Thanks!
One trick I did to make the models was that they all use the same diffuse texture, which is just a palette. And there's only three materials in the game. (World, characters, and glowing effects.) So I didn't need to set up new materials every time I imported a model.
I also didn't need to do much texturing and rigging. Character models are segmented into parts, and the textures are just colored faces on each part. I was basically drawing with polygons. And segmenting the limbs made rigging really quick.
But yeah, you're probably right. The upgrade system was kinda tacked on during the final day, since my original theme tie-in idea had to be cut. So maybe having a consequence for upgrading could make things more interesting. (Kinda like Darkwood?)
And like you said, maybe a more obvious sound or music cue for morning approaching could be better. The fade to white is still a bit too abrupt. Also, I wanted to make an animation for the fire slowly dying, or better audio/visual feedback when you add wood to it.
The most important change I'd need to make would be to make the nights last longer, and maybe find the right balance for how much time wood gives you, and how fast the campfire burns out.
But yeah, thanks for taking the time to play this, and giving your thoughts on it! Glad you enjoyed it.