👨‍🍳 New Chef Devlog #4

What I worked on:

• Implemented a persistent Save System using JSON that automatically preserves player progress (capital, served customers, ingredient stocks, tray items, and station upgrades) across sessions.

• Upgraded file handling to use absolute directory resolution so the save file reliably creates in the exact script location regardless of execution environment.

• Added holding tray state tracking to ensure burgers, fries, and drinks staged on trays are accurately saved and restored.

• Refactored station state handling and event logic for better stability across all kitchen stations.

Fixed:

• Resolved file directory tracking bugs where save data wasn’t being recognized across different IDE environments.

• Fixed an issue where items sitting on the holding tray were lost upon exiting the game.

• Cleaned up event loop input collisions across station keybinds.

Next things:

• make the drink second dispenser unlockable (maybe add more too)

• customer types ( e.g. a “VIP” who pays double but has half the patience time, or an Easygoing customer who waits longer.)

• Tips System: Give bonus cash if you serve a customer while their patience meter is still above 80%.

• Combos & Side Orders: Require combo orders (e.g., Burger + Fries + Drink) for a larger payout.

(Sorry for the delay on this update. Ran into a few save-state and file path bugs that took a bit longer than expected)