Merlin and the Shadow Order: Operation Silent Lens

Decided to go along with the Merlin theme and the sentence: The Shadow Order: ‘Very Invisible’

I think I can use the Comandosgame series as a basic inspiration for tactical/stealth actions (although Comandos is much more than that) along with the same Action Side Scroller level design of games like Double Dragon and Golden Axe (which, eventually, is my ultimate goal).

 Since it took me quite a while to figure out what to do, I might not be able to setup a scope doable during the game jam. But I will try anyways.

With some help from Meta AI (since it can be used in whatsapp it is very practical to do it on the run while in traffic or waiting something) and Copilot(my preferred tool), I created a small plot/narrative for the game. Obviously, most of the ambience of the game that the AIs created will be very hard to achieve with the assets I have access to (but I will do my best). I pasted below the last version of the plot created by Copilot with some edits of my own.

Title: "Merlin and the Shadow Order: Operation Silent Lens"

Plot Summary:

Merlin, Santa’s lovable but clumsy security elf, has uncovered suspicious activities threatening Christmas. The Crazy Avocados from Waterloo are suspected of stealing presents and sabotaging Santa's operations, but solid evidence is needed to take action. Armed with his enchanted Silent Lens, and an attention span shorter than a snowflake’s lifespan, Merlin sets out on a solo mission to infiltrate key locations, gather photographic proof, and uncover the Avocados’ devious plan—all while staying unseen.

Gameplay Breakdown:

Level 1: Santa’s Production Facility (The Investigation Begins)

• Sneak through the factory to photograph sabotage without alerting the bustling workers or noisy machinery.
• Use mechanics like:
  • Silent Lens Control: Aim and zoom carefully to capture critical evidence.
  • Noise Awareness: Avoid jingling bells, clattering machines, and slippery toy surfaces that could give away your position.
  • Disguise Tactics: Hide as a stack of gift boxes or decorations when needed.

Level 2: The Journey to the Avocado’s Lair (Shadow Pursuit)

• Merlin follows the Avocados through snowy paths and sneaky hideouts, photographing their suspicious activities along the way.
• Introduce:
  • Tracking System: Follow footprints, spy on meetings, and capture evidence while keeping out of sight.
  • Environmental Hazards: Navigate icy patches and dodge curious reindeer that could expose your location.
  • Shadow Magic: Blend into shadows to move past snowmen sentries or avoid direct sightlines.

Level 3: Inside the Avocado’s Lair (Final Investigation)

• Merlin infiltrates their lair, facing high-tech security measures like laser traps, locked doors, and motion-detecting cameras.
• Use tactical mechanics inspired by Commandos:
  • Lockpicking & Hacking: Access secured rooms and disable alarms without being caught.
  • Camera Manipulation: Create blind spots by repositioning security cameras.
  • Puzzle Solving: Solve environmental puzzles to uncover hidden areas containing stolen presents.
• All evidence must be collected and Merlin must escape without leaving a trace!

Key Mechanics:

• 📸 Stealth Photography: Gather evidence by aiming and capturing photos without drawing attention. Poorly timed shots could alert enemies.
• 🕵️ Solo Tactical Gameplay: Merlin must rely solely on his wit and enchanted tools to succeed.
• ❄️ Dynamic Enemy AI: Guards patrol in predictable patterns, but can be alerted by unusual sounds or movements, requiring careful observation.
• 🎄 Environmental Interaction: Utilize festive props to blend into surroundings and slip past enemies unnoticed.

Tone & Style:

• 🎄 Festive espionage: A charming mix of holiday cheer and sneaky tactical gameplay.
• 🤹 Humorous tension: Merlin’s clumsiness adds stakes and comedic moments to the stealth-heavy gameplay.
• 🎨 Vibrant visuals: Snowy landscapes and colorful Christmas environments contrast with the shadows Merlin hides within.