---
name: AutoHero Progression and Balance Framework
description: Core progression curves, XP formulas, economic faucets/sinks, and retention checkpoints
type: project
---

## Game Phases

- Early (L1-10): ~1-2 hours, teaches mechanics, Uncommon unlock
- Mid (L11-50): ~10-20 hours, balanced grinding, Rare unlock
- Late (L51-100): ~100+ hours, legendary chase
- Endgame (L100+): Ascension loops with AP bonuses

## XP Curve

Formula: `100 * (1.1 ^ (L-1))`

- L10: 260 XP (1-2 hours to reach)
- L25: 1,084 XP total (5 hour gate, first retention point)
- L50: 13,785 XP per level (50 hours total, Epic pursuit begins)
- L100: 131,501 XP per level (2000+ hours, extreme grind)

## Economy Balance

**Faucet**: Gold from enemies, loot drops
- Formula: `(10 + Level*2) * (1 + Luck) * random(0.8, 1.5)`
- Yield at L50: ~1000 gold/hour active play

**Sink**: Weapon/armor upgrades
- Weapon: `500 * (1.5^N)` per level
- Armor: `300 * (1.5^N)` per level
- Goal: Sink 30-50% of faucet to encourage decisions

## Loot Drop Rates

- Common (75%): 1 in 4 enemies
- Uncommon (20%): 1 in 20 enemies  
- Rare (4%): 1 in 100 enemies
- Epic (0.9%): 1 in 500 enemies
- Legendary (0.1%): 1 in 5000 enemies

## Retention Checkpoints

- **D1**: First enemy, Uncommon equipment
- **D7**: L25, Rare equipment available
- **D30**: L50, Epic set completion visible
