Core Gameplay Loop

Explore → Fight → Gather (Spells or Memories) → Return to Base → Upgrade → Descend

• Player explores procedurally generated rooms in elemental-themed areas.
• Encounters enemies, memories, and optional puzzles or hidden paths.
• Gains new spells, lore, and minor resources.
• Reaches a checkpoint or teleports back to the sanctuary to rest and make meaningful upgrades to spell attacks.
• Returns deeper into the dungeon with new knowledge and power.

Combat System

Combat in this game is fast-paced and meant to have an exciting combat feel. Players rely on fluid movement, strategic spell use, and environmental awareness to handle various threats. There will be bursts of chaos and traps that force the player to react without the full chaos of a bullet hell.

• Main Spell: The player always has access to a core spell that can be used repeatedly. This ranged attack will feature upgrade paths that affect speed, damage, spread, or added effects. It is meant to feel reliable and foundational.
• Active Spells (3 equipped): In addition to the primary spell, the player may equip two offensive spells and one defensive spell. These are selected from the player’s full spellbook. Each one brings a specific utility, and it will be encouraged to make different builds in different situations. These spells will likely draw from a pool of mana that players start with at each area.
• Movement: Players can dash or blink positions fluidly. Combat areas are designed to encourage purposeful positioning.
• Combat Feel: Players are rewarded for controlling space, reacting to enemy formations, and selecting the right tool for the moment.
• Mana System (Possibility): Players have a mana pool that is consumed when using their equipped offensive or defensive spells. The primary spell does not consume mana.

Magic System: Functional Classification

All spells fall under two main functional types: Offensive and Defensive. This structure supports strategic spell loadouts while encouraging players to adapt based on the dungeon, enemies, and their preferred combat style. A majority of the spells will likely fall under offensive due to the variable nature of such spells.

Offensive Spells

Direct Damage: