I don’t mind choices, or the points system, if they actually matter.
For example, similar to what GRH said, I dislike when the choice seems completely pointless. I’d prefer to make a choice that impacts the story and/or my points.
I also prefer when I’m being given a bunch of choices that help shape who or what my character is. I’m currently writing a story inspired by Dungeons & Dragons, as well as Baldur’s Gate 3, where I’ve given the reader a few choices on what their class is. (Bard, wizard, etc).
I wouldn’t stop reading a story if it had no choices, or the points system, so long as the storyline itself is interesting.
Both kinds of stories exist. Episode’s whole thing is kinda supposed to be interactive, you know, but still- both kinds of stories exist. But, you’d be surprised how much interactivity helps the reader- even if the choices don’t change the story all too much.
One of the stories I have- I have been working on this one for years- used to have no choices at all. I eventually incorporated choices, not only because it will undoubtedly help, but also because it just gives your story more range. Do you have multiple ways you want to explore a character? Use branchpaths! Have multiple outfits you love to death? Use choices! Interactivity is just a good opportunity to bring your story to life- big or not.
I think you should use choices, regardless of what kind of story you’re writing, you will always be able to fit them in- big or small. So why not? A good use of choices only has benefits, it’s worth it.
I agree Episode is more interactive and I want to have both ways for it! But my stories (2 on-going) have a point system that makes it more enjoyable. I do like the mini outfits & makeup and all that.
But I think for this story I am going to add some unique choices since my story is way different from my 2 ongoing stories!
So I decided to add choices, but they will not affect the plot/story. It is a win-win readers will get choices that they can decide on 3-4 each episode (besides dress up/makeup/cc) that will bring the story to life even more! But no point system - I am too lazy to make a new point system check out my other stories if you want a point system
I love choices, hate point systems. Why do I love choices, because Episode is an interactive game. I even don’t mind if there are no choices, because then it’s more story telling.
But point systems? I hate them with a passion. Why? Every time I end with 0 points because I make the right wrong choice. I end at the totally opposite side than I want. I’d like to make my own choices and I am a person that is very bummed when I get 5 points out of the 242402 total points. Than it’s not funny anymore for me and I leave the story.
As a reader I like to take a lead how my story goes that I read. When the author decides there is no CC and there are no choices, the story goes how the author sees the story and I will respect that. But with a point system: hell na, the story can go twenty thousand ways and never ends the way I like it. (That’s how I see the point system in a story.)
