Old Church is a short, atmospheric visual novel crafted with Renpy, blending intimate scene exploration and dynamic lighting. Born from a desire to experiment with visual storytelling and thank elite patrons, this 40-render gem invites players to lose themselves in its moody, nostalgic world.
A Passion Project Born from Curiosity & Gratitude
Old Church began as a creative itch—one that pushed its solo developer to pivot from larger projects and embrace something smaller, more experimental. Here’s what fuels its creation:
1. Scene & Light Exploration: The developer craved freedom to play with varied settings and lighting effects, from the soft glow of stained-glass windows to the flicker of candlelight in empty pews. This curiosity became the heart of the project, shaping every visual choice.
2. Thanking Supporters: A nod to elite patrons who’ve stood by the developer through thick and thin, Old Church was crafted over a few focused days—time redirected from other games to honor their backing. It’s a small, heartfelt “thank you” in interactive form.
3. Renpy Experimentation: For the first time, the team used Renpy to build this visual novel. The engine’s accessibility and flexibility allowed them to focus on creativity over technical hurdles, resulting in a polished, smooth experience.
Crafting Atmosphere: 40 Renders & Animated Details
While short, Old Church packs a punch with its visual richness. Every frame is designed to immerse players in its quiet, introspective mood:
1. 40 Thoughtful Renders: From the weathered wood of the church doors to the delicate patterns of altar cloths, each render was crafted to tell a story. These static images transition seamlessly into subtle animations—swaying curtains, rustling pages in a forgotten book—to keep the world feeling alive.
2. Dynamic Lighting Effects: Lighting isn’t just background; it’s a character. Morning light filters through dusty windows, casting long shadows at dusk, and a single bulb swings gently in a draft—each change deepens the atmosphere, guiding players’ emotions.
3. Renpy’s Role: The engine’s tools simplified integrating these elements. Developers could tweak animations, adjust timing, and ensure the flow between scenes felt natural, all while keeping the file size lightweight for quick downloads.
A Relaxing Escape for Visual Story Fans
Old Church isn’t about complex plots or branching paths—it’s about immersion. Perfect for players who crave quiet moments of exploration, it offers:
1. Unrushed Exploration: There’s no pressure to “complete” the novel. Players can linger on scenes, soak in the details, and let the mood sink in—a welcome break from fast-paced games.
2. Nostalgic & Intimate Tone: The old church setting evokes warmth and mystery, whether you’re piecing together its past or simply enjoying the stillness. It’s a story that feels personal, like flipping through a friend’s photo album.
3. A Love Letter to Small Joys: At its core, Old Church celebrates the beauty of small, overlooked moments. A sunbeam hitting a pew, the sound of a distant bell—these details make the experience memorable, proving that short games can leave a big impression.
