System Field Manual
1. Vector Arcade Foundations
Vector Defense draws direct inspiration from the glowing electron beam displays of 1970s arcade hardware (such as Asteroids, Battlezone, and Tempest). All game entities are rendered purely via mathematical vector geometry and radiant line physics on a high-precision 12×16 logical coordinate grid.
2. The AP & Deck Economy
Each wave, you gain Action Points (AP) according to the formula AP = min(currentWave, 10). Cards cost AP only and can only be played during the Preparation Phase. Unused AP does not roll over. Once you engage combat, your hand is locked while your defense grid automatically targets descending enemy squadrons.
3. Tower Evolution & Terrain Engineering
You command up to 3 fixed tower positions along the defense line. Playing modifier cards dynamically mutates the tower's geometry:
- Rapid Fire / Attack Speed: Adds internal vector crosshairs and boosts shot cadence.
- Double Barrel: Adds twin parallel emitter lines to fire tandem projectiles.
- Heavy Barrel / Damage: Throws reinforced geometric armor plating and increases impact punch.
- Ice & Spike Terrain: Deploys spatial friction tiles (slowing targets by 30%) or kinetic puncturing arrays.
4. The Unforgiving Wall
The Wall protects your core station. Wall HP never regenerates between waves or stages. Defeating enemies rewards Gold, which you can reinvest in the Interstage Depot for permanent system upgrades or emergency wall reinforcement.