The most common questions our mentors have for us stem from an ambiguity with the special attack mechanic. As currently documented the target affected by a character special attack is not specified. This is clearly an oversight that needed to be resolved immediately.

The solution was to implement a priority list for each special attack. A linear series of logic gates to determine the targets.

The first case for every character is follows this equation:

This case determines if the current target will be killed by the characters auto-attack before reaching the target. If not the special attack will target this closest enemy.

Subsequent cases are different for each character and are as follows.

Preacher

Case 2: A Feral Wolf is within range
Case 3: A Swarm is within range
Case 4: Second closest target

Outlaw

Case 2: A Troll is within range
Case 3: A Feral Wolf is within range
Case 4: Second closest target

Doc

Case 2: A Swarm is within range
Case 3: A Ghost Wolf is within range
Case 4: Second closest target

Showgirl

Case 2: A Ghost Wolf is within range
Case 3: A Troll is within range
Case 4: Second closest target


Targets that have inherent defenses against a character’s auto-attack are given priority over others.

This priority list should help insure that;

a) The intention of the special attacks (to shore up character weakness) is represented by the mechanic

b) The special attacks can more easily be used to predicable protect other characters.

David Heron, Designer, High Moon Express