Info about Eternights:

Official game description:
Special Edition
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Immerse yourself into the world of Eternights with the Deluxe Edition, including the base game, the official digital artbook, revealing insights into the development of Eternights, and the official digital soundtrack featuring over 100 tracks composed by Spencer Bambrick.
About the Game
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Eternights is a unique blend of dating and action where players can explore a post-apocalyptic world filled with danger, love, and adventure.  
Save the world, and find love along the way.
**Face the infected**
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One day, something, or someone, has turned humans into dangerous monsters. All that interests them now is violence and power. They are what stand between you, a cure, and the world you want. Most importantly? You’re fighting for more than just your own survival – you are fighting for those you love.
**Find Love**
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The impending end of the world makes for a great conversation starter! When you’re not exploring dungeons, you can choose to spend time growing closer to a cast of five quirky and loveable characters. Explore their stories and grow closer to them to unlock unique skills and spells you can use in battle.
**Race the Clock**
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Scavenging, dungeon crawling, dating…there are just too many things to do in one day, and each area has a deadline! Will you grow closer to your confidant in order to deepen your relationship and unlock new skills? Will you scavenge the wasteland for supplies? Will you grow stronger by training with your companions? Or will you ignore all of that and go to the dungeon the first chance you get? It’s up to you, but remember, the clock is ticking.
**Explore Dungeons**
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These dangerous areas - known as the "Wall" - are filled with mystery and danger. As the deadline looms, you will have to quickly overcome traps, puzzles, and dancing minigames to make it through in time. Luckily, you have your confidants by your side to help when things get scary.
**Animated Cutscenes**
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There are several fully 2D animated cutscenes that change depending on who you decide to date. Immerse yourself and truly connect with the characters you are spending time with.

Release date: 11 Sep, 2023

Categories: Action RPG, Dating Simulation, Real-time Combat, Time-based Mechanics, Dungeon Crawler, Character Progression, Puzzle Solving, Mini-game Collection


- 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:
- Engaging Combat System (weight 0.97): The combat system is frequently praised for being fun, engaging, and well-balanced, offering a satisfying hack-and-slash experience with smooth mechanics, dodge, and parry systems. Reviewers found it enjoyable and challenging, especially when mastering combos and perfect dodges.
- Strong Characters & Interactions (weight 0.65): The characters are consistently highlighted as a major strength, being well-written, likable, and emotionally impactful. Players formed strong bonds, appreciated their unique personalities, and enjoyed the humorous and heartfelt interactions, often leading to emotional investment and replayability.
- Impressive Indie Development (weight 0.33): Reviewers were highly impressed by the game's quality, especially considering it was developed by a small team or even a single person. This aspect frequently led to the game being described as an 'indie gem' that exceeded expectations and demonstrated significant passion and effort.
- Unique Dating Sim & ARPG Blend (weight 0.28): The unique blend of dating simulation and action RPG elements is a significant draw. Reviewers enjoyed the Persona-like social links and calendar system, finding the relationship-building mechanics rewarding and well-integrated with the combat, adding depth and replayability without being tedious.
- Appealing Art Style & Visuals (weight 0.18): The game's art style, visuals, and character designs are consistently praised. Reviewers highlighted the beautiful 2D cutscenes, expressive character illustrations, and appealing visual aesthetic, noting how well they fit the game's tone and enhanced the overall experience.
- High-Quality Voice Acting (weight 0.11): The voice acting, particularly the Japanese dub, received high praise for its quality and ability to bring characters to life. Reviewers noted the professional delivery and how it enhanced character personalities and emotional moments.
- Well-Written & Witty Dialogue (weight 0.08): The game's dialogue is well-written, witty, and often humorous. Reviewers enjoyed the constant jokes, engaging banter, and how dialogue choices felt meaningful, contributing to a charming and immersive experience.
- Effective & Humorous Moments (weight 0.06): The humor in the game is generally well-received, with many reviewers finding themselves laughing out loud. The jokes often land well, contributing to a lighthearted tone and adding to the overall enjoyment of the experience.
- Rewarding Relationship Building (weight 0.06): The relationship-building mechanics are a core and rewarding part of the game, directly affecting stats and story progression. Players appreciated how these choices had weight and how friendship development tied the different gameplay elements together.
- Atmospheric & Memorable Soundtrack (weight 0.05): The game's soundtrack is praised for being atmospheric and enhancing key scenes. Reviewers noted the memorable themes, gentle melodies, and driving battle music that contributed positively to the overall mood and experience.

Common complaints:
- Short & Unpolished Game (weight 0.59): The game is often described as too short for its price, lacking polish, and feeling rushed or unfinished. Many reviewers felt it didn't justify the cost, leading to a sense of wasted time and low replayability.
- Frustrating & Unsatisfying Ending (weight 0.38): The game's ending is a major point of contention, frequently described as sad, frustrating, and unsatisfying. Reviewers disliked forced character deaths, ambiguous conclusions, and the feeling that their choices were meaningless, often leading to emotional distress.
- Generic & Incoherent Story (weight 0.32): The story is widely criticized for being generic, cliché, and predictable, with many finding it unmemorable or incoherent. Reviewers felt the plot lacked depth, emotional impact, and often relied on forced drama.
- Poor Character Models & Animations (weight 0.23): Character models and animations are frequently criticized for being low quality, generic, and visually unappealing, especially compared to 2D art. This impacts immersion and makes characters feel stereotypical and lacking depth.
- Poor PC Controls & UI (weight 0.14): The game suffers from poor PC optimization, particularly for keyboard and mouse controls, with unchangeable key bindings. The UI/UX is also widely criticized for being messy, unintuitive, and visually underwhelming.
- No Skip/Fast-Forward Options (weight 0.12): The game lacks essential quality-of-life features such as skippable cutscenes, fast-forward options for dialogue, and auto-play for conversations. This makes replays tedious and slows down the overall pacing.
- Annoying Mini-Games (weight 0.11): Mini-games are consistently criticized for being annoying, frustrating, and poorly explained. They are often seen as unnecessary filler that breaks the flow of the game and detracts from the overall experience.
- Underdeveloped Romance System (weight 0.08): The romance system is criticized for being underdeveloped, cliché, and often leading to unsatisfactory outcomes, including the death of romanced characters. Reviewers felt the dating sim mechanics lacked depth and impact on the main story.

Gameplay feedback:
- Persona-like Dating Sim RPG (weight 0.33): The game heavily incorporates elements from the Persona series, including a calendar system, time management, social links, and dating sim mechanics, combined with hack-and-slash combat. This blend is a core aspect of its gameplay loop.
- Hack-and-Slash Combat System (weight 0.21): The combat system is a real-time hack-and-slash with a focus on dodging, parrying, and using QTEs for shield breaks and powerful attacks. While generally described as playable, some found it stiff or repetitive.
- Short with Replayability (weight 0.1): The game is relatively short, around 8-15 hours for a single playthrough, but features a New Game+ mode and multiple endings, encouraging replayability to explore different character relationships and maximize abilities.
- Dodge/Parry Focused Combat (weight 0.09): Combat heavily relies on precise dodging and parrying to create openings and slow down time, allowing players to deal damage to enemies. Mastering these defensive mechanics is crucial for effective combat.
- Quality of Life Issues (weight 0.08): The game has unskippable cutscenes and lacks a text speed slider, which can make dialogue sections feel slow. Some mechanics are simplistic or uninnovative, and the save system is cumbersome.
- Skill Tree and Abilities (weight 0.07): The game includes a skill tree and unlockable abilities that enhance the protagonist's combat prowess. While some found the skill tree negligible, unlocking new moves and mastering controls improves the combat experience.
- Souls-like Combat Elements (weight 0.06): The game draws inspiration from Souls-like games, particularly in its boss battles and the emphasis on precise combat mechanics like dodging and parrying, though it's generally considered a 'lite' or simplified version of the genre.
- Challenging Boss Battles (weight 0.04): Boss battles are a significant part of the game, often featuring multiple phases, shield mechanics, and requiring precise dodging, parrying, and timing of attacks to defeat, becoming more challenging in later stages.
- Simple Puzzles/Mini-games (weight 0.04): The game features simple puzzles and mini-games, though some reviewers noted that explanations for these mechanics were sometimes poor or that certain mechanics were introduced but not consistently utilized.
- Adjustable Difficulty (weight 0.04): The game offers adjustable difficulty settings, including an easy mode, allowing players to tailor the challenge to their preference and providing a less stressful experience for those getting accustomed to the game.
- Stun-Lock & Companion Skills (weight 0.04): Combat mechanics include abilities to stun-lock enemies, especially after breaking their shields, and companions can assist in combat by releasing skills, contributing to strategic combat encounters.
- Linear Dungeon Exploration (weight 0.03): Dungeons are linear, hack-and-slash affairs with occasional simple puzzles and a boss at the end. They serve as combat segments interspersed with the dating sim elements.

Performance notes:
- Good overall performance (weight 0.09): The game generally performs well across various PC configurations, including low-end systems and the Steam Deck, with stable frame rates and minimal bugs. Some users noted the game runs easily at 60 FPS on Steam Deck, while others mentioned a mid-range PC is sufficient.
- Cutscene display issues (weight 0.02): Some players experienced issues with pre-rendered cutscenes, specifically black screens during movies while audio continued, and a framerate cap at 24 FPS. These issues can detract from the cinematic experience.
- UI navigation bug (weight 0.01): A specific usability bug was reported where players were unable to exit the options menu using the ESC key, forcing them to quit the game. This indicates a minor but frustrating UI navigation issue.
- Occasional game crashes (weight 0.01): Some users reported frequent game crashes, though these were often attributed to personal computer issues rather than the game itself. This suggests potential instability for certain system configurations.

Recommendations:
- Recommended, especially on sale (weight 0.52): Many players recommend the game, often highlighting its value for money, especially when on sale. Some consider it a must-play, while others suggest waiting for a discount, indicating a mixed perception of its full price.
- Ideal for Persona/Anime Fans (weight 0.11): The game is highly recommended for fans of specific genres and aesthetics, particularly those who enjoy Persona-like games, anime, action RPGs, and dating sim elements. Players who dislike anime or these specific genre blends may not find it appealing.
- Desire for sequel (weight 0.08): Many players express a strong desire for a sequel or continuation of the game, indicating satisfaction with the overall experience and a wish for more content from the developers. This suggests a positive reception of the game's core elements.
- Controller and Easy Mode Recommended (weight 0.02): Players recommend using a controller for optimal gameplay and suggest setting the difficulty to Easy to avoid frustration and enjoy the story. This indicates potential issues with keyboard controls and difficulty balancing.
- Not a serious dating sim (weight 0.02): The game is not recommended for those seeking a serious or traditional dating simulation experience. This suggests that its dating sim elements might be light or not meet the expectations of dedicated genre fans.
- Avoid spoilers/negative reviews (weight 0.02): Some reviewers advise new players to avoid spoilers and negative gameplay reviews, suggesting that pre-conceived notions or external information might detract from the experience. This implies the game might be best approached with an open mind.
- Ambitious but flawed execution (weight 0.02): Reviewers acknowledge the developers' ambition but note a gap between their vision and the execution, particularly regarding bug resolution. This suggests potential for improvement in future updates or projects.
- Try demo first (weight 0.02): Given its price and completion time, some suggest trying the game, especially the demo, to see if it's a good fit. This indicates it might be a worthwhile short experience for those on the fence.
- Divisive opinions (weight 0.01): The game is noted for being polarizing, with opinions often divided between positive and negative. This suggests that individual player preferences heavily influence the overall experience.

Other player notes:
- Solo/Small Indie Developer (weight 0.11): The game was primarily developed by a single person or a very small indie team, which is frequently noted by reviewers. This context often influences perceptions of the game's scope and polish, with some acknowledging the impressive effort given the limited resources.
- Apocalyptic Slice-of-Life Setting (weight 0.04): The game is set in an apocalyptic world, but reviewers noted a blend of survival elements with slice-of-life themes. This unique combination of a harsh setting with personal growth and relationships was a significant aspect of the game's identity.
- Strong Anime Influence (weight 0.04): The game's aesthetic and narrative style are frequently compared to anime or Japanese games, with some reviewers noting it feels like watching an anime episode. This strong anime influence is a defining characteristic of the game's presentation.
- QR Code Bonus Scene (weight 0.04): The game includes a unique feature where a QR code is provided at the end, leading to an extra bonus scene. This easter egg was a pleasant surprise for many players and added a memorable post-credits experience.
- Romance Options, LGBT+ Inclusive (weight 0.03): The game features romance options, including LGBT+ relationships, allowing players to date both male and female characters. While it includes dating elements, some reviewers felt it didn't fully align with the traditional dating sim genre.
- Korean Setting and Production (weight 0.02): The game is a Korean production and takes place in South Korea. Some reviewers noted inconsistencies with character names in relation to their Korean background, which could be a minor immersion break.
- Full Voice Acting Options (weight 0.02): The game offers full voice acting for the main story and some heroine stories, with recommendations to play with original or Japanese voices and English subtitles. This indicates a good level of voice-over quality and options for players.
- Elements from Other Works (weight 0.02): Reviewers noted that the game contains elements or a sense of déjà vu from other works, specifically mentioning 'Guilty Crown' and 'Kimi ga Nozomu Eien.' This indicates that while the game has its own identity, it draws inspiration from existing media.
- Multiple Playthroughs for Achievements (weight 0.02): To achieve all Steam achievements, players need to complete at least two full playthroughs of the game. This indicates a design choice that encourages replayability for completionists.

Emotions:
- Satisfaction (weight 0.26): Players felt satisfied due to the game's enjoyable combat, engaging story, well-written characters, and rewarding relationship mechanics. The overall high production value, including visuals, voice acting, and soundtrack, also contributed significantly to a positive experience, often exceeding expectations for an indie title.
- Disappointment (weight 0.18): Disappointment stemmed from the game not living up to expectations, particularly regarding its Persona-like inspirations, and issues with unrefined gameplay, repetitive combat, and a perceived lack of polish. Specific story elements, such as inconsistent narratives, unsatisfying endings, and a feeling of wasted potential, also contributed to this negative emotion.
- Frustration (weight 0.15): Frustration was primarily caused by difficult or poorly designed mini-games, clunky combat mechanics, and technical issues like bugs, input lag, and unskippable cutscenes. Specific design choices, such as the motorcycle section and certain achievement requirements, also led to significant player annoyance and a feeling of being cheated.
- Joy (weight 0.05): Joy was experienced through the game's overall fun and engaging vibe, particularly due to lovable characters, humorous dialogue, and enjoyable combat. The immersive story and appealing visual style also contributed to a highly positive and entertaining experience for players.
- Enjoyment (weight 0.05): Players found enjoyment in the game's overall quality, including its engaging story, well-developed characters, and effective combat system. The humor, visual style, and successful execution of its various mechanics also contributed to a generally positive and entertaining experience.
- Sadness (weight 0.04): Sadness was primarily caused by the game's emotional impact, particularly its tragic or bittersweet ending and the fate of certain characters. The emotional weight of the story and character separations resonated deeply with players.
- Excitement (weight 0.04): Excitement was generated by the game's captivating story, engaging combat, and overall high quality, leading to a strong desire for replays and future content like DLC or sequels. Players also expressed enthusiasm for the developer's future projects, recognizing the game as a fantastic indie experience.
- Admiration (weight 0.03): Admiration was largely directed towards the game's solo or small-team development, with players impressed by the high quality, completeness, and artistic elements achieved by a single person or small studio. The developer's care and passion for the project were highly appreciated.
- Surprise (weight 0.03): Surprise stemmed from the game exceeding expectations, often after a negative initial impression or demo, due to its unexpected quality, engaging writing, and unique genre blend. The plot twists and unexpected ending also contributed to this feeling.
- Anger (weight 0.02): Anger arose from poor implementation of game concepts, particularly frustrating combat mechanics, and unsatisfying or forced endings. Issues with overall game quality, including modeling, animations, and design flaws, also contributed to strong negative reactions, sometimes leading to refund requests.
- Amusement (weight 0.01): Amusement was derived from the game's humor, often through absurd or trope-y writing, and the delightful interactions between characters. The silly elements and protagonist's dialogue choices also contributed to a lighthearted and entertaining experience.
- Hope (weight 0.01): Hope was expressed for the future of the game and the studio, with players desiring sequels, additional content, and continued improvement from the developers. This emotion reflects a positive outlook on the potential for future projects.
- Appreciation (weight 0.01): Appreciation was shown for the game's distinct art style, charming personality, and the developer's evident effort in creating the experience. The overall design and value proposition of the game were also recognized and valued by players.
- Confusion (weight 0.01): Confusion arose from various aspects, including the game's unexpected positive reception, unclear story elements, and initial difficulties with combat mechanics or button mapping. Unlocking achievements also caused confusion for some players.
- Love (weight 0.01): Love for the game was expressed due to its compelling story, high quality, and well-developed characters, particularly their backstories and the overarching narrative of fixing the world. This indicates a deep emotional connection to the game.
- Desire (weight 0.01): Desire was primarily focused on wanting more content from the game, including longer gameplay experiences, DLC, or sequels. This indicates a strong positive engagement and a wish for the game's world to be expanded.
- Moved (weight 0.01): Players were moved by the game's overall emotional impact, particularly its story and characters, and the powerful, often rollercoaster-like, emotional experience of the ending. This indicates a deep and resonant connection with the narrative.
- Affection (weight 0.01): Affection was felt towards specific characters and the relationships developed within the game. This highlights the success of character writing and relationship building in fostering emotional bonds with players.
- Annoyance (weight 0.01): Annoyance stemmed from specific gameplay mechanics, such as shields and QTEs in combat, unhelpful puzzle elements, and minor flaws. Certain characters or empty game segments, along with localization issues, also contributed to this feeling.
- Pleasant surprise (weight 0): Players experienced pleasant surprise when the game exceeded their expectations, often liking it more than anticipated or finding it successfully met their hopes for a Persona-like experience. This indicates a positive shift in perception during gameplay.}