Implement an MMO-style bid skill check that transforms the bidding action into a timing-based mini-game. When a user attempts to place a bid, a gauge with a moving marker appears. The player must stop the marker within defined “sweet spot” zones to influence the outcome of their bid.
Success: Bid confirmed with bonus (e.g., reduced bid cost, reward boost, leaderboard advantage).
Partial: Bid confirmed with no additional effects.
Fail: Bid confirmed with penalty (e.g., extra credit consumed, cooldown, diminished contribution).
This system increases engagement, introduces player skill into bidding, and creates additional opportunities for progression and differentiation.
Acceptance Criteria:
Gauge reliably triggers when a bid is initiated.
Marker animates across the gauge with configurable speed and direction.
Sweet spots are visually distinct and configurable (size, position, difficulty scaling).
Bid always processes regardless of outcome.
Success, partial, and fail states correctly apply their respective bonuses/penalties.
Visual/audio feedback provides clear indication of results.
Accessibility toggle available to disable mini-game if needed.
Notes:
Difficulty scaling (speed, sweet spot size, etc.) should adjust per auction type or player level.
Future enhancement potential: perks that expand sweet spots, cosmetic variations, sound effects, and streak multipliers.