Info about Wing of Darkness:

Official game description:
Story  
Wars between nations are no longer conflicts between people; rather, they have become struggles for survival as humanity fights an all-new enemy.  
Unidentified flying objects referred to as Blankers have suddenly appeared, and the only weapon powerful enough to defeat them is the Held System.  
Only a small number of exceptional young women are capable of operating Held Systems, and they have become known as Frauleins.  
Frauleins are now humanity’s last hope… If we don’t fight, humanity is doomed.  
But fighting comes with a price that some may not be prepared to pay...  
About the Game  
An all-new breed of aerial shooting game, Wing of Darkness is comprised of a number of key elements that set it apart from others in the same genre.  
This high-speed 3D shooting game allows players to experience exhilarating battles in the sky, as well as a series of cutscenes depicting the growth of the main characters throughout the story.  
Shooting  
Experience the thrill of flight with user-friendly controls, in any direction. Even if you run out of ammo, it automatically restores itself over time. Choose from a wide array of high-tech weapons to combat powerful enemies without having to worry about conserving ammunition. With the addition of some futuristic elements, players can experience combat like never before.  
Cutscenes  
Cutscenes sandwich the combat scenes, driving the plot forward.  
The two main characters (voiced by well-known Japanese voice actresses) tell their own stories in order to give the player insight into the past.  
The narrative alternates between the game’s two heroines, Klara and Erika.  
Players can watch the mystery of Blankers and Frauleins unfold from their perspective.

Release date: Jun 2, 2021

Categories: High-Speed Flight Combat, Third-Person Shooter, Visual Novel, Mech Combat, Single-player Story, Weapon Customization, Short Session Gameplay

Feature scans:
- Wiki: score 50; verdict: Insufficient Explanation; summary: The primary complaints revolve around insufficient explanations for both gameplay mechanics and story/worldbuilding. Users feel the game is unfriendly and leaves them confused, requiring external data to understand systems and narrative.
- Steam Deck: score 45; verdict: Playable with control friction; summary: The game is playable but has notable control and convenience issues. The lack of key remapping and camera rotation problems make controller play on Steam Deck less comfortable, and the skip function is not fully confirmed for controllers. The user only recommends buying on sale.

- Hardware Profile: No data
Feature extractions:
- Community Price:
  - Community fair range: $5.00 - $10.00
  - Reasoning: The community consistently indicates the game is overpriced at its current $20 base price. Reviews highlight a very short playtime (2-3 hours) and limited content, with many suggesting that even sale prices around $7 (1000 yen, 50 RMB) are the maximum acceptable, and one review states it's not worth even $5. This suggests a fair base price should be significantly lower than $20, likely in the $5-10 range to reflect the game's minimal content and perceived value.
- Playtime Metrics:
  - Game completion: 2.5h
  - Story completion: 2.5h
  - Session length: N/A
  - Endgame: N/A
  - Reasoning: Game completion times are consistently reported between 1.2 and 2.8 hours, with most reviews citing 2–3 hours; the 2.8-hour and 70-minute extremes bracket the typical range. Story completion is similarly reported at 2–3 hours, matching the overall game length. No evidence supports a distinct session length or any endgame content; multiple reviews explicitly state there is no post-game or replay value.
- Time-to-fun:
  - Summary: The game provides immediate fun through customization and aerial combat, but repetitive missions and shallow systems cause enjoyment to drop quickly, often from the first stage.
  - Stance: Fun then drops
  - Anchor: Initial gameplay
  - Time to anchor: N/A
  - Friction: repetitive mission structure; shallow customization depth; tedious visual novel segments; boring narration; grindy combat
  - Unlock drivers: N/A
  - Conditions: player preference for visual novel pacing; tolerance for repetitive missions; interest in story over gameplay; expectation of deep customization; patience with slow text advancement; enjoyment of aerial combat; willingness to skip cutscenes
- Player Archetypes:
  - Speedrunner / Achievement Hunter (sale)
    - Motivation: Mastering 3D movement and completing achievements
    - Playstyle: Speedruns the game, optimizes movement, and hunts achievements
    - Experience: veteran
    - Purchase stance: sale
    - Labels: speedrunner
    - Reference games: N/A
  - Niche Mech Action Fan (sale)
    - Motivation: Supporting the mech/action genre and enjoying dogfighting
    - Playstyle: Engages in dogfighting and high-speed mech combat
    - Experience: familiar
    - Purchase stance: sale
    - Labels: N/A
    - Reference games: Armored Core
  - Story-Driven Player (no buy)
    - Motivation: Experiencing a compelling narrative
    - Playstyle: Focuses on story content, expects meaningful cutscenes and character development
    - Experience: familiar
    - Purchase stance: no buy
    - Labels: N/A
    - Reference games: N/A
  - Bargain Hunter (deep sale)
    - Motivation: Getting value for money
    - Playstyle: Waits for deep discounts, compares price to content
    - Experience: mixed
    - Purchase stance: deep sale
    - Labels: N/A
    - Reference games: N/A


Below are summaries of things people say about the game per category.
Each point is assigned a weight that represents how often it is mentioned across all reviews.
What players like:
- Graphics are praiseworthy (weight 0.23): The graphics received consistent praise for being beautiful and well-crafted. Reviewers highlighted the visual quality as a standout feature, enhancing the game's appeal.
- Story is decent (weight 0.23): The story is considered decent and not particularly bad, with some reviewers noting it is better than the gameplay. It includes elements like war themes and character development that are appreciated.
- Voice acting is good (weight 0.22): Voice acting is frequently praised for being well-done and effectively conveying emotion. Reviewers noted that the voice performances enhance the story and character immersion.
- Character design is appealing (weight 0.21): Multiple reviewers praised the character design, noting it as a strong point of the game. The designs are considered attractive and well-executed, contributing positively to the overall experience.
- Combat is satisfying (weight 0.2): Combat is described as satisfying, quick, and responsive, with a fast-paced flow that keeps players engaged. The mech combat and shooting mechanics are particularly highlighted as enjoyable.
- Gameplay is fun (weight 0.2): The gameplay is described as exciting, fun, and playable, with many reviewers enjoying the core mechanics. The fast-paced action and satisfying combat contribute to a positive gameplay experience.
- Soundtrack is excellent (weight 0.2): The soundtrack is highly praised for its quality, with electronic rock and orchestral elements fitting the high-speed combat well. The BGM is considered a strong point, sometimes even justifying a purchase.
- Controls are responsive (weight 0.18): Controls are generally praised for being responsive, comfortable, and accessible, with free movement in all directions. The snappy controls enhance the overall gameplay experience.
- High-speed flight is fun (weight 0.17): The high-speed flight mechanics provide a strong sense of speed and are described as fun and exhilarating. The boost mechanic and fast movement are key highlights for many players.
- UI is well-designed (weight 0.15): The UI is praised for being clean, well-adjusted, and not too hectic, with a tech feel. The HUD layout and menu screens are considered appropriate and contribute to a stress-free experience.
- Game is well-made (weight 0.13): The game is described as well-made for an indie title, achieving almost everything it sets out to do. It is considered a pleasant experience with no bugs and good mechanics.
- Weapon variety is good (weight 0.12): Weapons are diverse and feel different, with varying damage, range, and fire rates. The customization options add variety to gameplay, and all weapons are considered useful and functional.
- Mech design is appealing (weight 0.11): Mech and mecha girl designs are considered attractive and cool, with refined large enemy mecha designs. The concept of mecha girls and flight shooting is seen as rare and challenging.
- Difficulty is accessible (weight 0.09): The game offers multiple difficulty levels, with normal difficulty being low due to strong assists. The highest difficulty provides a tense balance, making it accessible to a wide range of players.
- Sound effects are good (weight 0.08): Sound effects, especially shooting and lock-on sounds, are excellent and play at appropriate times. They enhance the combat experience and are noted as a positive aspect.
- Game is good value (weight 0.07): The game is considered good value at a low price, especially when compared to pure visual novels. Some reviewers mention it is acceptable at a discount, but overall the price is seen as fair.
- Game is fun for speedruns (weight 0.04): The game is fun as a speedrun, with a result screen showing elapsed time, score, and ammo used, which is good for challenge runs. The fast-paced gameplay supports this.
- Post-game content exists (weight 0.02): Post-game content includes movie replays and replay mode, providing additional value. This is appreciated by reviewers who enjoy revisiting missions.

Common complaints:
- Story is vague and thin (weight 0.39): Players consistently report that the story lacks depth, world-building, and clear explanations, making it hard to engage with characters or the plot. The narrative is often described as perfunctory and poorly written, with insufficient length to develop its ideas.
- Game is very short (weight 0.33): The overall game length is frequently criticized, with many players finishing it in about two hours. This short playtime is seen as insufficient for the price and leaves little content to explore.
- Story ends abruptly and incomplete (weight 0.21): Many reviews mention that the story ends suddenly, leaving major plot points unresolved and questions unanswered. The narrative feels incomplete, cutting off just as it begins to delve into deeper lore.
- Content is minimal (weight 0.19): The game is criticized for having very little actual content, with few missions and stages. This minimalism contributes to the short playtime and perceived lack of value.
- Enemies are too small (weight 0.18): Enemy units are often described as tiny and difficult to see, making it hard to gauge distance and distinguish between types. This visual issue hampers combat readability and overall enjoyment.
- Weapon variety is limited (weight 0.17): Players note that the weapon selection is small, with many weapons feeling similar or overlapping in purpose. The lack of distinct options reduces strategic depth and replayability.
- Achievement system is bugged (weight 0.14): Several achievements are reported as bugged, with triggers swapped or not unlocking properly, which frustrates completionists. Specific issues include 'Destroyer' and 'Wing of Darkness' achievements failing to activate.
- Gameplay is shallow and simple (weight 0.14): The core gameplay is often described as mind-numbing, simple, and lacking depth. Combat becomes tedious quickly, and the game offers little variety or challenge.
- Auto-aim is inconvenient (weight 0.14): The auto-aim and lock-on system is criticized for being inconvenient, often targeting the wrong enemies or making aiming feel unnecessary. Players suggest removing or improving it.
- Story presented as static PPT (weight 0.13): The story is delivered through static slideshows with no animation, which players find boring and cheap. This presentation style detracts from the narrative experience.
- Game is too easy (weight 0.12): Many players find the game too easy, with enemies rarely shooting back and no collision damage. This reduces the challenge and makes combat feel trivial.
- No progression system (weight 0.1): The absence of character progression, upgrades, or customization is a common complaint. Players miss the ability to level up or tailor their loadout, which reduces long-term engagement.
- Enemy variety is low (weight 0.09): The game features few enemy types, with less than ten distinct units, leading to repetitive combat. This lack of diversity makes battles feel monotonous.
- Enemy AI is poor (weight 0.05): Enemies are reported to have poor AI, getting stuck on walls and failing to navigate properly. This makes combat feel less dynamic and reduces the challenge.
- Mission clarity is lacking (weight 0.05): Some missions fail to clearly communicate objectives, leaving players confused about what to do. This lack of guidance can lead to frustration and wasted time.
- Weapon balance is poor (weight 0.05): Weapon balance is criticized, with some weapons being overpowered while others are weak. This imbalance limits viable strategies and makes certain choices feel pointless.
- Ground enemies are ineffective (weight 0.05): Ground turrets and enemies are described as pointless and ineffective, adding little to the gameplay. They fail to provide meaningful threats or variety.

Gameplay feedback:
- High-speed flight combat game (weight 0.25): The game is consistently described as a high-speed, 3D flight combat shooter, often compared to Ace Combat. It features fast-paced, adrenaline-filled battles with lock-on shooting mechanics.
- Weapon customization and selection (weight 0.21): Players can customize weapons with different missile systems, firearms, and support equipment, and select from three options before each stage. There are about 10-11 weapons total, with three usable in combat, all unlocked from the start.
- Low difficulty and passive enemies (weight 0.13): The game is considered low difficulty, with some enemies being passive and not attacking, especially in late-game missions. This may reduce challenge for experienced players.
- Infinite ammo and auto-recovery (weight 0.05): Combat features infinite ammo and auto-recovery HP, along with auto-aim, making the game more accessible but potentially less strategic. This is a notable gameplay mechanic.
- Short campaign with six stages (weight 0.05): The game consists of six stages total, which is relatively short. This may affect overall value and replayability.
- Visual novel-style cutscenes (weight 0.05): Cutscenes are in monologue format and are described as slide shows but beautiful. This narrative style may be a departure from traditional flight combat games.
- No key configuration (weight 0.05): Players cannot remap keys, which may be a usability issue for some. This is a common complaint in PC versions of games.
- Invulnerable enemies in story (weight 0.05): Some enemies are invulnerable during story scenes, which can be frustrating if not clearly communicated. This is a specific gameplay issue.

Performance notes:
- 60 FPS lock enforced (weight 0.05): Players report that the game is locked to 60 FPS, which may frustrate those with high-refresh-rate monitors. This limitation is noted in Cluster 1.
- Optimization is poor (weight 0.03): Some players criticize the game's optimization, suggesting it could run better on available hardware. This is from Cluster 6.
- No WQHD high FPS support (weight 0.03): While 4K is available, WQHD and high refresh rates are not supported, limiting options for some players. This is from Cluster 11.
- Patch increased heaviness (weight 0.03): After a recent patch, the game became slightly heavier, indicating a possible performance regression. This is mentioned in Cluster 3.
- 4K 60 FPS achievable (weight 0.03): In one reviewer's environment, the game runs at 4K 60 FPS, showing high-end hardware can handle it. This is from Cluster 4.
- Graphics appear blurry (weight 0.03): Blurry graphics are noted, possibly due to upscaling or rendering issues. This is from Cluster 7.
- Medium and ultra look same (weight 0.03): Players see no visual difference between medium and ultra settings, indicating poor scaling of graphics options. This is from Cluster 8.
- Loading delays and frame drops (weight 0.03): At the start, there are loading delays and frame drops, affecting initial experience. This is from Cluster 9.
- GTX1080 nearly 60 FPS (weight 0.03): With a GTX1080 at full HD max settings, the game nearly hits 60 FPS, showing decent performance on older hardware. This is from Cluster 10.
- Performance generally stable (weight 0.03): Some users find the game's performance stable overall, though this is a vague positive statement. It appears in Cluster 2.
- Bugs present in game (weight 0.02): General bugs are reported, but without specific details, making this a low-priority issue. This is from Cluster 5.

Recommendations:
- Not worth full price (weight 0.2): Many reviewers state the game is not worth its full price, with some saying it is not worth buying even at a discount. The value proposition is poor relative to the asking price.
- Wait for a sale (weight 0.2): A common recommendation is to wait for a sale before purchasing, as the game is considered acceptable only at a discounted price. Some suggest waiting for a deep discount of 80% or more.
- Cannot recommend game (weight 0.18): Several reviewers explicitly advise against playing or buying the game, citing various issues. The game is not recommended in its current state by multiple players.
- Recommended only on discount (weight 0.13): Some reviewers recommend the game only if purchased at a significant discount, such as 80-90% off. At lower price points, the game becomes more acceptable despite its flaws.
- Niche audience only (weight 0.1): The game is considered to have a niche appeal, recommended only for specific groups like fans of mecha, sci-fi, or anime-style narratives. General players are advised to avoid it.
- Watch playthrough instead (weight 0.08): Some reviewers suggest watching a playthrough on YouTube instead of buying the game. This is a way to experience the content without spending money.
- Combat is a highlight (weight 0.07): Reviewers who enjoy fast-paced shooting and weapon variety find the combat enjoyable. The core high-speed shooting mechanics are a positive aspect for some players.
- Story and characters appeal (weight 0.07): Players who enjoy narrative-heavy experiences, emotional character relationships, and anime-style storytelling may find the game appealing. The world and character relationships are praised by some.
- Consider alternative games (weight 0.07): Some reviewers suggest playing other games like Project Nimbus, Daemon X Machina, or Project Wingman instead. These alternatives are seen as better options for similar experiences.
- Gamebreaking bug present (weight 0.07): A gamebreaking bug is reported, leading to a 'no' recommendation for now. Players may want to wait for patches before purchasing.
- Not for general players (weight 0.07): The game is not recommended for general players, even at a heavy discount. It is too niche or flawed for broad appeal.
- Music and art only (weight 0.07): Some reviewers recommend the game only for its music or art, not for gameplay. The audio-visual elements are the main draw for these players.
- Good for quick action (weight 0.07): The game is suitable for a quick action shooter on weekends or as a change of pace. It offers a frenetic experience without requiring much thought.
- Refund within two hours (weight 0.05): If you must try the game, ensure you can refund within two hours. This advice suggests uncertainty about the game's quality.
- Sequel potential (weight 0.05): Some reviewers would buy a sequel if it has a proper story conclusion. This indicates interest in the franchise despite current issues.
- Not worth regional price (weight 0.05): At the regional price of 200, the game is not worth it, but it may be acceptable for collection at 20. The price-to-content ratio is poor.
- Not recommended for story (weight 0.05): The story is not recommended by some reviewers, possibly due to insufficient explanations or lack of depth. This is a drawback for story-focused players.
- Indie first work (weight 0.02): The game is recommended as an indie first work with a small team, acknowledging its limitations. This context may help set expectations.

Other player notes:
- Price too high for content (weight 0.23): Reviewers feel the game's price is not justified by its short length and limited content, with some comparing it unfavorably to cheaper alternatives. Specific price points mentioned include 200 yuan and near-3A pricing.
- Compared to Ace Combat (weight 0.18): Many reviewers compare the game to Ace Combat and similar flight combat titles like Project Wingman, often noting differences in quality and content. Some are disappointed, while others see it as a homage.
- Wants more content and DLC (weight 0.17): Reviewers express a desire for additional missions, weapons, DLC, or a sequel to expand the game's short playtime. Some specifically request challenge modes, multiple endings, or longer playthroughs.
- Compared to Project Nimbus (weight 0.09): Several reviewers compare the game to Project Nimbus, often stating that Project Nimbus offers better value with more missions, better shooting feel, and a more compelling story at a lower price.
- Compared to Armored Core (weight 0.08): Some reviewers compare the game to Armored Core, noting similarities in mech combat but often finding this game lacking in depth or polish. Others mention it as a reason for purchase.
- Compared to Daemon X Machina (weight 0.08): Reviewers compare the game to Daemon X Machina (DXM), noting differences in control preferences and overall quality. Some see DXM as a better alternative.
- Story presentation is limited (weight 0.07): The story is presented through static images and slide shows, which some reviewers find less engaging. This is attributed to a small budget and limits the narrative experience.
- Voice acting is Japanese (weight 0.07): The game features Japanese voice acting, with the main character voiced by Kiyono Yasuno, known for roles like Megumi Kato. This is noted as a positive or neutral aspect.
- No endgame or replay value (weight 0.07): Reviewers note a lack of endgame content and replayability, with no incentive to replay after the short campaign. This contributes to the perception of low value.
- Compared to Strike Witches and Alice Gear Aegis (weight 0.06): The game is compared to Strike Witches and Alice Gear Aegis, suggesting similar themes or gameplay. These comparisons are used to set expectations for potential buyers.
- Compared to Sky Girls (weight 0.04): Reviewers note similarities to the Sky Girls anime, with one calling the game a more serious version. This helps contextualize the game's style and story.
- Compared to GilGul (weight 0.02): One reviewer recommends the developer's other game, GilGul, over this one, suggesting it is a better use of time and money.
- Compared to Azur Lane: Crosswave (weight 0.02): A reviewer describes the game as identical in quality to Azur Lane: Crosswave, which may be a positive or negative comparison depending on the reader's perspective.
- Compared to Neptunia Re;Birth 1 and Nariwa (weight 0.02): One reviewer compares the game to Neptunia Re;Birth 1 and Nariwa, noting that these require more otaku passion to enjoy, implying this game is more accessible.
- Compared to Pure White Star Origin (weight 0.02): A reviewer suggests Pure White Star Origin as a cheaper alternative with more satisfying combat, indicating this game falls short in that regard.
- Compared to COD13 (weight 0.02): One reviewer compares the controls to COD13, noting that COD13 is much smoother, highlighting a control polish issue in this game.
- Compared to A.C.E. (weight 0.02): A reviewer compares the game to A.C.E., also by FromSoftware, saying it is closer in atmosphere to Armored Core, providing a niche reference for fans.
- Compared to 3DS download title (weight 0.02): One reviewer compares the game to a similar 3DS download title, suggesting it has a similar scope and quality, which may be seen as a limitation.

Emotions:
- Disappointment (weight 0.41): Players were let down by the game's thin, abruptly ending story and lack of content, with only six stages and little replay value. Combat was often repetitive, with weak enemy AI and poor presentation, and the price was seen as too high for the short, unfinished experience.
- Frustration (weight 0.28): Frustration stemmed from technical and design issues such as unskippable story segments, a locked frame rate, and no key rebinding options. Combat was marred by poor lock-on targeting, hard-to-see enemies, and bullet-sponge foes, while bugs and unexplained mechanics added to the annoyance.
- Enjoyment (weight 0.09): Players enjoyed the high-speed flight and boost mechanics, which provided a strong sense of speed and exhilarating aerial combat. The responsive controls, satisfying target destruction, and the mecha/anime military identity contributed to a fun, fast-paced experience.
- Satisfaction (weight 0.03): Satisfaction came from the enjoyable gameplay loop, especially the multi-lock targeting that made shooting down large aircraft rewarding. The low price and comfortable controls also added to the positive experience, and a patch improved the game further.
- Boredom (weight 0.03): Boredom arose from repetitive and long missions that felt like a chore, with combat reduced to locking on and holding fire. Weak missile warning effects reduced tension, and high enemy HP made encounters tedious.
- Excitement (weight 0.02): Excitement was driven by the freedom of movement and cinematic presentation during combat, which made gameplay thrilling. The initial announcement generated original excitement, and the world view left players wanting more content.
- Appreciation (weight 0.02): Players appreciated the sincere handling of characters' emotional states, as well as the excellent music and art style. The mech concepts, battlefield BGM, and story atmosphere were praised, along with the well-made STG (shoot 'em up) part.
- Confusion (weight 0.02): Confusion resulted from the game ending without clarifying the player's objective, and from being unable to identify enemies due to their distance. Players also questioned what the five-year development time was spent on given the game's state.
- Anger (weight 0.02): Anger was directed at the game's terrible quality, the high price for such low-quality content, and the developers' failure to acknowledge an achievement bug.
- Annoyance (weight 0.02): Annoyance was caused by instant loss when leaving an area without warning, the inability to advance scenario text line by line, and an unhelpful tutorial that threw players into battle without key configuration.
- Approval (weight 0.01): Approval was given for the story's resemblance to Violet Evergarden and for the decent combat, which met some players' expectations.
- Indifference (weight 0.01): Indifference was expressed because the game was seen as average and short, offering nothing particularly memorable or engaging.
- Concern (weight 0.01): Concern was raised about the short game volume and vague story, which suggested a lack of depth and content.
- Suspicion (weight 0.01): Suspicion arose that the game's length was intentionally kept under the refund window, implying a deliberate design to prevent refunds.
- Despair (weight 0.01): Despair was felt because the game was so bad that the reviewer felt hopeless about its quality and potential.
- Comfort (weight 0.01): Comfort was found in Erika's praise for destroying things, which provided a unique and reassuring element in the game.
- Tension (weight 0.01): Tension was experienced on the highest difficulty, which provided a balanced and challenging shooter experience that kept players on edge.
- Regret (weight 0.01): Regret was expressed because the game could have been good with more adjustments, implying that its potential was not fully realized.
- Desire (weight 0.01): Desire was expressed for the story to have more filling in, indicating that players wanted a more developed and complete narrative.
- Extreme disappointment (weight 0.01): Extreme disappointment was voiced as the game was considered the most disappointing in three years, highlighting a severe letdown from expectations.}