I would prefer the death but only if there is a checkpoint system in place. I usually take my time reading and simmering in the emotions and becoming really immersed then to just die and have me start all over again really is a turn-off. I don’t mind if I die and have to do things a different way from the checkpoint, cause it’s only a small hiccup in the experience. If anything the threat of death reaffirms the need to complete the game with a good ending.
I honestly just wish that the saving function in demos was available for the finished product. (I was told that apparently, the save system is only available if an author implants their own. Please correct me if I’m wrong. 
) THANKFULLY THEIR IS A PLUGIN