Project catalyst is a two-player PvP sword fighting prototype focused on reactive melee combat. This prototype is designed to test whether faster defensive decisions and counterplay create a more engaging combat experience than traditional predictive melee systems.

About This Prototype

What is this?

Project Catalyst is an early gameplay prototype focused exclusively on the core combat loop.

This is not a vertical slice or representative of the final game's visuals. The purpose of this prototype is to validate the combat mechanics before investing in animation, art, environments, and additional gameplay systems.

The current build supports two local players.

Current Goal

The purpose of this prototype is to answer a few simple questions:

• Is the combat fun?
• Is the combat easy to understand?
• Does reacting to your opponent feel rewarding?
• Would you want to play another match?

If the answer is "no," I'd like to know why.

Controls

Player 1 (Keyboard)

• Y– Diagonal Slash
• U– Vertical Punish
• T– Parry
• H– Cancel

Player 2 (Xbox Controller)

• Right Trigger– Diagonal Slash
• Right Bumper– Vertical Punish
• Left Trigger– Parry
• Left Bumper– Cancel

Note: Controller support is currently available for Player 2 only.

What Makes This Different?

Rather than emphasizing long attack strings or memorized sequences, this prototype explores a combat system centered around reaction, timing, and reading your opponent's intentions.

The goal is to create sword fights where both players remain engaged throughout the exchange instead of waiting for long attack recoveries.

Feedback I'd Love

After playing a few matches, I'd appreciate hearing your thoughts.

1. Was the combat easy to understand?
2. Did attacks and parries feel responsive?
3. Was there anything confusing?
4. Did anything feel unfair?
5. What was your favorite moment?
6. Would you play another match?

Any amount of feedback is appreciated.

Current Development Roadmap

✔ Core combat prototype

✔ Local multiplayer testing

🔄 Community playtesting

⬜ Combat refinement

⬜ Animatic / visual presentation

⬜ Vertical Slice

Follow Development

If you'd like to follow development or provide additional feedback:

• Mailing List: (E-mail sign up)
• Landing Page: (Project catalyst)

Installation

1. Download Windows.zip
2. Extract the ZIP file using Windows "Extract All..."
3. Open the extracted folder.
4. Launch crimsonironclad.exe.

If Windows displays a security warning:

• Click More info
• Click Run anyway

This warning is expected for unsigned prototype builds.