Info about The Room 4: Old Sins:

Official game description:
Fireproof Games are proud to bring the fourth instalment of the critically acclaimed game series ‘The Room’ to PC.  
The Room 4: Old Sins features a strange, multi-room dollhouse to explore and continues the engaging puzzle gameplay of its predecessors set against the background of a tragic story. In a considerable visual upgrade from the mobile release, Fireproof Games have re-built, re-textured and re-lit every shiny object and atmospheric environment in the game to pull players further into the mysterious world of The Room.  
The story of The Room 4: Old Sins centres on the sudden disappearance of an ambitious engineer and his high-society wife which provokes the hunt for a precious artefact. The trail leads to the attic of their home, and the discovery of an old, peculiar dollhouse…  
Explore unsettling locations, follow obscure clues and manipulate bizarre contraptions to uncover the mysteries within Waldegrave Manor.  
Fireproof Games are a small independent team working in Guildford in the UK. We self-published our first game The Room on iPad in September 2012 and were stunned with both the critical success and our new-found fan-base, not to mention multiple international awards. The Room games have changed our lives and we hope you enjoy playing them as much as we enjoy making them.

Release date: Feb 11, 2021

Categories: Puzzle Solving, Deductive Reasoning Puzzle, Point-and-click Adventure, Atmospheric Horror (Light), Story-driven Gameplay, Exploration, Interactive Environments

Feature scans:
- Steam Deck: score 40; verdict: Playable with Minor Issues; summary: The game generally runs well on the Steam Deck and other hardware configurations, with good performance and stability. However, there are some issues with controls and the need to use specific Proton versions for full compatibility. Additionally, there are reports of game crashes that need to be addressed.

- Hardware Profile: No data
Feature extractions:
- Community Price: No data
- Playtime Metrics: No data
- Time-to-fun: No data
- Player Archetypes: No data


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:
- High-quality puzzle design (weight 0.97): The game features a variety of intricate and well-designed puzzles that are challenging yet satisfying to solve. Players appreciate the clever mechanics and the logical progression of puzzles.
- Engaging and immersive atmosphere (weight 0.94): The game offers a richly detailed and immersive atmosphere with stunning visuals and sound design. The dark and Gothic tones, along with the haunting ambiance, create a captivating experience.
- Satisfying gameplay mechanics (weight 0.88): The game introduces new mechanics that are satisfying and work without flaw. The tactile and intricate gameplay, along with the smooth flow between rooms, enhances the overall experience.
- Helpful hint system (weight 0.82): The game includes a helpful hint system that provides subtle and progressive hints if players get stuck. This ensures that players never feel frustrated or stuck for too long.
- Enjoyable dollhouse concept (weight 0.79): Players loved the concept of the dollhouse and enjoyed exploring its various rooms. The dollhouse setting adds a unique and interesting twist to the gameplay.
- Multiple endings and scenarios (weight 0.04): The game offers multiple scenarios and endings, providing players with a sense of accomplishment and progression. The exploration of alternate endings adds to the game's replayability.
- Consistent art style and polish (weight 0.04): The game maintains the consistent art style and polish that the series is known for. The graphics and visual design are highly praised, making it one of the best-looking puzzle games.
- No missable achievements (weight 0.02): The game ensures that there are no missable achievements, allowing players to enjoy the game without the pressure of missing out on any content.
- Faster animations and movement (weight 0.02): The game features faster animations and improved movement and camera controls, making the gameplay more efficient and enjoyable.

Common complaints:
- Puzzles are easier and less engaging (weight 0.26): Many players found the puzzles in this game to be simpler and less challenging compared to previous installments. Some puzzles were frustrating or confusing, and others were too easy, making the game feel less ambitious and more tedious.
- Lack of Chinese language support (weight 0.15): Several players noted the absence of Chinese language support, which made the game less accessible and more frustrating for Chinese-speaking players. The story was also criticized for being confusing and poorly translated.
- Game is short and repetitive (weight 0.07): Players felt that the game was shorter than previous installments and had repetitive puzzles. Some secrets were hard to spot, and there was a lot of trial and error involved in solving puzzles.
- Visual discomfort and motion sickness (weight 0.06): The game's visual effects, particularly the bright white light flashes during scene transitions, caused discomfort and motion sickness for some players. The constant movements between locations also contributed to this issue.
- Disappointing story and ending (weight 0.03): The story was criticized for being obscure, disconnected, and lacking depth. The ending was also considered stupid and unsatisfying by some players.
- Backtracking and annoying mechanics (weight 0.03): Players found the constant backtracking between rooms to be tedious. Additionally, mechanics like double-clicking to enter rooms and having to put on the eyepiece were considered annoying.
- Clunky controls (weight 0.02): The controls were criticized for being not very intuitive, especially when manipulating items with a mouse. There was also a lack of controller support, which made the gameplay feel less smooth.
- Excessive horror and supernatural elements (weight 0.02): The game's moderate horror level and frequent eldritch horror elements were not well-received by all players. Some found the supernatural aspects to be too cookie-cutter and detracting from the realistic feel of the game.
- Technical issues and bugs (weight 0.02): Some players encountered known issues that required a chapter restart or deleting save files and restarting the game. There were also bugs reported, such as faces in the garden tower overlapping and getting stuck.
- Overwhelming early game (weight 0.02): The early game was found to be overwhelming due to the many locations and things to remember. The lack of a convenient journal to recall the plot added to this issue.
- Lack of innovative mechanics (weight 0.02): The game was criticized for not introducing any innovative mechanics and feeling disjointed mechanically. Players missed the mechanical feel of previous games.
- Lack of interaction and tooltips (weight 0.01): The game was criticized for the lack of interaction with most objects and the absence of tooltips or comments on objects or mechanisms, which made the gameplay less engaging.
- Disappointing music and sound (weight 0.01): The music and sound in the game did not thrill players too much. Additionally, there was no option to separate sound effects and music volumes, which was a drawback for some players.

Gameplay feedback:
- Story-driven with dark themes (weight 0.51): The game has a dark, mysterious story with Gothic and Victorian themes. The narrative is uncovered gradually through notes, journal entries, and exploration, adding depth and intrigue to the gameplay.
- Puzzle-solving mechanics and gameplay (weight 0.51): The game features a variety of logical and interconnected puzzles that require players to manipulate objects, use memory, and pay attention to detail. The puzzles range from simple to challenging and are integrated into the storyline and environment, providing a cohesive and engaging experience.
- Exploration and navigation (weight 0.51): Players explore multiple rooms within a dollhouse, each with unique themes and puzzles. The game features improved movement and navigation mechanics, allowing for seamless exploration and discovery.
- Dollhouse setting and mechanics (weight 0.5): The game is set within a dollhouse, with each room unfolding into a complete environment. The dollhouse concept is central to the gameplay, offering a unique and immersive experience.
- Atmospheric and cinematic elements (weight 0.5): The game features atmospheric and cinematic elements that enhance the overall experience. The dark, Gothic tones and attention to detail create a creepy and immersive ambiance.
- Difficulty and learning curve (weight 0.49): The game offers a range of difficulty levels, from easy to hard, with a hint system to assist players. The puzzles are designed to be challenging but not frustrating, providing a satisfying learning curve.
- Improved movement and navigation (weight 0.47): The game features improved movement and navigation mechanics, making it easier for players to explore and interact with the environment. This includes faster animations and the ability to cancel actions.
- Multiple scenarios and endings (weight 0.47): The game offers multiple scenarios and endings, providing players with different paths to explore and discover. This adds replayability and depth to the story.
- Use of the Lens for interaction (weight 0.47): The game introduces a mysterious lens that players can use to interact with the environment and solve puzzles. This mechanic adds a new layer of depth to the gameplay.
- Cross-interaction between locations (weight 0.44): The game features cross-interaction between different locations, requiring players to move back and forth to use pieces and solve puzzles. This adds complexity and depth to the gameplay.
- Attention to detail in room design (weight 0.44): The game pays attention to every little detail in each room, with unique characteristics and hidden compartments. This creates a rich and immersive environment for players to explore.
- Unique eyepiece mechanic (weight 0.44): The game introduces a unique eyepiece mechanic that allows players to see into the beyond and orient themselves. This adds a new dimension to the puzzle-solving and exploration aspects of the game.
- Creepy and Gothic atmosphere (weight 0.06): The game has a creepy and Gothic atmosphere, with dark themes and a mysterious storyline. This creates an immersive and engaging experience for players.

Performance notes:
- Improved visuals and performance (weight 0.05): The game features enhanced lighting, high-quality textures, and fluid animations. It is well-optimized and runs smoothly on various systems.
- Mouse control issues (weight 0.04): Players have reported errors with mouse controls, particularly during drag-and-drop actions.
- Low system requirements (weight 0.02): The game can run on systems with modest specifications, making it accessible to a wider range of players.
- Compatibility with Proton (weight 0.02): The game runs out-of-the-box with Proton, although one cinematic sequence may require additional video codec support.
- Graphical glitches and issues (weight 0.02): Some players have experienced graphical glitches and screen flashing issues. Additionally, the cutscenes have been noted to have poor graphics.
- Performance issues on high settings (weight 0.01): The game can be demanding on system requirements and may not run fluidly towards the end, especially on higher settings.
- Resolution improvements (weight 0.01): The remastered version of the game looks gorgeous on larger screens, indicating improvements in resolution.

Recommendations:
- Highly recommended for puzzle lovers (weight 0.23): The game is strongly recommended for those who enjoy logical puzzles, mysteries, and gothic themes. It is considered a must-play for puzzle enthusiasts and those who appreciate intricate puzzle games with interesting stories.
- Worth the price, especially on sale (weight 0.08): The game is seen as worth its price, particularly if purchased on sale or in a bundle. Players feel it offers good value for money and encourage the continued development of the series.
- Positive general recommendations (weight 0.02): Various reviewers strongly recommend the game without going into specific details. These recommendations are broad and general, indicating overall satisfaction.
- Favorite in the series (weight 0.01): Some reviewers consider this installment one of their absolute favorites in 'The Room' series, highlighting its standout qualities compared to other games in the franchise.
- High recommendation for the fourth installment (weight 0.01): The fourth installment of the series is highly recommended, suggesting it is particularly well-received or stands out among the other games in the series.
- Recommended for fans of specific genres (weight 0.01): The game is recommended for fans of specific genres or other similar works, such as 'House of Leaves,' indicating it appeals to niche audiences with particular tastes.
- Fun and engaging experience (weight 0.01): Reviewers describe the game as a fun way to spend a few hours, suggesting it provides an engaging and enjoyable experience for a short duration.
- Better suited for mobile devices (weight 0.01): A few reviews suggest that the game might feel slightly better or more suited for mobile devices, indicating a preference for mobile gaming experience.
- High replay value (weight 0.01): Some players express a desire to revisit and enjoy the game again, indicating it has high replay value and lasting appeal.

Other player notes:
- Smooth 15-hour gameplay (weight 0.01): Players report a 15-hour gaming experience with minimal obstacles or interruptions, suggesting a well-paced and engaging game.
- Future VR game teased (weight 0.01): Players are looking forward to a future VR game called Ghost Town by the same developers. This indicates anticipation and interest in the developers' upcoming projects.
- Review by Achievement Hunter (weight 0.01): The game was reviewed by Achievement Hunter, which could influence its visibility and credibility among certain gaming communities.

Emotions:
- Joy (weight 0.13): Players experience joy from the game's hauntingly beautiful puzzle adventure, intricate puzzles, and immersive level design. The combination of a great story, amazing graphics, and enjoyable gameplay mechanics contributes to a positive and engaging experience.
- Enjoyment (weight 0.13): The enjoyment comes from the game's well-structured puzzles, engaging story, and immersive atmosphere. Players appreciate the deep philosophical context, fun and challenging puzzles, and the overall engaging mechanics and visual design.
- Excitement (weight 0.11): Players are excited by the highly engaging and satisfying puzzle-solving experience, as well as the potential for future installments. The game's addicting and suspenseful gameplay, complex puzzles, and expanded universe also contribute to this excitement.
- Satisfaction (weight 0.09): Satisfaction is derived from solving well-balanced puzzles without guides and the rewarding experience of completing each room. The game's structure, difficulty, and satisfying interconnections between puzzles provide a high-quality and intellectually satisfying experience.
- Frustration (weight 0.07): Frustration arises from difficulty in distinguishing movable objects, unclear objectives, and occasional glitches. Some players find certain puzzles too easy or lacking depth, and there are issues with the hint system and language support.
- Disappointment (weight 0.05): Disappointment stems from the game's ending, limited content, and cultural misrepresentation. Some players feel the game is shorter and simpler compared to previous installments, with puzzles that are sometimes too easy.
- Admiration (weight 0.04): Players admire the puzzle design, developers' dedication, and continuous improvement in the series. The inventive and well-thought-out mechanics, along with the excellent tradition of the series, contribute to this admiration.
- Excited (weight 0.03): Players are excited by the new story, high playability, and reasonable level design. The complex and delightful puzzle-solving experience adds to the overall excitement.
- Appreciation (weight 0.03): Appreciation comes from the well-designed puzzles, levels, and clear interface. Players recognize the passion and effort from the team, as well as the polished feel and successful designs of the game.
- Nostalgia (weight 0.03): Nostalgia is felt by players who have a connection to the game from childhood or earlier parts of the series. Reliving memories from playing the game series when younger contributes to this emotion.
- Awe (weight 0.02): Players are in awe of the exquisitely detailed environments, beautifully detailed scenarios, and fantastic artistic elements. The visual experience and intricate puzzles, such as the 'radio' puzzle and the attic sequence, contribute to this sense of awe.
- Appreciation (weight 0.02): Players express appreciation for the classic and highly rated game. The intricate design of each puzzle and tool, which are seen as having a soul and story, contributes to this emotion.
- Surprise (weight 0.02): Surprise comes from the game's design, ending, and the intricacy of the puzzles. Players are pleasantly surprised by the complexity and attention to detail in the puzzles.
- Engagement (weight 0.02): Engagement is driven by the deeply immersive gameplay and engaging story. The developed and engaging narrative keeps players invested in the game.
- Confusion (weight 0.02): Confusion arises from puzzles that leave players wondering where to go next and the constant use of nonsensical symbology. Some parts of the story and puzzles are confusing, especially when trying to connect them with the rest of the franchise.
- Gratitude (weight 0.01): Gratitude is expressed towards the creators and translators for their efforts. Players feel the game is worth more than the price paid and appreciate the work put into it.
- Hope (weight 0.01): Hope is felt for a fifth part of the game series, with expectations for new elements such as Chinese and tomb-raiding themes. Players see potential in the story for future developments.
- Awe (weight 0.01): Players are amazed by the tight interconnection between rooms compared to previous installments. The stunning design and atmosphere of the game evoke a sense of wonder and admiration.
- Satisfaction (weight 0.01): Players are satisfied with the game's consideration for the player experience and the nearly perfect design of most puzzles. The overall quality and attention to detail contribute to this satisfaction.
- Impressed (weight 0.01): Players are impressed by the graphics and gameplay, as well as the quality of the game given the development time. The high standard of design and execution leaves a strong impression.}