Challenges & Solutions

• Visual variety with limited assets: Overcame the restricted tile set by layering multiple tiles and experimenting with Unity’s early 2D lighting system, giving the environments depth and atmosphere despite minimal resources.

• Combat design: Implemented a turn-based combat system where enemies chase the player when within a detection radius, then engage in battles featuring RNG-driven damage ranges. Added a timing-based attack mechanic for players, introducing skill and precision into otherwise simple exchanges.

• Inventory & equipment system: Designed and programmed a modular inventory and equipment manager, allowing players to swap gear seamlessly and laying groundwork for scalable item progression.

• Persistence: Built a save/load system so player progress could be maintained across sessions, ensuring replayability and continuity.

Reflection

This project taught me how to work creatively within strict technical and artistic limitations, and how to design systems (like the inventory manager) that are flexible and reusable. I also gained experience in building core gameplay loops (enemy AI, combat, loot), and balancing randomness with player skill to keep encounters engaging.