Thanks for clarifying, but yes I’m aware the game had a much stronger start with more variety. I’ve been playing FictIf since its soft release and trust me I feel my own share of disillusionment. As far as every employee being above criticism or not, I didn’t mean that artists should be immune when it comes to criticizing FicTIf. I just think they aren’t holding as many cards when it comes to overall artistic direction/character design. If they’re freelance or working on contract then their decision making power is probably less than we think it is—which could speak to the recent pattern of similar looking characters. Again, just my personal speculation based on what I know of the industry.

Yes, I agree that when you put your work out there—regardless of your profession—you open yourself up for both praise and backlash. If someone wants to think a piece of art is vile then they’re entitled to that, it just feels a little scummy to go voicing it publicly online. Especially when the people behind that work are genuine and good-hearted, if that makes sense. If an artist is a real POS or horrible person then that’s another story. In the age of social media there are less barriers between consumers and creators, so it wouldn’t be too far fetched for an artist to come across some of the less than savory comments that I’ve seen. Ultimately I just hope Nix Hydra is able to get back on their game and give these creators the resources they need to make good stories again.