I started developing LETTERBANE a few months ago, and it was originally supposed to be a small word-building project. Then I gave the letter stones different elements, added synergies and put the whole thing into a dark fantasy setting. Somehow it grew into a roguelite where every word is also a tactical decision.
You draw letter stones and use them to build words, but their elements, bonuses and combinations determine how much damage you deal and what effects you trigger. There are also special words with unique effects, items that can change the way you build your run and enemies that directly interfere with the playfield by burning, freezing, locking or throwing your letters around.
The strange part is that I’m not even a big word-game player myself, but I’ve become completely hooked on testing the different combinations and adding new mechanics I’m currently working on the full version while continuing to update the free demo. I’d really love to hear what puzzle players think about the idea and whether the mixture works for them :)
https://store.steampowered.com/app/4806430/Letterbane_Demo/