Info about As Dusk Falls:

Official game description:
As Dusk Falls is an original interactive drama from INTERIOR/NIGHT that explores the entangled lives of two families across thirty years. Starting in 1998 with a robbery-gone-wrong in small town Arizona, the choices you make have a powerful impact on the characters’ lives in this uncompromising story of betrayal, sacrifice and resilience.  
**Replay the story again and again** to uncover vastly different outcomes for the characters and explore hidden nuances behind every decision. Will your characters survive unscathed? What kind of people will they ultimately become?  
Drive the lives and relationships of multiple characters in a decades-spanning story told across two intense books.  
**Uncompromising Crime Drama.** The cinematic story is brought to life by the performance of actors that are digitally rendered into a beautiful art style, creating a unique experience that plays like a motion graphic novel.  
**Sacrifice vs Survival.** Can you break free from your family’s toxic influence? What will you sacrifice for the ones you love? Can you overcome your past? Your decisions will shape the characters’ fates.  
**Interwoven Destinies.** Follow two families in their struggle to survive, protect, and endure through challenges rooted in the previous generations’ mistakes.  
**Experience Together.** Reveal insights about yourself and those you play with as you discover the underlying values of your decisions in cooperative gameplay with up to 8 players at a time, locally or online (or a mix). The As Dusk Falls companion app makes making choices in game easy, just use your phone or tablet to vote with or against your friends. (Online console multiplayer requires Xbox Game Pass Ultimate or Xbox Live Gold, subscriptions sold separately).

Release date: Jul 19, 2022

Categories: Interactive Fiction, Choice-based Narrative, Narrative Adventure, Multiple Perspectives, Cooperative Multiplayer, Story-driven Gameplay

Feature scans:
- Proton/Linux: score 10; verdict: Works Well; summary: The game shows strong compatibility with Steam Deck, suggesting a smooth experience on Proton/Linux with no notable issues reported.
- Steam Deck: score 45; verdict: Tinkering Required; summary: The game generally runs well on the Steam Deck with positive feedback from many users. However, there are notable issues with stability, particularly softlocks in later chapters, and performance limitations such as a 30 FPS cap. Additionally, there are reports of problems with external launchers, which can significantly impact the user experience.

- Hardware Profile: No data
Feature extractions:
- Community Price:
  - Community fair range: $3.00 - $7.00
  - Reasoning: The evidence consistently suggests that the game is considered worth purchasing, particularly when it is on sale. Users mention that the game is satisfying and worth the time, but often qualify this by recommending it at a discounted price. This indicates that while the game has value, the community generally sees it as appropriately priced at a lower range, typically found during sales. The repeated mention of the game being worth it 'on sale' or 'at a discount' supports the idea that the fair base-game price range is lower than the current base price.
- Playtime Metrics:
  - Game completion: 7.0h
  - Story completion: 6.0h
  - Session length: N/A
  - Endgame: N/A
  - Reasoning: The evidence provided includes direct mentions of playtime durations and interruptions, which help to estimate the typical playtime metrics. The first quote suggests that playtime can be extended due to debates over decisions, indicating a potential increase in session length. The second and third quotes provide specific playtime durations for completing the story once, which aligns with the story completion metric. The fourth quote gives a slightly longer duration, which could be considered for game completion if exploring multiple endings or additional content.
- Time-to-fun:
  - Summary: The game initially presents friction with its unique art style and pacing but becomes enjoyable after approximately 30 minutes, especially in co-op or multiplayer settings.
  - Stance: Clicks after
  - Anchor: Getting past the initial art style and pacing issues
  - Time to anchor: 0h 30m
  - Friction: Unique and jarring art style; Initial pacing issues; Boredom in early chapters
  - Unlock drivers: Getting used to the art style; Engaging with the story and characters; Co-op and multiplayer features
  - Conditions: Playing with friends or family; Voting on decisions in multiplayer; Appreciating the unique art style over time
- Player Archetypes:
  - Story-Driven Emotional Investor (buy)
    - Motivation: Emotional engagement and narrative depth.
    - Playstyle: Immersive and reflective, focusing on story and character development.
    - Experience: mixed
    - Purchase stance: buy
    - Labels: story-rich gamers; narrative-focused players
    - Reference games: Telltale games; Detroit: Become Human; Life is Strange
  - Social Multiplayer Enthusiast (buy)
    - Motivation: Social interaction and shared decision-making.
    - Playstyle: Collaborative and interactive, focusing on group dynamics and shared storytelling.
    - Experience: familiar
    - Purchase stance: buy
    - Labels: multiplayer gamers; social gamers
    - Reference games: Detroit: Become Human; The Quarry
  - Choice-Driven Explorer (sale)
    - Motivation: Exploring different story branches and outcomes.
    - Playstyle: Exploratory and experimental, focusing on decision-making and its consequences.
    - Experience: mixed
    - Purchase stance: sale
    - Labels: choice-driven gamers; interactive story explorers
    - Reference games: Telltale games; Life is Strange


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:
- Engaging and well-developed story (weight 0.97): The game features a captivating and well-constructed story with multiple twists, engaging drama, and a rich plot. Players appreciate the deep and thoughtful storytelling, which includes elements of family drama and action.
- Impactful and meaningful choices (weight 0.7): Players' choices significantly impact the story and outcomes, leading to different paths and consequences. The decision-making mechanics are well-implemented and thought-provoking.
- Unique and striking art style (weight 0.57): The game boasts a unique and beautiful art style, with hand-drawn and comic-style graphics that enhance the visual experience. The artistic direction is praised for its originality and quality.
- Emotionally resonant and engaging (weight 0.45): The game delivers an emotionally powerful experience with engaging drama and character development. Players find the story and characters touching and immersive.
- High-quality voice acting (weight 0.3): The game features successful and high-quality voice acting that brings characters to life. Players appreciate the excellent voice performances in various languages.
- Co-op mode for multiplayer (weight 0.11): The game includes a co-op mode that supports up to 8 players, allowing for shared storytelling and multiplayer experiences.

Common complaints:
- Unsatisfactory and abrupt ending (weight 0.68): Many players expressed dissatisfaction with the game's ending, describing it as abrupt, unfinished, and leaving many plot threads unresolved. The open-ended conclusion left players feeling frustrated and disappointed.
- Technical issues and limitations (weight 0.23): Players encountered various technical issues, such as a broken multiplayer mode, a 30 FPS lock, and the inability to skip or speed up dialogues during replay.
- Incomplete storyline (weight 0.22): The storyline was criticized for feeling incomplete, rushed, and lacking closure. Players felt that main storylines were not completed, contributing to an unsatisfactory experience.
- Overuse of simple QTEs (weight 0.2): Players found the Quick Time Events (QTEs) to be too simple, easy, and awkward. Some felt that the QTEs were unnecessary and did not add significant value to the gameplay.
- Unrealistic character behavior (weight 0.16): Characters were often criticized for behaving unrealistically and making illogical decisions. This lack of realism and empathy in character actions was a common complaint.
- Slow and boring pace (weight 0.14): The game's pace was criticized for being slow, with some parts being too drawn out and boring. The slideshow presentation style also contributed to the slow pace.
- Not worth the price (weight 0.13): Many players felt that the game was not worth the full price, especially considering its short length and limited replayability.

Gameplay feedback:
- Decisions impact story development (weight 0.93): The game features a narrative where player decisions significantly affect the story path and development. This includes branching paths, multiple endings, and consequential choices that shape the storyline and character fates.
- Interactive movie genre (weight 0.53): The game is described as an interactive movie or drama, with a focus on choice-based storytelling. It resembles visual novels and graphic adventures, emphasizing narrative over traditional gameplay mechanics.
- Quick Time Events (QTEs) (weight 0.28): Gameplay includes frequent Quick Time Events (QTEs), which are performed mainly with the mouse. These events are integrated into the interactive drama and choice-based mechanics.
- Multiplayer and co-op features (weight 0.15): The game supports multiplayer options, including co-op features that allow playing with friends. This adds a social dimension to the interactive storytelling experience.
- Multiple character perspectives (weight 0.08): The narrative is presented from multiple character perspectives, allowing players to experience the story from different viewpoints. This adds complexity and richness to the storytelling.
- Chapter-based structure (weight 0.07): The game is structured in a chapter-based format, with six story chapters. This format helps in organizing the narrative and providing a clear progression through the story.
- Achievement and consequences system (weight 0.05): The game includes an achievement system that tracks the consequences of player choices. This system adds replay value and encourages players to explore different outcomes.

Performance notes:
- Steam Deck performance (weight 0.19): The game generally runs well on Steam Deck, with reports of stable performance and few issues. However, some users have experienced crashes and infinite loading screens.
- 30 FPS lock complaints (weight 0.11): Multiple players have complained about the game being locked at 30 FPS, which is a significant issue for those expecting higher frame rates.
- Crashes and stability issues (weight 0.1): Several players have experienced crashes and stability issues, particularly on PC and Steam Deck.
- Graphics and FPS issues (weight 0.1): Players have mixed feelings about the graphics and FPS. Some appreciate the good graphics, while others find the visuals peculiar or off-putting.
- Performance on low-end hardware (weight 0.07): The game runs well on low-end hardware, making it accessible to a wider range of players.
- Audio and synchronization problems (weight 0.06): There are reports of audio issues and voice synchronization problems, which can detract from the overall gaming experience.
- Online and co-op mode issues (weight 0.06): There are reports of issues with the online game mode and broken co-op mode, which can be frustrating for players looking to enjoy multiplayer features.
- Game launch issues (weight 0.05): There are reports of the game failing to launch or getting stuck on startup screens, which can prevent players from accessing the game altogether.
- High-Resolution Texture Pack and 4K issues (weight 0.05): Some players have encountered issues with the High-Resolution Texture Pack and 4K resolution, affecting the visual quality of the game.
- Environmental lighting mismatch (weight 0.03): Some players have noted that the environmental lighting does not match the characters, which can be visually jarring.
- Motion blur and nausea (weight 0.03): The motion blur in the game has caused moderate nausea for some players, affecting their ability to play comfortably.
- GPU overheating (weight 0.03): Some players have reported that the game causes their GPU to run hot, which can be a concern for hardware longevity.
- FPS drops in transition scenes (weight 0.03): Some players have experienced FPS drops during transition scenes, which can disrupt the gaming experience.
- Mouse drag feeling (weight 0.03): There have been reports of a mouse drag feeling, which can affect the gameplay experience for some players.
- Low FPS in emotional scenes (weight 0.03): There are reports of low FPS during emotional scenes, which can detract from the intended impact of these moments.
- Slow-motion issues (weight 0.03): Some players have encountered issues with slow-motion effects in the game, affecting the overall gameplay experience.
- Irritating bugs (weight 0.03): There are reports of various irritating bugs that can affect the overall enjoyment of the game.

Recommendations:
- Highly recommended game (weight 0.49): Many players strongly recommend the game for its plot, unique interactive drama experience, and story and characters.
- Recommended for story and narrative fans (weight 0.34): The game is frequently recommended for fans of story-based games, narrative-driven games, and interactive narratives.
- Recommended for specific genres (weight 0.19): The game is recommended for fans of specific genres such as visual novels, detective, drama, crime, and interactive cinema.
- Worth buying on sale (weight 0.14): Several players suggest buying the game on sale or at a discounted price.
- Recommended in various languages (weight 0.12): The game is recommended in different languages, indicating a broad appeal.
- Recommended for co-op and group play (weight 0.1): The game is suggested for cooperative play and groups or couples wanting to make choices together.
- Mixed recommendations on purchase (weight 0.07): Some players recommend the game while others suggest doing more research or not purchasing it at all.
- Available on Game Pass (weight 0.03): The game is available on Game Pass, which might influence the decision to play it.
- Technical issue noted (weight 0.03): There is a mention of a solution for a 30 FPS issue, indicating some players experienced technical problems.
- Recommended for streaming (weight 0.03): The game is recommended for streaming and community experience.

Other player notes:
- Audio and script bugs (weight 0.04): Players have reported issues related to audio and script bugs in the game.

Emotions:
- Disappointment (weight 0.11): Players are disappointed primarily due to the incomplete and abrupt storyline, which ends on a cliffhanger with no continuation or sequel. The narrative is criticized for being weak, confusing, and lacking depth, particularly in the final parts. Additionally, the game's presentation style, including its graphical style and translation issues, contributes to the dissatisfaction.
- Enjoyment (weight 0.11): Players enjoy the game's unique art style and engaging story, which features meaningful choices and well-written characters. The gameplay experience is enhanced by high-quality voice acting, full dubbing, and the impact of decisions, making the narrative interactive and enjoyable.
- Frustration (weight 0.1): Frustration stems from technical issues such as crashes, audio bugs, and performance problems, particularly on platforms like the Steam Deck. Players are also frustrated with the game's cliffhanger ending, lack of replayability features, and issues with multiplayer and co-op modes. Additionally, the inability to skip scenes and the game's linear plot despite marketing suggesting otherwise contribute to the frustration.
- Excitement (weight 0.08): Players are excited about the game's high replay value and the engaging story, which features well-written dialogue and meaningful choices. The dynamic and interesting narrative, along with the impact of choices on character development, creates a thrilling and unpredictable experience. The game's unique visual style and the possibility of multiple story outcomes based on player decisions also contribute to the excitement.
- Satisfaction (weight 0.08): Players are satisfied with the game's high-quality art style, captivating plot, and the impact of choices on the story and characters. The game's strong 'choices matter' aspect, along with its high replayability and excellent voice acting, provides a compelling and memorable experience. The depth of themes and the overall quality of the game contribute to a positive and satisfying gameplay experience.
- Engaged (weight 0.06): Players are engaged by the game's story and characters, which maintain interest from start to finish. The narrative's serious themes, interactive gameplay, and the impact of choices on the story and characters create a deeply engaging experience. The variety of paths and choices, along with the game's unique interactive comic style, further enhance player engagement.
- Joy (weight 0.05): Players experience joy from the game's engaging story, interesting characters, and overall positive gameplay experience. The enjoyment of the game's story and visuals, along with the impactful choices and adult themes, create a fun and immersive experience. The strong emotional connection to the characters and choices, as well as the engaging gameplay and story, contribute to the overall joy.
- Positive (weight 0.04): Players have a positive experience with the game's story, visuals, soundtrack, and dubbing. The engaging and immersive gameplay, along with the well-crafted narrative and rich plot, create an enjoyable and memorable experience. The game's atmosphere, unique style, and the ability to play with friends further enhance the positive feelings.
- Engagement (weight 0.04): Players are engaged by the game's intriguing and emotionally rich story, which features well-characterized characters and realistic themes. The engaging narrative, along with the game's excellent pacing and notable twists, keeps players interested throughout. The realistic story, adult themes, and meaningful decisions contribute to a deeply engaging experience.
- Excited (weight 0.03): Players are excited about the game's immersive story, branching narrative, and the impact of choices on the storyline. The engaging and intense narrative, along with the game's unique visual style and multiple story possibilities, create a thrilling and unpredictable experience. The game's high replay value and the potential for a sequel further contribute to the excitement.
- Frustrated (weight 0.02): Players are frustrated with the game's online multiplayer issues, unclear ending, and lack of DLC or unfinished story. The misleading advertising, technical issues, and the inability to skip dialogues contribute to the frustration. Additionally, the game's forced and meaningless plot, broken co-op mode, and lack of gameplay depth add to the overall frustration.
- Surprise (weight 0.02): Players are surprised by the game's unique art style, engaging storyline, and unexpected enjoyment. The game's length, size, and the plot exceeding expectations create a positive and surprising experience. The unexpected plot twists and the game's unique graphics further contribute to the surprise.
- Appreciation (weight 0.02): Players appreciate the game's chapter select options, different endings, and high ratings in multiple categories. The stable technical performance, accessibility options, and well-developed characters with excellent voice acting are also appreciated. The game's good music, dialogues, character design, and unique visual style contribute to the overall appreciation.
- Disappointed (weight 0.02): Players are disappointed with the game's technical issues, unsatisfactory ending, and lack of depth and emotional impact. The abrupt ending, unqualified script, and lack of character development contribute to the disappointment. Additionally, the game's poor dubbing, generic feel, and disorienting visual style and story add to the overall disappointment.
- Anticipation (weight 0.02): Players are anticipating the release of subsequent works to complete the story, such as Book 3 or the next installment. The desire for more games from the developer and the planning to replay with different choices contribute to the anticipation. The engaging storyline and the potential for a sequel further enhance the feeling of anticipation.
- Curiosity (weight 0.01): Players are curious about the game's unresolved plot points and the desire for a sequel to provide more information. The discovery of the game designer's background and the open-ended conclusion contribute to the curiosity. Additionally, the interest in learning more about certain characters and their fates adds to the overall curiosity.
- Interest (weight 0.01): Players are interested in the game's story development, credible plot, and unique experience. The engaging story, well-crafted characters, and great plot create an interesting and memorable experience. The game's unique features and the ability to explore different story branches contribute to the overall interest.
- Immersed (weight 0.01): Players feel immersed in the game due to its distinctive artistic identity, emotional resonance of the story, and great storytelling. The unique music, artistic experience, and the feeling of being in a movie contribute to the immersion. The game's strong atmosphere and engaging narrative further enhance the sense of immersion.}