The other GIFs made the impression as if the gameplay is very hasty, as if you barely have time to spot enemies, let alone control the environment to defeat them. It's a bit like hotline miami, and I hated it
This usually leads to using just one direct hit skill to kill all, and leave all the complex environment interactions out because you have no time to actually carry out anything complex.
The new GIFs look more manageable, though. Maybe it was just a thing on my side. The issue still holds, though: if you have that blast that one-shot-kills enemies, why even bother using anything else? Why set furniture on fire and then throw it after some bad guy when a single click disposes him just as well?
The game can be quite hectic at times, but it isn't designed to be as instantaneous as Hotline Miami. Enemies can't kill you one hit and there are some light stealth mechanics so if you need to catch a breather you can turn a few corners and temporarily lose them. Some of the gifs in the OP were me deliberately aggroing lots of enemies at once to show off some of the features.
The kinetic bolt can kill all but the knight in one hit, but it will rapidly drain your mana which makes it unsuitable for fighting lots of enemies at once. Enemies can also dodge the bolt if it's fired from a distance, and it makes a loud noise which draws more enemies to your position.
Even when using the bolt in combat, it's often better to shoot the environment than the enemies. You can shoot a wall and send chunks of rubble flying that will hit multiple enemies, or shoot a box to spray wood shards everywhere.
The other spells have been designed with benefits that the bolt doesn't have:
Telekinesis: Most efficient, can kill multiple enemies at once. It's cheaper to throw an enemy's dropped weapon than to fire a bolt. You can also just throw one enemy at another for maximum efficiency, and objects can be thrown around corners.
Fire: A short burst will set an enemy on fire, which won't kill them but they will be too panicked to fight. A long burst will burn them to death, and is effective on close groups of enemies. They're afraid of fire, and will back up if they see you using it. It can also be used to coat doorways to stop them from trying to follow you. Here's a slightly old gif showing that off:
Wind: More of a tool than a weapon, but it works as crowd control and can be used in tandem with the bolt to prevent enemies from dodging it.
That's the theory behind the design anyway. The bolt is intended for small encounters and moments when you need a quick kill, but should become outclassed when facing groups of enemies. Knights in particular are very resistant to it, as they can block it with their shields.
We're always trying to tweak and balance the game though, and if you'd like to try it out for yourself we're always interested in hearing feedback.
Looks really good and like it would be a lot of fun. The aesthetic is great too! Following!
This looks great - just commenting so I can easily follow updates ^_^
So many top down shooters, so few have a fantasy theme. I like it. And the lighting!
Thanks, it is much appreciated.
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