How Many Dudes?

How Many Dudes? is a strategy game structured around automated battles and repeatable runs. The player’s role is to assemble and prepare a group of units before combat begins, with no direct control once encounters start. Each run presents a sequence of fights that gradually increase in difficulty. Outcomes depend on preparation choices rather than reflexes, making planning the primary skill. Sessions are self-contained, but long-term unlocks influence future attempts.

Run Setup And Planning Phase

Every run begins with a planning phase where the player selects and positions available units. These units, called dudes, have different functions that affect how battles unfold. Placement and composition determine interactions during combat, so early decisions shape the entire run. Because combat resolves automatically, the planning phase carries most of the responsibility for success. Players learn to anticipate enemy behavior and adjust formations accordingly before committing to a fight.

Unit Management And Strategic Direction

As a run progresses, players are offered choices that alter the direction of their strategy. New dudes can be recruited, existing ones can be reinforced, or modifiers can be applied to the army. Resources are limited, so not every option can be taken. The challenge lies in choosing which improvements will remain effective as difficulty rises. Central strategic considerations include:

·         Expanding the army with additional dudes

·         Improving durability or damage output

·         Choosing effects that alter battle outcomes

·         Reorganizing formations to counter threats

These decisions accumulate over time and determine whether the army can withstand later encounters.

Enemy Waves And Evaluation

Enemy encounters are organized into waves that test the current setup. Early waves are designed to introduce basic patterns, while later stages require stronger coordination between units. Boss encounters function as checkpoints that reveal weaknesses in the current strategy. After each battle, players evaluate results and decide how to adapt. Because losses cannot be reversed within a run, mistakes have lasting consequences and encourage careful analysis.

Meta Progression And Unlock Systems

Beyond individual runs, How Many Dudes? includes progression systems that unlock new options. Completing runs or reaching certain milestones grants access to additional dudes, items, or modifiers. These unlocks expand the range of possible strategies without guaranteeing success. Each new run remains uncertain, as available choices and enemy combinations change. This structure keeps experimentation relevant even after many sessions.