Changing Art Styles in a Sequel

[illuminate001]

As a fellow artist, what is your opinion on the art style changing for a sequel to a VN you've played/loved? I've had instances where I'd done a sequel and the art had improved but it didn't actually switch styles.

Would that be a baffling thing, does it break brand or does it not even matter as long as the style change isn't too drastic?

Thoughts, opinions? This would be very helpful to me. Thanks!

[illuminate001]

For now, I think I'll leave a visual example of what I'm talking about. So pretend you started off with a more painterly/semi-real style and then went for a more lineart/cellshaded and stylized one...jarring?

[catgame21234]

That is going to be extremely jarring. Both of those images target a different demographic even tho they are of the same person. Though granted a style change with a change of tone within the narrative is a move that has been done before.
It's downright a trope even.

[illuminate001]

Hey CatGame, thanks for the reply! Actually I wasn't sure where to post my question so I posted it up in 2 diff spots on LSF. The discussion is way more active here: viewtopic.php?f=4&t=46966

You'll find in a nutshell that many of the posters agree with you on this point. Also that spinoff games of an already established VN tend to find more success with an art style change. (if necessary due to tone or what not)