BUD

The **Botanical Utility Droid (B.U.D.)** is the protagonist and player character of *Grow Home* and *Grow Up*. B.U.D. is a robot designed for the specific purpose of tending to and cultivating plant life on an alien world. The character of B.U.D. is integral to the game's unique gameplay mechanics and storyline.

## Appearance

B.U.D. is portrayed as a small, procedurally animated robot with a distinct and charming appearance. The robot's design features a cylindrical body with extendable limbs, which include both arms and legs. B.U.D. has a limited color palette, primarily composed of red, white, and blue, and it has a somewhat minimalist and low-polygon aesthetic, which fits the overall style of the game.

## Purpose

B.U.D.'s primary purpose, as implied by its name, is to assist in the cultivation and management of plant life, specifically the Star Plant. The Star Plant is a colossal beanstalk-like structure that has the capability to oxygenate B.U.D.'s home planet. B.U.D.'s mission is to nurture and grow this plant to a sufficient height to achieve this goal.

## Gameplay Role

In the game, players assume control of B.U.D. and are responsible for guiding the robot through the alien world, exploring floating islands, and, most importantly, tending to the growth of the Star Plant. One of the most distinctive aspects of B.U.D.'s gameplay mechanics is the ability for players to independently control each of its arms. This allows players to push, climb, and interact with objects and the environment creatively.

The central objective of the game is to grow the Star Plant to a height of 2000 meters, which will provide the necessary oxygen for B.U.D.'s homeworld. Additionally, players have the option to gather seeds and complete further challenges in the game world. Once players have achieved the primary goal of growing the Star Plant, they have the freedom to explore the game world further and continue their adventures.

## Abilities

Throughout the game, B.U.D. can acquire new abilities by collecting power-up crystals from the various islands. These abilities enhance B.U.D.'s mobility and utility, making it easier for players to navigate the environment and assist the Star Plant's growth. Players can complete challenges within the game to unlock special suits for B.U.D. These suits grant unique abilities, such as increased gliding speed or the capability to attract bugs.

## B.U.D. Suits

In the game Grow Up, B.U.D. can access various Suits, each of which provides unique abilities and properties.

* **Bee Suit**: The Bee Suit allows B.U.D. to attract bugs. This suit can be particularly useful for interacting with the game's insect-like creatures and manipulating them for various purposes.
* **Aviator Suit**: Equipping the Aviator Suit increases B.U.D.'s gliding speed. This is advantageous for navigating the game world and reaching distant locations more efficiently.
* **Helicopter Suit**: The Helicopter Suit enables B.U.D. to hover and descend more slowly, providing greater control during aerial movements.
* **Spring Suit**: With the Spring Suit, B.U.D. gains the ability to perform high jumps, making it easier to reach elevated platforms and explore the vertical landscape.
* **Propeller Suit**: The Propeller Suit equips B.U.D. with a spinning propeller, granting the ability to achieve controlled mid-air movement and float down safely.
* **Rocket Suit**: The Rocket Suit is equipped with rockets on B.U.D.'s back, allowing for vertical ascents and quick bursts of speed. It can be especially useful for reaching high altitudes.
* **Tumbleweed Suit**: With the Tumbleweed Suit, B.U.D. can transform into a rolling tumbleweed, enhancing mobility and control when navigating hilly or uneven terrain.
* **Glider Suit**: The Glider Suit enhances gliding abilities, allowing B.U.D. to glide more smoothly and cover greater distances while airborne.