Posted May 14, 2024 by theaaronstory
Continuing with the original design intention, it was though to add the basics of magic (in the form of runes) to the game, which required an additional threat in the form of water. A solution for a problem. Although the liquid doesn't have physics, it still obeys some basic principles and can only be removed with magic (runes); it also ruthlessly tries to drown everything in its way (not saying that you should use that to your advantage or anything).
The introduction of these pixies were to give some flavor to the combat, and challenge the monotone aspect of melee; plus it's a good way to make use of existing mechanics (like breaking things melee can't when a mob hits them, like braces that prevent cave-ins), as it forces your hand to act differently. So if you're not careful enough, all these pesky mobs can overrun you at an instant. It might need some balancing here and there, as the buffs from the mobs can get out of hand pretty quickly; although the thinking is to make something to counter this in the next patch (with a new mechanic, rather than adjusting the tables).
Still a long way to go, but for now the focus is on adding interesting bits to the game, not ones that are obvious (more crafting, weapons,, items, etc.; generally more of everything) or wouldn't contribute much to the core loop (mining rocks for coins). Although, am guilty of not doing the latter much, as these monsters kept interrupting...