Hyper Arcane Mage Battle (HAMB) is a 2D platform battler taking inspiration from ROUNDS (Landfall) and Noita (Nolla Games). 1-8 players enter a multi-round match, casting spells to fight for victory each round. Spell modifiers are dealt at the end of each round, with a build session in between, allowing for a new strategy and a different battle each time. Every mage starts with a base magic kit, completely modifiable from the get-go, since the build session precedes the first fight.
Magic construction
Spells are built from parts: a form, stats, and modifiers. Due to the uncapped modifiers, there are essentially infinite spell combinations. This isn't even an exaggeration, as there are 9 base spells, plus 106 modifiers: 36 payloads, 23 triggers, 12 targets, 11 trajectories, 8 shape and count cards, 7 origins, 6 cast behaviors and 3 aim cards, as well as 17 cards applied directly to the character as of the writing of this description. 132 individual cards in total, with an effective code limit of 128 modifiers per spell.
Fair standings
Cards gained and points earned pull in opposite directions. Placing low gets you a bigger draw, intending to balance seasoned veterans with inexperienced newbies. Granted, the learning curve for spells and their interactions steepens entry, but the game plays very much like most platform battlers so players familiar with them can transfer their experience here.
K/O's or HP
Wear opponents down, or knock them into the pit below the arena. The central shared camera entices player interaction.
Up to 8 players - Controller friendly
Play online or on the couch, with up to 8 players and 3 mages to choose from. Gameplay designed for controllers, but completely playable on keyboard and mouse.