Metroidvania Specific Elements

<narrative-workflow-recommended> This game type is narrative-moderate. Consider running the Narrative Design workflow after completing the GDD to create: - World lore and environmental storytelling - Character encounters and NPC arcs - Backstory reveals through exploration - Optional narrative depth </narrative-workflow-recommended>

Interconnected World Map

{{world_map}}

Map design:

• World structure (regions, zones, biomes)
• Interconnection points (shortcuts, elevators, warps)
• Verticality and layering
• Secret areas
• Map reveal mechanics
• Fast travel system (if applicable)

Ability-Gating System

{{ability_gating}}

Progression gates:

• Core abilities (double jump, dash, wall climb, swim, etc.)
• Ability locations and pacing
• Soft gates vs. hard gates
• Optional abilities
• Sequence breaking considerations
• Ability synergies

Backtracking Design

{{backtracking}}

Return mechanics:

• Obvious backtrack opportunities
• Hidden backtrack rewards
• Fast travel to reduce tedium
• Enemy respawn considerations
• Changed world state (if applicable)
• Completionist incentives

Exploration Rewards

{{exploration_rewards}}

Discovery incentives:

• Health/energy upgrades
• Ability upgrades
• Collectibles (lore, cosmetics)
• Secret bosses
• Optional areas
• Completion percentage tracking

Combat System

{{combat_system}}

Combat mechanics:

• Attack types (melee, ranged, magic)
• Boss fight design
• Enemy variety and placement
• Combat progression
• Defensive options
• Difficulty balance

Sequence Breaking

{{sequence_breaking}}

Advanced play:

• Intended vs. unintended skips
• Speedrun considerations
• Difficulty of sequence breaks
• Reward for sequence breaking
• Developer stance on breaks
• Game completion without all abilities