Info about The Elder Scrolls II: Daggerfall:

Official game description:
The ancient golem Numidium, a powerful weapon once used by the great Tiber Septim to unify Tamriel, has been found in Iliac Bay. In the power struggle that follows, the King of Daggerfall is murdered and his spirit haunts the kingdom. The Emperor Uriel Septim VII sends his champion to the province of High Rock to put the king’s spirit to rest and ensure that the golem does not fall into the wrong hands.

Release date: Apr 26, 2022

Categories: Open-World Exploration, Character Customization, Procedural Generation, RPG, Guild Management, Magic System, Non-linear Narrative, First-Person Perspective

Feature scans:
- Mods: score 30; verdict: Moderate Reliance on Community Fixes; summary: The analysis of user feedback indicates that while many users recommend various mods for graphical enhancements, gameplay modernization, and quality of life improvements, there is no widespread consensus on the game being unplayable without these mods. The most significant reliance is on Daggerfall Unity, which is seen as a major upgrade that fixes many issues and enables further modding.
- Wiki: score 50; verdict: Needs Improvement; summary: The user feedback highlights significant issues with bugs and technical problems, a steep learning curve, and a heavy reliance on external resources like wikis and guides. These factors contribute to a challenging and often frustrating user experience.
- Steam Deck: score 50; verdict: Tinkering Required; summary: The analysis of user feedback for the Steam Deck experience reveals several key themes. Control issues are a significant concern, with many users finding the controls outdated and difficult to use. Graphics quality is also a notable issue, as the visuals are considered outdated even for the time of the game's release. On a positive note, the game is reported to work well with the Unity conversion and supports mods, which enhances flexibility and ease of play. However, the need to install additional software like Unity to improve controls adds an extra step that users must take. Overall, while there are some positive aspects, the control and graphics issues present notable barriers to a seamless gaming experience.

- Hardware Profile: No data
Feature extractions:
- Community Price:
  - Community fair range: $10.00 - $20.00
  - Reasoning: The evidence suggests that users find the game worth their time and money, indicating a positive sentiment towards the game's value. However, there are no specific price mentions, so the reasoning is based on the general sentiment of the game being worth it.
- Playtime Metrics:
  - Game completion: 100.0h
  - Story completion: 40.0h
  - Session length: 3.0h
  - Endgame: N/A
  - Reasoning: The evidence provided gives us some insight into the playtime metrics for The Elder Scrolls II: Daggerfall. The first quote suggests that players can spend a significant amount of time on side activities, indicating a high potential for total playtime. The second quote highlights the main quest's complexity and the time investment required to complete it. The third and fourth quotes emphasize the extensive time players have spent on the game, particularly with the Unity version, which suggests high replayability and long-term engagement.
- Time-to-fun:
  - Summary: The game initially hooks players but becomes tedious due to its complexity and repetitive tasks. Fun starts after overcoming the steep learning curve and initial tutorial dungeon.
  - Stance: Fun after initial struggle
  - Anchor: Completing the tutorial dungeon and overcoming the learning curve.
  - Time to anchor: 3h 0m
  - Friction: Complex controls and UI; Repetitive quests; Overwhelming amount of content; Steep learning curve
  - Unlock drivers: Character progression; Exploration and sandbox freedom; Joining guilds and completing guild quests
  - Conditions: Patience to overcome initial complexity; Willingness to explore and experiment; Use of mods for improved gameplay; Playing with adjusted settings for better immersion
- Player Archetypes:
  - Hardcore RPG Enthusiast (buy)
    - Motivation: Mastery of complex game mechanics and immersive roleplaying.
    - Playstyle: Deep exploration, character customization, and engaging with complex game systems.
    - Experience: veteran
    - Purchase stance: buy
    - Labels: Hardcore RPG fan; Elder Scrolls veteran
    - Reference games: The Elder Scrolls series; Other classic CRPGs
  - Elder Scrolls Historian (sale)
    - Motivation: Exploring the roots and evolution of the Elder Scrolls series.
    - Playstyle: Exploratory, with a focus on understanding the lore and history of the game world.
    - Experience: familiar
    - Purchase stance: sale
    - Labels: Elder Scrolls fan; Lore enthusiast
    - Reference games: The Elder Scrolls III: Morrowind; The Elder Scrolls V: Skyrim
  - Retro Gaming Nostalgic (deep sale)
    - Motivation: Nostalgia and appreciation for classic gaming experiences.
    - Playstyle: Adaptive, focusing on the enjoyment of retro mechanics and aesthetics.
    - Experience: mixed
    - Purchase stance: deep sale
    - Labels: Retro gamer; Old-school enthusiast
    - Reference games: Classic CRPGs; Early Elder Scrolls games


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:
- Daggerfall Unity enhances experience (weight 0.54): Daggerfall Unity is frequently praised for modernizing the game, providing stability, mod support, and quality-of-life improvements. It is highly recommended for both new and experienced players.
- Engaging and fun gameplay (weight 0.32): The gameplay is described as rewarding, engaging, and fun. Players enjoy the game's design, soundtrack, and replay value.
- Massive open world (weight 0.29): The game features an enormous open world with vast wilderness, procedurally generated cities, and dungeons, offering players total freedom and immersion.
- Highly regarded RPG (weight 0.25): The game is often cited as one of the best RPGs ever created, offering a traditional and in-depth role-playing experience.
- Deep character customization (weight 0.24): The game offers a detailed and in-depth character creation system, allowing for a wide array of customizable character appearances and classes.
- Strong modding community (weight 0.18): The game has a rich modding scene with many great mods that enhance graphics, add new features, and improve the overall experience.
- Impressive for its time (weight 0.17): The game is considered impressive and advanced for its time, with ambitious and unique gameplay mechanics that paved the way for modern RPGs.
- Interesting plot and characters (weight 0.09): The game features an interesting and well-written story with unique characters, adding depth to the gameplay experience.
- Still playable and enjoyable (weight 0.07): Despite its age, the game is still considered playable and quite good, making it a great introduction to older games.
- Custom spell creation (weight 0.07): The game allows for true spell customization, enabling players to craft their own spells and fully customize their magic abilities.

Common complaints:
- Controls are difficult and dated (weight 0.31): Many players find the controls hard to learn, unconventional, and clunky. The control scheme is often described as difficult to master and frustrating, which can make the game challenging to play.
- Dungeons are frustrating and tedious (weight 0.28): Dungeons are frequently criticized for being confusing, repetitive, and unnecessarily long. Players find them tedious and disorienting, which can lead to frustration.
- Original game is clunky and buggy (weight 0.17): The original version of the game is often described as clunky, janky, and buggy. Players report that it feels broken and poorly optimized without external patches.
- Quests are repetitive and boring (weight 0.13): Quests and side quests are often described as monotonous, dull, and repetitive. This can make the gameplay feel tedious and unengaging.
- Game is frustrating and unforgiving (weight 0.13): The gameplay is described as challenging, unforgiving, and frustrating. Players find it difficult and not very forgiving.
- DOSBox version is criticized (weight 0.12): Players criticize the DOSBox version for being buggy and poorly optimized. It is often considered worse than other versions of the game.
- Steam version is broken and unpatched (weight 0.1): The Steam version is criticized for being broken, unpatched, and buggy. Players report that it looks worse and is less stable than other versions.
- Combat lacks feedback and feels disconnected (weight 0.1): The combat system is criticized for feeling unresponsive, rough, and lacking feedback. Players find it confusing and overly simple.
- Graphics are dated (weight 0.09): The graphics are often described as outdated and dated. This can make the game feel visually unappealing.
- Some quests are bugged and unfinishable (weight 0.08): Players report that some quests can be bugged and unfinishable due to random generation issues. This can lead to frustration and an inability to complete the game.
- Main quest is convoluted (weight 0.07): The main quest is often criticized for being confusing and poorly designed. Players find it uninteresting and flawed.
- Interface is clunky and uncomfortable (weight 0.07): The interface is often described as clunky, complicated, and uncomfortable. This can make the game difficult to navigate and play.
- Quest items are hard to find (weight 0.06): Players find it tedious and frustrating to locate quest items and NPCs. This can make the quests feel more difficult and less enjoyable.
- Game can soft-lock (weight 0.06): Players report that the game can soft-lock in certain rooms, making it unplayable and requiring a restart.
- Game mechanics are outdated (weight 0.06): The game mechanics, including NPC dialogue, are often described as outdated. This can make the game feel less enjoyable and more difficult to play.
- Translation difficulties (weight 0.05): Players report difficulties with translations, including language barriers and technical issues with certain translations.

Gameplay feedback:
- Open-world gameplay (weight 0.33): The game offers a vast open world with freedom to explore and interact with various elements. The world is described as massive and immersive.
- Extensive character customization (weight 0.3): Players can customize their characters in great detail, including choosing race, class, stats, skills, and special strengths/weaknesses. This deep customization affects gameplay significantly.
- Complex and varied dungeons (weight 0.26): The game features large, maze-like dungeons that are procedurally generated, offering a variety of challenges and complex layouts. Players appreciate the intricate designs and the unpredictability of these dungeons.
- Quest variety and complexity (weight 0.19): The game offers a variety of quests, including time-sensitive quests and complex plotlines. However, some quests can be repetitive or templated.
- Procedurally generated content (weight 0.19): The game includes procedurally generated quests, dungeons, towns, and a large world. This feature enhances replayability and exploration.
- NPC interactions and reputation (weight 0.14): The game features interactive NPCs and a reputation system that affects how NPCs interact with the player. This adds depth to the gameplay and player choices.
- In-depth character creation (weight 0.13): The character creation system is highly detailed and affects gameplay significantly. Players can tinker with various stats, skills, and special attributes.
- Guild and faction systems (weight 0.13): Players can join various guilds and factions, which offer different benefits and interactions. This system adds a layer of complexity and engagement to the game.
- Mod support and community (weight 0.12): The game supports modding, allowing players to enhance and customize their gameplay experience. This includes projects like Daggerfall Unity.
- Spellcasting and magic systems (weight 0.1): The game features a detailed spellcasting system, allowing players to create and customize their own spells. This adds depth to the magic-based gameplay.
- High difficulty and challenge (weight 0.1): The game is known for its high difficulty level, offering a challenging experience for players. This includes complex dungeon mechanics and tough enemies.
- Complex political intrigues (weight 0.04): The game includes a political plot with multiple twists and intrigues, adding depth to the storyline and player engagement.

Performance notes:
- Daggerfall Unity improves performance (weight 0.2): Daggerfall Unity enhances the game's performance, making it run smoothly on modern systems and devices. It is often recommended for better gameplay experience and stability.
- Frequent crashes and bugs (weight 0.17): The game is reported to crash often and contains numerous bugs, affecting gameplay stability. These issues are prevalent in both the original and Unity versions.
- Original version is unstable (weight 0.13): The original DOS version of the game is noted for its instability and numerous bugs, making it difficult to play without issues.
- Outdated and problematic graphics (weight 0.12): The game's graphics are considered outdated and of low quality, which can detract from the overall experience. Some reviews mention that the graphics can be visually unappealing.
- Game may not launch (weight 0.04): Some users report issues with the game not launching at all, which can be a significant barrier to playing.
- Long load times (weight 0.02): The game suffers from long load times, which can be frustrating for players and disrupt the gaming experience.
- FPS drops on powerful PCs (weight 0.02): Despite running on powerful PCs, the game experiences FPS drops, which can affect gameplay smoothness and performance.
- Clipping through walls and stairs (weight 0.02): There are issues with clipping through walls and stairs, which can break immersion and cause gameplay problems.
- Audio issues reported (weight 0.02): Some users have reported specific audio issues, such as problems with screaming sounds, which can affect the overall experience.
- Black screen issue (weight 0.02): A black screen issue has been mentioned, along with potential fixes, indicating a specific but notable bug in the game.

Recommendations:
- Daggerfall Unity recommended (weight 0.7): Many players recommend using Daggerfall Unity for a better and more stable experience, often suggesting specific mods to enhance gameplay. This version is praised for its modern controls, quality-of-life improvements, and mod support.
- Mods enhance experience (weight 0.23): Players suggest using various mods to improve the gaming experience, including specific mods like DREAM, Enhanced Sky, and others. Mods are recommended for better graphics, immersion, and overall gameplay.
- Game recommended despite flaws (weight 0.15): Many players recommend the game for its rich and immersive experience, despite some flaws. It is often suggested to try the game for its historical value and unique gameplay.
- Recommended for hardcore fans (weight 0.14): The game is highly recommended for hardcore classic CRPG fans and those who enjoy old-school RPGs. It is suggested for players who appreciate the Elder Scrolls series and retro gaming.
- Specific gameplay tips (weight 0.14): Various gameplay tips are provided, such as rebinding controls, avoiding certain enemies, and using console commands. These tips aim to improve the gameplay experience and help players navigate the game more effectively.
- Installation and setup advice (weight 0.12): Players offer advice on installing and setting up the game, including using specific patches and versions for a better experience. This includes recommendations for using DOSBox and other tools.
- Use guides and manuals (weight 0.11): Players advise referring to the manual or online guides for tutorials and tips, especially for character creation and gameplay mechanics. This helps avoid getting lost and enhances the overall experience.
- Requests for remakes and updates (weight 0.03): There are requests and suggestions for a remake or remaster of the game, indicating a desire for updated graphics and gameplay mechanics.

Other player notes:
- Fraudulent credit issues (weight 0.03): There are mentions of credit fraud associated with the game, which could be a significant concern for potential buyers.
- Modify default controls (weight 0.03): Players recommend changing the default control configuration, particularly for adjusting the mouse settings to 'view' for better gameplay.
- Language requirement for players (weight 0.03): Players emphasize the necessity of speaking English to fully understand and enjoy the game.
- Scaling or flying over walls (weight 0.03): A tip provided by players about scaling or flying over city walls at night, likely as a strategy or exploit.
- Use fast travel (weight 0.03): Suggestion to use player-controlled fast travel, which can enhance the gaming experience by reducing travel time.
- Patience needed for reading (weight 0.02): The game requires players to be patient readers, suggesting a significant amount of text or complex instructions.
- Play in retro mode (weight 0.02): Recommendation to play the game in 4:3 retro mode for an authentic or improved experience.

Emotions:
- Frustration (weight 0.43): Players are frustrated with the game's complex and confusing dungeons, difficult controls, and numerous bugs. The steep learning curve, harsh penalties, and lack of clear instructions or explanations for game mechanics also contribute to this frustration.
- Nostalgia (weight 0.21): Players feel nostalgic due to the game's historical significance and their personal memories associated with it. The classic RPG experience, retro visuals, and the depth of the game's role-playing system evoke a sense of nostalgia for the past.
- Enthusiasm (weight 0.08): Players are enthusiastic about the game's complexity, narrative, and the positive experiences offered by mods like Daggerfall Unity. The immersive dungeons, detailed advice for improving gameplay, and the game's mechanics and story contribute to this enthusiasm.
- Excitement (weight 0.08): Players are excited about the game's massive world, freedom to explore, and the depth of its gameplay. The game's complexity, immersion, and the possibilities offered by mods also contribute to this excitement.
- Disappointment (weight 0.07): Players are disappointed with the game's technical issues, poor combat mechanics, and the unfinished feeling of the game. The presence of bugs, outdated gameplay mechanics, and the lack of certain language supports also contribute to this disappointment.
- Appreciation (weight 0.06): Players appreciate the game's depth, scale, and the freedom it offers. The robust character customization, innovative features, and the active modding community are also highly valued.
- Admiration (weight 0.06): Players admire the game's ambitious scope, depth, and the unique experience it provides. The complex gameplay mechanics, impressive world size, and the game's atmosphere and soundtrack are also sources of admiration.
- Satisfaction (weight 0.06): Players are satisfied with the game's deep character customization, rewarding gameplay, and the positive experiences with the Unity version. The engaging story, spell crafting, and quests also contribute to this satisfaction.
- Enjoyment (weight 0.06): Players enjoy the game's worldbuilding, classic RPG systems, and the overall unique gameplay experience. The fun gameplay, music, and the endless possibilities and variations of quests are also sources of enjoyment.
- Amusement (weight 0.03): Players find amusement in the game's humorous quirks, unique gameplay events, and the funny experiences such as getting arrested or banished for unusual reasons.
- Hope (weight 0.02): Players hope that using Daggerfall Unity and mods will improve the gaming experience. They also hope that the franchise will continue to improve and that patching the Steam version will enhance the gameplay.
- Confusion (weight 0.02): Players are confused by the game's unclear mechanics, lack of control information, and the strange story elements. The difficulty in understanding certain aspects of the game without external help also contributes to this confusion.
- Anger (weight 0.02): Players are angry due to the game's design issues, difficulty, and poorly designed combat mechanics. The frustration with game controls and mechanics also contributes to this anger.
- Nostalgic (weight 0.01): Players feel nostalgic about the game's character creator, open world, and the lack of modern censorship. The game's historical value and classic status also evoke a sense of nostalgia.
- Surprise (weight 0.01): Players are surprised by the game's quality and immersiveness despite its age. The challenging tutorial area and the overall fun experience also contribute to this surprise.
- Joy (weight 0.01): Players find joy in the game's atmosphere, music, and aesthetics. The soothing and enjoyable gameplay experience, along with the game being a favorite, contributes to this joy.
- Appreciative (weight 0.01): Players appreciate the game's improvements in the map system, dungeon layouts, and reputation system. The music, gameplay speed, sound effects, and the game's pioneering mechanics are also sources of appreciation.
- Enthusiastic (weight 0.01): Players are enthusiastic about the game's replayability, support for different play styles, and beautiful atmospheres and environments. The strong recommendations for Daggerfall Unity with mods and the extensive playtime also contribute to this enthusiasm.
- Boredom (weight 0.01): Players feel bored due to the endless dungeons and the overall boring gameplay experience.
- Addiction (weight 0.01): Players find the gameplay enjoyable and highly addictive, comparing it to 'white powder' to emphasize its addictive nature.}