Developer's Journal 4:4 (Patreon)

Hey everybody. At this point I'm assuming that if you're reading these dev journals you're already caught up on Episode Three, but this entry definitely is spoiler heavy for Episode Three.

Much of Episode Four, predictably, will deal with the emotional fallout brought on by Rockford's theory about Henry Clay. The ending of Episode Three is meant to be more than a shocking twist. Although a shocking twist is valuable in its own right, Leaving DNA aspires to explore a couple of major themes, both of which are set forth in the game's introduction: "But Rockford's life is about to be upended: a cryptic clue in a cold-case murder will set him on a search to discover his father's fate.  And learning the truth will push the prosecutor to question his dedication to the rule of law and to reconsider the meaning of family." And so this (apparent) revelation about Henry Clay is meant to contribute to a philosophical shift for Rockford--and for the player.

How does Rockford's new theory about his military hero father, i.e. that the man is a borderline serial killer, impact his worldview? Is he still as firm in his own lofty ideals about the justice system? By one standard it appears that Henry Clay, if he is indeed a murderer, has made strides towards redemption. Does that matter? Do his past contributions through military service matter? Is his current relationship with Colleen and the other residents of the care facility something we should consider when passing judgment? And what would be the purpose of imprisoning him at this point in his life?

What is the significance of Rockford's blood relationship to this man, whom he never knew while growing up? Does Rockford owe any loyalty to his father? For that matter, what is the significance of his blood relationship to Colleen? Who better fits the definition of family for Rockford: Henry Clay and Colleen, or Jamie and Trevor?

My intention is not to answer these questions--only to ask them. Each player will, through their own choices, find their own answers. Episodes One through Three lay a complex foundation for the story of Leaving DNA, but only scratch the surface of what I want to explore thematically in this game. Episodes Four through Six will continue to build on this foundation as the significance of earlier scenes becomes clear.

As I have warned many times, Leaving DNA goes to some dark and upsetting places. Anyone who is still playing Leaving DNA because they think it's a fun dating sim should probably get off the train now. The four LI's each serve an important role in the story--they are not there merely to be romantic partners for the MC. This means that I value their role in the story above their "likeability" to the player (even though it is my hope that each of the LI's will find fans among the players). But if you really are playing Leaving DNA for its story, then stick with me through some turbulent times ahead. It's going to take all eight episodes, but eventually the method to my madness will become clear.

That's all for this week. Thank you for your support!

--Monk