In one fateful meeting a couple of weeks ago, we asked ourselves "How can we improve a bullet-hell shooter". The obvious answer that we all came to was to turn it into a hack 'n' slash!

The Sword is the first melee weapon introduced to the game, designed for swift, close-quarters combat. This hack-and-slash weapon allows players to rapidly swipe at enemies and even deflect incoming projectiles, adding a dynamic defensive element to its offensive capabilities. To further enhance the depth and fast-paced nature of melee combat, we've integrated a Valour system designed to amplify the weapons' inherent speed. This is detailed in a separate document

Attributes:

The sword is a fast, versatile melee weapon designed for relentless, stylish combat. Unlike ranged weapons, it has unlimited attacks, allowing players to slash freely without worrying about ammo. You can either tap for precise strikes or hold the button for continuous swings, with hitboxes synced to animation frames, so timing and positioning matter. You can’t just spin to win! Its true edge comes from its ability to deflect enemy bullets back at them, but pulling this off requires tight timing and careful aim, rewarding skilled players with satisfying sound and visual effects. The sword also boosts your movement speed, helping you stay aggressive and chase down foes. Visually, it delivers too: sparks fly when you hit walls, weapon trails trace your swings, and a dynamic crosshair shows when attacks are most effective. While the base sword has no elemental effects, future Forge upgrades will expand its potential. All of this is tied into the Valor system, amplifying that high-speed, hack-and-slash feel with momentum and impact.

Upgrades

Weapon Enhancements

• Increased damage

• Increased attack rate

• Increased attack speed

• Increased deflection magnitude

Sword in game crosshair

Sword in game crosshair (High Valor)

Stats

In-game Stats

• Fire Rate (5) out of 18

• Damage (8) out of 18

• Range (1) out of 18

• Accuracy (18) out of 18

• Clip Size (18) out of 18

Code Stats

• Fire Rate: 0.55 - 0.53

• Melee Damage: 8.0 - 10

• Melee Animation Rate: 1.75 - 1.83

• Deflect Magnitude: 0.75 - 0.85

• Valor Cool Down Time: 9 - 11

• Valor Player Speed Multiplier: 0.03 - 0.034

• Valor Attack Speed Multiplier: 0.03 - 0.022

• Valor Damage Multiplier: 0.2 - 0.28

• Maximum Valor Capacity: 8 - 12

• Time Until Valor Increases: 0.2