I played version 0.2 a few years ago. Had to replay the whole game, because the saves are not compatible (save migration is not that hard). And what a surprise there is almost no content in 0.7b since 0.2, all they added is summer content (mainly text and 1 battle art).
Don't make my mistake and wait a few more years, if you already played the early versions.
Correct me if I'm wrong, but as I understand, you were expecting new girls and/or new content between 0.2 and 0.7b. As dev team members present in this thread, they want to "perfect" the first chapter before adding new content (fyi, they are actually adding new content, like bbq days, pool parties, dates/hangouts and more to come.), so the game would feel more "complete" before 1.1, aka starting the new chapter. Imho, they are doing the right thing that way, because adding new content to the old chapters are a hell of a job to do because of the compatibility issues, it's effect to the later chapters etc.
As for why save migration didn't happen,
slick97 explained it nicely, I don't think I need to add anything. You can wait 1.1 update to see the new chapter, or even 2.0 to see in its completed form, but don't misinform the new or returning players and discourage them from playing. Everyone needs to see and think for themselves, like you did before the discouragement.
