little-fairy/prototype/CLAUDE.md

CLAUDE.md

This file provides guidance to Claude Code (claude.ai/code) when working with code in this repository.

Project Overview

This is the "Little Fairy" (작은 선녀 키우기) RPG game project - a Korean-themed life simulation game focused on the "joy of being alive" and generational continuity through a unique knot-based evolution system.

Core Concept

• 1-hour compressed lifetime: Each playthrough represents a complete fairy's life cycle
• Knot-based DNA Pool: Traditional Korean knot patterns represent relationships and experiences
• Generational evolution: Each generation inherits abilities based on previous generation's knot patterns
• Life companion system: Deep relationships can be formed with NPCs for special bonuses
• Four seasonal maps: Spring village, Summer fields, Autumn suburbs, Winter mountains

Cultural Elements

• Based on Korean fairy tale traditions and seasonal cycles (24 solar terms)
• Integration of traditional Korean knot craft (매듭공예) as core game mechanic
• Korean traditional architecture, food, and cultural activities
• Modern reinterpretation while preserving cultural authenticity

Project Structure

Core Documentation

• 생명의_기쁨_RPG_게임기획서_초안.md: Main game design document defining core experience goals
• UX_맵시스템_설계.md: Node-based map system design for simplified navigation
• 매듭_시스템_설계.md & 매듭_시스템_설계_v2.md: Knot-based relationship and evolution systems
• 게임플레이_메커니즘_설계.md: Core gameplay mechanics
• 생명의_동반자_시스템_설계.md: Companion relationship system
• 위험요소_사망시스템_설계.md: Death and rebirth mechanics

Scenario Content

• scenarioA/: Complete scenario system with 3 different storylines
  • 00_전체_시나리오_개요.md: Overview of all 3 scenarios
  • 01_시나리오1_치유의_노래.md: Healing-themed scenario
  • 02_시나리오2_모험의_날개.md: Adventure-themed scenario
  • 03_시나리오3_지혜의_탑.md: Wisdom-themed scenario
  • 04_시나리오별_상세_비교_분석.md: Detailed comparison analysis
  • 05_개발_로드맵_및_실행_계획.md: Development roadmap
• scenarioA1/, scenarioA2/, scenarioA3/: Map-specific content for each scenario variant
• assetA/: Art and asset production planning documents

Cultural Reference

• 전통매듭_목록.md: List of traditional Korean knots
• 전통매듭_반영_완료보고서.md: Implementation report for traditional knots

Development Guidelines

Design Philosophy

All game elements must be evaluated against these core principles:

1. Life Affirmation: Does this element make players feel the preciousness of life?
2. Present Moment Focus: Does it enrich the current moment's experience?
3. Connection Enhancement: Does it deepen bonds with other beings?
4. Generational Continuity: Does it provide hope and responsibility for the future?
5. Growth and Discovery: Does it offer new insights or emotional experiences?

Content Creation Standards

• Focus on everyday miracles rather than grand adventures
• Emphasize relationship-centered interactions with deep NPC bonds
• Maintain Korean cultural authenticity while being accessible to international audiences
• Ensure all death/rebirth mechanics serve the "joy of being alive" theme positively
• Design for 1-hour complete experience that feels fulfilling and complete

Map System Architecture

• Node-based navigation: Click-to-move between meaningful locations
• No complex movement mechanics: Focus development resources on content quality
• Progressive unlocking: New areas open based on story progression and character growth
• Seasonal progression: Maps transform through Spring→Summer→Autumn→Winter lifecycle

Technical Approach

• 2D illustration-based: Beautiful artwork over complex 3D environments
• Modular loading: Only load necessary content to maintain performance
• JSON-driven content: Easy addition of new nodes, characters, and events
• Event system: Independent management of location-specific content

File Naming Convention

This project uses Korean language extensively in documentation. File and folder names use Korean characters and underscores for organization:

• Game design docs: 게임관련_내용.md
• Scenario content: 시나리오관련_내용.md
• System design: 시스템_설계.md
• Cultural elements: 전통문화_관련.md

Development Priorities

1. Core knot system implementation: The relationship/evolution mechanic is central to everything
2. NPC interaction depth: Rich dialogue and relationship progression systems
3. Visual storytelling: Beautiful 2D art that conveys Korean cultural atmosphere
4. Emotional pacing: Ensure the 1-hour lifecycle feels complete and meaningful
5. Cultural sensitivity: Accurate representation of Korean traditions and values

Key Success Metrics

The game should be evaluated on:

• Emotional resonance: Do players feel genuinely moved by their fairy's life story?
• Cultural appreciation: Do players gain understanding and appreciation of Korean culture?
• Replayability through variation: Do different knot patterns create meaningfully different experiences?
• Generational investment: Do players care about how their choices affect future generations?
• Present moment awareness: Do players become more mindful of beauty in their own lives?

This project aims to be more than entertainment - it's designed as a cultural experience that helps players find joy and meaning in the concept of being alive.