Info about HELLCARD:

Official game description:
**Hellcard** is a **cooperative roguelike deckbuilder** that can be played in both **Singleplayer** and **Multiplayer** modes. The game takes place in the paper dungeons known from Book of Demons, and its main mechanics revolve around deckbuilding and fast-paced tactical card battles.
If you are excited about **HELLCARD**, be sure to **wishlist** the game on Steam. Otherwise, consider wishlisting anyway - who knows, we might surprise you yet!
What makes **HELLCARD** unique and different from other deck-building games is that **monster placement actually matters** and can be used to your advantage.
**HELLCARD** supports **co-op battles** with up to three heroes facing the Archdemon's hordes. In **singleplayer mode**, you can descend into the dungeons solo or recruit computer-controlled companions. In **multiplayer mode**, your friends or strangers can help you battle the hordes of hell.
**Return 2 Games** is a series of unique mid-core games inspired by the golden days of PC gaming. Each R2G title is a tribute to a single hit game from the '90s: a reimagining of a single universal story for a brand-new audience, using modern means and innovative, often vastly simplified gameplay mechanics.
**HELLCARD** was first envisioned as a new game mode inside the Book of Demons universe, but we soon realized that its design is huge and that it should be executed as a stand-alone spin-off game. If you want to learn more about Return 2 Games or support us in the development of the series, visit the **Supporter Pack** store page. On release, **HELLCARD** will be a part of it.

Release date: Feb 1, 2024

Categories: Deckbuilding, Roguelike, Cooperative Multiplayer, Single-player, Tactical Combat, Card-based Gameplay, Procedural Generation

Feature scans:
- MTX: score 70; verdict: Aggressive Monetization; summary: The game offers a paid DLC character, which some players find frustrating as it seems like content that could have been part of the base game. More critically, there are indications that the DLC introduces pay-to-win elements, which significantly impacts the fairness and balance of the game.
- Proton/Linux: score 30; verdict: Mostly Works; summary: The game shows signs of compatibility with Linux through Proton, but there are indications of potential mis-optimization issues specific to this setup. Users are actively testing and attempting to run the game on Linux, suggesting a medium severity level for launch reliability.
- Steam Deck: score 55; verdict: Tinkering Required; summary: The analysis of user feedback reveals several key issues impacting the Steam Deck experience. Notably, users have encountered problems with external launchers, small text, and compatibility issues requiring the use of Proton. These issues contribute to a less than seamless experience, often necessitating additional tinkering to achieve optimal performance.

- Hardware Profile: No data
Feature extractions:
- Community Price:
  - Community fair range: $8.00 - $10.00
  - Reasoning: The evidence suggests that the community generally finds the game worth purchasing when it is on sale, typically around $8 to $10 USD. Many users mention that the full price of $25 is not justified, but the game provides good value and enjoyment at a discounted price. This indicates that the fair base-game price range, as perceived by the community, is significantly lower than the current base price.
- Playtime Metrics:
  - Game completion: 3.0h
  - Story completion: 2.0h
  - Session length: N/A
  - Endgame: N/A
  - Reasoning: The evidence provided includes multiple references to the duration of solo and victorious runs, which are approximately 2 hours each. This suggests that the typical time to finish the main story or campaign is around 2 hours. Additionally, the mention of average run duration crossing the 100-minute mark supports this estimate. The evidence also indicates that players have completed the game after multiple playthroughs, suggesting that the game completion time is longer than a single run but not significantly so. There is no specific evidence provided for session length or endgame hours, so those fields are marked as null.
- Time-to-fun:
  - Summary: Hellcard has a steep initial learning curve, especially in solo mode, but becomes significantly more enjoyable once players familiarize themselves with the cards and combos. The multiplayer mode is particularly praised for its strategic depth and fun factor.
  - Stance: Clicks after
  - Anchor: Familiarity with cards and combos
  - Time to anchor: 1h 0m
  - Friction: Steep learning curve for solo players; Lack of control in single-player mode; Balance and pacing issues
  - Unlock drivers: Meta-progression system; Creating effective combos
  - Conditions: Playing with friends; Getting past the initial learning curve; Multiplayer mode
- Player Archetypes:
  - Cooperative Strategist (buy)
    - Motivation: Enjoys the strategic and social aspects of cooperative multiplayer.
    - Playstyle: Plays with friends to develop strategies and create powerful class combinations.
    - Experience: mixed
    - Purchase stance: buy
    - Labels: co-op player; strategy gamer
    - Reference games: Slay the Spire; Darkest Dungeon
  - Solo Deckbuilder (sale)
    - Motivation: Enjoys the challenge and depth of solo deckbuilding.
    - Playstyle: Plays solo, managing multiple decks and characters to create effective combos.
    - Experience: veteran
    - Purchase stance: sale
    - Labels: solo player; deckbuilder
    - Reference games: Slay the Spire; Monster Train
  - Frustrated Challenger (deep sale)
    - Motivation: Seeks to overcome challenging gameplay but struggles with difficulty spikes and RNG.
    - Playstyle: Struggles with the game's difficulty and mechanics, often feeling frustrated by the learning curve and RNG elements.
    - Experience: newcomer
    - Purchase stance: deep sale
    - Labels: casual gamer; challenge seeker
    - Reference games: Darkest Dungeon; For the King


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:
- Excellent Co-op Gameplay (weight 0.6): The game is highly praised for its cooperative gameplay, offering a well-designed and enjoyable co-op mode that is fun to play with friends and enhances the overall experience.
- Similar to Slay the Spire (weight 0.27): The game is often compared to Slay the Spire, offering similar gameplay mechanics and serving as a good alternative or multiplayer version of the popular game.
- Fun Gameplay Experience (weight 0.2): The game is described as very fun and enjoyable, with a good learning curve and tactical elements that make it engaging to play.
- Positive Overall Impression (weight 0.18): The game is generally well-received, with players appreciating its concept, design, and overall quality.
- Roguelike Elements (weight 0.18): The game incorporates roguelike elements, providing a fresh take on the genre and blending well with deck-building mechanics.
- Addictive and Innovative Gameplay (weight 0.17): The gameplay is noted for being addictive and innovative, with a nice gameplay loop and interesting achievements that keep players engaged.
- Well-Balanced Difficulty (weight 0.15): The game features a well-balanced difficulty that scales appropriately, providing a challenging yet fair experience for players.
- High Replay Value (weight 0.13): The game offers a high replay value, with hours of fun for both beginners and experienced players, making it endlessly replayable.
- Interesting Mechanics (weight 0.12): The game features interesting and cool mechanics that add depth and enjoyment to the gameplay.
- Deck-Building Game (weight 0.11): The game is a deck-building card game that is enjoyable for fans of the genre, offering a unique take on deck-building mechanics.
- Strategic Gameplay (weight 0.11): The game combines strategic elements with fun gameplay, offering a solid and engaging experience for players who enjoy strategy.
- Unique and Entertaining (weight 0.1): The game is noted for its uniqueness within the genre, offering a fun and entertaining experience that stands out.

Common complaints:
- Multiplayer and online issues (weight 0.45): Players report issues with multiplayer and online modes, including a lack of player base, long wait times for matches, and difficulties finding matches. The multiplayer experience is often described as dead or non-existent.
- Lack of content and depth (weight 0.4): Many players feel that the game lacks sufficient content and depth, making it feel shallow and repetitive. The gameplay is not very engaging, and the game quickly becomes stale, especially in solo mode.
- Solo mode issues (weight 0.4): Playing the game in solo mode is reported to be a poor experience. The game becomes repetitive and stale quickly, and the solo mode is often described as boring and less enjoyable.
- Boring and frustrating gameplay (weight 0.3): The gameplay is often described as boring, especially in solo mode. Players also report that the game crashes frequently, and the gameplay can be frustratingly slow and unresponsive.
- Value for money concerns (weight 0.3): Players feel that the game does not offer enough content or value for its price. The game is often described as too short and not worth the full price.
- Balance issues (weight 0.29): The game suffers from significant balance problems. Players report that some classes and cards are overpowered or underpowered, leading to an unbalanced gameplay experience.
- Slow and tedious gameplay (weight 0.23): The gameplay is often described as slow and tedious. Players report that the combat feels slow, and the animations are too slow, making the overall experience less enjoyable.
- Card and deck management issues (weight 0.22): Players have issues with card and deck management, including the inability to customize companion decks and choose winning cards for bots. The card mechanics are also criticized for being poorly designed.
- Poor UI design (weight 0.2): The user interface is criticized for being unresponsive and difficult to read. Players have issues with the UI elements, which create reading difficulties and overall frustration.
- Performance and technical issues (weight 0.19): The game has significant performance issues, including crashes and unplayable conditions. Players report that the game is unplayable due to crashes and bad performance.
- Difficulty and learning curve (weight 0.19): The game is reported to be demanding and difficult to play, with a steep learning curve. Players also mention difficulty spikes and issues with the game's balance, making it less beginner-friendly.
- Low replayability (weight 0.17): The game is criticized for lacking replayability. Players feel that the game does not offer enough variety or incentives to replay it multiple times.
- DLC and class issues (weight 0.15): Players are frustrated with DLC-locked classes and the perception that DLCs are pay-to-win. There are also complaints about the limited number of classes available initially.
- Localization and translation problems (weight 0.13): There are numerous complaints about localization bugs and translation errors, which affect the gameplay experience and understanding of the game.
- Lack of polish and refinement (weight 0.06): The game is criticized for lacking polish and refinement. Players report that the game feels rough and unpolished, with various aspects needing additional refinement.

Gameplay feedback:
- Co-op and multiplayer gameplay (weight 0.49): The game offers both cooperative and single-player modes, allowing players to enjoy the game solo or with friends. The multiplayer elements include team-based strategy and fast-paced gameplay.
- Character classes and synergies (weight 0.35): The game offers a variety of character classes, each with unique abilities. Players can synergize and complement their heroes, creating diverse builds and strategies.
- Deck-building mechanics (weight 0.34): The game features robust deck-building mechanics, allowing players to construct and upgrade their decks. This includes card-based combat systems and strategic planning.
- Roguelike elements (weight 0.3): The game incorporates various roguelike elements such as dungeon crawling, RNG-based mechanics, and progression systems. It also includes endless mode and torment difficulty settings.
- Multiplayer card roguelike (weight 0.29): The game combines elements of multiplayer card games and roguelike genres. It includes cooperative roguelike card gameplay and multiplayer deck-building roguelite mechanics.
- Tactical and strategic combat (weight 0.25): Combat in the game is turn-based and tactical, with a unique combat system that includes hex grid combat and strategic depth. Players need to plan their moves carefully and consider the order of card play.
- Enemy design and AI (weight 0.14): The game features varied enemy designs and AI behaviors, including different attack patterns and placement strategies. This adds to the tactical depth of the combat.
- Game balancing (weight 0.14): The game includes difficulty balancing and character balancing mechanisms. Players can adjust the difficulty through torment modifiers and scaling difficulty settings.
- Story and puzzle elements (weight 0.14): The game incorporates story-based decisions and puzzle game elements, adding depth to the gameplay experience.
- Artifacts and rewards (weight 0.11): The game features artifacts and their effects, as well as a rewards and cards system that enhances the deck-building experience.
- Replayability and addictive gameplay (weight 0.1): The game offers high replayability with its addictive gameplay loop, including various modes and strategic depth.
- Character-specific strategies (weight 0.09): Each character class has specific conditions and strategies, allowing for unique gameplay experiences and builds.
- Game flow and pace (weight 0.05): The game has a specific flow and pace, with strategic deck building and combat mechanics that keep players engaged.

Performance notes:
- Performance issues and crashes (weight 0.12): The game experiences various performance issues, including crashes, freezing on launch, and FPS drops, which significantly affect gameplay.
- Smooth performance on old hardware (weight 0.09): The game runs smoothly on lower-end and older computer hardware, making it accessible for users with less advanced systems.
- Clunky and unresponsive UI (weight 0.09): The user interface is reported as clunky and unresponsive, which can hinder the overall user experience and navigation within the game.
- Graphical and resolution problems (weight 0.09): Players report issues with blurry resolution, weird and blurred UI, and a heavier, laggier graphics engine, impacting visual clarity.
- Multi-monitor and resolution support (weight 0.06): The game has issues with modern monitor resolutions and multi-monitor support, affecting the display quality and setup.
- Slow and long animations (weight 0.06): The game features slow animations and long run times, which can affect the pacing and enjoyment of the game.
- Steam integration issues (weight 0.06): Occasional disconnections with Steam accelerator and general Steam Deck friendliness are noted, indicating mixed experiences with Steam integration.
- Lack of video settings (weight 0.04): There are no available video settings, which limits players' ability to customize their graphical experience.

Recommendations:
- Multiplayer enhances experience (weight 0.32): Playing with friends is highly recommended and seen as a significant enhancement to the gaming experience. The game is considered better and more enjoyable with friends.
- Recommended for deck-building fans (weight 0.28): The game is highly recommended for fans of deck-building games and tactical card games. It is particularly worth picking up if you enjoy this genre and have friends to play with.
- Buy on sale (weight 0.26): Many reviewers suggest purchasing the game during a sale. It is often seen as worth the price when discounted.
- Suggested improvements and additions (weight 0.19): Reviewers have suggested various improvements such as adding more mods, unlocking full archetypes, introducing more meaningful long-term progression, adding AI teammates, refining the art style, adding more special effects, and implementing local co-op mode and an 'add friend' function.
- Similar to Slay the Spire (weight 0.11): The game is frequently recommended for fans of 'Slay the Spire'. If you enjoy that game, you are likely to enjoy this one as well.
- Consider other games (weight 0.06): Some reviews mention other games like 'Across the Obelisk' and 'Deck of Haunts' as alternatives or comparisons.
- Support the developer (weight 0.06): Some reviews suggest buying the game to support the developer, even at full price. This indicates a positive view of the developer's efforts and potential.
- Try the demo first (weight 0.03): Potential buyers are advised to try the free prologue demo to see if they like the game before purchasing.
- Potential seen in early access (weight 0.03): The game is seen as having good potential if it were in early access, indicating that players believe it could benefit from further development and refinement.
- DLC recommended (weight 0.03): The available DLC is recommended, suggesting that it adds valuable content to the game.
- Sequel improvements hoped for (weight 0.03): Players express hope for improvements in the upcoming sequel, indicating that while the current game has its merits, there is room for enhancement in future iterations.

Other player notes:
- Early Access Status (weight 0.06): The game is currently in Early Access, which means it is still in development and may have unfinished features or bugs.
- Mixed Graphic Style (weight 0.03): The game's graphic style may be polarizing, with some players liking it and others not.
- DLC Available (weight 0.03): The game has downloadable content (DLC) available, which might offer additional features or content.
- Gifted Copy (weight 0.03): Some players received the game as a gift, which might influence their reviews or feedback.

Emotions:
- Frustration (weight 0.26): Players are frustrated by a variety of issues including aggressive advertising, a poorly designed progression system, and limited control over game mechanics. Additionally, the game suffers from balance issues, unclear UI, and performance problems such as crashes and lag. The complexity of managing multiple characters and decks, along with repetitive gameplay and lack of content diversity, further contribute to the frustration.
- Enjoyment (weight 0.2): Players enjoy the game primarily due to its cooperative multiplayer aspects and strategic depth. The ability to play with friends, unique gameplay mechanics, and engaging combat systems are frequently highlighted. The game's art style, concept, and overall design also contribute to a positive experience.
- Disappointment (weight 0.13): Players express disappointment due to the game's lack of content, poor balancing, and performance issues. The progression system and card unlock mechanics are seen as repetitive and unrewarding. Additionally, the game's slow pace, lack of depth, and poor UI design contribute to a sense of disappointment.
- Excitement (weight 0.12): Players are excited about the unique cooperative gameplay mechanics and the strategic depth of the game. The multiplayer experience, especially when playing with friends, and the variety of gameplay mechanics and classes add to the excitement. The game's high replay value and addictive nature are also significant contributors.
- Satisfaction (weight 0.06): Players are satisfied with the game's cooperative multiplayer mode and strategic depth. The smooth gameplay experience, lack of bugs, and good value for money are also appreciated. The game's unique mechanics and enjoyable gameplay contribute to a sense of satisfaction.
- Joy (weight 0.06): Players find joy in the game's cooperative multiplayer experience and the fun of playing with friends. The enjoyable gameplay mechanics, visual design, and interesting card strategies contribute to a positive and joyful experience.
- Enthusiasm (weight 0.03): Players are enthusiastic about the game's unique combat mechanics and multiplayer support. The variety of decks and classes, along with the high-quality gameplay and design, contribute to a strong sense of enthusiasm.
- Boredom (weight 0.02): Players experience boredom due to the game's slow pace and repetitive gameplay. The lack of variation in explorable rooms and meager rewards contribute to a sense of monotony, especially in solo mode.
- Excited (weight 0.02): Players are excited about the prospect of playing the game with friends and the challenging nature of the endless mode. The unique gameplay mechanics and the potential for high replay value contribute to this excitement.
- Frustrated (weight 0.02): Players feel frustrated due to the game's poor balancing and excessive reliance on RNG. Issues with level debuff design and matchmaking problems further add to the frustration.
- Happy (weight 0.02): Players are happy with the game's unique classes and the enjoyment of playing with friends. The game's humor and the positive experiences during free play weekends contribute to a sense of happiness.
- Love (weight 0.01): Players love the game for its overall enjoyment and the fun of playing with family members. The game's unique mechanics and engaging gameplay contribute to a sense of love and appreciation.
- Anger (weight 0.01): Players feel anger due to the game's poor balancing and mechanics. Difficult matchmaking and incorrect translations further exacerbate the frustration and anger.
- Appreciation (weight 0.01): Players appreciate the game's clear mechanics and the quality considering the indie team's budget and size. The unique combat mechanics and variety are also highly appreciated.
- Disappointed (weight 0.01): Players are disappointed with the game's limited-time DLCs and the overall handling of DLCs. This contributes to a sense of dissatisfaction and disappointment.
- Fatigue (weight 0.01): Players feel fatigue due to the complexity of controlling multiple characters and the lack of engagement when playing alone. This leads to a sense of tiredness and burnout.
- Amusement (weight 0.01): Players find amusement in the game's humorous moments, such as accidentally boosting a monster or losing to a giant chef. These unexpected and funny situations contribute to a sense of amusement.
- Positive (weight 0.01): Players have a positive outlook on the game, citing it as a good purchase with no regrets. The enjoyable gameplay and unique mechanics contribute to a positive experience.
- Negative (weight 0.01): Players have negative feelings due to personal issues or specific dislikes, such as not recommending the game at full price. These factors contribute to a negative experience.
- Relaxed (weight 0.01): Players feel relaxed due to the game's chill vibes and laid-back atmosphere. The game's super chill vibes and chilloso nature contribute to a sense of relaxation.}