Mage or Trouble

Updates

Per feedback, I've reduced the encounter rate to make the dungeons a little less tedious.

Play the game here! https://synystercola.itch.io/mageortrouble

There seems to be a missing resource with the Windows download. I am removing it from itch.io for the time being.

Since I'm using pre-made assets, I have bowed out of the Graphics and Audio ratings, thanks!

Synopsis

Congratulations! You beat the final boss!

Now you need to get out of the dungeon alive. The problem is - everyone knows the only reason a curse hasn't killed
your party is because your mage, Lancaster, is keeping the curse at bay.

If he dies, everyone dies. All is fair in heat death.

Controls

- Arrow Keys: Move Player/Cursor (Selecting with your mouse also works)
- Enter: Action (Left click works too)
- Esc: Menu/Back (Right Click works too)

Gameplay

This is a turn-based RPG with some mechanics seen in games like Octopath Traveler.

Offensive pressure is important. Striking your enemy's weakness will eventually stagger them, allowing you to inflict major damage!

As you strike down your enemy, you will learn their weaknesses.

But be warned - the enemy knows your weakness too. They will not hesitate to focus their efforts on Lancaster. Knowing when to keep attacking or fallback to heal is the difference between surviving another fight or decaying in a dead universe.

Traversing through the labyrinths (with limited supplies!) often have two paths: The path of least resistance, which will get you to the next floor. Side paths have more encounters, but the experience can be worthwhile. Enemies often drop supplies. Lastly, treasures and upgraded equipment can be found if one chooses to explore.

Watch out - often stronger enemies await you and block your only way out.

Characters

Rayna The Sentinel

Rayna is the leader of the group. She is strong and ready to help her teammates. She has a mix of offensive skills and defensive skills that allow her to divert the enemy's attention. She can deal damage or take damage as needed.

Lancaster The Warlock

Beneath Lancaster's cool demeanor lies an intelligent mind with a knack for destruction. Lancaster's spells deal devastating damage, and he can even bolster the team's offensives. However, keeping curses at bay take a toll on his defenses.

Merwyn the Templar

The optimistic Templar, Merwyn keeps the team together with his sacred healing spells. He can throw punches and deal damage in a pinch. Utilize Merwyn's support capabilities and the team will be near impossible to take down.

Jennelle The Hunter

Jennelle believes the best defense is a never-ending offense. She is the first to strike and can cause trouble for her enemies early. In a pinch, she can slow down her enemies, or put them to sleep.

Hints

- You should be able to run from every encounter, save for boss battles. You don't need to do every fight, unless you want the experience/supplies. It is possible to beat the maps at level 70 - leveling up adds some cushion.
- The more advanced mazes have a path of least resistance - pay attention to the environment!
- Rayna's "Provoke" skill helps with mob control. Be careful, some enemies can bypass the taunt, and it's useless for skills that target more than one person.
- Merwyn's "Bulwark" spell raises defenses - don't hesitant to use it early in a fight!