After some back and forth with Copilot, I decided to go with the game concept described below. It is still not the gameplay session description, sorry for that, but I tought it would be important to give a bit more context first. Also, this is a very broad description of the game, since there is only 8 days to complete, the idea will be to focus on a single puzzle that happens in a single fixed screen (no scrolling, at least as a first version, maybe we will have time) and make sure the non-combat gameplay is fun.

Game Concept

The Springtime Sabotage

While tending to the shimmering Present Vines, Merlin discovers that the Crazy Avocados have disguised themselves as Compost Gnomes to infiltrate the fields. These sneaky saboteurs are planting explosive Pit Bombs and toxic seeds to ruin the harvest. Merlin must uncover their disguises, outwit their traps, and rally his team of magical critters (like the protective Bunny Knights and Pollinator Pixies) to restore the fields. This plot could focus on stealth, puzzle-solving, and teamwork mechanics.

Starting the game

The level begins with Merlin walking through the enchanted spring fields, lush with blooming Present Vines. Bunny Knights and Pollinator Pixies scamper about, adding a lively feel to the environment. The player moves Merlin across the screen, with side-scrolling exploration punctuated by interactive elements like examining patches of soil, inspecting gnome stations, or triggering NPC dialogue for clues.

The challenge - Spotting the Disguised Gnomes

The Crazy Avocados, disguised as Compost Gnomes, are scattered across the fields. The player will notice subtle hints—like a gnome twitching nervously, leaving avocado pits behind, or strangely avoiding sunlight. Using Merlin's "Detective Spell," the player can briefly highlight suspicious gnomes. The goal is to investigate the gnome further, but overusing the spell causes its energy meter to drain, adding strategy to the gameplay.

The puzzle - Revealing the Avocado

Once a suspicious gnome is located, a puzzle begins. The puzzles can be connecting magical runes, assembling Present Vine fragments, or engaging in timed button sequences. Completing the puzzle causes the gnome’s disguise to burst apart, revealing a Crazy Avocado. The idea is that the puzzle is integrated seamlessly into the walkable area, keeping the gameplay fluid and grounded in the side-scrolling mechanics (more on that later).

Some Action - Sabotage Countermeasures

After exposing an avocado, it tries to escape or destroy part of the field using tools like Pit Bombs or toxic seeds. Merlin must quickly neutralize these threats while keeping the crops intact. The player might use Merlin’s magic to redirect dangerous seeds or disarm traps. These sections include action mechanics like dodging hazards, casting spells, and interacting with field elements to counter the sabotage.

Powerups - Teamwork with NPCs

Certain areas are heavily infiltrated, and Merlin can call upon the Bunny Knights and Pollinator Pixies for support. These NPCs can block off pathways, carry away explosives, or distract other disguised avocados.

Level Completion

After neutralizing all disguised avocados in the level, Merlin restores the crops to their pristine state. The player is awarded bonus points for flawless Present Vine preservation and extra collectibles for uncovering hidden clues about the Crazy Avocados’ larger plot.