Really cool prototype.
Could definitely use some balancing, in particular with the upgraded roles.
Flamethrower, Heavy Machine Gun, and Sniper, are just too weak to be considered an upgrade in any way. Even the upgrades for each specific class within the Samples upgrade tree, though it’s good you’re building out a tree, the effects of the upgrades don’t address the lack of power-boost in each battle. The Flamethrower is probably the biggest surprise here, as its traditionally short range and wide arc should be far more effective against the big swarms of smaller enemy aliens, but that didn’t seem to be the case in practice.
I have attempted the first level at least 2 dozen times, and no matter the strategic mix up of units, or the fact it’s on Easy difficulty, or careful use of 3 support call-ins, I just cannot seem to get 3 stars.
On that note, the directional input for support is a very fun idea, but it really is just an unnecessary limitation. Being forced to enter a combination of keys likened to combo attacks in 2d fighting games before you can call in an airstrike just feels like an added bit of chaos with no direct reward. I don’t think it’s a bad idea, but probably not the best for this style of game.
Other than that, the overall appeal is there, and it is enjoyable fending off the swarms of killer monsters. I think the character sprites look good, even if their “Run” ability is also sort of pointless, and I do get a sense of Last-stand, all or nothing, seeing them boxed into the center like this, defending from attacks on all sides.
Definitely wishing you the very best in building on this, and thank you for sharing your game. 👍