I am designing a level-based...

About this model

I am designing a level-based game with run-based progression and meta progression.

The player gains resources during each run, uses temporary power-ups inside the run, and also brings resources back to unlock permanent upgrades outside the run.

My current problem: players can unlock and max out almost all permanent upgrades too quickly, so the economy collapses and long-term progression loses meaning.

Please build a playable economy diagram that separates: 1. in-run resources 2. temporary in-run power growth 3. extracted or rewarded resources 4. permanent meta upgrades 5. upgrade costs 6. failure/loss conditions 7. content unlock gates

Then simulate how many runs it takes for a player to unlock 25%, 50%, 75%, and 100% of all upgrades. Identify which sources, sinks, or cost curves cause the economy to collapse.

"I am designing a level-based..." is a public Machinations diagram shared in the Community by hongyi ma, with 44 components.

It was created in June 2026 and last edited in June 2026.

Open the diagram in the Machinations app and press Play to watch the resources move, adjust its values to test how the system responds, or remix it to make an editable copy in My diagrams.