Dasher

We all know about classic wepons, right?  Swords, spears, guns, bows. 

But what if your power depends on protection tool and pure force?

This project is a small combat prototype built to explore an unusual gameplay idea: what if the player's only tool was a shield?

The player moves using the WASD keys, while the shield constantly rotates towards the mouse cursor. Instead of attacking with a conventional weapon, the player uses a dash ability activated with the left mouse button (LMB). The shield serves both defensive and offensive purposes, allowing the player to block incoming attacks, push melee enemies away, and create openings for well-timed dash attacks.

The prototype features two enemy types. Melee enemies constantly chase the player and pressure them in close combat, while stationary ranged enemies fire projectiles that can be blocked and destroyed with the shield. The player must balance movement, positioning, timing, and energy management to survive and clear the room.

The main purpose of this project was not to create a complete game, but to test and refine this core combat mechanic. Through multiple iterations, balancing passes, bug fixes, and playtesting, the prototype helped answer an important design question: can a shield alone provide engaging and satisfying combat? The result is a small but complete gameplay experience that also serves as a foundation for a possible future game built around the same idea.