Not Going Back: Before is an indie casual adult visual novel developed for PC. Players take on the role of a protagonist starting his first year of college, aiming to improve his life while confronting lingering issues from a difficult past. The narrative unfolds through a series of choices that influence events both large and small across the initial five chapters of the story.
Gameplay
The core experience centers on reading through dialogue and scenes while making decisions at key moments. These choices determine how relationships develop with the main characters introduced early on and how the protagonist navigates daily life in his new college environment. The first chapter sets the stage with introductions and setting establishment. Subsequent sections follow the protagonist through a week of settling in, including fraternity activities, deeper explorations of personal connections, a single-night Halloween event, and the period leading into winter after that event. With over 16,000 images supporting the visuals, the presentation emphasizes detailed character interactions and environmental storytelling.
Replay value comes from the branching paths created by different decision combinations. A first playthrough typically lasts around 10 hours, though multiple runs allow exploration of alternate outcomes in character dynamics and plot developments. The structure builds gradually, layering personal growth themes with emerging tensions from the protagonist's history.
Game Modes
The game operates as a single-player experience focused entirely on narrative progression. There are no separate competitive or cooperative modes. Instead, engagement comes through sequential chapter play, where each section advances the timeline while offering opportunities to revisit prior choices for varied results. The five chapters in Part 1 form a cohesive introductory arc, with connective segments linking certain events to maintain flow between major story beats.
Story and Characters
The narrative follows the protagonist as he attempts to leave behind adolescent struggles and build stability in college. Early chapters introduce a cast of characters central to his social circle, with later sections examining the challenges of forming and maintaining new relationships. Themes of personal improvement, lingering trauma, and seasonal shifts in mood provide the backdrop, culminating in the final chapter of this part where past elements begin to surface again. The adult elements integrate into the relationship and decision systems without overshadowing the overall story focus.
Current State and Development
Part 1 remains in active development, with the provided content representing the first half of the planned full story. Part 2 is slated to begin once the initial section reaches completion, extending the narrative to its conclusion. The current build emphasizes replayability through its choice mechanics and chapter structure, allowing players to experience different relationship paths and endings within the established timeframe.
Is It Worth Playing?
This title suits players who enjoy choice-driven visual novels with adult themes and a focus on character relationships in a college setting. The branching decisions and substantial image count support multiple play sessions for those interested in exploring outcomes. As an ongoing project with the first part available, it appeals to fans seeking story-rich experiences that prioritize narrative depth over action or puzzle elements. Reception from available player comments highlights appreciation for specific characters and the overall premise, though the game continues to evolve through updates.