Gimmick Update
CRYSTALS?! Hey, you're ripping off- okay, no, just listen before you judge, because yes, even though it's similar ideal to a certain indie game coming out soon, they have benefits that will add on more than just the protection of the character.
Hear me out: the green and cyan shards are unobtainable for inventory and serves as temporarily basis for life/energy replenishment. They are meant to be not abused because it will recover less each and every time; careful planning is key because if you take it for more than granted, the crystal will eventually shatter and disappear for good.
However, the other four are elemental shields and are obtainable for inventory for later use. Now, there's four elements: water, fire, wind and earth, however these can only provide the similar benefits as mentioned in the recent topic but are not able to be combined and are considered useful by everyone.
Wind: Increases Speed (increases speed on user depending on the level), grants user relevant elemental ability; will be able to boost dash into the air and can blow off enemies in different directions.
Earth: Increases Defense (lowers attack from enemies depending on the level), grants user relevant elemental ability; will be able to smash through blocked-off areas by boulders and ram through enemies without much problem.
Fire: Increases Offense (increase attack from user depending on the level), grants user relevant elemental ability; will be able to speed up on the ground, resistant against lava
Water: No additional effect; grants user relevant elemental ability; will be able to breathe underwater for extended period.
You can stack these to layer the effects of each shield to another level; max is around Level 3, however after one - two hits, it will break the shield.
Remember this is WIP and it's not final.
In conclusion, what do you guys think? Any suggestions, comments or questions about it? Your input is valuable.
Update: Okay, it edited it. Thinking on the golden heart one though.