neural-nexus-claude-project/knowledge-base/development/feature-roadmap.md

# Feature Roadmap - Neural Nexus

## Current Status: Prototype Development

### Phase 1: Core Enhancement (Current Priority)
**Timeline**: Next 2-4 weeks
**Status**: In Progress

#### ✅ Completed Features
- Core connection mechanics with mouse and touch support
- Modern glassmorphism UI design with particle effects
- Level generation system with progressive difficulty
- Cross-platform compatibility (desktop, tablet, mobile)
- Performance optimization achieving 60fps target
- Visual feedback system with node highlighting and connection previews

#### 🔄 In Development
- Audio system integration with Web Audio API
- Save game functionality using localStorage
- Tutorial system for first-time players
- Mobile touch control optimization

#### ⏳ Planned for Phase 1
- Achievement system with progress tracking
- Settings menu with audio/visual preferences
- Improved level transition animations
- Accessibility features (keyboard navigation, high contrast)

### Phase 2: Advanced Features
**Timeline**: Month 2
**Status**: Planning

#### 🎯 Priority Features
- Power-ups and special abilities
  - Hint system showing next connection
  - Time extension power-up
  - Connection reveal for stuck players
- Level editor for user-generated content
- Enhanced visual effects and animations
- Social features (score sharing, challenges)

#### 🎨 Polish Features
- Advanced particle systems
- Smooth camera transitions
- Background music and ambient audio
- Multiple visual themes

### Phase 3: Platform Expansion
**Timeline**: Month 3+
**Status**: Concept

#### 📱 Distribution
- Progressive Web App (PWA) implementation
- Mobile app store submission (iOS/Android)
- Desktop app packaging (Electron/Tauri)
- Steam/itch.io distribution consideration

#### 🌐 Advanced Features
- Multiplayer functionality
- Cloud save synchronization
- Analytics and user behavior tracking
- A/B testing framework for game balance

## Feature Priority Matrix

| Feature | User Impact | Development Effort | Priority Score |
|---------|-------------|-------------------|----------------|
| Audio System | High | Medium | 8/10 |
| Save System | High | Low | 9/10 |
| Tutorial | High | Medium | 8/10 |
| Achievements | Medium | Low | 7/10 |
| Level Editor | Medium | High | 6/10 |
| Multiplayer | Low | Very High | 3/10 |

## Risk Assessment

### Technical Risks
- **Audio Implementation**: Browser autoplay policies may require workarounds
- **Save System**: localStorage limitations may affect large save files
- **Mobile Performance**: Older devices may struggle with particle effects

### Mitigation Strategies
- Audio: Implement user-initiated audio with fallback to silent mode
- Save: Implement data compression and cleanup routines
- Performance: Add quality settings for older devices

## Success Metrics by Phase

### Phase 1 Success Criteria
- 90% of users complete tutorial without confusion
- Average session time >7 minutes
- 70% completion rate for first 15 levels
- 60fps performance on 95% of test devices

### Phase 2 Success Criteria
- User-generated levels created and shared
- 80% of users engage with power-up system
- Social sharing generates measurable traffic
- Player retention >50% after 1 week

### Phase 3 Success Criteria
- Successful app store approval and distribution
- 1000+ active users within first month
- Positive review scores (>4.0/5.0)
- Sustainable development workflow established

## Dependencies and Constraints

### External Dependencies
- None currently (vanilla JavaScript approach)
- Future: App store approval processes
- Future: Cloud service providers for multiplayer

### Development Constraints
- Single developer team (affects timeline)
- Performance targets must be maintained
- Mobile-first design approach
- Zero external dependencies preference

## Continuous Improvement

### Weekly Reviews
- Assess feature completion against timeline
- Gather user feedback from testing sessions
- Monitor performance metrics and optimize
- Update roadmap based on discoveries

### Monthly Milestones
- Phase completion assessments
- User testing with external participants
- Technical debt review and cleanup
- Strategic direction validation

Last Updated: June 2025
Next Review: Weekly Friday sessions