open /planning/game_structure.md

Game structure: First Contact → Branching Out → The Simulation.

The game begins as a simple creature toy, then unfolds into a biome-based alchemy sim where the player slowly realises the creatures are not just outputs. They are runtime lives with traces, habits, and questions.

Interface mock Tech tree Biome map Creature codex Lore

early game // First Contact

Snootmoogle Safari only

Duration: first session or two.
Core loop: spawn, keep/release, extract essence, combine 2-base materials.
Tech: Tier 0 and Tier 1 only.
Goal: learn what creatures are, why choices matter, and what “respawn” means.
Unlock: extract 5 unique essences → Cinder Burrow.

mid game // Branching Out

2-3 biomes and cross-recipes

Available: Safari, Cinder Burrow, Moonpetal Canopy.
Core loop: move between biomes, extract local materials, craft cross-biome keys.
Tech: Tier 2 materials, biome keys, scanner/stable upgrades.
Goal: understand alchemy as simulation intervention.
Unlock: first Tier 3 material → Glitterbog.

late game // The Simulation

Mastery and anomalies

Available: all standard biomes + event/ritual spaces.
Core loop: tune parameters, hunt rare respawns, complete bestiary, chase hidden recipes.
Tech: Tier 3, anomaly materials, cross-firewall products.
Goal: philosophical payoff without saying the quiet question out loud.
Event: rare Respawn Event asks “What do you remember from last time?”