Mikey of Legend

Week 6: Progression Systems and Curves

Learning objectives: Design and implement mathematically grounded progression curves rather than arbitrarily chosen numbers.

Estimated time: 7-9 hours

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Introduction

Choose progression curves with explicit pacing targets so growth feels earned without runaway scaling.

Lesson breakdown

  • Lesson 1: Curve Shape Selection - Compare linear, exponential, logarithmic, and stepped behavior for XP, costs, and challenge growth.
  • Lesson 2: Leveling Pace and Unlock Gating - Set target milestones per session and place mechanic unlocks at intentional points on the curve.
  • Lesson 3: Spreadsheet-to-Implementation Workflow - Graph multiple candidate curves, pick one with justification, and wire it into runtime progression logic.
  • Lesson 4: Integration and testing pass for this week scope.
  • Lesson 5: Final polish and handoff notes for next week.

Try this now

  • Complete one focused implementation pass before watching the next segment.
  • Capture a before and after snapshot for the system you changed.
  • Write one short note on what to tune in your next iteration.

How this week works

Choose progression curves with explicit pacing targets so growth feels earned without runaway scaling.

Video segment plan

Work in short focused segments, then pause to apply each concept directly in your project, spreadsheet, or design document.

Worksheet and evidence capture

Record diagrams, tuning notes, and before-after decisions as you go so each week produces usable implementation evidence.

Interactive lesson parts (6-10 min each)

Part 1: Curve Shape Selection

Watch Build Check
7 min Part video
Video part 1: Curve Shape Selection

Keep this segment short and complete the practice action before continuing.

Compare linear, exponential, logarithmic, and stepped behavior for XP, costs, and challenge growth.

Part 2: Leveling Pace and Unlock Gating

Watch Build Check
8 min Part video
Video part 2: Leveling Pace and Unlock Gating

Apply the method in your build or design artifact and capture what changed.

Set target milestones per session and place mechanic unlocks at intentional points on the curve.

Part 3: Spreadsheet-to-Implementation Workflow

Watch Build Check
9 min Part video
Video part 3: Spreadsheet-to-Implementation Workflow

Finish with validation and a concrete next-step decision.

Graph multiple candidate curves, pick one with justification, and wire it into runtime progression logic.

Hands-on milestone

  • Graph at least two candidate progression curves.
  • Justify one selected curve against pacing goals.
  • Implement curve-driven progression with at least one gate.

Code checkpoint

Use this short checkpoint marker when your weekly implementation pass is complete.

Practice snippet GDScript 
# Step checkpoint for Week 6: Progression Systems and Curves
func _ready() -> void:
    print("Checkpoint complete for this week")