Info about Bread & Fred:

Official game description:
**_Bread & Fred_** is a challenging co-op platformer from Apogee where two players must cooperate to jump and climb to the top of a snowy mountain. Play as both Bread and Fred in their exasperating and sometimes maddening climb that requires precision with every jump. Each time you land you’ll be closer to the peak and one step closer to mastering the platforming, but your fall down the mountain will be even farther.  
**
Penguin Mechanics:
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**  
**\- Swing to reach distant platforms!**  
Bread and Fred are attached to each other. That means you don’t only fall together, but you can make good use of momentum to swing and propel each other beyond what any single penguin could have ever jumped. Make sure one of you anchors down to the ground or you’ll both fall!  
**\- Hold on to walls as long as you can!**  
The penguins’ little hands aren't very good, but you can hang on a wall with your partner for a few seconds to swing them around and overcome the next obstacle. Be careful though. These penguins are chubby so you can’t hold on long. Act fast!  
**\- Single-player mode!**  
Can’t find your penguin buddy? Strap your rope to Jeff (a rock!) and use it instead! The climb will all be up to you and your skill, but that also means you have no one to blame when you fall...  
Legends say that with these skills, a few penguin heroes have managed to reach the top. Will you be one of them?  
Each fall will hurt, but try to learn and laugh through it. Think carefully about each jump and master the penguin skills to reach the summit.  
For the craziest climbers, **_Bread & Fred_** includes a speedrun mode so you can compete and be crowned the best penguins on the planet.  
_**The mountain awaits you. Complete your mission. Cooperate with each other and you will be able to go far up the mountain. Just try not to fall (too much). Good luck!!**_

Release date: May 23, 2023

Categories: Cooperative Multiplayer, Platformer, Precision Platforming, Local Co-op, High Mobility, High Difficulty, Speedrunning, 2D Platformer

Feature scans:
- Steam Deck: score 50; verdict: Tinkering Required; summary: The analysis of user feedback reveals a mix of positive and negative experiences with the Steam Deck. While some users appreciate the responsive and accessible controller support, others have encountered significant issues with controller buttons, imprecise controls, and difficulties using keyboard and mouse. These controller issues are particularly impactful and frequent, indicating a need for improvement in this area.

- Hardware Profile: No data
Feature extractions:
- Community Price:
  - Community fair range: $7.99 - $10.99
  - Reasoning: The evidence suggests that many users find the game not worth the current price due to its short length and lack of content, indicating that a lower price would be more appropriate. Several reviews mention waiting for a sale or discount, implying that a price lower than the current $14.99 would be more acceptable. Positive reviews also mention enjoying the game more when it is on sale, further supporting the idea that a lower price range would be fair.
- Playtime Metrics:
  - Game completion: 3.3h
  - Story completion: N/A
  - Session length: 2.5h
  - Endgame: N/A
  - Reasoning: The evidence provided includes several mentions of playtime durations and experiences. The first quote indicates that players reached the top in 3 hours, suggesting a typical game completion time. The second quote mentions a playthrough lasting 3.5 hours, which aligns with the game completion time. The third quote mentions a play session of 2.5 hours, which can be considered a typical session length. The fourth quote also mentions 3 hours of gameplay, reinforcing the game completion time. There is no specific evidence provided for story completion or endgame hours, so those fields are marked as null.
- Time-to-fun:
  - Summary: The game is fun and satisfying in local co-op mode but suffers from significant online multiplayer issues. Players enjoy the challenge and cooperative aspects when playing locally.
  - Stance: Fun immediately
  - Anchor: Local co-op gameplay
  - Time to anchor: 0h 0m
  - Friction: Online multiplayer connectivity issues; Precise timing and coordination required; Gameplay mechanics can be challenging
  - Unlock drivers: Local co-op mode; Playing with friends or significant others
  - Conditions: Playing locally; Playing with friends or significant others; Embracing challenge and cooperation
- Player Archetypes:
  - Co-op Challenge Seeker (sale)
    - Motivation: Overcoming challenges with a partner.
    - Playstyle: Collaborative and persistent, enjoys difficult games.
    - Experience: mixed
    - Purchase stance: sale
    - Labels: co-op player; challenge seeker
    - Reference games: It Takes Two; Celeste
  - Frustrated Multiplayer Advocate (no buy)
    - Motivation: Seeking a functional and enjoyable multiplayer experience.
    - Playstyle: Prefers online co-op but is hindered by technical issues.
    - Experience: mixed
    - Purchase stance: no buy
    - Labels: multiplayer enthusiast; frustrated gamer
    - Reference games: N/A
  - Casual Co-op Player (no buy)
    - Motivation: Seeking a fun and relaxed co-op experience.
    - Playstyle: Prefers easier, more casual games.
    - Experience: newcomer
    - Purchase stance: no buy
    - Labels: casual gamer; co-op player
    - Reference games: It Takes Two


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:
- Great for playing with friends (weight 0.21): The game is often recommended for playing with friends or family, making it a good choice for social gaming experiences.
- Fun and engaging game (weight 0.11): The game is often described as fun and enjoyable. Players appreciate its simple yet engaging gameplay, making it a popular choice for casual gaming.
- Cute and adorable game (weight 0.1): The game is often described as cute and adorable, with a charming appearance that appeals to players.
- Beautiful and creative art (weight 0.1): The game's art style is frequently praised for being beautiful, creative, and visually appealing. Players appreciate the unique and gorgeous art design.
- Single-player mode available (weight 0.07): The game offers a single-player mode, which is noted as enjoyable and complete, providing a good experience for solo players.
- Challenging but satisfying (weight 0.07): The game is noted for being difficult but enjoyable, providing a challenging yet satisfying experience for players.
- Memorable and nostalgic (weight 0.06): Players often describe the game as creating amazing memories and providing a personal nostalgic experience, especially when played with friends.
- Useful checkpoints (weight 0.04): Players find the checkpoints in the game to be helpful and useful, aiding in the overall gameplay experience.
- Requires teamwork and coordination (weight 0.04): The game encourages teamwork and requires patience and coordination, making it a great choice for players who enjoy collaborative gameplay.
- Suitable for beginners (weight 0.03): The game is noted for being suitable for beginners and a wide audience, making it accessible to many players.

Common complaints:
- Multiplayer functionality issues (weight 0.41): The multiplayer experience is plagued with numerous problems, including connection issues, matchmaking difficulties, and overall poor functionality. Players frequently report that multiplayer is either laggy, buggy, or completely unplayable.
- Gameplay frustration and difficulty (weight 0.26): Many players find the gameplay frustrating and not enjoyable. The game is often described as too difficult, monotonous, and not fun. These issues contribute to a lack of engagement and enjoyment.
- Performance and lag issues (weight 0.1): The game suffers from significant performance issues, including continuous lag and high ping. These problems severely impact the gaming experience, making it difficult to play smoothly.
- Technical and control issues (weight 0.09): There are numerous technical problems, including controller recognition issues and game-breaking bugs. These issues hinder the overall gameplay experience and can make the game difficult to play.
- Code and tutorial problems (weight 0.08): Players encounter issues with incorrect or invalid codes, which can prevent them from accessing certain features. Additionally, the lack of a proper tutorial makes the game less accessible for new players.
- Value and pricing concerns (weight 0.08): Players feel that the game is overpriced and does not offer enough value for the cost. It is often described as a waste of time and money, and not worth the price.
- Achievement and friendship concerns (weight 0.06): There are reports of bugged and difficult achievements, which can be frustrating for players. Additionally, the game's difficulty and issues might strain friendships, potentially causing conflicts.
- Single-player mode issues (weight 0.04): The single-player mode has its own set of problems, including broken physics and poor AI. These issues can make the single-player experience less enjoyable and more frustrating.

Gameplay feedback:
- Co-op gameplay focus (weight 0.16): The game emphasizes cooperative gameplay, offering various modes such as local co-op, couch co-op, and online co-op multiplayer.
- Co-op platform jumping mechanics (weight 0.12): The game features cooperative platform jumping, requiring players to coordinate jumps and work together to navigate platform interactions.
- High coordination and skill required (weight 0.09): The game demands significant coordination, teamwork, and technical skill from players to succeed.
- Customizable checkpoint system (weight 0.08): Players can use and customize checkpoints to either make the game easier or add challenge by turning them off.
- Climbing and rope mechanics (weight 0.07): The game includes climbing mechanics and the use of ropes, adding a unique element to the gameplay.
- Physics-driven movement (weight 0.06): The game features physics-driven movement, which is central to the gameplay mechanics and character movement.
- Penguins tied together (weight 0.06): Players control penguins that are connected by a rope, adding a unique dynamic to the gameplay.
- Various game modes (weight 0.04): The game offers different modes including local multiplayer, single-player, and speedrun modes.
- Assist modes available (weight 0.04): The game includes assist modes that allow players to customize settings and use assistance features.
- Route planning and alternatives (weight 0.03): Players need to plan their routes and can explore alternative routes to reach their goals.
- Timing-based mechanics (weight 0.03): The game includes timing-based mechanics, such as countdowns, adding to the challenge.
- Unique missions (weight 0.02): The game features unique missions, such as a basketball mission and a child's ball mission.

Performance notes:
- Multiplayer connectivity issues (weight 0.31): Players report various problems with multiplayer functionality, including connectivity issues, lag, and crashes. These issues significantly impact the online gaming experience.
- Poor optimization and performance (weight 0.11): The game suffers from poor optimization, leading to performance issues and lag. This affects the smoothness and enjoyment of the gameplay.
- Game crashing frequently (weight 0.07): The game experiences frequent crashes, including crashes to desktop and constant crashes during gameplay. This affects the overall stability and playability of the game.
- Visual and character bugs (weight 0.05): Players report various visual and character bugs, including blurred visuals and character freezing, which detract from the gaming experience.
- Keyboard and controller issues (weight 0.04): There are issues with keyboard controls and controller recognition, causing interference and problems with input devices.
- Positive performance feedback (weight 0.04): Some players report positive experiences with the game's performance, noting that it runs smoothly and is light to load.
- Menu and navigation issues (weight 0.03): Players encounter problems with menu freezing and navigation issues, which hinder the user interface experience.
- Save file issues (weight 0.02): There are reports of save files getting deleted or replaced, which can be frustrating for players who lose their progress.
- Fullscreen glitches (weight 0.02): Players experience glitches when playing the game in fullscreen mode, affecting the visual experience.
- Game not working (weight 0.02): Some players report that the game does not work at all, preventing them from playing.

Recommendations:
- Ideal for cooperative challenges (weight 0.12): This game is highly recommended for couples or friends who enjoy challenging and difficult games. It offers a unique and laughter-filled cooperative experience that can test bonds and patience.
- Recommended on sale (weight 0.09): The game is often recommended if purchased on sale. Players suggest waiting for discounts to get better value for money.
- Suggested improvements (weight 0.06): Players have suggested adding features like a friend's pass and official checkpoints. Some also recommend waiting for patches to fix UI bugs.
- Use controllers and specific modes (weight 0.06): For better gameplay, players recommend using controllers and specific modes like Big Picture Mode on Steam or Remote Play for playing with friends.
- Use checkpoints frequently (weight 0.05): Players are advised to use checkpoints frequently to avoid stress and enhance the gaming experience. This strategy helps in managing the game's difficulty.
- Local or solo play preferred (weight 0.05): The game is best enjoyed in local or solo play modes. Online co-op is not highly recommended, and couch co-op is considered better.
- Mixed recommendations (weight 0.04): While some players highly recommend the game, others suggest keeping hands off it if looking for an enjoyable co-op experience. Some also recommend playing other games like 'Carry the Glass' instead.
- Niche recommendations (weight 0.03): The game is recommended for specific situations, such as if you like sleeping on the sofa or have a lot of patience.

Other player notes:
No miscpoints

Emotions:
- Frustration (weight 0.43): Players experience frustration primarily due to multiplayer issues, including lag, disconnections, and poor online performance. Additionally, the game's high difficulty, lack of tutorials, and various bugs contribute to a tedious and punishing gameplay experience.
- Joy (weight 0.14): Players find joy in the game's beautiful and creative visuals, enjoyable music, and the fun of playing with friends or family. The cute penguin animations and humorous interactions also contribute to a positive and memorable experience.
- Disappointment (weight 0.13): Disappointment stems from the game's high difficulty, lack of multiplayer features, and various technical issues. Players also feel let down by the game's short length, lack of content, and persistent bugs that have not been addressed by developers.
- Anger (weight 0.06): Anger is mainly caused by multiplayer issues, including difficulties in joining lobbies, poor online functionality, and lack of developer response. Game crashes, bugs, and poorly designed mechanics also contribute to player anger.
- Amusement (weight 0.06): Players are amused by the funny interactions with friends and the cute NPCs. The game's unique mechanics and humorous moments, despite some frustrations, provide an entertaining experience.
- Enjoyment (weight 0.03): Enjoyment comes from playing with friends and experiencing the funny and challenging gameplay. The unique cooperative mechanics and interesting gameplay dynamics contribute to a fun and engaging experience.
- Excitement (weight 0.02): Excitement is generated by the challenge of playing with friends and overcoming difficult game mechanics. The game's ability to strengthen friendships and provide moments of triumph adds to the excitement.
- Satisfaction (weight 0.02): Satisfaction is derived from completing the game after much effort and overcoming its challenges. The good music, graphics, and gameplay also contribute to a satisfying experience.
- Happiness (weight 0.02): Happiness comes from enjoying the game with a partner and having fun co-op experiences. Celebrating special occasions, like birthdays, with friends also adds to the happiness.
- Stress (weight 0.01): The game's high difficulty and challenging gameplay can induce stress. The intense and punishing mechanics contribute to a stressful experience.
- Fun (weight 0.01): Fun is derived from the overall gameplay experience, especially when playing with friends. The game's unique mechanics and cooperative play make it enjoyable.
- Angry (weight 0.01): Players feel angry due to persistent bugs, desync issues, and non-functional codes. The game's poor performance in co-op mode also contributes to this anger.
- Nostalgia (weight 0.01): Nostalgia is evoked by playing with an ex-partner or reconnecting with old friends. The game's ability to bring back memories of past relationships and friendships contributes to this feeling.
- Sadness (weight 0.01): Sadness comes from the inability to play the anticipated game with a partner. The mention of not having friends to play with also contributes to this emotion.
- Boredom (weight 0.01): Boredom is caused by the gameplay not being enjoyable, especially when playing solo or with certain game mechanics like 'the stone'.
- Happy (weight 0.01): Happiness is derived from the game being a must-play for two people and its cute aesthetics. The enjoyable experience of playing with a partner contributes to this emotion.
- Entertainment (weight 0): The game is found to be entertaining due to its engaging gameplay and fun mechanics. Playing with friends enhances the entertainment value.}