Engaging with this piece of work is an absolutely incredible experience! The characters are truly remarkable, and the depth of the narrative is both rich and captivating. It has definitely earned a spot among my favorite interactive fiction experiences, and I find myself eagerly anticipating the next chapters of the story. The immersive quality of this work allows me to lose track of time, and I must say that Xelef has become my favorite character throughout this journey. The way you have developed each character is impressive, as they feel so real and relatable. The intricate storytelling pulls you in, making it easy to become fully absorbed in the unfolding events. I really appreciate the effort that has gone into crafting such a detailed and engaging narrative, which keeps me on the edge of my seat, eager to find out what happens next. The emotional depth and complexity of the characters add layers to the experience, making it all the more enjoyable. I want to express my admiration for the outstanding work you have done in bringing this story to life. Your talent for character development and narrative construction shines through. As you continue to expand this masterpiece, I wish you all the best in your creative endeavors. It is clear that you have a gift for storytelling, and I am excited to see where this journey takes us next! <3
Honestly, it's a great game! The story is very thought out and you can tell how much time and effort went into each chapter. I feel very lucky to of played this as my first interactive novel. I can't wait to see more of your work for the future!
Lol though I keep looking at Xelef and thinking "SINBAD????!"
It's a good game and the first Interactive Novel that I've played on itchio, the story is good for sure but after like chapter 9 or 10 it kinda loses me. I kinda wish that we could have chosen like a special trait that we could have learned from being on the run for most of our life, but we don't so it kinda feels like we are a liability, until we start training and by then the book currently ends without anything but a sparring session. After playing it for the first time, somewhere in me I lost some interest in the story and that may be because after 10 or 11 chapters, you don't kiss anyone, I may be wrong but I romanced everyone except for Rozerin, but there isn't anything to bash on this game, it's very well rounded and as far as I can tell has no grammar errors. My favorite part of the game was the magic types even though I feel like they put characters in a box in other stories you flipped the script a little and surprised e, and I was confused and happy during y 4th playthrough when I got the 'Death of the Sun' I believe it was called? Lovely game, and I would recommend.
It's really funny to me cuz I have a dnd character with the same mannerisms as Rozerîn except it's not a facade of composure you can break with a few well placed sweet words but just how he is.
I just played through Xelef's route (as far as it is possible for now at least) and I'm amazed. Seeing as I couldn't hold back I'm going for Azad's route now. Your style of writing alone...It's detailed and what a reading flow! Then all these characters; each with their own complex background story and the bits and pieces of information regarding history, geography etc. is what mesmerises me.
It really is like a well written book, simply in the form of a game.
I am so thrilled to see how the story will progress!
another typo i think. i thought the steward was a guy.
“Indeed.” The steward glances at Rozerîn, before shifting her heavy gaze onto you. “I would say it is only natural for servants to know their master, but that lacks the urgency that would justify our presence at a no doubt critical time for Your
Thanks!! In the future, please report typos and other bugs using the form linked at the top of the page, it's easier for me to keep track of that way 🙏
A pleasure to be introduced to a culture, that author knows how to weave intricately.
I got lost for two days and now yearning for more. This could've been on par with what's trending on goodreads, either as book or a visual. Certainly deserves to be seen.
I went for Xelef and was surprised by the hurt/comfort. Couldn't yield to being used, but the alternative certainly puts you at odds with him. But I just couldn't imagine how being a doormat would make for sound relationships.
As for gameplay: ability to roll-back or have multiple saves conveniently is sorely missed. Some choices could have a bit more clear consequences: choosing to be truthful to public and provide protection apparently is not enough for the court scene to pick the 3rd choice? Should I have chosen to ignore nobles first? Even if I chose to provide guards for all the ceremonies, why do I still end up with 'I should've provided more guards' message?
What is the significance of the aspect obtained during coronation ritual? Would it be possible to ditch nobles completely?
It feels like chapter 11 sets up a scene for ending, how many chapters are planned for the game?
You click on the hamburger menu. At the bottom there's the download icon, click on that. It'll open the slots. Select 'save to files'. Hope this helps! :)
The best interactive novel out there IMO. Great writing, both love interests I have tried, A and X really managed to make me feel. Currently I'm waiting some time, because I don't want to do another love interest until I've forgotten at least some of the text and for the next chapter.
I started playing this game just some days ago and i already love it! I tried all the routes and then even changed the personality to see how would the story go, It really is awesome. So excited to see what happens in Ch2
I love this game! Ziryan is by far my favorite character! He always shows up at the most awkward moments and just has to pretend he didn't see nothing. "Y'know what? I've walked in on you guys almost kissing three times already but everyone keeps dying and we need your assistance. Now follow me quickly before we all die." Lol. I feel kinda sorry for him. I also injoy how much dedication you put into this game and how much depth all the characters personality's have as well as how detailed the plot of the all the possible storylines are!
I wish they could make it possible to copy the text because I have to copy the text since I don't know English very well so I use the translator but the whole game looks very nice
I played this game when it was still in early development and I came back to see what I’ve missed and I’ve missed a lot! Glad to see you’ve been working on this! It’s very well written and I enjoy it a lot! Can’t wait for more (I can lol)
D to Crown: I'm longing for you.BUT we cannot be together.My heart burns for you BUT we cannot be together.I can't concentrate on my duties , you occupy my mind day and night BUUUUT we cannot be together, people will talk xD
Hi! I love your work! I just started reading it 2 days ago and it is absolutely loved and appreciated. The writing is *chefs kiss and immersive. I'm wondering how many chapters will the entire story be? So so excited for your future releases! Take care.
i found this game recently, i played it through in one go, I have afterwards replayed it a number of times, its just that good!! it is incredibly well written in both setting and characters, it is so immersive! and i love the amount of agency you have as an mc, especially in terms of characterisation, like being able to choose your gender identity and pronouns!! i love this game with my whole heart and im so looking forward to future updates of this, i miss dara everyday, he makes my heart warm with affection dslkfj <33
I'm so charmed by the writing of this game. It's generous to have something this super high-quality available entirely free to play.
Does anybody know how to get which affinity? I really thought I'd managed to aim for air affinity and ended up with fire instead, my least favorite :/ I didn't understand which affinity I had until all the way after the party, so I might not have any saves far back enough and may just have to start over...
So in my R romance playthrough I didn't really pay that much attention to any of the others, because I was smitten. And then the text tells me my closest friendship is X, who is literally the one most detached from R between them all and the one I probably spend the least amount of in game time with between scenes, so I had to laugh. I ignored the other two too much for R, huh?
I tried to be best friends with X again on my D playthrough, but somehow it doesn't work anymore and I end up with R as my bestie as per usual. I can't ignore them no matter what iteration of my MC goes for it seems.
Thank you for creating them, they bring me so much joy!
Chapter 10 on Xelef's route was so beautifully written. The transfer from the Crown's route to his (in my game Xelef is currently male, so I'll use these pronouns for the time being) was so well done. Especially when he tuned himself out, I could physically see the change in how he noticed details in a normal conversation that the Crown would not. Also, I relate to him so incredibly much. I have ADHD and an anxiety disorder, so I have gotten really good at tuning into my environment to notice things others don't. When things get to be too much for me to handle I try to tune myself out, it becomes easier for me to focus on what's around me than on what's within. I've never read something I relate to so much! I can't wait to see how Xelef grows as a character. :)
you need 4 points of favor (flirting or choices to get closer to them) to be saved in the tunnels! so don't spread your love too evenly and you should manage at least one if not two of them to be available!
I’m an Iraqi and i love this with every fiber of my being. Recommended it to a couple my friends. I CANT WAIT FOR THE NEXT CHAPTER IM SOOO HAPPY I FOUND THIS. Keep up the amazing work :D
So im a bit.confused and ur tumblr closed the comments so im asking here; if i only have romance points with 1 person, is it possible to get closer as friends with the others? Like can i focus on the one person's relationship will it put me at a severe disadvantage with dialogue after the ch4?
Romance points are separate from friendship points, so yes! The love interests you didn't choose will have a new counter for friendship points after CH4, so you can safely focus on getting the romance points up for your main one before then.
It will also be possible to max out all the friendships in a single run as well, so I wouldn't worry about that too much either. Unlike the romance route, the game handles the friendships very generously haha
Yay! Ty! I'm obsessed with your story! The replay ability alone is awesome. It must take a lot of effort to make such a detailed world. You're amazing! Sry to keep bothering you, but is there a way to tell kham AND prioritize the public? I think there used to be? Or maybe that was a glitch?
You know those mobile game ads? The ones that show you a brief, dramatic, somewhat interesting situation and then you have to make a "difficult" (usually ridiculous) decision?
This game is like those but ACTUALLY compelling with ACTUALLY difficult decisions that genuinely feel like they carry consequences down the line. With the added bonus of not having the weird-looking, distorted visual "aids." If you've seen them you know what I'm talking about.
Dig at mobile game ads aside, I'm at the beginning of Ch 11 of the X route and I'm so blow away by pretty much everything about this game.
From the technical angles like the grammar, story telling techniques, vocab, etc. to how enjoyable and engaging the story is. Even the moments that are intentionally written to be "dull" or taxing on the MC emotionally are not taxing to read while still allowing sympathy. I don't think a lot of people realize how hard it is to make "unenjoyable" scenes compelling.
Basically what I'm getting at is, this is a great freakin' game. 10/10.
Hey mr suicidalsquid, I saw your name and just wanted to say I hope you're doing okay these days. I don't know what you are going through, but maybe professional help is the answer, or talking to a trusted friend about what you are going through. People care about you, even if it may not feel like it at times. Wish you the best.
← Return to game
Comments
Log in with itch.io to leave a comment.
This IF is a masterpiece:3 10/10 love it
I keep dying in that tunnel no matter how i tried i still end up dead :(
Love this game been playing it over and over again but i still kept dying in that tunnel Is it because of some wrong choices i made?:(
That means you aren't picking up enough romance points with one singular romance option,
Here's the walkthrough :)
https://www.tumblr.com/ataleofcrowns/627362513923768320/walkthrough-unlocking-an...
Thanks!!!!!!!!!!!!!!:)
Really Really Really good game!!!!!!!!! Im totally obsessed with it!!! gonna put it on my list of the best games i've played this year!!!!!!!!!!
Starting over again Hope i'll survive:)
Engaging with this piece of work is an absolutely incredible experience! The characters are truly remarkable, and the depth of the narrative is both rich and captivating. It has definitely earned a spot among my favorite interactive fiction experiences, and I find myself eagerly anticipating the next chapters of the story. The immersive quality of this work allows me to lose track of time, and I must say that Xelef has become my favorite character throughout this journey. The way you have developed each character is impressive, as they feel so real and relatable. The intricate storytelling pulls you in, making it easy to become fully absorbed in the unfolding events. I really appreciate the effort that has gone into crafting such a detailed and engaging narrative, which keeps me on the edge of my seat, eager to find out what happens next. The emotional depth and complexity of the characters add layers to the experience, making it all the more enjoyable. I want to express my admiration for the outstanding work you have done in bringing this story to life. Your talent for character development and narrative construction shines through. As you continue to expand this masterpiece, I wish you all the best in your creative endeavors. It is clear that you have a gift for storytelling, and I am excited to see where this journey takes us next! <3
Thank you so much for the kind words and the lovely comment, it means a lot 💖💖
Of course! Enjoy the rest of your day/night. :)
Honestly, it's a great game! The story is very thought out and you can tell how much time and effort went into each chapter. I feel very lucky to of played this as my first interactive novel. I can't wait to see more of your work for the future!
Lol though I keep looking at Xelef and thinking "SINBAD????!"
Haha thank you!!
It's a good game and the first Interactive Novel that I've played on itchio, the story is good for sure but after like chapter 9 or 10 it kinda loses me.
I kinda wish that we could have chosen like a special trait that we could have learned from being on the run for most of our life, but we don't so it kinda feels like we are a liability, until we start training and by then the book currently ends without anything but a sparring session.
After playing it for the first time, somewhere in me I lost some interest in the story and that may be because after 10 or 11 chapters, you don't kiss anyone, I may be wrong but I romanced everyone except for Rozerin, but there isn't anything to bash on this game, it's very well rounded and as far as I can tell has no grammar errors.
My favorite part of the game was the magic types even though I feel like they put characters in a box in other stories you flipped the script a little and surprised e, and I was confused and happy during y 4th playthrough when I got the 'Death of the Sun' I believe it was called?
Lovely game, and I would recommend.
Thank you, really appreciate the review!!
i keep replaying, but it takes genuine effort not to go through rezan's path again
you're so real. the temptation is so greattt
It's really funny to me cuz I have a dnd character with the same mannerisms as Rozerîn except it's not a facade of composure you can break with a few well placed sweet words but just how he is.
NVM her calm facade is just entirely gone lol. cuuuute
Hey!
I just played through Xelef's route (as far as it is possible for now at least) and I'm amazed. Seeing as I couldn't hold back I'm going for Azad's route now.
Your style of writing alone...It's detailed and what a reading flow! Then all these characters; each with their own complex background story and the bits and pieces of information regarding history, geography etc. is what mesmerises me.
It really is like a well written book, simply in the form of a game.
I am so thrilled to see how the story will progress!
Well done!
Thanks so much, that's very kind!!
another typo i think. i thought the steward was a guy.
“Indeed.” The steward glances at Rozerîn, before shifting her heavy gaze onto you. “I would say it is only natural for servants to know their master, but that lacks the urgency that would justify our presence at a no doubt critical time for Your
Thanks!! In the future, please report typos and other bugs using the form linked at the top of the page, it's easier for me to keep track of that way 🙏
sorry i didn't notice it. can you tell me what is the link labeled so i could take note of it with my screen reader? i am a blind player
Oh no worries, I can just give you the link: https://forms.gle/ZdsLLLcDGz5mJRpC8
got it. thank you.
there is a typo. You do your best not to accidentally inhale any as she works with concentration on her face, until she finally finishes.
Epic.
A pleasure to be introduced to a culture, that author knows how to weave intricately.
I got lost for two days and now yearning for more.
This could've been on par with what's trending on goodreads, either as book or a visual. Certainly deserves to be seen.
I went for Xelef and was surprised by the hurt/comfort.
Couldn't yield to being used, but the alternative certainly puts you at odds with him. But I just couldn't imagine how being a doormat would make for sound relationships.
As for gameplay: ability to roll-back or have multiple saves conveniently is sorely missed.
Some choices could have a bit more clear consequences: choosing to be truthful to public and provide protection apparently is not enough for the court scene to pick the 3rd choice? Should I have chosen to ignore nobles first?
Even if I chose to provide guards for all the ceremonies, why do I still end up with 'I should've provided more guards' message?
What is the significance of the aspect obtained during coronation ritual?
Would it be possible to ditch nobles completely?
It feels like chapter 11 sets up a scene for ending, how many chapters are planned for the game?
The author said she plans to make it 20 chapter each
i am absolutely gonna make animation shorts about rezan while i wait for updates....
How do I save a game to my computer? I can't seem to find a save button
You click on the hamburger menu. At the bottom there's the download icon, click on that. It'll open the slots. Select 'save to files'. Hope this helps! :)
The best interactive novel out there IMO. Great writing, both love interests I have tried, A and X really managed to make me feel. Currently I'm waiting some time, because I don't want to do another love interest until I've forgotten at least some of the text and for the next chapter.
I started playing this game just some days ago and i already love it! I tried all the routes and then even changed the personality to see how would the story go, It really is awesome. So excited to see what happens in Ch2
I love this game! Ziryan is by far my favorite character! He always shows up at the most awkward moments and just has to pretend he didn't see nothing. "Y'know what? I've walked in on you guys almost kissing three times already but everyone keeps dying and we need your assistance. Now follow me quickly before we all die." Lol. I feel kinda sorry for him. I also injoy how much dedication you put into this game and how much depth all the characters personality's have as well as how detailed the plot of the all the possible storylines are!
I agree! Ziryan is acting like he never interrupted the main character and li, and I love it XD
Yeah XD
Alsoo we can't forget Siham interrupting the temple scene in Ch11 on A and R routes XD
I wish they could make it possible to copy the text because I have to copy the text since I don't know English very well so I use the translator but the whole game looks very nice
I played this game when it was still in early development and I came back to see what I’ve missed and I’ve missed a lot! Glad to see you’ve been working on this! It’s very well written and I enjoy it a lot! Can’t wait for more (I can lol)
D to Crown: I'm longing for you.BUT we cannot be together.My heart burns for you BUT we cannot be together.I can't concentrate on my duties , you occupy my mind day and night BUUUUT we cannot be together, people will talk xD
Hi! I love your work! I just started reading it 2 days ago and it is absolutely loved and appreciated. The writing is *chefs kiss and immersive. I'm wondering how many chapters will the entire story be? So so excited for your future releases! Take care.
Okay, so i was only looking for examples of twine games, but this drew me in and stole quite a few hours. It is really really well written.
i found this game recently, i played it through in one go, I have afterwards replayed it a number of times, its just that good!! it is incredibly well written in both setting and characters, it is so immersive! and i love the amount of agency you have as an mc, especially in terms of characterisation, like being able to choose your gender identity and pronouns!! i love this game with my whole heart and im so looking forward to future updates of this, i miss dara everyday, he makes my heart warm with affection dslkfj <33
Thank you so much, I really appreciate the kind words 💖💖
i love xelef guys no. 1 xelef fan trust
I have become obsessed with this game :)
Is there any way for me to choose where the save file saves if I save to disk on mobile? I keep losing them cause I don't know where they save to
It depends on the phone. Search for something like downloads folder [phone name].
I'm so charmed by the writing of this game. It's generous to have something this super high-quality available entirely free to play.
Does anybody know how to get which affinity? I really thought I'd managed to aim for air affinity and ended up with fire instead, my least favorite :/ I didn't understand which affinity I had until all the way after the party, so I might not have any saves far back enough and may just have to start over...
There is a answer on tumblr: Is everyone’s affinity the same or depending on... : A Tale of Crowns (tumblr.com)
Also found this on the discord:
Thank you! That explains a lot lol, I was trying to aim for air and water...
happy pride, dear author<3
Happy pride!! 💖
So in my R romance playthrough I didn't really pay that much attention to any of the others, because I was smitten. And then the text tells me my closest friendship is X, who is literally the one most detached from R between them all and the one I probably spend the least amount of in game time with between scenes, so I had to laugh. I ignored the other two too much for R, huh?
I tried to be best friends with X again on my D playthrough, but somehow it doesn't work anymore and I end up with R as my bestie as per usual. I can't ignore them no matter what iteration of my MC goes for it seems.
Thank you for creating them, they bring me so much joy!
Seems like your MC and R are simply meant to be 🫶🏼
Glad you enjoy them!!
Im having trouble being honest w khan and prioritizing the public. I did get it once a long time ago, was that a glitch?
I love this sooooo much!
Chapter 10 on Xelef's route was so beautifully written. The transfer from the Crown's route to his (in my game Xelef is currently male, so I'll use these pronouns for the time being) was so well done. Especially when he tuned himself out, I could physically see the change in how he noticed details in a normal conversation that the Crown would not. Also, I relate to him so incredibly much. I have ADHD and an anxiety disorder, so I have gotten really good at tuning into my environment to notice things others don't. When things get to be too much for me to handle I try to tune myself out, it becomes easier for me to focus on what's around me than on what's within. I've never read something I relate to so much! I can't wait to see how Xelef grows as a character. :)
Thanks so much!! Always lovely to see some X appreciation 🥰
lmao I keep dying like a moron in that tunnel
you need 4 points of favor (flirting or choices to get closer to them) to be saved in the tunnels! so don't spread your love too evenly and you should manage at least one if not two of them to be available!
thanks. I do understand the system, I was just laughing at myself
This is so good, I almost wish I had found it later just to play more chapters omgggg
X has me on a chokehold I'm so excited for the next chapter!
One of the best IF stories ive ever read.
I’m an Iraqi and i love this with every fiber of my being. Recommended it to a couple my friends. I CANT WAIT FOR THE NEXT CHAPTER IM SOOO HAPPY I FOUND THIS. Keep up the amazing work :D
So im a bit.confused and ur tumblr closed the comments so im asking here; if i only have romance points with 1 person, is it possible to get closer as friends with the others? Like can i focus on the one person's relationship will it put me at a severe disadvantage with dialogue after the ch4?
Romance points are separate from friendship points, so yes! The love interests you didn't choose will have a new counter for friendship points after CH4, so you can safely focus on getting the romance points up for your main one before then.
It will also be possible to max out all the friendships in a single run as well, so I wouldn't worry about that too much either. Unlike the romance route, the game handles the friendships very generously haha
Yay! Ty! I'm obsessed with your story! The replay ability alone is awesome. It must take a lot of effort to make such a detailed world. You're amazing! Sry to keep bothering you, but is there a way to tell kham AND prioritize the public? I think there used to be? Or maybe that was a glitch?
this is my favorite game so far on this app can’t wait for more of it!
i love this story ♡
You know those mobile game ads? The ones that show you a brief, dramatic, somewhat interesting situation and then you have to make a "difficult" (usually ridiculous) decision?
This game is like those but ACTUALLY compelling with ACTUALLY difficult decisions that genuinely feel like they carry consequences down the line. With the added bonus of not having the weird-looking, distorted visual "aids." If you've seen them you know what I'm talking about.
Dig at mobile game ads aside, I'm at the beginning of Ch 11 of the X route and I'm so blow away by pretty much everything about this game.
From the technical angles like the grammar, story telling techniques, vocab, etc. to how enjoyable and engaging the story is. Even the moments that are intentionally written to be "dull" or taxing on the MC emotionally are not taxing to read while still allowing sympathy. I don't think a lot of people realize how hard it is to make "unenjoyable" scenes compelling.
Basically what I'm getting at is, this is a great freakin' game. 10/10.
any recs for games like this one?
Crown of Exile
Superstition
Throne of Ashes
When twilight strike
These Crimson Strings
Mirror Mine
Cursed Ambrosia
Sinners and Saints
Wayfarer
Sea of Stars
Within your Eyes
Swallow the Dark
Disenchanted
Fallen Lights
What lovely Bones
That's mostly it, I forgot the others but explore itch.io, steam, or dashingdon. This site have a good visual novels or interactive fiction games ✒️
Hey mr suicidalsquid, I saw your name and just wanted to say I hope you're doing okay these days. I don't know what you are going through, but maybe professional help is the answer, or talking to a trusted friend about what you are going through. People care about you, even if it may not feel like it at times. Wish you the best.
thank you so much for the recs!