Following the fun : first zone rework

Lately, I've been trying to "follow the fun" with Mask Around. I realized that what I found fun in platformer roguelike is the principle of "chain of action": one action leading to another, which leads to another, and so on. I've been tweaking the game and adding small mechanics in order to extends existing chains of action.

ugly gif #1: action > reaction > more reaction

For this, I've added an explosive variant of the green blocs. These new deadly obstacles explode when something collides with them with a strong enough impact. Secondly, I've modified the drone behavior so that it explodes upon death. Both of these mechanics can be a danger for the player, as well as an opportunity, since the explosions damage enemies as well. I also took the time to add secrets, namely masks and backpacks, with a focus on the first area. I'm pretty proud of the result!

Zone 2: Clover for cover

ugly gif #2: Clover bloc in action

I also began working on the second zone, which is themed around plants. The main mechanic of the zone is the clover bloc, which acts as a perfect gear in the "chain of action" described above. Any damage will trigger the clover switch, which will then make the clover bloc follow its path. It can be used as a platform, a trap, for some cover, ... In the current build, it's still very buggy, but I can't wait to show you the many uses for this bloc. Here's some more footage (less laggy) of the new zone and the clover bloc in action. My friend PeKaNo really outdid himself on the music.

The Road Ahead

Third form concept

The game is really taking shape! I've also taken the time to do boring stuff, like adding controller support in menus, fixing bugs, improving UI... The remaining big features I need to add in order to finish the game are:

• Finishing zone 2 (adding one enemy + one semi boss)
• Reworking zone 3 (adding a mechanic + one semi boss)
• Adding a final boss
• Adding third playable form

I'm hoping to do all that in the following months for a 2024 release. Current playtesters can find the complete beta update patchnotes here. If you haven't done so already, you can wishlist the game on Steam or join the discord channel.

Thanks for reading and see you around!