《Pact Between Us》 is our studio's 6th FMV(and the 2nd custom project—the name of the first custom project won’t be mentioned here because the client refused to pay after delivery, a consequence of being too trusting… ah, the woes of youthful inexperience -_-!). I took on this custom project for a simple reason: 《Back 2》incurred significant losses, leaving me unable to fund development for 《Back 3》. So, accepting custom work became a necessary step.
Though custom, this project is quite unique. Unlike traditional FMVs focused primarily on viewing, this one can truly be considered a game. The overall structure draws inspiration from an ancient game (oops, showing my age -_-!), but it fills the framework with live-action content. While it sounds simple, execution was incredibly challenging. I hope you experience a completely new form of interactive entertainment.
The gameplay may feel unfamiliar to FMV fans, as it involves repeated actions to build character stats. Though we’ve minimized this as much as possible, stat-building is like grinding for loot—it’s an inherent part of the process. Through this, players increase their stats, which then influence the final ending based on their accumulated attributes and key story events.
Simultaneously, it may also feel unfamiliar to fans of character sims, because the systems aren’t deep enough. The main reason was scale: exceeding the client’s budget meant certain content couldn’t be developed. But for novelty’s sake, it still offers something fresh.
The game features 10+ endings, ranging from perfect emotional outcomes to more ordinary career conclusions.
Still, raising your sister from childhood, watching her grow step by step, and immersing yourself in her life and emotions… it’s quite a touching experience.
Finally, regarding pursuing FMV —whether debt-ridden projects, custom jobs, or passion projects—here are a few words to those who’ve supported me:
First, heartfelt thanks to everyone who’s backed me since 《Try and love》, through 《Back1》, The 《Undead Realm:Egp》, to 《Back2》. Many of you have reached out via email with moving words of encouragement, pouring out paragraphs of thoughtful feedback and discussion. I truly wanted to credit each of you individually, but since most correspondences use email nicknames or addresses, privacy prevents me from naming you here. Rest assured, I’ve replied to every single one. If any of your emails slipped through, please resend—I’m currently the only one handling all store operations and emails, so the voluminous nature of the work can lead to oversights. Your support remains my greatest motivation; it’s immensely encouraging.
I’d also like to thank all the content creators (UP friends) who consistently show interest in my FMV(listed in no particular order):
木歌总攻大人，友利奈绪大魔王，你是Nana的小可爱吗，帅桃游戏解说，星星星空吖，镜柯君Kim，咖米狸，11的游戏世界，游戏的艾米，Wendy恐游版，左手善良，香菜爱吃香菜， and everyone else supporting my FMV.
I’ve spent countless hours in your live streams, observing gameplay experiences and feedback from viewers—both positive and critical. These insights are noted for gradual refinement in future projects (admittedly, improvements may be slow, or even involve detours... reasons to be discussed around 《Back 3》 release).
Finally, to those just discovering me through 《Pact Between Us》—Hello! I run a small studio dedicated to making FMV, primarily in horror. Our projects might not always shine brightly ("quality" is relative after all). While many peers in this field operate with heavy funding, I’ve always worked with tiny budgets—roughly 1/20th, or even 1/50th, of well-known titles. We have zero budget for marketing or promotions, relying entirely on friends and longstanding supporters. Hopefully, this game can serve as an introduction. If you enjoy this genre, who knows—it might just pave the way for more to come.
Core Game Features
【Study】
The protagonist (you) arranges study courses for their younger sister.
Courses primarily boost different attributes (stats).
Studying costs in-game currency.
【Work】
The protagonist sends their sister out to work jobs.
Working increases specific stats and earns in-game currency.
However, work significantly increases the sister's fatigue level.
【Rest】
The protagonist can have their sister rest at home or go on trips.
Resting reduces the sister's fatigue level.
Trips can also potentially increase her Affection rating.
Affection is a prerequisite for unlocking the perfect relationship endings.
【Wardrobe】
The protagonist can choose outfits for their sister to wear.
Changing clothes alters the sister's "impact" or influence at home – different outfits produce different reactions/effects.
