Info about Werewolves 2: Pack Mentality:

Official game description:
It's a war between your werewolf pack and the Human Sovereignty Movement! Lead the pack to victory before extremists turn your packmates against each other.  
_Werewolves 2: Pack Mentality_ is a 360,000 word interactive novel in Jeffrey Dean's acclaimed 'Claw, Shadow, and Sage' series, where your choices control the story. It's entirely text-based—without graphics or sound effects—and fueled by the vast, unstoppable power of your imagination.  
This thrilling sequel to _Werewolves: Haven Rising_ seamlessly integrates your choices and experiences into a new tale of survival and loyalty, desperation and betrayal.  
After escaping the Haven werewolf detention camp and tasting freedom for the first time in your life, you and your pack must infiltrate "The Nail," a top-secret underground military prison for werewolves, and liberate the prisoners. But integrating these new wolves into the greater pack will prove difficult, testing bonds and straining leadership to the breaking point.  
In your fight for freedom, you'll confront the phantom of your father and his legacy of self-hatred, as well as the opposing fanaticism of werewolf supremacists more interested in domination than peace. In the end, the greatest threat to your pack's survival may be what you fear most, as your inescapable feral nature threatens to tear your newly-forged pack apart!  
*   Play as male, female, or non-binary; gay, straight, or bisexual.  
*   Infiltrate a top-secret military prison deep below the Earth, risking it all to save your species!  
*   Overcome a deadly outbreak of feral madness that pits members of your new pack against each other.  
*   Either stand in solidarity with a bloodthirsty new packleader, or work to undermine them at every turn.  
*   Interact with a diverse cast of new characters alongside your old favorites!  
*   Explore two new potential romances, continue your relationships from Haven Rising, or go it alone in an increasingly chaotic world.

Release date: Jul 23, 2020

Categories: Interactive Fiction, Choice-based Narrative, Visual Novel, Multiple Endings, Romance, Sequel, Text-based Gameplay


- Hardware Profile: No data
Feature extractions:
- Community Price: No data
- Playtime Metrics:
  - Game completion: N/A
  - Story completion: N/A
  - Session length: N/A
  - Endgame: N/A
  - Reasoning: The evidence offers qualitative hints about playtime (a short final stretch, long sessions, and repeated chapter visits) but lacks specific hour counts. No review provides a concrete number for total completion, story length, session duration, or endgame time, so all metrics remain unsupported.
- Time-to-fun: No data
- Player Archetypes:
  - Series Veteran Narrative Enthusiast (buy)
    - Motivation: Experiencing branching storylines and character development across multiple playthroughs.
    - Playstyle: Plays multiple times to see different endings, focuses on romance and story pacing.
    - Experience: veteran
    - Purchase stance: buy
    - Labels: N/A
    - Reference games: Werewolves 2: Pack Mentality
  - Non-Reader Visual Novel Convert (buy)
    - Motivation: Enjoying an engaging story without the feeling of reading.
    - Playstyle: Plays through the story casually, not focused on mechanics.
    - Experience: newcomer
    - Purchase stance: buy
    - Labels: doesn't like reading books
    - 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:
- Worthy sequel to original (weight 0.97): Players consistently praise the game as a great and worthy continuation of the first game, with several noting it is as well crafted and amazing as the original. The sequel expands on the first game's story and focuses on grey morality.
- Well-written and lovable characters (weight 0.87): Characters are consistently praised as lovable, endearing, and well written, with new characters also receiving positive feedback. The character development is considered good, and relationships are just as good as before.
- Choices carry over meaningfully (weight 0.82): A significant number of reviewers highlight that progress and choices from the first game carry over and matter, with the save import system working seamlessly. This faithful portrayal of previous actions and relationships adds to the narrative feel.
- Engaging and interesting story (weight 0.8): The story is widely described as very good, interesting, and compelling, with a solid foundation and a plot that becomes more dynamic as it unfolds. Reviewers find the premise engaging and the storytelling thrilling.
- High replay value (weight 0.62): Multiple reviewers mention that the game warrants a second playthrough for potential alternate routes, and that separate playthroughs revealed unexpected plot threads and new outcomes. Playing every path reveals many new outcomes.
- Immersive and imaginative experience (weight 0.54): The game is described as providing an imaginative and immersive experience that does not feel like reading. The story sucks you in and keeps you, with exciting action and thrilling storytelling.
- Tight pacing and addictive (weight 0.44): The pacing is described as amazingly tight and addictive, with a fast-paced plot that still allows getting to know major characters well. The game is a page turner that is hard to take a break from.
- Well-developed romances (weight 0.44): Romances are developed well, with more romance interactions available in this sequel. Relationships are just as good as before, and decisions and romances remain intact from the first game.
- Strong world-building and lore (weight 0.44): The continuous world-building is loved, and the universe in the game is still going strong. The game features a government divided by the existence of werewolves, and the political differences of the pack are well worked.
- Faithful save import system (weight 0.44): The save import system worked seamlessly and added to the narrative feel, faithfully portraying previous actions and relationships. Importing a character from the first game is done well, and the recap is exhaustively thorough.
- Gritty and emotional tone (weight 0.42): The game is described as real, gritty, and full of emotions, beautifully encapsulating the calamity that is life. It focuses on survival and keeping the inner rage-monster in check, with high stakes throughout.
- Enjoyable for franchise fans (weight 0.4): The game is enjoyable for fans of the first Werewolves game, with everything loved in the first game present. Several characters carried over from the first book, and the story is impressive especially if you play the first game.
- Overall positive reception (weight 0.4): Reviewers describe the game as really good compared to most, with everything being perfect for some. It is considered the reviewer's favourite so far and the best story to date from Choice of Games.
- Rich side content and substories (weight 0.26): The story is packed with substories and events, and there is a lot of side content to explore. This adds depth to the overall experience and provides more opportunities for engagement.
- Prison mission praised (weight 0.25): The prison mission is highlighted as offering many ways to approach it and featuring fun characters to meet. This specific mission stands out as a positive example of player agency and character writing.
- Appropriate player dialogue (weight 0.24): Dialogue for the player character felt appropriate, and choices and stats generally match player intentions. This helps maintain immersion and ensures the player's vision for their character is realized.
- Multiple endings and outcomes (weight 0.24): The game features multiple endings with unique pages and choices, and the writer has written an insane amount of outcomes masterfully. This provides significant replay value and player agency.

Common complaints:
- Story confusing and overwhelming (weight 0.37): The story can be confusing, with too much happening that causes players to get lost and restart. The beginning of the book is also confusing, making it hard to follow.
- Forced story outcomes despite stats (weight 0.27): Fighting an imposing general always fails regardless of combat stat because the story requires it, and important characters killed in the first game somehow survived, sometimes after being killed several times. This undermines player choices and immersion.
- Poor dialogue and choice quality (weight 0.27): Choices are often presented in one-liners that can be misconstrued or seen as moronic, with most dialogue options being moronic or idiotic, leaving only one making sense. This frustrates players and reduces meaningful decision-making.
- Game too lenient and unchallenging (weight 0.26): The game may be too lenient, with mild fails and a no-save mode that could have been more challenging. This reduces the sense of risk and accomplishment.
- Disappointing first ending (weight 0.26): The first ending is disappointing, and different builds lead to almost the exact same result, reducing replay value and player agency.
- Sloppy writing and continuity errors (weight 0.26): Sloppy writing includes werewolves in wolf-shape having sheepish looks, and a continuity error where a werewolf almost attacked but the aftermath describes trauma from an attack that didn't happen. These errors break immersion.
- Black-and-white story lacks depth (weight 0.26): The story is very black and white and lacks depth, making it predictable and less engaging. This is compounded by choices that are predictable compared to other games of this nature.
- Forces combat despite pacifist playstyle (weight 0.26): The game forces the player into combat operations despite a pacifist playstyle, and does not allow the player to avoid participating in the main conflict. This restricts player agency and role-playing.
- Limited interaction and romance options (weight 0.25): Players cannot act on traitor suspicions before the big reveal, and there is no option to talk to Bly about starting a romance with Tiva, with Bly not reacting to seeing them kiss. This limits role-playing and relationship depth.
- Unrealistic camp security and events (weight 0.25): The large werewolf camp has no perimeter security, scouts don't scout, and no sentries, leading to a scripted event where a lynch mob stumbles into the camp and the camp is surprised. This is unrealistic and breaks believability.
- Unappealing binary leadership choice (weight 0.25): The game presents a binary choice between two extreme and unappealing leaders, and players could not trust any of the leaders. This makes the decision unsatisfying.
- Missing stats for key characters (weight 0.24): There is no stat for Sonoma despite her role, and no stat for Inferi despite her regular role. This omission reduces character depth and strategic options.
- Missing save feature in chapter 2 (weight 0.16): The game lacks a save feature in chapter 2, which can be frustrating and forces players to replay sections. This is a significant quality-of-life issue.
- High English proficiency required (weight 0.14): The game requires a good knowledge of English, which may be a barrier for non-native speakers and affect comprehension of the story and choices.
- Feral scenes lack detail (weight 0.14): Feral scenes lack detail, and it is unclear whether the character is in werewolf or human form. This confusion affects immersion and understanding.
- Character Haken disappears from story (weight 0.14): Character Haken disappears from the story without explanation, leaving a plot thread unresolved and reducing narrative completeness.

Gameplay feedback:
- Choice-based narrative game (weight 0.66): The game is primarily an interactive story where players make choices that lead to multiple paths and outcomes, with no going back. It is described as a choose-your-own-adventure game.
- Save import from first game (weight 0.56): Players can import their character and choices from the first game, allowing progress and decisions to carry over. This includes romances and other choices, enhancing continuity.
- Direct narrative sequel (weight 0.37): The game is a direct sequel that continues the story from the first game, serving as the second part of the series. The narrative picks up where the previous game left off.
- Kill or spare choices (weight 0.26): Players can choose to kill or spare characters, with a focus on these moral decisions. This is a key gameplay element.
- One-liner dialogue options (weight 0.25): Dialogue choices are presented as one-liners, which may affect how players perceive the depth of options. This presentation style is noted in the feedback.
- Global faction choice (weight 0.14): Players are presented with a global choice between two factions, which likely has significant consequences. This is a major decision point.
- Text-based reading focus (weight 0.14): The game is text-based and reading-focused, emphasizing narrative over graphics. This is a core characteristic of the game.
- Character shaping choices (weight 0.14): Choices allow the player to shape the character, influencing their development and story. This is a key feature of the game.
- No-save mode available (weight 0.13): The game includes a mode without saves, which may appeal to players seeking a more hardcore or risky experience. This feature is mentioned as a distinct option.
- Internal conflicts theme (weight 0.13): The game involves dealing with internal conflicts, likely within the character or the pack. This adds emotional depth to the narrative.
- Continue after death (weight 0.13): The game allows continuing from the previous game even after dying, providing a safety net for players. This feature is noted in the feedback.
- Political pack differences (weight 0.13): The game features political differences within the pack, adding a layer of intrigue and conflict. This is a specific narrative element.
- Bloodthirsty new werewolves (weight 0.13): New werewolves are described as more bloodthirsty, which may affect the story and character interactions. This is a specific narrative detail.
- Upload progress feature (weight 0.13): The game allows uploading from where you left off, similar to save import, ensuring seamless continuation. This is a convenience feature.
- Hidden camp survival (weight 0.13): The game focuses on survival in a hidden camp, adding a survival element to the narrative. This is a specific setting detail.
- Anti-werewolf zealots conflict (weight 0.13): The game involves dealing with anti-werewolf zealots, presenting an external threat. This adds conflict and stakes to the story.

Performance notes:
No performancepoints

Recommendations:
- Recommended for first-game fans (weight 0.64): Multiple reviewers recommend this game to players who enjoyed the first Werewolves game or book, noting it as a worthy sequel. It is suggested to play or read the first part before starting the second for the best experience.
- Great for reading enthusiasts (weight 0.27): The game is highly recommended for those who love reading and interactive stories, as it offers a narrative-driven experience. Reviewers emphasize its appeal to readers and story lovers.
- Strong sequel quality (weight 0.26): Reviewers describe the game as a great sequel, with one noting it is even better than the first book. This indicates high quality and improvement over the predecessor.
- Worth full price (weight 0.15): One reviewer recommends the game at full price, indicating it provides sufficient value. This suggests the game is well-polished and content-rich.
- Buy both parts together (weight 0.14): A reviewer advises that if you haven't read the first part, you should buy both games. This suggests the story is continuous and best experienced from the beginning.
- Highly recommended if premise appeals (weight 0.14): A reviewer recommends the game highly if the premise grabs you, suggesting that personal interest in the theme is a key factor. This indicates the game may not be for everyone.
- Can start from second (weight 0.13): One reviewer notes the game can be started from the second part, implying it is accessible to newcomers. However, others recommend playing the first part first for context.
- Simple endorsement to buy (weight 0.12): One reviewer simply says 'Get it', indicating a strong positive recommendation without specific details. This is a general endorsement of the game's quality.
- General positive recommendation (weight 0.1): A reviewer gives a general recommendation without specifying reasons, indicating overall satisfaction. This is a vague but positive signal.

Other player notes:
- Comparable to beloved book series (weight 0.37): The game is likened to picking up the second volume of a favorite book series, and to the first Werewolves game with more internal conflicts. Playing the first chapter is considered key to enjoying this sequel.
- High replayability for endings (weight 0.27): The game is replayable to see different endings, and this is a key feature for players. It adds significant value and encourages multiple playthroughs.
- Sequel continues previous save (weight 0.26): Players can carry over their save from the first game, which is appreciated for continuity. This feature enhances the experience of the second part in the series.
- Preferred over similar games (weight 0.26): Compared to Wayhaven Chronicles and Zombie Exodus, players prefer this game for specific reasons. It also outshines Twilight and Patricia Briggs' Mercy series due to player agency.
- Story worthy of movie adaptation (weight 0.15): The narrative is praised as deserving to become a movie, indicating high-quality storytelling. This suggests the plot is engaging and cinematic in scope.
- Good value for money (weight 0.14): Players feel the game is worth its price, likely due to its content and replayability. This positive assessment reflects overall satisfaction with the purchase.
- Epilogue hints at third book (weight 0.14): The epilogue is included and players hope for expansion in the third book. This suggests the story continues and leaves room for future content.
- Romance scenes can be spicy (weight 0.14): Romance scenes can get spicy, indicating mature content. This adds to the game's appeal for those seeking romantic elements.
- Contains hardcore violence (weight 0.13): The game includes hardcore violence, which may appeal to some players but could be off-putting to others. This is a notable content warning.

Emotions:
- Enjoyment (weight 0.13): Players enjoyed the prison mission for its multiple approaches and fun characters, and appreciated the good story with tough choices. The romance development, action, and storytelling were also highlights, continuing the strengths of the first game.
- Excitement (weight 0.13): The addictive pacing kept players glued to the screen for hours, and they are hyped for a potential third part. The ability to carry over progress and get back into the action added to the excitement.
- Disappointment (weight 0.1): The first ending was disappointing, and the survival of killed characters lessened the impact of fights. The story lacks depth, and the forced choice between two unappealing leaders was a letdown.
- Anticipation (weight 0.1): Players are looking forward to the finale and cannot wait for the release of the third Werewolves game. They are eager to find out what happens next in the story.
- Frustration (weight 0.08): Different builds yield almost the same results, and sloppy writing with illogical camp security frustrates players. The game invalidates previous choices and forces a disliked narrative, with lack of detail in feral scenes adding to the frustration.
- Love (weight 0.08): Players love the series and the story, appreciating the continuous world-building and every moment spent reading. The choice-based gameplay and the quality of the story are deeply loved.
- Satisfaction (weight 0.08): The save import system worked seamlessly and enhanced the narrative feel, making the sequel exactly what players needed. Choices have meaningful impact, and the imported character is faithfully portrayed, avoiding common pitfalls.
- Uncertainty (weight 0.04): Players are unsure if the game is too lenient or if they played well, and they could not trust any of the leaders, making it hard to know the right choices.
- Confusion (weight 0.04): The story became confusing due to too much happening, and Bly not reacting to the new romance felt like an oversight, adding to the confusion.
- Surprise (weight 0.02): A second playthrough turned out totally different than expected, surprising the player.
- Annoyance (weight 0.02): A continuity error with the almost-attack and its aftermath annoyed the player.
- Enthralled (weight 0.02): The reviewer cannot help but be entranced by the story, indicating a strong emotional engagement.
- Astounded (weight 0.02): The writer has masterfully written an insane amount of outcomes, leaving the reviewer astounded.
- Dislike (weight 0.02): The reviewer dislikes the character Maker, which negatively affects their experience.
- Enthusiasm (weight 0.02): The story is intriguing and follows up the chaotic battle of Haven, generating enthusiasm.
- Curiosity (weight 0.02): The player wonders why there is no stat for Sonoma or Inferi, sparking curiosity about game mechanics.
- Liking (weight 0.02): The game is really good compared to most, leading to a positive liking.
- Hope (weight 0.02): Players hope for a truly long and great final book, indicating optimism for the conclusion.
- Happiness (weight 0.02): The book was worth the wait and is considered the best story to date, bringing happiness.}