Community Update: do we go full 2.5D folks?

I’ve been cookin' and I need to run it by all of you.

My original concept for this game was a 2.5D game that could freely swap into a 3rd-person perspective. I even tested a few rooms in the current build where you could move along the Z-axis, but after testing, I cut them because it just didn't feel right.

My initial goal was for the "Metroid-ish" exploration to feel like Super Metroid / Metroid Dread. A year ago, I didn't think I had the know-how to pull off a full 3D game—but I’ve learned lots while working on this game and I’m now confident I can make a full 3D shift work, and I think it could be good.

Why the Switch?

The original plan was to keep exploration in 2.5D and reserve 3rd-person for big boss fights to allow for better aiming and combat (think RE4 or Dark Souls). However, moving to full 3D offers other perks too:

• Hand-Drawn Feel: I’m still animating models by hand, so the game will keep that "charming jank" style I’m known for lol

• Interaction: Better item examination, including rotating objects in 3D.

• Expanded Level Design: I can add back in puzzles I had to cut, like pushing objects around a room (which was too limited in 2D other than a lame move a statue in the bathroom).

• Collectibles: I can add toy collectibles! possible in 2D, but they feel much more "toy-like" in 3D.

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• Enhanced Atmosphere: Better implementation for spatial SFX and dynamic music.

The Stats & The Plan

To give you some context on where the game stands:

• 12k+ Wishlists

• 400+ people have played it

• 140+ Players with over an hour of playtime (so I want to hear from you all!)

I’m sharing these stats because I value the input of everyone who has supported the game so far. I want to know your thoughts on me making the switch.

While I could build this as a standalone game, my plan is to use the current version as a roadmap and rebuild the game from the ground up in 3D. I’d be taking everything I’ve learned over the last year, releasing it in parts just as I have been doing.

Most Importantly...

I'd like this to feel like an upgrade, not a bait-and-switch. I don’t want to alienate the players who have already invested time and money into the current build. To ensure the original vision isn't lost, I would host the current 2D version on Itch.io so the "OG" version would remain playable if it goes 2.5D. but if everyone thinks it should stay full 2D I can stick with the current build and get to the end, but I think this could be a better final product

I’d love to hear your thoughts!