Hey there! Secret Santa review incoming:
I'm actually glad I got the chance to play your game. I enjoyed how much different it was from the other games (no turn based combat)! The combat was definitely super unique.
That being said, here are a few points I'd like to make:
- Disabled dash in place of a "speed" buff: I'm not too keen on this. It makes moving through your maps begrudgingly slow. I think having a dash option--especially with a sort of action-based combat, is much more handy and will make the game play smoother.
- I liked the save points. I actually might take some tips from you on this--I enjoyed that it opens up the save screen for the player and that it's clearly presented.
- Pixel movement was very cool, but it actually works against you here. I noticed it's actually more difficult to line yourself up with enemies and hit them, and I think the pixel movement is responsible for hits not registering on the enemies (I found sometimes I would hit an enemy, and it would take no damage!) If you really enjoy pixel movement, I suggest offering some sort of "strafe" option so it's easier to line up attacks.
- The shop view change was a nice little detail. I think people take for granted how awkward a small shop looks on a big map, so this was refreshing to see.
- Enemy quantities/Balance/Rescuing Souls: Enemy quantities are insane, I found myself getting trapped by droves of enemies which was really frustrating. I think you should reduce the amount of them, and more enemies should drop crystals. Rescuing souls, conversely, seemed to have no real incentive. I found myself getting 1 or 2 crystals for rescuing them, and was surprised that there was no HP recovery. I'd definitely make it more worthwhile for the user to rescue them, since it seems to be a primary mechanic in the game.
- A status menu to explain buffs, current effects, etc. would do wonders.
- Cracks in the wall: Make them treasure! So much potential here. Let me break em down for cash and crystals!
Overall I think with a bit of tweaking it has potential. I'd put a little bit of time into making the maps and the combat handle a little more smoothly. I look forward to seeing where it goes from here :)