(WEEK 195) CAN YOU DETECT IT?

⛏️ Gear Upgrades & Metal Detection!

Hey fellow treasure hunters!

This month we're  focused on gear upgrades: backpack, shoes, shovel, and now the metal detector are all in. Each brings something new.

Shoes and shovels now stack together for faster digging speed, and the shovel itself allows detection within a greater distance. You can upgrade at least one of each for free until we finish building advanced detection systems.

What’s New

• Metal detector mechanics being expanded to reveal junk vs. valuable metals.
• Stackable upgrades: combine shovel and shoes for speed boosts.
• Treasure risk vs. reward: exploring off the signal path can yield GOLD ... or junk.
• All items have value: even junk can be sold or crafted later on (coming soon).

Next Up

• Advanced metal detection signals whether a find is junk or valuable.
• The Treasure Store milestone: sell your finds and buy upgrades.

Dev Notes

• Metal detection is at the heart of the fun loop. It defines the feel of our game loop.
• The signal system is taking time to get right. ...heavy testing worth the effort.
• We’re balancing clarity vs. mystery: too accurate kills the mood, too vague hurts reward.

🛠 Why It Matters

It’s arguably the best upgrade in the entire loop,  and one of the most expensive to design and code! Getting it right means more strategy, excitement, and replay value. 

Risk: A flat detection system hurts  motivation. If the detector mechanic doesn’t feel right, the game risks losing  identity. 
Reward: A satisfying hunt, richer decisions, and faster upgrades.

🎯 Next Goal

Finalize advanced detection and move toward: The Treasure Store! Once that’s in, we’ll be able to start closing the Core phase and aim for Alpha - Progress (our first official playable build).

💬 Your Turn

We’d love your thoughts:

• Would you rather see a clear “junk signal,” or keep some mystery for realism?

Follow us for updates and try the latest 2D web build below. Also, check out the original 3D version here:
Can You Dig It Too (3D)