Nova-box launches choice-driven visual novel After the Wane with native Linux support

French developer Nova-box has released After the Wane, a choice-driven mystery visual novel set in Paris. The game features a narrative focused on a young dancer named Lena, where player decisions influence the story's direction and multiple possible endings.

Crucially for the Linux community, the title features a native Linux release alongside Windows and macOS versions. The game is currently available on Steam, GOG, and itch.io, with a Humble Store release expected soon.

Production and Platform Details

• Platform Support: The game provides native compatibility for Linux, macOS, and Windows, ensuring accessibility for non-Windows users without relying solely on compatibility layers.
• Art Production: The visual assets were created using hand-drawn rotoscoping of real dance movements, totaling over 2,000 hand-drawn frames and watercolor scenes.
• AI Policy: The developer explicitly stated that no generative AI prompts were used in the creation of the game's art assets.
• Audio Implementation: The score, composed by Illustrason, utilizes real instruments and features dynamic shifts based on player choices.

Why it matters

The inclusion of native Linux support at launch reinforces the growing trend of indie developers prioritizing Linux as a primary platform rather than an afterthought. While Steam Deck compatibility has not been explicitly confirmed, native Linux titles generally offer a smoother experience for handheld gaming enthusiasts.