Info about BLACKTAIL:

Official game description:
Become the guardian of the woods or the terror nightmares are made of. Forge the legend of Baba Yaga and live out its origins in BLACKTAIL, a one-of-a-kind blend of intense archery combat, magic and dark storytelling set in a vibrant fairy tale world.  
You play as Yaga, a 16-year-old girl accused of witchcraft and expelled from a medieval Slavic settlement. When living memories of your past return as foul, walking spirits, you are left with no other option than to hunt them down in hopes of unravelling your own mystery.  
*   Decide the fate of the land and its inhabitants, witness the impact of your decisions on your skills through BLACKTAIL’s Morality system.  
*   Track down elusive spirits with your trusty bow and gauntlet, engage in thrilling boss fights.  
*   Craft arrows and potions, hunt wild game, and gather resources to survive in the ominous woods.  
*   Find hidden treasures to learn more about your surroundings and history.  
*   Collect lost recipes and brew elixirs to improve your abilities and shape your playstyle.

Release date: 15 Dec, 2022

Categories: Single-player Story, Exploration, Crafting, Resource Management, Archery Combat, Moral Decision-Making, Platformer, Boss Rush


- 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 Story & World (weight 1): Players consistently praise the game's captivating, unique, and emotionally resonant story, often described as a dark fairy tale. The world-building, rich with Slavic folklore, and the overall atmosphere are major highlights, making the narrative and setting deeply immersive and enjoyable.
- Rewarding Exploration & Side Quests (weight 0.91): Exploration is consistently described as fun, rewarding, and engaging, with a moderately sized, diverse, and detailed world that encourages wandering off the main path. Side quests are praised for being interesting, creative, humorous, and well-integrated, often adding depth to the world and narrative rather than feeling like filler.
- Stunning Visuals & Art Style (weight 0.89): The game receives widespread acclaim for its beautiful, unique, and vibrant art style and graphics. Reviewers frequently mention the visually appealing landscapes, detailed environments, and overall aesthetic as a significant strength, contributing to the game's immersive fairy-tale atmosphere.
- Excellent Audio Design (weight 0.86): The sound design, including the soundtrack, music, and voice acting, is consistently highlighted as exceptional. Players find the audio elements perfectly complement the game's atmosphere, enhancing immersion and overall experience, with particular praise for the voice acting of key characters.
- Solid & Engaging Gameplay (weight 0.82): While not always innovative, the gameplay is generally considered solid, enjoyable, and well-paced. Combat is described as simple yet engaging, often requiring precision and strategy. The inclusion of varied mechanics, mini-games, and 2D platforming sections adds freshness and prevents repetition.
- High Quality & Value (weight 0.8): Many players consider the game a 'hidden gem' or 'masterpiece,' offering exceptional quality for an indie title, especially at its price point. It's frequently noted for its polish, lack of significant bugs, and overall completeness, often surpassing expectations and even some AAA games.

Common complaints:
- Repetitive and Clunky Combat (weight 0.65): Players consistently found the combat system to be repetitive, boring, and clunky. Issues include a lack of enemy variety, predictable AI, and an absence of strategic depth, making encounters feel tedious and unrewarding, especially in later stages of the game.
- Poor Technical Performance & Graphics (weight 0.35): The game suffers from significant technical issues, including poor optimization, frequent frame drops, and bugs. Graphics are often described as blurry, low-poly, and not matching promotional material, detracting from the overall visual experience.
- Inconsistent Difficulty & Pacing (weight 0.2): The game's difficulty curve is uneven, with some finding it too easy and others experiencing frustrating spikes, especially in boss battles. Pacing issues, including a slow start and artificially extended mid-game segments, contribute to player boredom and a desire to rush to the end.
- Awkward Platforming & Movement (weight 0.15): Platforming sections are frequently criticized for being clunky, frustrating, and poorly designed, often leading to unfair deaths. The first-person perspective combined with limited aerial control and restrictive climbing mechanics makes traversal a chore.
- Tedious Arrow Crafting (weight 0.08): The constant need to manually craft arrows during combat, coupled with limited carrying capacity and scarce resources, is a major source of frustration. This mechanic is seen as a forced difficulty element that disrupts combat flow and becomes tiresome quickly.

Gameplay feedback:
- Core Bow Combat & Crafting (weight 0.24): The game's primary combat mechanic revolves around a bow and various arrow types, which players must craft from collected resources. This system is central to gameplay, with different arrows offering unique effects for diverse enemy encounters. While some find it engaging, others note its simplicity and potential for repetitiveness.
- Morality System with Limited Impact (weight 0.22): The game features a 'Light vs. Dark' morality system where player choices influence Yaga's alignment, affecting skills, dialogue, and some character interactions. However, many players feel these choices have minimal impact on the main story or overall ending, leading to a sense of unfulfilled potential despite adding replayability.
- Baba Yaga Origin Story (weight 0.19): The narrative centers on Yaga, a young outcast accused of witchcraft, as she searches for her lost sister and uncovers her past. The game serves as an origin story for the Baba Yaga legend, exploring themes of identity and trauma through a first-person, story-driven experience with various narrative styles, including 2D cutscenes and mini-games.
- Mixed Combat & Gameplay Reception (weight 0.18): Player opinions on combat and general gameplay mechanics are varied. Some describe it as solid, dynamic, and fun, especially with upgrades and different arrow types. Others find it clunky, repetitive, or overly simplistic, with inconsistent difficulty and a lack of attack feedback. The game's core mechanics are generally easy to learn but may lack depth for some.
- Open World & Exploration Focus (weight 0.14): The game features a semi-open world divided into distinct seasonal areas, encouraging exploration for side quests, collectibles, and upgrades. While the world is generally well-filled and offers a decent amount of content (around 20-30 hours for completionists), some find the open-world aspects can feel like a time-waster or that the progression is still quite linear.
- Varied Gameplay Elements (weight 0.14): Beyond core combat, the game integrates diverse gameplay elements such as platforming sections (including 2D phases), boss fights, mini-games, and light survival mechanics. It blends genres like adventure, Metroidvania, and action-RPG, offering a varied experience, though some elements are more fleshed out than others.
- Progression & Crafting Systems (weight 0.11): The game incorporates a crafting system for arrows and potions, along with a skill tree for character progression. Skills are not gained through traditional XP but are unlocked by finding specific items, completing quests, or scavenging parts, rewarding exploration over grinding. This system is generally well-received for its unique approach.
- Adjustable Difficulty & Boss Variety (weight 0.08): The game offers a difficulty system, including a 'story mode' for those who prefer narrative over challenging combat. While some find the difficulty well-balanced, others note uneven spikes. Boss fights are described as unique and enjoyable by some, requiring tactics and environmental awareness, but others find them repetitive or too easy.
- Mixed Reception of Quests & Length (weight 0.07): The main story is generally considered short (7-12 hours) but engaging, while side quests receive mixed reviews; some find them memorable and more interesting than the main quest, others describe them as monotonous fetch quests. The overall game length can be extended significantly by exploring and completing side content.
- Completion Time Varies (weight 0.04): Completion times vary widely, with the main story taking 7-12 hours, while 100% completion (including all collectibles and achievements) can range from 17 to 40 hours. Some achievements may require multiple playthroughs, particularly to experience both moral paths.

Performance notes:
- Inconsistent Performance & Bugs (weight 0.08): Many players report significant optimization issues, including frequent frame drops, crashes, and various bugs, especially on mid- to low-end systems. While some experience smooth gameplay, others find the game unplayable due to these technical problems.
- DLSS Implementation Issues (weight 0.01): DLSS functionality is inconsistent; some users report it not activating or being limited to specific GPU series, while others achieve stable high frame rates with it enabled.
- Enemy Stuck in Ground Bug (weight 0.01): A recurring bug involves enemies getting stuck underground, preventing interaction and sometimes blocking progression, particularly during boss fights.
- Steamdeck Visual Glitches (weight 0.01): Steamdeck users encounter a specific visual bug involving screen blackening, which can hinder progression. Disabling half-rate shading is a known workaround.
- Audio Distortion Issues (weight 0.01): Some players experience audio distortion that worsens over extended play sessions, eventually becoming complete.
- Decent PC Requirements (weight 0.01): Feedback on PC requirements is mixed, with some finding them decent while others note the need for a fast computer.
- Texture Pop-in (weight 0): Players report a noticeable amount of texture pop-in, which can detract from the visual experience.
- Mouse Lag Reported (weight 0): One player reported experiencing unusual mouse lag during gameplay.
- Adjustable Draw Distance (weight 0): Adjusting the draw distance setting can help manage GPU fan speeds, indicating a customizable performance option.
- Beautiful World Design (weight 0): The game's engine is praised for creating a visually appealing and immersive world.

Recommendations:
- Mixed Reception & Value (weight 0.36): Player sentiment is highly divided, with many recommending the game only on sale due to perceived issues with combat, open-world design, and technical capabilities. While some find it a gem, others consider it mediocre and not worth the full price, suggesting it's a decent one-time play or only for specific audiences.
- Developer Potential (weight 0.33): Despite mixed feelings about the current game, a significant number of players express interest in the developer's future projects. They are eager for sequels or new stories, indicating a belief in the studio's potential to create even better games.
- Strong Narrative & Atmosphere (weight 0.25): Many players highly recommend the game for its captivating story, unique dark fairy-tale atmosphere, and rich Slavic mythology. They suggest focusing on the plot and exploration, often overlooking gameplay flaws to enjoy the immersive world and narrative.
- Appeal to Specific Genres (weight 0.25): The game is particularly recommended for fans of narrative-driven adventures, dark fantasy, Slavic folklore, and those who enjoy bow-and-arrow combat or exploration. It's often compared to games like Kena: Bridge of Spirits, appealing to players who appreciate unique settings and story over traditional action.

Other player notes:
- Exceptional Voice Acting & Soundtrack (weight 0.3): The voice acting, especially for key characters like Yaga and 'The Voice,' receives widespread acclaim for its quality and emotional delivery. Coupled with a haunting, atmospheric soundtrack that perfectly complements the game's eerie fairy tale vibe, these audio elements significantly enhance immersion.
- Unique Dark Fairy Tale Aesthetic (weight 0.27): Players consistently praise the game's distinctive art style and atmosphere, describing it as a dark, beautiful, and thought-provoking fairy tale. This blend of whimsical and eerie visuals, often compared to 'Alice: Madness Returns' or Grimm's fairy tales, is a major draw and a refreshing change from other genres.
- Intriguing & Mysterious Story (weight 0.25): The narrative, centered around Yaga's journey and the origins of Baba Yaga, is found to be captivating and thought-provoking. While some find it subtle or confusing, many appreciate its enigmatic nature, twists, and the depth it offers, encouraging careful attention and interpretation.
- Large, Engaging World Exploration (weight 0.19): The game features a large, vibrant, and alive world filled with diverse flora, fauna, and mythical creatures. Players enjoy exploring the expansive map and its detailed regions, often finding themselves immersed in the environment and its wonders.
- Indie Charm & Passion Project (weight 0.19): Many players recognize the game as a passionate indie project from a small studio, appreciating its unique vision and the love evident in its creation. Despite some perceived limitations, its quality is often seen as a pleasant surprise, offering a fresh experience compared to larger productions.
- Rich Slavic Folklore Integration (weight 0.18): The game's deep roots in Slavic mythology, particularly the Baba Yaga legend, are highly appreciated. Players enjoy the unique reinterpretation of folklore, the inclusion of mythical creatures, and the overall imaginative world-building that sets it apart.
- Minor Technical & Design Flaws (weight 0.1): Players noted minor issues such as occasional bugs (e.g., invisible enemies), some textures lacking finesse, and a first-person perspective that can make the protagonist feel short. Controllable cutscenes and some minigames were also found irritating.
- Pacing & Gameplay Length Concerns (weight 0.05): Some players feel the game's duration is artificially extended, with certain sequences feeling unnecessary or repetitive, such as excessive item collection. This can lead to a drop in engagement after an initially promising start, with some uninstalling early.

Emotions:
- Satisfaction (weight 0.28): Players felt satisfied primarily due to the game's engaging story, rich world-building, and unique artistic direction. The overall quality of the game, including graphics, voice acting, and music, contributed significantly to a positive experience, often exceeding expectations for an indie title. Enjoyable gameplay, rewarding exploration, and a well-implemented morality system also played key roles in player contentment.
- Disappointment (weight 0.18): Disappointment stemmed from repetitive gameplay, clunky combat, and technical issues. Many players felt the story was predictable, muddled, or ended too quickly, and the morality system often lacked significant impact on choices or outcomes. Unmet expectations regarding game length, value for money, and unfulfilled potential for interesting concepts like Slavic folklore also contributed to this emotion.
- Frustration (weight 0.16): Frustration was frequently caused by repetitive and stiff combat mechanics, poor hitboxes, and annoying crafting requirements, especially for arrows during fights. Players also expressed frustration with clunky controls, poor checkpoint placement, and confusing story elements or poorly explained game systems. Technical issues like bugs, performance problems, and a lack of ultrawide support further exacerbated this feeling.
- Excitement (weight 0.06): Players experienced excitement from discovering a unique indie gem, particularly one based on Baba Yaga and Slavic folklore. The deep, engaging story, interesting world exploration, and unique atmosphere, often coupled with surprising twists and epic boss fights, kept players genuinely engaged and eager for more content or a sequel.
- Enjoyment (weight 0.06): Enjoyment arose from the game's unique art style, dark vibes, and solid gameplay, often despite minor bugs. Players appreciated the overall adventure, engaging combat, and well-developed characters. The humor, immersive world-building, and the blend of storytelling with first-person action also contributed to a generally fun and positive experience.
- Boredom (weight 0.04): Boredom was a common sentiment due to repetitive gameplay, particularly combat, and a lack of variety in enemies and quests. Players found dialogue sections to be long and drawn out, and the open world often felt uninteresting or empty, leading to a tedious and unengaging experience after a few hours of play.
- Joy (weight 0.04): Joy was felt through the immersive atmosphere, engaging story, and beautiful visuals and music. Players loved exploring the game's world and completing quests, finding the overall experience delightful and a 'breath of fresh air.' The charm of the game, its unique elements, and the ability to play the bowstring as an instrument also brought joy.
- Confusion (weight 0.02): Confusion primarily stemmed from unclear game mechanics, especially the morality system, and a narrative that often felt vague or had an incomprehensible ending. Players also expressed confusion regarding the game's genre identity, the connection to Baba Yaga, and a lack of explanation for various game elements or choices.
- Interest (weight 0.02): Players were interested by the game's unique blend of genres, its Slavic folklore theme, and the dark, captivating story. The premise of learning about Baba Yaga myths and the game's overall weirdness and potential kept players engaged and curious about the narrative and world.
- Admiration (weight 0.02): Admiration was directed towards the game's complex story, beautiful scenarios, and fitting soundtrack. Players praised the art direction, the developers' ability to bring mythology to life, and the unique morality system. The game was often seen as a 'gem' or a 'piece of art' due to its handcrafted world, excellent voice acting, and brilliant blending of mechanics and narrative themes.
- Anger (weight 0.02): Anger arose from perceived poor design choices, such as the use of British voice actors for a Slavic-themed game, and frustrating platforming sequences. Players also expressed anger over the game's overall low quality, frequent deaths, and misleading marketing, sometimes leading to immediate uninstallation or regret over wasted time and money.
- Surprise (weight 0.02): Players were pleasantly surprised by the unexpected quality of the game, often exceeding initial expectations for an indie title. The rich story, good voice acting, lack of bugs, and the unexpected size and depth of the open world and secondary quests contributed to this positive surprise.
- Appreciation (weight 0.02): Appreciation was shown for the game's charm, music, and voice acting, as well as its unique style and folklore theme. Players valued the world design, sound design, and the unique story. Many appreciated the love and pure intentions put into the game by the developers, recognizing the detailed scenery and overall quality for its price.
- Amusement (weight 0.01): Amusement was derived from the game's silly aspects, humorous dialogue, and unexpected interactions, such as insulting mushrooms or a Pac-Man style mini-game. The ridiculousness of some game elements and sarcastic tones also contributed to players finding the experience amusing.
- Engagement (weight 0.01): Players felt engaged by the game's immersive atmosphere, captivating story, and rich world. The narrative, side quests, and companion interactions held players' attention, drawing them into the unique and deep lore of the game.
- Annoyance (weight 0.01): Annoyance stemmed from buggy gameplay, particularly in the later stages, and repetitive combat. Players found the voice acting difficult to listen to, dialogue drawn out, and perceived artificial playtime padding. Specific elements like the cat's voice or forced walking in combat also caused irritation.
- Neutrality (weight 0.01): Neutrality reflected an overall average experience, with players finding the game's story controversial and combat boring. The gameplay was often described as simple and exploration unrewarding, leading to a factual, middle-of-the-road assessment of the game's quality.
- Intrigue (weight 0.01): Intrigue was generated by the mysterious girl's story, ambiguous characters, and well-led main plot. Players were drawn in by the story's direction, plot twists, and the supernatural, mysterious world and narrative, eager to uncover its secrets.
- Amazement (weight 0.01): Players were amazed by the game's vivid rendering, open world, and Slavic-style narrative, especially at the beginning. The atmospheric quality, unique blend of influences, and the inventiveness and creativity of the small development team also left players stunned and impressed.
- Awe (weight 0): Awe was inspired by the game's beautiful visuals, stunning world, and amazing characters. Players felt a sense of awe at the developers' ability to create a 'masterpiece' without being a AAA studio, particularly noting the beautiful areas, cutscenes, and accompanying music.}