rush tho, take your time shiro XD.
I need new updates for this so bad but I also need the lore of Phillip in Repeat AAAAAAAAAAAAA
Seriously though the only part I dislike in this so far is the bat lady's plot twist, everything else is amazing.
everything I agree with
This made me laugh, this made me cry, among other things.
Everything about this makes me very happy.
The character design.
The use of SRD content to your advantage to get a magic system most people would know, to add to a world where it WOULD make sense.
Bending some things to make them cooler/make more sense in a story.
Showing everyone's classes and stats, and fleshing out why they have them in a way that makes sense both in and out of story.
The use of music and expressions.
One very specific character being comedic gold in a way that adds, so much to them.
Mentioning that magic has traits of ones personality involved, both directly and indirectly, and showing that personality, many, MANY times.
Leaving us on a moment where we have so many questions, while answering so many more.
This is worth the wait, and I wish you luck on all your future endeavors.
Best VN I've read omg. Hope this goes off hiatus soon!
Same!!!
For anyone wondering about the status of this Visual Novel, I'm here to tell you some information.
Yes, the development of this is still in hiatus. The developer is currently finishing up the last major content update for one of the character routes in their other Visual Novel, Repeat. (Although it should be noted that it will likely come out first for patrons of their Patreon, and non-subscribers will be an update behind in comparison.)
However, let it be known, that the moment the update for Repeat is completed, Shirokoi plans to resume their work on Temptations Ballad. They have many things in store for us.
Don't worry, development is NOT dead, just on hold, and it will pick up once their current project is finished. For now, if you're still antsy from waiting, try reading Repeat. It is also a great Visual Novel to enjoy.
I hope this set you at ease.
Is it still in hiatus?
yeah:/
I really enjoyed this VN! Loved the characters and story plot. Did the development go inactive, I hope the story will continue.
Its still in development its just that shirokoi is making updates in the Repeat VN and yes he will come back here to push more chapters in
the maker is focusing on their other project. they will come back to this...at somepoint
My question, did Cole came from magic? Like, is he made from magic? No sex or whatever
Damn, good question
I mean the bat lady said that one of his fathers broke in her lab that night and stole something, I don't quite remember anything but I think she said about creating life or stuff like that
it's implied that it's a plot point that'll be expanded upon later. remember the bat lady (I forget her name)? she was studying that sort of stuff, and it's implied that Cole's conception is the result of her research
My guess is Cole's dad has just sprayed sperm on the magic egg like how fish fertilize eggs. Cole's dad whom he got DNA from probably is Hamish since the two look somewhat identical plus both Hamish and Cole can do magic.
how do you play i
One of the best FVNs I've played. Very good
I agree with the comment under mine
Just finished 2.4 Good job. Hope your other projects go well for you.
good game
When comes the next update
Plot, humor, characters, animations — everything is of such high quality, it feels a bit unreal tbh. Shirokoi definitely makes some of the best content I've seen here on itch.
RIP. Was so hoping for my dude to hook up with Sidd 😭
pllllzzzz dont tell me this vn it dead or something
Its not, the creator is working on his other vn which is Repeat, this vn is just in hiatus till the creator finishes the first vn
and how long do you expect that to take?
Probably a long time unless he decides to update the game
I think he mentioned something about working on this game sorta soon? I'd hope that it's going to be worked on within a year but it might take a bit longer.
What type of hyena is Cole? To me he looks to be either a striped hyena or an aardwolf, but I'm not sure.
Well his dad Marrow is a striped hyena. And Hamish is a spotted hyena. Take that how you will uwu
That answers my question. No further information is necessary.
is there no patreon for Shirokoi?
https://www.patreon.com/shirokoi?utm_campaign=creatorshare_fan
thanks found it
dead?
In hiatus
For how long?
Until the author finishes his original vn: Repeat to which it'll take a very long time
~~that was~Amazing~
Are the midi files or piano sheet music for the themes (ie: Cole theme) publicly available? Tried searching for the sheet music for which the themes were derived from online, but they were somewhat different from the game files. (I have the original files in the form of MP3s, also mp3 to midi conversion stuff doesn't work too well for slightly out of tune, very sustained music)
Thanks, I have the audio files for the game already, I was just wondering if there was sheet music for the exact OSTs in the VN.
Any updates?
Nope. There is a route in their other VN that is nearly finished. Shirokoi is focusing on that, apparently.
Oh you mean Repeat. Man I haven't read through that VN in like a year now. Guess I have a lot to catch up on.
Hope he starts to work on Temptations Ballad again soon. I like this VN better.
Ilia is the most iconic mother, and can't anybody tell me different.
omg its so true i love her
I love this VN. Will it be finished or will it end here? I do enjoy your VNs but no updates for a long time is a bad sign.
The artist has been posting some art that seems to be up and coming. They normally do a 6 month hiatus but completely re-did the sprites in their other game as well as new routes. They have no intention of abandoning this game as far as anyone can tell right now, you just have to be patient.
I appreciate the heads up and yes I'm patient. I was just purely curious. Thx again.
Went in to give it a shot and came out starting my own bar to serve it liters. The pacing is top-notch, the characters are wonderful, and the humor is actually funny. "I'm not afraid to throw hands with a child" is living rent-free in my head.
This game is so beautiful that it will make your eyes tear up truly remarkable and I wish to see more😊❤️
i played this game not long ago. Let me just tell you... I wasn't fond of visual novels at first, but this game is just on another level. I LOVED the comedy, I LOVED the nfsw scenes (although i felt like there should've been more but it's alright) and I LOVED the storyline. This game made me so excited and at the same times broke my heart and made me cry ffs IT MADE ME CRY. Thank you for this amazing game. I will play it again when u make chapter 4. i wanna forget it all and play it again so baaaad. Oh yeah and f*** Katrina.
i love everything you just said
HAHAHAHAHAHAHAH thanks 😂
Yeah, f**** katrina.... Although, we don't know the reason why she's an a**hole.... Btw this is the only VN so far that made me cry so much that i wanna confess to everyone i know, that i'm a fURRY! (except for my nephew, cause he already know and he does not care). Can't wait for the next update ( btw. I love your art (^ω^).
I was actually blown away by how good the writing is in parts of this game, I haven't had a laugh like the one the duel scene gave me in a long time. Lovely characters and storytelling with a lot of potential too, really looking forward to seeing where this goes! Also, Hamish best dad.
Just finished the game today, and I can't even verbally express how much I love it! 10/10! looking forward for the next chapter, please we need an update~ QwQ
when will this VN updated?
Artemi would be great friends with her and Kristen Applebees! Shirokoi writting style makes me think they would be perfect at the Dimension 20 dome.
"I like your bandage" "Thanks it kept me from dying"
I died xDD
I just played the game and I love it<3
You have become one of my favorite VN creators with this wonder and Repeat<3<3.
Quickly fell in love the story and its characters. When I was already at chap 3 I was sad as there was still chap 3, but on the bright side I was happy that cole change. Looking forward for the next chapter! Thank shirokoi!
I just fell in love with this short story, but when I went through version 2.3, I decided to download 2.4, but there is a problem "I'm from Russia" and I'm not very good with English, if the translation into Russian would be great