This wasn't one of my preferred themes, but I think I've finally got a basic idea of what to do. I'm thinking of reverse the usual progression of a game. Like in a RPG you improve stats & abilities, or an RTS you advance your tech tree, or an FPS you get better equipment. Instead to will start fully loaded out and then at each level you have to give up something to progress. So as you face the harder levels, you have less stuff. Hopefully the player can balance this with increased skill at the game.

I've been playing Invisible Inc lately so I'm inclined toward making it a turn based strategy of some sort.

Usually I start of with something too complicated and run out of time, so this time I'm going to try and keep it real simple and then add to it only if I have time.