I'm so sorry to hear this has happened. I understand as an artist myself how frustrating it is to lose all of the work you did. Sometimes however, pushbacks like these can cause us to create even better works than what was lost. Don't lose hope! Use this as an opportunity to do something different, change designs, have fun with new concepts, and see if there is something you can do that you hesitated previously, or old scrapped concepts that may work better in your favor. Sometimes being stuck with strict adherence to old concepts can burn you out. You aren't starting over, you are building off of things you already created and now have more knowledge as to how to move forward. 

That being said, I do also understand if you reach the point of knowing when to step back or put the project on a backburner. Take a nice break and or maybe start on something else for a while until you are ready to return with renewed vigor. There is nothing wrong with stopping a project despite fan outcry, because your sanity and health is first and foremost. It wouldn't be a failure to do so because creators cannot create if they are burnt out. I wish the team all the best! I know you all are working hard and I can't wait to see what comes of it in the future. 

Oh god, that's so sad, i was so hyped for more content of it, well, i am happy you guys are disposed to re-do it all, congratulations for the determination, take your time.

I’m so sorry, guys. I cannot imagine. Please, take all the time you need, and then some. Please take care of yourselves, , too. We’ll be here. And we support you, either way. <3

In so sorry this happened to you!!! Please make sure to take all the time you need before making a decision. I've had my computer crash and loose all my progress on games I'm playing, and for some that I loved dearly and was nearly done with, I haven't been able to go back. That's just me playing games, I can't even begin to imagine what it must be like to lose all the work you've done to create a game. Whatever you decide just know that there are people who have loved the games you've given us and will be cheering for your happiness no matter what choice you make. 

that's horrible, you guys truly deserve a break for all the hard work you've done. no matter what choice you make I'm sure we'll all understand. good luck to you all and thank you for everything you've done!

I'm so sorry, that is extremely frustrating and demoralizing to lose nearly everything of a project. Sure you have the idea of what was there but you have to recreate it or if you're lucky pay a company to recover. I doubt anyone here will blame you for whatever decision you make, I say do what makes you happy and fulfilled and whether that is to close this chapter and start a new one or not we'll still be here, take all the time you want. Hopefully something cheers you guys up soon.

Take all the time you need, hun!!! I've lost important files before (writing) and I understand all too well how gutting it feels, not to mention how much more large-scale this loss is for you guys. Rest, recuperate, and please try not to worry! Whether you decide to give this game another shot, move on to another one, or take a longer break, we'll be here, giving your awesome games the love they deserve! Take care and I'm sending you all the biggest and fluffiest of hugs!! ^-^ 

I'm deeply sorry, losing such important files can be really saddening and difficult... sending my sincerest regards. I really wish you all the best and a safe recovery too

Omg, please take a break. This hurt to know and two times because the game and the Hard drive too this is awlful when happens. Your games are amazing, and i wish good luck, but take some time for play, dance, eat with easy.

Take a break, you guys deserve it <3

Sending y'all big hugs 💛 God, I'm so sorry!

NOOOOO T-T thats insane- i went into playing subject love not realizing it was a april fools joke but still ended up loving it<33  personally i'd say to take as much time needed for a break as im sure yall deserve it esp with how frustrating and demotivating losing a bunch of progress can be- YA'LL GOT THIS WHEN YOU DO COME BACK THOUGHHH !!!!!!! I BELIEVE IN YOUUUUUUU!!!!!!!!!