Info about For The King II:

Official game description:
Roadmap
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About the Game
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Once beloved by her people, Queen Rosomon has turned against her subjects, casting them into servitude in the darkness of Fahrul’s mines whilst building alliances with sinister and malevolent forces.
Gather your party in four player co-op or adventure alone through Fahrul as you risk everything to fight the tyrannical queen and bring an end to her oppressive reign.
From the creators of For The King, the much-loved RPG that blends roguelite and tabletop gameplay comes a new chapter in Fahrul’s history, designed on an updated engine bringing innovation and gameplay refinement for returning heroes and new adventurers alike.
For The King II is easy for anyone to pick up and play, but takes skill, patience, and strategic excellence to master whilst remaining infinitely replayable with a procedurally generated map that ensures no two playthroughs will ever be the same. Unique yet familiar dice roll inspired movement, encounter and combat mechanics add even more spontaneity and variety as your fortunes rise and fall on the roll of the dice.
For The King II provides a complete campaign with over 30 hours of gameplay, split into 5 separate adventures, each narratively linked. The journey is long and the path is treacherous but fear not, if your party fails you will start stronger and wiser on your next playthrough with better starting items to draft into your loadout.
Roll up, roll up! Put your skills to the ultimate test with the infinite dungeon mode - Dark Carnival. Led by the devious Ringmaster, your goal is to conquer as many floors as possible before you meet your inevitable demise. Collect carnival tickets to explore new paths, discover a host of themed rooms and spin the Wheel of Death as you try to escape your fate. How far will you make it through the Dark Carnival?
Traverse Fahrul solo or with up-to three friends in four-player co-op. As a solo player you can control all characters in your party, giving you complete ownership of the campaign map and combat strategy whilst in four-player co-op you must coordinate and negotiate with your party members. Play online multiplayer with your friends controlling your own character(s) or play offline co-op on the same PC.
Inspired by turn-based classics, For The King II adds strategic depth to much-loved combat mechanics with the new Battle Grid, where movement and position provide you and your enemies with strategic buffs and penalties. Defend the back row by equipping a mighty Tower Shield, push enemies into lethal pools of burning fire, or entangle melee troops with dark magic cast with weapons looted from vanquished foes. The choice is yours!
Fahrul is both beautiful and deadly in equal measure. On your journey you will encounter a wealth of diverse biome environments brought to life in a breathtaking art style. From lush forests, toxic swamps and lava-filled wastelands to pirate (no scratch that!) Merling-infested tropical seas, For The King II transports you deep into the wonders of Fahrul, leading you further than ever before into this stunningly-imagined land of adventure.

Release date: Nov 2, 2023

Categories: Turn-based Tactical, Cooperative Multiplayer, Character Customization, Procedural Generation, Tabletop RPG, Roguelite, Grid-based Combat, Story-driven Gameplay

Feature scans:
- MTX: score 60; verdict: Aggressive Monetization; summary: The game offers a substantial amount of content and is well-received for its base game experience. However, there are mentions of additional paid content such as DLC and an item shop, which some users find valuable while others express concerns about pay-to-win mechanics. The overall sentiment suggests that while the game is enjoyable, there are monetization aspects that could be seen as aggressive or predatory.
- Wiki: score 50; verdict: Needs Improvement; summary: The primary user complaints revolve around the necessity to consult external resources (like wikis) to understand game mechanics and progress, as well as significant issues with the UI and lack of in-game explanations for various elements. These issues severely impact the user experience by making the game less enjoyable and more frustrating.
- Proton/Linux: score 20; verdict: Works Well; summary: For The King II generally receives positive feedback for its gameplay and style, resembling a board game with strategic and cooperative elements. However, there are some mentions of bugs and specific advice for Linux users, indicating minor compatibility issues that require slight adjustments.
- Steam Deck: score 60; verdict: Tinkering Required; summary: The Steam Deck experience is marred by significant issues related to controller support, bugs, optimization, visibility, installation, compatibility, and frequent crashes. These problems collectively lead to a frustrating user experience, requiring considerable tinkering and often resulting in unplayable conditions.

- Hardware Profile: No data
Feature extractions:
- Community Price:
  - Community fair range: $10.00 - $30.00
  - Reasoning: The evidence shows that users frequently mention the game is worth buying on sale, specifically around the $10 range. Some users also mention that they would be willing to pay up to $30 for the game, indicating that the fair price range likely falls between these two points. The sentiment suggests that while the game is valued, it is more commonly recommended at a discounted price rather than at full price.
- Playtime Metrics:
  - Game completion: 20.0h
  - Story completion: 6.0h
  - Session length: 1.0h
  - Endgame: N/A
  - Reasoning: The evidence provides insights into the playtime metrics for 'For The King II'. The first quote mentions the game having a single tale with linked scenarios, suggesting a cohesive campaign structure. The second quote indicates that sessions can be as short as 60 minutes, providing a sense of session length. The third quote highlights that a single adventure can take around 6 hours, which gives an idea of the time required for significant progress or completion. The fourth quote reinforces the structure of the game with a 5-chapter campaign, supporting the notion of a structured playtime for story completion.
- Time-to-fun:
  - Summary: The game is generally fun, especially in co-op mode with friends, but early progression can be hindered by repetitive grinding and mechanical complexities. Successful co-op sessions and tactical combat are key to enjoyment.
  - Stance: Fun then drops
  - Anchor: Successful co-op sessions and tactical combat
  - Time to anchor: 0h 30m
  - Friction: Lack of inventory carryover; Repetitive grinding; Mechanical complexities; Camera rotation issues
  - Unlock drivers: Playing with friends; Engaging in tactical combat
  - Conditions: Co-op mode; Tactical combat; Playing with friends; Humor and story elements
- Player Archetypes:
  - Nostalgic Veteran (sale)
    - Motivation: Seeking a challenging and rewarding experience similar to the first game.
    - Playstyle: Strategic and experienced, often comparing gameplay mechanics to the original game.
    - Experience: veteran
    - Purchase stance: sale
    - Labels: veteran player; fan of the first game
    - Reference games: For the King
  - Social Co-op Enthusiast (buy)
    - Motivation: Enjoying the game with friends and experiencing the humorous and social aspects of multiplayer.
    - Playstyle: Cooperative and social, focusing on the fun and interactive elements of multiplayer.
    - Experience: mixed
    - Purchase stance: buy
    - Labels: co-op player; social gamer
    - Reference games: For the King; Baldur's Gate 3; Divinity: Original Sin
  - Solo Struggler (deep sale)
    - Motivation: Seeking a manageable and enjoyable solo experience.
    - Playstyle: Solo and often struggling with the game's mechanics and difficulty.
    - Experience: newcomer
    - Purchase stance: deep sale
    - Labels: new player; solo player
    - Reference games: For the King; Darkest Dungeon


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:
- Improvements over the first game (weight 0.31): The game has made significant improvements over its predecessor, including better story, characters, and gameplay mechanics. It is considered a good upgrade and a successful sequel.
- Enhanced combat and strategy (weight 0.28): Combat requires more planning and strategy, with the addition of secondary actions adding depth. The turn-based mechanics and tactical grid-based combat system are well-received.
- Fun and engaging gameplay (weight 0.24): The game offers enjoyable and addictive gameplay mechanics, with a focus on fun both in solo and group play. Players appreciate the engaging combat system and the replayability factor.
- Great multiplayer experience (weight 0.22): The game excels in multiplayer, providing an excellent cooperative experience that is enjoyable with friends. Many players find playing with friends to be the best part of the game.
- Interesting and enjoyable aspects (weight 0.11): The game is described as interesting and enjoyable, with a variety of items and challenges that make it a nice and chill experience.
- Beautiful art style and graphics (weight 0.1): The game features a beautiful art style and improved graphics, along with great visuals and music. The artwork and visual style are highly appreciated by players.
- Quality of life updates (weight 0.09): The game has received frequent updates and quality of life improvements, including UI changes and meaningful enhancements that improve the overall experience.
- High replay value (weight 0.08): The game offers lots of replay value, with variety in gameplay and enjoyment in both solo and multiplayer modes, renewing the desire to play.
- Balanced difficulty (weight 0.08): The game features a balanced and adjustable difficulty curve, providing a fair and challenging experience for players.

Common complaints:
- Poor UI/UX design (weight 0.35): The game's interface is widely criticized for being clunky, buggy, and unintuitive. Players report issues with menus, controls, and overall design choices.
- Frequent bugs and errors (weight 0.28): The game is plagued with various bugs, including UI bugs, performance issues, and network errors. These bugs significantly impact the gaming experience.
- Game balance issues (weight 0.15): Players have noted significant balance issues, particularly with character classes and builds. Some classes are overpowered while others feel underwhelming.
- High difficulty and steep learning curve (weight 0.15): Players find the game excessively difficult with a steep learning curve. The difficulty scaling and enemy strength are often cited as issues.
- Repetitive and shallow gameplay (weight 0.09): The gameplay experience is often described as repetitive and lacking depth. Missions and overall gameplay mechanics feel monotonous.
- Inconsistent game pacing (weight 0.06): The game's pace is criticized for being either too slow or too fast, affecting the overall enjoyment and flow of the gameplay.
- Poor character progression mechanics (weight 0.05): Character growth and progression mechanics are seen as weak and poorly implemented, leading to a lack of engagement.
- Lack of information on abilities and items (weight 0.05): Players report a lack of clear information and explanations regarding abilities, items, and key mechanics, making it difficult to understand and enjoy the game.
- Unengaging and confusing storyline (weight 0.05): The game's story is criticized for being confusing and not engaging, detracting from the overall experience.
- Luck-based progression system (weight 0.05): The progression system is seen as overly reliant on luck, leading to frustration among players.
- Frequent loading screens (weight 0.04): Players report that loading screens occur too frequently, disrupting the flow of the game.
- Inconsistent save system (weight 0.04): The save system is criticized for being inconsistent and prone to bugs, including issues with save deletion.
- Needs more free content (weight 0.04): Players feel that the game lacks sufficient free content and better campaigns, leading to a less satisfying experience.

Gameplay feedback:
- Turn-based tactical combat (weight 0.19): The game features turn-based gameplay with unique mechanics, offering a slow-paced and tactical combat experience.
- Co-op and multiplayer modes (weight 0.18): The game offers a variety of cooperative gameplay options, including local multiplayer and a 4-player co-op mode, as well as solo gameplay.
- Diverse character classes (weight 0.12): The game introduces new classes and meta-classes, providing a variety of character-based mechanics and diversity.
- Improved story and characters (weight 0.09): The game features an improved story and character design, enhancing the overall narrative experience.
- Loot and equipment system (weight 0.08): A comprehensive loot and equipment system is in place, allowing for character customization and progression.
- Four-person party size (weight 0.08): Players can form a party of up to four characters, enhancing the cooperative and strategic gameplay.
- Chapter-based campaign structure (weight 0.08): The game features a campaign structure divided into chapters, offering flexibility and variety in gameplay.
- Primary and secondary combat actions (weight 0.08): Combat includes primary and secondary actions, such as moving, changing weapons, and using grenades, adding depth to the gameplay.
- Character progression and unlocking (weight 0.07): Characters can be unlocked and customized, with progression systems in place to enhance gameplay.
- Tabletop and boardgame-like experience (weight 0.07): The game offers a tabletop and boardgame-like experience, blending RPG and strategy elements.
- Random hit chances in combat (weight 0.06): Combat includes a random hit chance mechanic, adding an element of unpredictability to battles.
- New mechanics and items (weight 0.05): The game introduces new mechanics and items, adding fresh elements to the gameplay.
- Procedural map generation (weight 0.05): Maps are procedurally generated, providing varied and unique gameplay environments.
- Item variety and build diversity (weight 0.05): A wide variety of items are available, allowing for diverse character builds and customization.

Performance notes:
- Performance and stability issues (weight 0.24): The game suffers from frequent crashes, stuttering, and freezing, which significantly impact the gameplay experience. Many players report unstable performance and optimization issues across various hardware configurations.
- Network and connectivity problems (weight 0.14): Players experience frequent disconnections and network errors that prevent online gameplay. Issues with server creation and multiplayer crashes are also commonly reported.
- Graphical and interface bugs (weight 0.09): There are numerous reports of graphical bugs and interface issues, particularly on platforms like the Steam Deck. Players also mention initial glitching graphics and UI problems.
- Game-breaking bugs (weight 0.08): Several players have encountered game-breaking bugs that hinder gameplay. These bugs are frequent and impact various aspects of the game, including online functionality.
- Positive performance feedback (weight 0.05): Some players report good performance options and improvements in optimization. There are also mentions of fixed technical issues in recent updates.
- Controller support issues (weight 0.02): There are reports of issues with controller support, which affect the gameplay experience for some players.

Recommendations:
- Recommended for fans of the first game (weight 0.15): This point summarizes the general consensus that the game is highly recommended for those who enjoyed the first installment of For The King.
- Best played in co-op (weight 0.11): Several reviews emphasize that the game is more enjoyable and recommended when played in cooperative mode with friends.
- Consider playing the first game (weight 0.1): Some reviews suggest that players should consider playing the first game instead or before playing this one.
- Worth the price (weight 0.08): Many reviews indicate that the game is worth its price, especially for fans of cooperative RPG and turn-based strategy games.
- Mixed recommendations (weight 0.08): Some reviews have mixed feelings, recommending the game despite its issues or not recommending it at all.
- Recommended for specific genres (weight 0.08): The game is recommended for fans of specific genres such as DnD, casual strategy, roleplay, and structured yet free gameplay.
- Gameplay tips and strategies (weight 0.08): Various tips and strategies are provided, such as always buying Mercs, cranking up evasion, equipping a pipe, and meta-gaming stats.
- Recommended for turn-based strategy fans (weight 0.07): The game is suggested for players who enjoy turn-based combat and strategy games with a board game feel.
- Recommendations for specific player types (weight 0.07): The game is recommended for first-time players with sufficient funds, patient and optimistic players, and those who enjoy the genre and have time and dedication.
- Buy during sale (weight 0.05): A few reviews recommend purchasing the game during a sale to get better value.
- Suggested improvements (weight 0.03): Suggestions for improvements include adding back click and drag for better streaming to mobile or touch devices and releasing a mobile version.
- Recommended modes (weight 0.03): Specific modes such as 'night market' and 'Dark Carnival' are recommended by some reviews.

Other player notes:
- Personal story about mimic (weight 0.02): A player shared a personal story involving a pet mimic.

Emotions:
- Frustration (weight 0.29): Players are frustrated primarily due to a myriad of balance issues, including class and weapon imbalances, as well as hidden objectives and loot balance problems. Additionally, poor UI design, performance issues, and various bugs contribute significantly to this frustration. The game's difficulty and lack of guidance, along with unpredictable punishment and random mechanics, further exacerbate the players' negative experiences.
- Enjoyment (weight 0.2): Players enjoy the game mainly due to its fun and engaging gameplay, particularly when playing with friends. The multiplayer and story elements, along with the cooperative gameplay experience, are highly appreciated. The game's strategic depth, addictive mechanics, and improvements over the first game also contribute to the overall enjoyment.
- Disappointment (weight 0.11): Players feel disappointed due to the repetitive gameplay and lack of innovation compared to the previous version. The game's high difficulty, minimal character differences, and unmet expectations contribute to this sentiment. Additionally, the lack of meaningful changes and the perception that the game did not live up to its potential further add to the disappointment.
- Satisfaction (weight 0.08): Players are satisfied with the improvements and new content introduced in the game. The positive cooperative gameplay experience, along with the game's mechanics and focus system, are particularly appreciated. The developers' efforts in addressing issues and making improvements have also contributed to the players' satisfaction.
- Joy (weight 0.06): Players experience joy mainly from playing with friends and enjoying the game's improvements and additions. The charming graphics, enjoyable gameplay, and positive comparisons to the first game contribute to this feeling. The fun and engaging gameplay, along with the variety of gameplay elements, further enhance the players' joy.
- Positive (weight 0.04): Players have positive feelings due to the enjoyment of the game, especially when playing with friends. The quality of life upgrades, new movement system, and the game's challenges contribute to this positivity. The game's ability to provide laughs and its depth in character roles are also appreciated.
- Happy (weight 0.03): Players are happy with the game's enjoyable gameplay experience, particularly when playing with friends. The unique enemies and the overall positive gameplay experience contribute to this happiness. Despite some unbalanced gameplay, players still find the game enjoyable.
- Excitement (weight 0.03): Players are excited about the new characters, encounters, and items introduced in the game. The fun multiplayer experience and the engaging gameplay with new content contribute to this excitement. The positive feedback on new characters, items, and upgrades further enhances the players' excitement.
- Anger (weight 0.02): Players are angry due to technical issues and game-breaking bugs that severely impact the gameplay experience. The risky events with severe penalties and the save deletion bug contribute significantly to this anger. The perception that the game remains poor despite updates further exacerbates the players' frustration.
- Enthusiasm (weight 0.02): Players are enthusiastic about the positive experiences with the game's improvements and features. The positive feedback on gameplay and content, including combat, classes, and co-op management, contributes to this enthusiasm. The game's overall positive aspects and the reviewer's recommendation to fans of the genre further enhance this sentiment.
- Frustrated (weight 0.02): Players are frustrated due to game balance issues and difficulty with multiplayer. Technical issues and bugs, along with unbalanced gameplay mechanics, contribute to this frustration. The loss of pets when hiring mercenaries and frequent ambushes further add to the players' negative experiences.
- Excited (weight 0.01): Players are excited about the improved mechanics and content in the game. The great character classes and the loot/equipment system contribute to this excitement. The enjoyable gameplay experience further enhances the players' excitement.
- Disappointed (weight 0.01): Players are disappointed with the removal of certain features and the perception that the second game is worse than the first. The technical issues and bugs, along with the less content and charging for DLC, contribute to this disappointment. The unmet expectations and the lack of significant improvements further add to the players' negative sentiments.
- Hope (weight 0.01): Players have hope due to the potential seen in the game and the expectation that the developers will fix the issues soon. The game improvements and potential for future updates contribute to this hope. The positive changes and updates in the game further enhance the players' hopeful outlook.
- Appreciation (weight 0.01): Players appreciate the content sharing system and game innovations. The developers' efforts and community engagement are highly valued. The positive changes and updates in the game further contribute to the players' appreciation.
- Nostalgia (weight 0): Players feel nostalgic due to positive memories of specific gaming experiences and enjoyable memories with friends. The game's ability to evoke these memories contributes to this sentiment. The shared experiences and the game's ability to bring back fond memories further enhance the players' nostalgia.
- Sadness (weight 0): Players feel sadness due to the loss of pets and emotional attachments to in-game characters. The emotional impact of losing a pet mimic and the subsequent feelings of sadness contribute to this sentiment. The game's ability to evoke strong emotional responses further enhances the players' sadness.}