Despite my searching I was unable to find any threads about auto-pausing, my apologies if this has already been discussed.

This thread proposes the idea of adding an auto-pause feature, similar to the game mechanic found in some cRPGs like Baldur' Gate and Neverwinter Nights.



Here are some ideas for when the game can be paused (Note: Player can toggle any one of these functions on/off individually):

A new wave is detected

An enemy is seen by a hero

An enemy enters a powered room

An enemy begins attacking a module

Hero health drops below 50%/25%

Enemy enters room containing crystal and/or begins attacking it

Exit discovered



Anyway, that is my two cents.