Leaf Collector Simulator – Incremental Game MVP
Independent Publisher • Full-Stack Game Developer
Project Stats
250,000+ Lifetime Visits | 8,000+ Lifetime Favorites
The Challenge
Timelight Games, an independent Roblox publisher with multiple successful experiences, needed a proven developer to build the MVP for an ambitious incremental simulator. The game required complex progression systems, monetization mechanics, and a clean, extensible codebase that their team could expand post-launch.
Key Systems & Features Built
- Pet Collection System – Multi-tier pet framework with rarity tiers, multipliers, and gacha mechanics
- Progression Economy – Tools, vehicles, rebirth system, and zone unlocks with compounding multipliers
- Dual Currency System – Standard cash economy + premium gems with balanced monetization
- Monetization Suite – Game passes (inventory expansion, auto-roll, premium eggs), developer products, and passive income mechanics
- Social Features – Promotional code system and competitive leaderboards
- Multi-Zone World – Two distinct areas with progression gates and escalating rewards
- Equipment Progression – 4 tools and 4 vehicles with incremental power scaling
- Mobile Optimization – Full cross-platform performance tuning
- Polished UI/UX – Clean, intuitive interface optimized for simulator gameplay
Technical Approach
This project demanded architecting systems that were both feature-complete for launch and easily extensible for post-MVP development. I worked closely with the client to establish code standards and architectural patterns that would allow their team to seamlessly add content after handoff.
The pet system became the core engagement loop, integrating an existing framework while customizing it for the game’s specific needs. I implemented multiple egg types, rarity tiers, and a multiplier system that balanced progression with monetization opportunities.
Security was paramount—simulator games are prime targets for exploiters. I implemented server-authoritative validation for all currency transactions, inventory changes, and progression events. The rebirth system, zone unlocks, and equipment purchases all validate on the server to prevent manipulation.
The monetization strategy balanced free-to-play accessibility with premium options. Game passes provided convenience (expanded inventory, auto-features) rather than pay-to-win advantages, while the gem economy offered shortcuts without breaking progression balance.
Outcome
The MVP launched successfully and has grown to over 250,000 lifetime visits with 8,000+ daily active players. Timelight Games continues to expand the experience, adding new zones, premium tools, and enhanced visual effects—validating the extensible architecture delivered.
Completed in 1.5 months with clean, secure, client-specified code standards that enabled seamless post-launch development by their internal team.