diff --git a/CLAUDE.md b/CLAUDE.md
index 13a4270..c1173f9 100644
--- a/CLAUDE.md
+++ b/CLAUDE.md
@@ -30,6 +30,7 @@ skills/
   design-game/SKILL.md     # Visual design audit + improvements
   add-feature/SKILL.md     # Add feature following patterns
   add-assets/SKILL.md      # Replace shapes with pixel art sprites
+  retrodiffusion/SKILL.md  # Retro Diffusion — true pixel art via paid API (sprites, tilesets, animations)
   game-3d-assets/SKILL.md  # 3D model pipeline (GLB download, AssetLoader, animated characters)
   meshyai/SKILL.md         # Meshy AI — generate 3D models from text/images, auto-rig, animate
   add-3d-assets/SKILL.md   # Replace 3D primitives with real GLB models
@@ -50,6 +51,7 @@ scripts/
   example-actions.json     # Example action payloads for iterate-client.js
   find-3d-asset.mjs        # Search & download GLB models (Sketchfab, Poly Haven, Poly.pizza)
   meshy-generate.mjs       # Generate 3D models with Meshy AI (text-to-3d, image-to-3d, rig, animate)
+  retrodiffusion-generate.mjs  # Generate pixel art with Retro Diffusion (generate, img2img, animate, tileset, edit, balance)
 assets/
   characters/              # 2D South Park-style spritesheets (photo-composite)
     manifest.json
diff --git a/README.md b/README.md
index 03cf803..c0c5c8b 100644
--- a/README.md
+++ b/README.md
@@ -123,6 +123,7 @@ src/
 | `/design-game [path]` | Audit and improve visual polish |
 | `/add-feature [description]` | Add a gameplay feature following architecture patterns |
 | `/add-assets [path]` | Replace geometric shapes with pixel art sprites |
+| `/retrodiffusion [prompt]` | Generate true pixel art sprites/tilesets/animations via Retro Diffusion API (paid) |
 | `/add-audio [path]` | Add Strudel.cc music and sound effects |
 | `/monetize-game [path]` | Register on Play.fun, add SDK, get monetized URL |
 | `/qa-game [path]` | Add Playwright QA tests |
diff --git a/scripts/retrodiffusion-generate.mjs b/scripts/retrodiffusion-generate.mjs
new file mode 100755
index 0000000..f672df6
--- /dev/null
+++ b/scripts/retrodiffusion-generate.mjs
@@ -0,0 +1,369 @@
+#!/usr/bin/env node
+/**
+ * retrodiffusion-generate.mjs — Generate true pixel art with the Retro Diffusion API.
+ *
+ * Zero npm dependencies. Uses Node.js built-in fetch, fs, path.
+ *
+ * Modes:
+ *   generate   — Text-to-image pixel art (default)
+ *   img2img    — Image-to-image (modify an existing image)
+ *   animate    — Animation styles (returns base64 GIF or spritesheet)
+ *   tileset    — Generate a wang-style tileset or single tile
+ *   edit       — Edit an existing image via /v1/edit
+ *   balance    — Check remaining credits
+ *
+ * Usage:
+ *   RETRODIFFUSION_API_KEY=<key> node scripts/retrodiffusion-generate.mjs \
+ *     --mode generate --prompt "a cute green slime" \
+ *     --model RD_FAST --style retro --width 64 --height 64 \
+ *     --output public/assets/sprites/ --slug slime
+ *
+ *   RETRODIFFUSION_API_KEY=<key> node scripts/retrodiffusion-generate.mjs \
+ *     --mode img2img --image ./concept.png --prompt "an orange sports car" \
+ *     --strength 0.75 --output public/assets/sprites/ --slug car
+ *
+ *   RETRODIFFUSION_API_KEY=<key> node scripts/retrodiffusion-generate.mjs \
+ *     --mode animate --prompt "knight walking" --style walk-cycle \
+ *     --output public/assets/sprites/ --slug knight-walk
+ *
+ *   RETRODIFFUSION_API_KEY=<key> node scripts/retrodiffusion-generate.mjs --mode balance
+ *
+ * Output:
+ *   {slug}.png (or {slug}-{n}.png if num_images > 1)
+ *   {slug}.meta.json — prompt, model, style, cost, balance, timestamps
+ *
+ * Environment:
+ *   RETRODIFFUSION_API_KEY  Required. Get one at https://www.retrodiffusion.ai → Account → API.
+ *
+ * See also: skills/retrodiffusion/SKILL.md
+ */
+
+import { writeFileSync, readFileSync, mkdirSync, existsSync } from 'node:fs';
+import { resolve } from 'node:path';
+
+const API_BASE = 'https://api.retrodiffusion.ai/v1';
+const API_KEY = process.env.RETRODIFFUSION_API_KEY || process.env.RD_API_KEY;
+
+const args = process.argv.slice(2);
+const getArg = (name, fallback = null) => {
+  const i = args.indexOf(`--${name}`);
+  return i === -1 || i + 1 >= args.length ? fallback : args[i + 1];
+};
+const hasFlag = (name) => args.includes(`--${name}`);
+
+const mode = getArg('mode', 'generate');
+const prompt = getArg('prompt');
+const negativePrompt = getArg('negative-prompt');
+const model = getArg('model', 'RD_FAST');
+const style = getArg('style', 'default');
+const width = parseInt(getArg('width', '64'), 10);
+const height = parseInt(getArg('height', '64'), 10);
+const numImages = parseInt(getArg('num-images', '1'), 10);
+const seed = getArg('seed') ? parseInt(getArg('seed'), 10) : undefined;
+const strength = parseFloat(getArg('strength', '0.75'));
+const imagePath = getArg('image');
+const palettePath = getArg('palette');
+const outputDir = getArg('output', 'public/assets/sprites');
+const slug = getArg('slug');
+const removeBg = hasFlag('remove-bg');
+const tileX = hasFlag('tile-x');
+const tileY = hasFlag('tile-y');
+const checkCost = hasFlag('check-cost');
+const bypassExpansion = hasFlag('bypass-prompt-expansion');
+
+function requireKey() {
+  if (!API_KEY) {
+    console.error(
+      'RETRODIFFUSION_API_KEY environment variable is required.\n' +
+      'Get an API key at: https://www.retrodiffusion.ai → Account → API'
+    );
+    process.exit(1);
+  }
+}
+
+function slugify(text) {
+  return (text || 'output').toLowerCase().replace(/[^a-z0-9]+/g, '-').replace(/(^-|-$)/g, '').slice(0, 60);
+}
+
+function imageToBase64(p) {
+  const buf = readFileSync(resolve(p));
+  return buf.toString('base64');
+}
+
+async function apiCall(path, body, method = 'POST') {
+  const res = await fetch(`${API_BASE}${path}`, {
+    method,
+    headers: {
+      'X-RD-Token': API_KEY,
+      'Content-Type': 'application/json',
+    },
+    body: method === 'GET' ? undefined : JSON.stringify(body),
+  });
+  const text = await res.text();
+  let data;
+  try { data = JSON.parse(text); } catch { data = { raw: text }; }
+  if (!res.ok) {
+    throw new Error(`${method} ${path} → HTTP ${res.status}: ${data.error || data.raw || text}`);
+  }
+  return data;
+}
+
+function ensureOutputDir() {
+  if (!existsSync(outputDir)) mkdirSync(outputDir, { recursive: true });
+}
+
+function writeImages(base64Images, baseSlug, ext = 'png') {
+  ensureOutputDir();
+  const paths = [];
+  base64Images.forEach((b64, i) => {
+    const filename = base64Images.length === 1 ? `${baseSlug}.${ext}` : `${baseSlug}-${i + 1}.${ext}`;
+    const path = resolve(outputDir, filename);
+    writeFileSync(path, Buffer.from(b64, 'base64'));
+    paths.push(path);
+    console.log(`  wrote ${path} (${(Buffer.byteLength(b64, 'base64') / 1024).toFixed(1)} KB)`);
+  });
+  return paths;
+}
+
+function writeMeta(baseSlug, meta) {
+  const path = resolve(outputDir, `${baseSlug}.meta.json`);
+  writeFileSync(path, JSON.stringify(meta, null, 2));
+  console.log(`  wrote ${path}`);
+}
+
+// ---------------------------------------------------------------------------
+// Modes
+// ---------------------------------------------------------------------------
+
+async function runGenerate() {
+  if (!prompt) throw new Error('--prompt is required for generate mode');
+  const baseSlug = slug || slugify(prompt);
+  const payload = {
+    prompt,
+    model,
+    prompt_style: style,
+    width,
+    height,
+    num_images: numImages,
+  };
+  if (seed !== undefined) payload.seed = seed;
+  if (negativePrompt) payload.negative_prompt = negativePrompt;
+  if (removeBg) payload.remove_bg = true;
+  if (tileX) payload.tile_x = true;
+  if (tileY) payload.tile_y = true;
+  if (checkCost) payload.check_cost = true;
+  if (bypassExpansion) payload.bypass_prompt_expansion = true;
+  if (palettePath) payload.input_palette = imageToBase64(palettePath);
+
+  console.log(`→ POST /inferences  model=${model} style=${style} ${width}x${height} n=${numImages}`);
+  const data = await apiCall('/inferences', payload);
+
+  if (checkCost) {
+    console.log(`  estimated cost: $${data.balance_cost ?? '?'}`);
+    return;
+  }
+  console.log(`  cost: $${data.balance_cost?.toFixed(3) ?? '?'}  remaining: $${data.remaining_balance?.toFixed(2) ?? '?'}`);
+  writeImages(data.base64_images || [], baseSlug, 'png');
+  writeMeta(baseSlug, {
+    mode: 'generate',
+    prompt,
+    model: data.model || model,
+    style,
+    width,
+    height,
+    seed,
+    cost: data.balance_cost,
+    remaining_balance: data.remaining_balance,
+    created_at: data.created_at,
+  });
+}
+
+async function runImg2Img() {
+  if (!prompt) throw new Error('--prompt is required for img2img mode');
+  if (!imagePath) throw new Error('--image is required for img2img mode');
+  const baseSlug = slug || slugify(prompt);
+  const payload = {
+    prompt,
+    model,
+    prompt_style: style,
+    width,
+    height,
+    num_images: numImages,
+    input_image: imageToBase64(imagePath),
+    strength,
+  };
+  if (seed !== undefined) payload.seed = seed;
+  if (negativePrompt) payload.negative_prompt = negativePrompt;
+  if (removeBg) payload.remove_bg = true;
+
+  console.log(`→ POST /inferences (img2img)  strength=${strength}`);
+  const data = await apiCall('/inferences', payload);
+  console.log(`  cost: $${data.balance_cost?.toFixed(3) ?? '?'}  remaining: $${data.remaining_balance?.toFixed(2) ?? '?'}`);
+  writeImages(data.base64_images || [], baseSlug, 'png');
+  writeMeta(baseSlug, {
+    mode: 'img2img',
+    prompt,
+    model: data.model || model,
+    style,
+    strength,
+    source_image: resolve(imagePath),
+    width,
+    height,
+    cost: data.balance_cost,
+    remaining_balance: data.remaining_balance,
+    created_at: data.created_at,
+  });
+}
+
+async function runAnimate() {
+  if (!prompt) throw new Error('--prompt is required for animate mode');
+  const baseSlug = slug || slugify(prompt);
+  const payload = {
+    prompt,
+    model,
+    prompt_style: style,   // e.g. "walk-cycle", "idle", "attack"
+    width,
+    height,
+    num_images: numImages,
+  };
+  if (seed !== undefined) payload.seed = seed;
+  if (imagePath) payload.input_image = imageToBase64(imagePath);
+
+  console.log(`→ POST /inferences (animation)  style=${style}`);
+  const data = await apiCall('/inferences', payload);
+  console.log(`  cost: $${data.balance_cost?.toFixed(3) ?? '?'}  remaining: $${data.remaining_balance?.toFixed(2) ?? '?'}`);
+  // Animation styles return GIF or spritesheet PNG depending on the style.
+  // Sniff the base64 magic bytes — PNG → "iVBORw0K", GIF → "R0lGOD".
+  const ext = data.base64_images?.[0]?.startsWith('R0lGOD') ? 'gif' : 'png';
+  writeImages(data.base64_images || [], baseSlug, ext);
+  writeMeta(baseSlug, {
+    mode: 'animate',
+    prompt,
+    style,
+    model: data.model || model,
+    width,
+    height,
+    cost: data.balance_cost,
+    remaining_balance: data.remaining_balance,
+    created_at: data.created_at,
+  });
+}
+
+async function runTileset() {
+  if (!prompt) throw new Error('--prompt is required for tileset mode');
+  const baseSlug = slug || slugify(prompt);
+  const payload = {
+    prompt,
+    model,
+    prompt_style: style,   // e.g. "wang-tile", "single-tile"
+    width,
+    height,
+    num_images: numImages,
+  };
+  if (seed !== undefined) payload.seed = seed;
+  if (imagePath) payload.input_image = imageToBase64(imagePath);
+
+  console.log(`→ POST /inferences (tileset)  style=${style}`);
+  const data = await apiCall('/inferences', payload);
+  console.log(`  cost: $${data.balance_cost?.toFixed(3) ?? '?'}  remaining: $${data.remaining_balance?.toFixed(2) ?? '?'}`);
+  writeImages(data.base64_images || [], baseSlug, 'png');
+  writeMeta(baseSlug, {
+    mode: 'tileset',
+    prompt,
+    style,
+    model: data.model || model,
+    width,
+    height,
+    cost: data.balance_cost,
+    remaining_balance: data.remaining_balance,
+    created_at: data.created_at,
+  });
+}
+
+async function runEdit() {
+  if (!imagePath) throw new Error('--image is required for edit mode');
+  if (!prompt) throw new Error('--prompt is required for edit mode (describes the edit)');
+  const baseSlug = slug || `${slugify(prompt)}-edit`;
+  const payload = {
+    prompt,
+    input_image: imageToBase64(imagePath),
+  };
+  console.log(`→ POST /edit`);
+  const data = await apiCall('/edit', payload);
+  console.log(`  cost: $${data.balance_cost?.toFixed(3) ?? '?'}  remaining: $${data.remaining_balance?.toFixed(2) ?? '?'}`);
+  writeImages(data.base64_images || [], baseSlug, 'png');
+  writeMeta(baseSlug, {
+    mode: 'edit',
+    prompt,
+    source_image: resolve(imagePath),
+    cost: data.balance_cost,
+    remaining_balance: data.remaining_balance,
+    created_at: data.created_at,
+  });
+}
+
+async function runBalance() {
+  const data = await apiCall('/inferences/credits', null, 'GET');
+  console.log(`Remaining balance: $${data.credits ?? data.remaining_balance ?? '?'}`);
+  if (data.tier) console.log(`Tier: ${data.tier}`);
+}
+
+// ---------------------------------------------------------------------------
+// Entry
+// ---------------------------------------------------------------------------
+
+function usage() {
+  console.error(`Usage: RETRODIFFUSION_API_KEY=<key> node scripts/retrodiffusion-generate.mjs --mode <mode> [options]
+
+Modes:
+  generate   Text-to-image pixel art (default)
+  img2img    Image-to-image transformation
+  animate    Animation styles (walk-cycle, idle, attack, etc.)
+  tileset    Wang-style tileset or single tile
+  edit       Edit an existing image (/v1/edit, flat $0.06)
+  balance    Check remaining credits
+
+Options:
+  --prompt <text>             Text prompt
+  --negative-prompt <text>    Negative prompt
+  --model <name>              RD_PRO | RD_FAST | RD_PLUS | RD_MINI (default: RD_FAST)
+  --style <name>              prompt_style (default: "default" — see api-reference.md)
+  --width <n>                 Output width in pixels (default: 64)
+  --height <n>                Output height in pixels (default: 64)
+  --num-images <n>            Number of images to generate (default: 1)
+  --seed <n>                  Seed for reproducibility
+  --image <path>              Input image (img2img / animate input / tileset / edit)
+  --palette <path>            Reference palette image (input_palette)
+  --strength <0..1>           img2img modification strength (default: 0.75)
+  --remove-bg                 Transparent background
+  --tile-x                    Seamless horizontal tiling
+  --tile-y                    Seamless vertical tiling
+  --bypass-prompt-expansion   Disable automatic prompt enhancement
+  --check-cost                Estimate cost without generating
+  --output <dir>              Output directory (default: public/assets/sprites)
+  --slug <name>               Output filename slug
+
+Environment:
+  RETRODIFFUSION_API_KEY      API key from https://www.retrodiffusion.ai → Account → API`);
+}
+
+(async () => {
+  if (mode === 'balance') {
+    requireKey();
+    await runBalance();
+    return;
+  }
+  if (!mode || hasFlag('help')) { usage(); process.exit(mode ? 0 : 1); }
+  requireKey();
+  try {
+    if (mode === 'generate') await runGenerate();
+    else if (mode === 'img2img') await runImg2Img();
+    else if (mode === 'animate') await runAnimate();
+    else if (mode === 'tileset') await runTileset();
+    else if (mode === 'edit') await runEdit();
+    else { console.error(`Unknown mode: ${mode}`); usage(); process.exit(1); }
+  } catch (err) {
+    console.error(`✖ ${err.message}`);
+    process.exit(1);
+  }
+})();
diff --git a/skills/retrodiffusion/SKILL.md b/skills/retrodiffusion/SKILL.md
new file mode 100644
index 0000000..c2eb375
--- /dev/null
+++ b/skills/retrodiffusion/SKILL.md
@@ -0,0 +1,294 @@
+---
+name: retrodiffusion
+description: Generate true pixel art sprites, tilesets, and animations with the Retro Diffusion API — the best dedicated pixel art model. Use when the user says "generate pixel art", "make a sprite with AI", "use Retro Diffusion", "rdpk", or wants high-quality pixel art faster than hand-coded sprite arrays. Requires a Retro Diffusion account and RETRODIFFUSION_API_KEY (paid credits). Great for quick prototyping of 2D Phaser games.
+argument-hint: "[prompt]"
+license: MIT
+compatibility: Requires a Retro Diffusion account, RETRODIFFUSION_API_KEY environment variable, and internet access for API calls. Each generation consumes paid credits from the user's account.
+metadata:
+  author: OpusGameLabs
+  version: 1.0.0
+  tags: [game, 2d, pixel-art, retro-diffusion, ai, image-generation, sprites, tilesets, animation]
+---
+
+# Retro Diffusion — True Pixel Art Generation
+
+Generate authentic pixel art sprites, tilesets, and animations from text prompts or reference images using the [Retro Diffusion](https://www.retrodiffusion.ai) API. Output is true pixel art (clean integer-pixel grids, limited palettes), not blurry diffusion-model output downscaled into pixels — making it the best AI option for shippable 2D game art and fast prototyping.
+
+> **Paid service.** Retro Diffusion requires an account at https://www.retrodiffusion.ai and an API key with credits. **Always tell the user this requires a paid Retro Diffusion account before generating anything**, and confirm they understand each call deducts from their balance.
+
+## Reference Files
+
+| File | Description |
+|------|-------------|
+| [api-reference.md](./api-reference.md) | Full API endpoints, models, prompt_style values, response shape, pricing, and error codes |
+
+## When to Use
+
+- **Quick prototypes** — generate dozens of unique sprites in a minute instead of hand-coding 16×16 arrays
+- **Polish pass on a working game** — replace placeholder shapes with cohesive pixel art that already matches a chosen style
+- **Tilesets** — wang-style ground/wall sets without manually drawing every transition tile
+- **Sprite animations** — walk cycles, idle bobs, attacks delivered as transparent GIFs or spritesheets
+
+**Choose this over `add-assets` (code-only pixel art) when:** the user wants AI-generated art, has a Retro Diffusion key, or the game needs more visual variety than hand-coded matrices can deliver in a reasonable time. The two skills compose well — Retro Diffusion for hero sprites/tilesets, code-only matrices as a free fallback for quick filler.
+
+**Do NOT use this for:** 3D models (use `meshyai`), 3D worlds (use `worldlabs`), audio (use `game-audio`), or when the user explicitly wants the all-code procedural pixel art approach (use `add-assets`).
+
+## Authentication
+
+Before prompting the user, check if the key already exists:
+```bash
+test -f .env && grep -q '^RETRODIFFUSION_API_KEY=.' .env && echo "found"
+```
+If found, export it with `set -a; . .env; set +a` and skip the prompt.
+
+If the key is **not** set, **ask the user immediately and explain the cost model**:
+
+> I'll generate true pixel art with Retro Diffusion — the best dedicated pixel art model for shippable game sprites.
+>
+> **Heads up: this is a paid service.** You'll need a Retro Diffusion account with credits. Each image typically costs between $0.015 (RD_FAST) and $0.18 (RD_PRO). Get a key in 60 seconds:
+>
+> 1. Sign up at https://www.retrodiffusion.ai
+> 2. Buy credits (smallest pack is fine for prototyping)
+> 3. Account → API → Generate API key
+>
+> Paste your key like: `RETRODIFFUSION_API_KEY=rdpk-...`
+> (It will be saved to `.env` and redacted from this conversation.)
+>
+> Or type "skip" to fall back to free hand-coded pixel art via `/add-assets`.
+
+If the user provides a key, save it to `.env` and use it via `set -a; . .env; set +a && node scripts/retrodiffusion-generate.mjs ...`.
+
+If the user skips, **stop and hand off to `/add-assets`** — do not silently degrade to a different art style without telling them.
+
+## CLI Script — `scripts/retrodiffusion-generate.mjs`
+
+Zero-dependency Node.js script. Handles all six modes: generate, img2img, animate, tileset, edit, and balance.
+
+### Generate (text-to-pixel-art)
+
+```bash
+# Single 64×64 sprite, RD_FAST (cheapest)
+RETRODIFFUSION_API_KEY=<key> node scripts/retrodiffusion-generate.mjs \
+  --mode generate \
+  --prompt "a cute green slime with big eyes" \
+  --model RD_FAST --style retro \
+  --width 64 --height 64 \
+  --output public/assets/sprites/ --slug slime
+
+# Higher quality with RD_PRO (flat $0.18, supports up to 256×256)
+RETRODIFFUSION_API_KEY=<key> node scripts/retrodiffusion-generate.mjs \
+  --mode generate \
+  --prompt "a heroic knight, full body, side view" \
+  --model RD_PRO --style fantasy \
+  --width 128 --height 128 \
+  --output public/assets/sprites/ --slug knight
+
+# Transparent background for game sprites
+RETRODIFFUSION_API_KEY=<key> node scripts/retrodiffusion-generate.mjs \
+  --mode generate --prompt "a treasure chest, closed" \
+  --model RD_FAST --style game-asset \
+  --width 64 --height 64 --remove-bg \
+  --output public/assets/sprites/ --slug chest
+
+# Seamless tiling texture (e.g., grass, water)
+RETRODIFFUSION_API_KEY=<key> node scripts/retrodiffusion-generate.mjs \
+  --mode generate --prompt "lush grass texture, top down" \
+  --model RD_PLUS --style top-down \
+  --width 64 --height 64 --tile-x --tile-y \
+  --output public/assets/tiles/ --slug grass
+
+# Estimate cost before paying for it
+RETRODIFFUSION_API_KEY=<key> node scripts/retrodiffusion-generate.mjs \
+  --mode generate --prompt "..." --check-cost
+```
+
+### Image-to-Image (refine a reference)
+
+```bash
+RETRODIFFUSION_API_KEY=<key> node scripts/retrodiffusion-generate.mjs \
+  --mode img2img \
+  --image ./concept-art/hero-sketch.png \
+  --prompt "a heroic knight in shining armor" \
+  --model RD_FAST --style retro \
+  --width 64 --height 64 --strength 0.75 \
+  --output public/assets/sprites/ --slug hero
+```
+
+`--strength` controls how much the AI deviates from the input (0 = identical, 1 = ignore input). 0.5–0.8 is the useful range.
+
+### Animations (walk cycles, idles, attacks)
+
+```bash
+# Walk cycle — returns spritesheet PNG or transparent GIF (style-dependent)
+RETRODIFFUSION_API_KEY=<key> node scripts/retrodiffusion-generate.mjs \
+  --mode animate \
+  --prompt "a knight walking" \
+  --model RD_PRO --style walk-cycle \
+  --width 64 --height 64 \
+  --output public/assets/sprites/ --slug knight-walk
+
+# Idle bob from an existing character
+RETRODIFFUSION_API_KEY=<key> node scripts/retrodiffusion-generate.mjs \
+  --mode animate --image public/assets/sprites/knight.png \
+  --prompt "knight idle breathing" --style idle \
+  --output public/assets/sprites/ --slug knight-idle
+```
+
+Animation styles cost $0.07–$0.25 depending on type. See [api-reference.md](./api-reference.md) for the full style list.
+
+### Tilesets
+
+```bash
+# Wang-style tileset (auto-tiling ground/wall sets)
+RETRODIFFUSION_API_KEY=<key> node scripts/retrodiffusion-generate.mjs \
+  --mode tileset \
+  --prompt "stone dungeon floor, mossy" \
+  --model RD_PLUS --style wang-tile \
+  --width 96 --height 96 \
+  --output public/assets/tiles/ --slug dungeon-floor
+
+# Single detailed tile
+RETRODIFFUSION_API_KEY=<key> node scripts/retrodiffusion-generate.mjs \
+  --mode tileset --prompt "wooden bridge plank" --style single-tile \
+  --width 64 --height 64 --output public/assets/tiles/ --slug bridge
+```
+
+### Edit (progressive refinement)
+
+Flat $0.06 per edit. Use to tweak a generated sprite without re-rolling from scratch.
+
+```bash
+RETRODIFFUSION_API_KEY=<key> node scripts/retrodiffusion-generate.mjs \
+  --mode edit --image public/assets/sprites/knight.png \
+  --prompt "give the knight a red cape" \
+  --output public/assets/sprites/ --slug knight-red
+```
+
+### Balance check
+
+```bash
+RETRODIFFUSION_API_KEY=<key> node scripts/retrodiffusion-generate.mjs --mode balance
+```
+
+## Model Selection Guide
+
+| Model | Cost | Sizes | Best for |
+|-------|------|-------|----------|
+| **RD_FAST** | $0.015–0.04 | 64×64 to 384×384 | Bulk prototyping, simple sprites, items |
+| **RD_PLUS** | $0.025–0.08 | 16×16 to 192×192 | Tilesets, top-down, watercolor, Minecraft-style |
+| **RD_PRO** | $0.18 flat | 64×64 to 256×256 | Hero sprites, isometric scenes, polish pass (17+ styles, supports up to 9 reference images) |
+| **RD_MINI** | varies | very small | Routes to PLUS/FAST for tiny pickups |
+
+Default to **RD_FAST** for prototyping. Upgrade individual hero sprites to **RD_PRO** when the prototype is shipping.
+
+See [api-reference.md](./api-reference.md) for the complete per-model `prompt_style` list.
+
+## Prompt Engineering for Pixel Art
+
+Good prompts are short, specific about silhouette and palette, and call out the perspective:
+
+| Goal | Prompt | Why |
+|------|--------|-----|
+| Game character | "a cute green slime, big eyes, side view" | Single subject, perspective named |
+| Item | "a glowing red potion bottle" | Specific shape + color |
+| Tile | "lush grass texture, top down, seamless" | Perspective + tiling intent |
+| Enemy | "a skeleton warrior, hunched, side view" | Silhouette cue ("hunched") |
+
+**Avoid:**
+- Multiple subjects in one prompt — generate separately and composite in-game
+- Abstract concepts ("the feeling of dread") — describe the visual instead
+- Mismatched perspective ("top-down knight, side view") — pick one
+
+## Integration with Phaser Games
+
+Retro Diffusion outputs are normal PNGs — they slot directly into Phaser's loader.
+
+```js
+// In a preload scene:
+this.load.image('slime', 'assets/sprites/slime.png');
+this.load.spritesheet('knight-walk', 'assets/sprites/knight-walk.png', {
+  frameWidth: 64,
+  frameHeight: 64,
+});
+
+// In create():
+const slime = this.physics.add.sprite(100, 100, 'slime');
+this.anims.create({
+  key: 'knight-walk',
+  frames: this.anims.generateFrameNumbers('knight-walk', { start: 0, end: 7 }),
+  frameRate: 12,
+  repeat: -1,
+});
+```
+
+**Pixel-perfect rendering** — when using AI pixel art, configure the Phaser game with crisp scaling so sprites stay sharp:
+
+```js
+// In main.js, Phaser config:
+const config = {
+  type: Phaser.AUTO,
+  pixelArt: true,           // disables antialiasing, preserves hard pixel edges
+  roundPixels: true,        // snaps sprite positions to integers
+  scale: { mode: Phaser.Scale.FIT, autoCenter: Phaser.Scale.CENTER_BOTH },
+  // ...
+};
+```
+
+Without `pixelArt: true`, the browser will smooth-scale the PNGs and the pixel-art look is lost.
+
+## Spritesheet Slicing
+
+Animation styles return either a transparent GIF or a horizontal spritesheet (style-dependent — check the output PNG dimensions). For spritesheets, infer `frameWidth = imageWidth / frameCount` and load with `this.load.spritesheet()`. The `.meta.json` file written next to each output records the requested width/height so frame count is recoverable.
+
+## Cost Discipline
+
+Every call costs real money from the user's balance. Apply these defaults to avoid waste:
+
+1. **Use `--check-cost` first** when generating at unfamiliar sizes or with RD_PRO.
+2. **Default to RD_FAST + 64×64** for prototypes. Only upgrade specific hero sprites.
+3. **Use `--seed`** when iterating on a prompt — same seed + same prompt = same image, so you can A/B test prompt edits without re-rolling random variations.
+4. **Cache outputs** — generated PNGs are committed to `public/assets/sprites/`. Never regenerate an asset that already exists unless the user asked for a new variant.
+5. **Run `--mode balance`** before a big batch so the user sees their remaining credits.
+
+## Output Convention
+
+```
+public/assets/sprites/
+  slime.png            # generated image
+  slime.meta.json      # prompt, model, style, cost, balance, timestamps
+  knight-walk.png      # animation spritesheet or GIF
+  knight-walk.meta.json
+public/assets/tiles/
+  grass.png            # tiling texture
+  grass.meta.json
+```
+
+Always write a `.meta.json` next to each PNG so the prompt and seed are recoverable for later regeneration.
+
+## Troubleshooting
+
+| Problem | Cause | Fix |
+|---------|-------|-----|
+| `RETRODIFFUSION_API_KEY` not set | Key missing | Ask the user for their key (https://www.retrodiffusion.ai → Account → API). Save to `.env`. |
+| HTTP 401 Unauthorized | Wrong header or invalid key | Header must be `X-RD-Token: <key>`, NOT `Authorization: Bearer`. Verify the key on the dashboard. |
+| HTTP 400 "insufficient credits" | Account balance is empty | Tell the user to top up at the dashboard before retrying. Run `--mode balance` to confirm. |
+| Sprite looks blurry in Phaser | Browser is smooth-scaling the PNG | Set `pixelArt: true` and `roundPixels: true` in the Phaser config. |
+| Output ignores prompt details | Prompt is being auto-expanded into something different | Try `--bypass-prompt-expansion` to send the prompt verbatim. |
+| Tileset edges don't match | Style isn't a wang/tile style | Use `--style wang-tile` for auto-tiling sets, or `--tile-x --tile-y` for seamless single textures. |
+| img2img output ignores reference | Strength too high | Lower `--strength` to 0.4–0.6. Strength 0 keeps the input; strength 1 ignores it. |
+| Inconsistent style across batch | Different seeds and slight prompt variation | Pin `--seed` and reuse the exact same prompt structure for sibling sprites (same character family). |
+
+## Checklist
+
+- [ ] **User informed this is a paid service** — Retro Diffusion account + credits required
+- [ ] `RETRODIFFUSION_API_KEY` checked in `.env` or env, prompted if missing
+- [ ] Model + style chosen for the budget (RD_FAST for prototyping, RD_PRO for hero sprites)
+- [ ] `--check-cost` used for the first call at any new size
+- [ ] Prompt is specific about subject, perspective, and silhouette
+- [ ] `--seed` pinned when generating siblings (e.g., walk + idle of the same character)
+- [ ] `--remove-bg` used for game sprites (transparent PNG)
+- [ ] `--tile-x`/`--tile-y` used for textures, `--style wang-tile` for auto-tiling
+- [ ] PNG written to `public/assets/sprites/` (or `tiles/`) with `.meta.json` alongside
+- [ ] Phaser config has `pixelArt: true` and `roundPixels: true`
+- [ ] Spritesheet `frameWidth`/`frameHeight` matches the requested width/height
+- [ ] User shown remaining balance after the batch
diff --git a/skills/retrodiffusion/api-reference.md b/skills/retrodiffusion/api-reference.md
new file mode 100644
index 0000000..c0ee53f
--- /dev/null
+++ b/skills/retrodiffusion/api-reference.md
@@ -0,0 +1,214 @@
+# Retro Diffusion API Reference
+
+Companion file for [SKILL.md](./SKILL.md). Full API endpoint specifications based on the official examples repo: https://github.com/Retro-Diffusion/api-examples.
+
+## Base URL
+
+```
+https://api.retrodiffusion.ai/v1
+```
+
+## Authentication
+
+All requests require this header:
+
+```
+X-RD-Token: <your-api-key>
+```
+
+Keys come from the Retro Diffusion dashboard (https://www.retrodiffusion.ai → Account → API). Keys typically start with `rdpk-`.
+
+> **Wrong format:** the API does **not** use `Authorization: Bearer <key>`. Using the wrong header returns HTTP 401.
+
+## Endpoints
+
+| Method | Path | Purpose |
+|--------|------|---------|
+| `POST` | `/inferences` | Main image generation (text-to-image, img2img, animation, tileset) |
+| `POST` | `/edit` | Progressive image edit (flat $0.06) |
+| `GET`  | `/inferences/credits` | Check remaining account balance |
+| `POST` | `/styles` | Create a custom RD_PRO style |
+| `GET`  | `/styles` | List custom styles |
+| `PATCH`| `/styles/{id}` | Update a custom style |
+| `DELETE`| `/styles/{id}` | Delete a custom style |
+
+## POST /inferences — Generate Image
+
+### Request body
+
+```json
+{
+  "prompt": "a cute green slime",
+  "negative_prompt": "blurry, photorealistic",
+  "model": "RD_FAST",
+  "prompt_style": "retro",
+  "width": 64,
+  "height": 64,
+  "num_images": 1,
+  "seed": 12345,
+  "input_image": "<base64 PNG, optional>",
+  "input_palette": "<base64 PNG, optional>",
+  "strength": 0.75,
+  "remove_bg": false,
+  "tile_x": false,
+  "tile_y": false,
+  "bypass_prompt_expansion": false,
+  "check_cost": false,
+  "include_downloadable_data": false
+}
+```
+
+| Field | Type | Required | Notes |
+|-------|------|----------|-------|
+| `prompt` | string | yes | Short, specific. Include perspective ("side view", "top down") and silhouette cues. |
+| `negative_prompt` | string | no | What to avoid (e.g. "blurry, antialiased, photorealistic"). |
+| `model` | string | yes | One of `RD_PRO`, `RD_FAST`, `RD_PLUS`, `RD_MINI`. |
+| `prompt_style` | string | yes | Style key — see [Style Catalog](#style-catalog) below. |
+| `width`, `height` | int | yes | Output dimensions. Range depends on model — see [Model Sizes](#model-sizes). |
+| `num_images` | int | no | 1–4 typical. Each image bills separately. |
+| `seed` | int | no | Reproducible generation. Same prompt + style + seed = same output. |
+| `input_image` | string (base64) | conditional | Required for img2img and most animation styles. PNG, RGB, max ~4MB. |
+| `input_palette` | string (base64) | no | Reference palette image — output uses these colors. |
+| `strength` | float (0–1) | img2img only | 0 = identical to input, 1 = ignore input. 0.5–0.8 is the practical range. |
+| `remove_bg` | bool | no | Returns transparent PNG instead of solid background. Best for sprites. |
+| `tile_x`, `tile_y` | bool | no | Seamless tiling on that axis (textures, not wang sets). |
+| `bypass_prompt_expansion` | bool | no | Skips the model's auto-expansion of short prompts. |
+| `check_cost` | bool | no | Returns `balance_cost` only, no images, no charge. |
+| `include_downloadable_data` | bool | no | For inventory/spritesheet styles, returns structured JSON metadata. |
+
+### Response (success)
+
+```json
+{
+  "created_at": 1733425519,
+  "model": "rd_fast",
+  "balance_cost": 0.025,
+  "remaining_balance": 100.75,
+  "base64_images": ["iVBORw0KGgo..."],
+  "downloadable_data": null
+}
+```
+
+| Field | Notes |
+|-------|-------|
+| `created_at` | Unix timestamp. |
+| `model` | Resolved model (RD_MINI may resolve to PLUS or FAST). |
+| `balance_cost` | USD charged for this call. |
+| `remaining_balance` | USD remaining in the account after this call. |
+| `base64_images` | Array of base64-encoded PNGs (or GIFs for animation styles). Length = `num_images`. |
+| `downloadable_data` | Structured JSON, only present when `include_downloadable_data: true`. |
+
+### Response (error)
+
+```json
+{ "error": "Insufficient credits" }
+```
+
+| HTTP | Meaning | Common cause |
+|------|---------|--------------|
+| 400 | Bad request | Invalid model/style combo, dimension out of range, insufficient credits |
+| 401 | Unauthorized | Missing or invalid `X-RD-Token`, or used `Authorization: Bearer` |
+| 403 | Forbidden | Style not available on the user's plan |
+| 429 | Rate limited | Slow down — exponential backoff |
+| 500 | Server error | Transient — retry with backoff |
+
+## POST /edit — Edit an Image
+
+Flat **$0.06** per call. Lighter-weight than re-rolling a full inference.
+
+### Request body
+
+```json
+{
+  "prompt": "give the knight a red cape",
+  "input_image": "<base64 PNG>"
+}
+```
+
+### Response
+
+Same shape as `/inferences` — `base64_images[0]` contains the edited PNG.
+
+## GET /inferences/credits — Check Balance
+
+No body. Response:
+
+```json
+{ "credits": 24.50 }
+```
+
+(Field name may also appear as `remaining_balance` depending on plan tier.)
+
+## Model Sizes
+
+| Model | Min size | Max size | Notes |
+|-------|----------|----------|-------|
+| **RD_PRO** | 64×64 | 256×256 | 17+ styles. Supports up to 9 reference images. Flat $0.18 per image. |
+| **RD_FAST** | 64×64 | 384×384 | 15 styles. Cheapest tier ($0.015–0.04). |
+| **RD_PLUS** | 16×16 | 192×192 | 18+ styles. Good for tilesets and small assets ($0.025–0.08). |
+| **RD_MINI** | varies | varies | Routes to PLUS or FAST. Optimized for tiny dimensions. |
+
+Out-of-range dimensions return HTTP 400. Always check the per-model limits before sending.
+
+## Style Catalog
+
+Each model exposes its own `prompt_style` keys. Common values seen in the official examples:
+
+### RD_PRO (17+ styles)
+`default`, `painterly`, `fantasy`, `ui-panel`, `horror`, `sci-fi`, `isometric`, `platformer`, `dungeon-map`, `character-turnaround`, `walk-cycle`, `idle`, `attack`, `inventory-sheet`, `portrait`, `concept`, `creature`
+
+### RD_FAST (15 styles)
+`default`, `retro`, `arcade`, `simple`, `detailed`, `anime`, `texture`, `ui`, `game-asset`, `character`, `portrait`, `prop`, `effect`, `weapon`, `enemy`
+
+### RD_PLUS (18+ styles)
+`default`, `watercolor`, `top-down`, `cartoon`, `isometric-asset`, `minecraft`, `low-res-16`, `low-res-32`, `low-res-64`, `wang-tile`, `single-tile`, `terrain`, `building`, `plant`, `creature`, `weapon`, `effect`, `ui`
+
+### RD_MINI
+Routes — pass any RD_PLUS or RD_FAST style key.
+
+> The exact set of keys is updated by Retro Diffusion server-side. If a style returns 400 ("invalid style"), check the dashboard or the official examples repo for the current list. The names above are stable enough for prototyping.
+
+## Pricing (as of 2026)
+
+| Operation | Cost |
+|-----------|------|
+| RD_FAST inference | $0.015–$0.04 (size-dependent) |
+| RD_PLUS inference | $0.025–$0.08 (size-dependent) |
+| RD_PRO inference | $0.18 flat |
+| Animation style | $0.07–$0.25 (style-dependent) |
+| Tileset (wang) | $0.10 flat |
+| Image edit | $0.06 flat |
+
+Multiply by `num_images` for batch calls. Use `check_cost: true` on `/inferences` to preview before paying.
+
+## Custom Styles (POST /styles)
+
+Custom styles are RD_PRO-based. Useful for locking a consistent look across a whole game.
+
+### Request body
+
+```json
+{
+  "name": "my-game-style",
+  "description": "Muted NES palette, side-view characters",
+  "reference_images": ["<base64 PNG>", "..."],
+  "llm_instructions": "Always render in NES-style limited palette, side-view, ...",
+  "forced_dimensions": { "width": 96, "height": 96 }
+}
+```
+
+`forced_dimensions` is optional and accepts widths/heights between 96 and 256.
+
+### Response
+
+```json
+{ "id": "style-abc123", "name": "my-game-style", "created_at": 1733425519 }
+```
+
+Use the returned `id` as `prompt_style` on subsequent `/inferences` calls.
+
+## Source
+
+Official examples repo (recommended reading before integrating):
+- https://github.com/Retro-Diffusion/api-examples
+- `img2img.py` — minimal Python example with full request/response handling