Info about Batman™: Arkham Origins:

Official game description:
As of December 4, 2016, the online services portion of Batman: Arkham Origins has been retired. We thank those that have joined us to battle. The Single player campaign may still be played and enjoyed offline. For any questions relating to Batman: Arkham Origins, please contact WB Games customer service.
Batman™: Arkham Origins is the next installment in the blockbuster Batman: Arkham videogame franchise. Developed by WB Games Montréal, the game features an expanded Gotham City and introduces an original prequel storyline set several years before the events of Batman: Arkham Asylum and Batman: Arkham City, the first two critically acclaimed games of the franchise. Taking place before the rise of Gotham City’s most dangerous criminals, the game showcases a young and unrefined Batman as he faces a defining moment in his early career as a crime fighter that sets his path to becoming the Dark Knight.
Key Features:
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*   The Arkham Story Begins: Batman: Arkham Origins features a pivotal tale set on Christmas Eve where Batman is hunted by eight of the deadliest assassins from the DC Comics Universe. Players become an early-career Batman as he encounters for the first time many of the characters that shape his future.
*   Enhanced Detective Mode: Think like Batman with an all-new Case File system that allows players to analyze seemingly impossible-to-solve crime reconstructions in real time. Combining Batman’s cowl sensors with the Batcomputer, players can digitally recreate crimes and study detailed simulation of the act as it happened.
*   Gotham City will learn to fear Batman: Take back the sprawling streets of Gotham years before its transformation into Arkham City. Glide above or battle your way through new and ever more dangerous districts in the quest for justice. Prevent crimes in progress, take down gangs of violent new criminals and explore deadly new locations, from the impoverished streets to the penthouses of Gotham’s wealthy.
*   Gotham’s Most Wanted: The city streets are filled with more than just Black Mask’s assassins. Locate and take down Gotham’s most violent and dangerous criminals to earn unique upgrades.
*   Lethal New Enemies: Fight new foes such as the Armored Enforcer, the Martial Artist and more – each of which challenge players to approach Batman’s FreeFlow Combat scenarios in different ways. Classic FreeFlow combat is expanded with every new opponent – and with Batman’s abilities to engage them.
*   New Gadgets: Utilize Batman’s signature gadgets or take advantage of powerful new additions such as the Remote Claw, the Concussion Detonator and more. Use the Remote Claw to create new routes by deploying strategic tightropes or directly attack enemies by stringing them up from vantage points. Ready the Concussion Detonator to stun and disorient groups of opponents in close combat.
*   New and Familiar Characters: Experience a fresh take on iconic Batman characters including Black Mask, Penguin, Deathstroke, Bane, Deadshot, Anarky, Captain Gordon, The Joker, Copperhead, Firefly and others yet to be revealed.

Release date: Oct 24, 2013

Categories: Action-Adventure, Open-World Exploration, Stealth Gameplay, Character Progression, Gadget-based Gameplay, Combat, Story-driven Gameplay

Feature scans:
- MTX: score 20; verdict: Mixed DLC Value; summary: The reviews for Batman: Arkham Origins and its DLCs present a mixed picture. While the Mr. Freeze DLC is highly recommended and considered worth the purchase, especially when on sale, there are concerns about the necessity of buying DLCs to fully enjoy the game or achieve 100% completion. Some reviews indicate that the base game might feel incomplete without additional purchases. Additionally, there are mentions of difficulties in obtaining DLCs due to store shutdowns and mixed feelings on the pricing and value of the DLCs. Overall, the sentiment leans towards the DLCs being a worthwhile investment when purchased at a discount, but there are criticisms about the quality and content of some DLCs.
- Mods: score 20; verdict: Vanilla Ready; summary: The analysis of user feedback indicates that while the Arkham Origins Community Patch is frequently recommended for a smoother experience, there is no widespread consensus on specific game-breaking bugs that necessitate the patch. Many users mention preferences for various mods to enhance gameplay, but these are not critical to the game's functionality. The overall sentiment suggests that the game is playable without mods, but some users prefer the enhanced experience provided by community fixes and mods.
- Wiki: score 10; verdict: Needs Improvement; summary: The analysis of user feedback reveals significant issues related to inventory management, game progression, and technical performance. Users are particularly frustrated with the UI and inventory system, often needing external walkthroughs to progress, and experiencing FPS drops that disrupt gameplay. These issues highlight the need for improved in-game data presentation, better hints and guidance, and technical optimizations.
- Proton/Linux: score 20; verdict: Works Well; summary: Batman: Arkham Origins has a generally positive experience on Linux and Steam Deck, with most users reporting that the game works well with Proton. Some minor bugs and performance issues are noted, but overall, the game is playable with minimal tweaks.
- Steam Deck: score 50; verdict: Tinkering Required; summary: The analysis of user feedback for 'Batman: Arkham Origins' on Steam Deck reveals several key issues. Frequent crashes and bugs are the most significant problems, severely impacting gameplay. Stability issues, including crashes and lag, are also prevalent. Many users noted that the game requires 'Proton Experimental' to run smoothly, indicating a need for tinkering. Additionally, there are reports of low-resolution textures and audio problems. Despite these issues, some users had a positive experience, finding the game to run flawlessly with the right settings.

- Hardware Profile:
  - Summary: The game generally runs well on systems with less than 8GB VRAM, despite some minor issues reported.
  - Sample size: 49 (1% coverage)
  - Audience skew: Review sample is mostly Windows-based.
  - Windows <8GB VRAM (positive, 32 reports): The game runs smoothly with minor issues such as screen freezes in graphics settings.
  - Caveats: 49 of 7286 reviews expose hardware metadata.; Review sample is mostly Windows-based.
Feature extractions:
- Community Price:
  - Community fair range: $5.00 - $20.00
  - Reasoning: The evidence suggests that while the game is considered worth buying, it is often recommended to purchase it during a sale. Many users mention that the game is frequently on sale for prices significantly lower than the full price, often around $5 to $20. This indicates that the community generally finds the game to be fairly priced within this range, especially when discounted.
- Playtime Metrics:
  - Game completion: 20.0h
  - Story completion: 12.0h
  - Session length: 2.0h
  - Endgame: N/A
  - Reasoning: The evidence provides several direct and indirect references to playtime. The first quote mentions spending the majority of the game without a specific move, implying a significant amount of playtime. The second quote humorously suggests that intros take a long time, indirectly indicating that the game itself is lengthy. The third quote discusses spending over 5 hours on a specific achievement, suggesting a substantial time investment. The fourth quote mentions that the game can stand next to the original Batman Arkham series, implying it has a comparable playtime to those games, which are known for their length.
- Time-to-fun:
  - Summary: The game has a slow start due to repetitive combat and tedious side missions, but it becomes more enjoyable once players reach the challenge maps and engaging boss fights.
  - Stance: Fun then drops
  - Anchor: Challenge maps and boss fights
  - Time to anchor: 3h 0m
  - Friction: Repetitive combat; Tedious side missions; Frustrating boss fights; Multiplayer content no longer available
  - Unlock drivers: Engaging narrative; Satisfying combat system; Challenge maps
  - Conditions: Playing solo; Focusing on the main story; Using detective mode effectively
- Player Archetypes:
  - Story-First Explorer (buy)
    - Motivation: Engaging story and character development
    - Playstyle: Explores the game world and narrative, focusing on the story and character interactions.
    - Experience: mixed
    - Purchase stance: buy
    - Labels: Franchise fan; Story enthusiast
    - Reference games: Batman: Arkham Asylum; Batman: Arkham City; Batman: Arkham Knight
  - Mechanics Analyst (sale)
    - Motivation: Gameplay mechanics and technical performance
    - Playstyle: Analyzes and compares gameplay mechanics, graphics, and performance, often providing detailed feedback on these aspects.
    - Experience: veteran
    - Purchase stance: sale
    - Labels: Technical player; Gameplay critic
    - Reference games: Batman: Arkham Asylum; Batman: Arkham City; Assassin's Creed; Metal Gear Solid
  - Critical Tester (deep sale)
    - Motivation: Identifying and reporting bugs and technical issues
    - Playstyle: Focuses on identifying and reporting bugs, often providing detailed descriptions of technical problems.
    - Experience: familiar
    - Purchase stance: deep sale
    - Labels: Bug hunter; Technical critic
    - Reference games: Batman: Arkham Asylum; Batman: Arkham City
  - Franchise Fan (buy)
    - Motivation: Faithful representation of Batman and immersive experience
    - Playstyle: Enjoys the game for its faithful representation of Batman and the immersive experience it provides, often expressing nostalgia and emotional connection.
    - Experience: mixed
    - Purchase stance: buy
    - Labels: Batman fan; Nostalgic player
    - Reference games: Batman: Arkham Asylum; Batman: Arkham City; Batman: Arkham Knight


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:
- Superb boss battles (weight 0.51): The boss fights are noted for being immersive, intense, cinematic, and memorable. Players find them to be a high point of the game.
- Smooth and satisfying combat (weight 0.38): The combat system is widely praised for being smooth, responsive, and enjoyable. Players appreciate the precision, challenge, and fluidity of the combat mechanics, which are described as addictive and impactful.
- Christmas atmosphere in Gotham (weight 0.29): The game's setting in a snowy, Christmas-themed Gotham City is highlighted for its unique and atmospheric visuals. Players find the ambiance beautiful and immersive.
- Engrossing and epic story (weight 0.29): The story is frequently described as amazing, engrossing, and genuinely epic. Players appreciate the narrative's depth, detail, and immersive qualities.
- Deathstroke boss fight (weight 0.2): The encounter with Deathstroke is particularly highlighted as one of the best boss fights in the series. Players appreciate its challenge and phenomenal design.
- Fun and engaging gameplay (weight 0.19): Players express overall enjoyment and engagement with the game, highlighting its fun gameplay and beautiful visuals.
- Young Batman's early days (weight 0.17): The story focuses on the early days of Batman's career, providing a grounded and captivating narrative of a younger, inexperienced Batman.
- Good graphics (weight 0.16): The graphics are generally well-received, with players noting their impressive and beautiful visuals that hold up well.
- Strong character development (weight 0.15): The game features strong character development, particularly for Batman and the Joker, with engaging dynamics and portrayals.
- Worth it for Batman fans (weight 0.15): The game is considered a great experience for Batman fans, staying faithful to the spirit of Batman and offering a serious yet campy story.
- Interesting villains (weight 0.15): The game introduces and integrates villains well, with a rich roster and refreshing twists that are highlights for players.
- Angry and aggressive Batman (weight 0.12): The game features a younger, angrier Batman with raw character development, highlighted by strong voice acting from Roger Craig Smith.
- Bane boss fight (weight 0.12): The Bane boss fight is noted as a highlight, with players appreciating its spectacular and memorable design.
- Unique and engaging atmosphere (weight 0.12): The game offers a unique and engaging atmosphere, with a well-written story that players find fun and immersive.

Common complaints:
- Game plagued by numerous bugs (weight 0.39): The game is reported to have a significant number of bugs, ranging from minor issues to game-breaking glitches. These bugs affect various aspects of the game, including gameplay, combat, and overall performance.
- Combat system issues (weight 0.28): The combat system is criticized for being glitchy, clunky, and less polished than in previous games. Some players find it too easy, while others note it feels reduced compared to earlier titles.
- Lacks Rocksteady polish (weight 0.25): The game is often compared unfavorably to the Rocksteady Studios titles, with players noting a lack of innovation and polish. It is sometimes excluded from the Arkham franchise due to these shortcomings.
- Open world feels empty (weight 0.23): Many players have noted that the open world in the game feels empty and less alive compared to previous titles. This emptiness detracts from the immersive experience.
- Movement and controls issues (weight 0.19): The movement in the game is criticized for being slow and tedious. Additionally, controls can be janky and difficult to utilize, especially with keyboard and mouse.
- Performance and optimization issues (weight 0.14): The game suffers from performance issues, including lagging, graphical problems, and poor optimization. These issues affect the overall gameplay experience.
- Side missions repetitive (weight 0.13): Side missions are often described as repetitive and boring. Players find them tedious and lacking in variety, which affects the overall gameplay experience.
- Multiplayer servers down (weight 0.13): The multiplayer servers have been taken down, making it impossible to complete online-related achievements and affecting the overall gameplay experience.
- Annoying collectibles (weight 0.11): Collectibles in the game are found to be frustrating and tedious, which detracts from the overall enjoyment.
- Unskippable cutscenes (weight 0.1): Players are frustrated by unskippable cutscenes, including the title credits and intro. This issue affects the overall enjoyment and pacing of the game.
- Progression system issues (weight 0.06): The progression system is criticized for being terrible and broken, which affects the overall gameplay experience.

Gameplay feedback:
- Improved combat mechanics (weight 0.28): The combat mechanics have been improved, building off the Arkham City style. The FreeFlow combat system is fluid and satisfying, with visceral animations and satisfying combos.
- Younger, aggressive Batman (weight 0.21): The story focuses on a younger, more aggressive Batman, showcasing his early years and brutal combat style. This portrayal adds a fresh perspective to the character.
- Open-world structure and exploration (weight 0.2): The game offers an open-world structure with non-linear gameplay and extensive exploration opportunities. Players can enjoy a large map with various missions and activities.
- Enhanced detective mode (weight 0.2): The detective mode has been improved, involving CSI-style reconstructions and various investigative mechanics. This mode is a significant part of the gameplay.
- Efficient traversal mechanics (weight 0.17): The game includes efficient traversal mechanics, such as the use of a grappling hook and fast travel points, making navigation easier and more enjoyable.
- Challenging and cinematic boss fights (weight 0.15): The game features intense and cinematic boss fights that are both challenging and interesting. Players appreciate the improved mechanics and design of these battles.
- Similar gameplay to Arkham series (weight 0.13): The gameplay is similar to previous Arkham titles, particularly Arkham Asylum and Arkham City. This consistency is appreciated by fans of the series.
- Engaging puzzles and collectibles (weight 0.12): The game includes a variety of puzzles and collectibles that add depth to the gameplay. These elements are integrated into the open-world and detective modes.
- Use of gadgets and upgrades (weight 0.09): The game introduces new gadgets and upgrades, enhancing the gameplay experience. These gadgets are mostly returning favorites with some new additions.
- Varied side missions (weight 0.09): The game includes side missions that complement the main story and open-world exploration. However, some players find these missions to be boring.
- Addictive and consistent gameplay (weight 0.08): The gameplay is very addictive and remains largely consistent with previous installments in the series. This consistency is appreciated by fans.
- Easy to learn, hard to master (weight 0.07): The game is designed to be easy to learn but difficult to master, providing a challenging experience for players.
- Difficulty modes available (weight 0.07): The game offers various difficulty modes, catering to different player preferences and skill levels.

Performance notes:
- Frequent bugs and glitches (weight 0.36): Players report a wide range of bugs and glitches, including game-breaking issues, graphical bugs, and various technical errors. These issues are prevalent and affect the overall gameplay experience.
- Mixed optimization reviews (weight 0.16): Opinions on the game's optimization are mixed. Some players find it amazingly optimized, while others report poor optimization and performance issues.
- High FPS performance (weight 0.12): The game runs smoothly at high FPS, including 60 FPS and 144 FPS. Players appreciate the removal of the 60 FPS limit, allowing for a smoother gaming experience.
- Occasional crashes (weight 0.12): Some players experience occasional crashes, which can disrupt the gameplay experience. These crashes vary in frequency and severity.
- Excellent graphics and optimization (weight 0.11): The game is praised for its excellent graphics and optimization, providing a visually appealing and smooth gaming experience on capable systems.
- Persistent technical bugs (weight 0.1): There are reports of technical bugs that remain unresolved, affecting the overall enjoyment of the game. These bugs can be persistent and mar the fun.
- Unpolished gameplay (weight 0.1): The game is criticized for being unpolished, with more bugs compared to other games in the series. This lack of polish affects the overall quality and enjoyment.
- Physics and performance issues (weight 0.1): Players report various physics issues and performance hiccups, which can affect the gameplay experience. These issues include slowdowns and other technical problems.
- System requirements (weight 0.09): The game's performance varies based on system specifications. It may not run well on lower-end PCs or with poor internet connections, but it can run smoothly on higher-end systems.
- Excellent Steam Deck performance (weight 0.09): The game performs well on the Steam Deck, with players reporting excellent and flawless performance. This makes it a good choice for handheld gaming.
- NPC movement issues (weight 0.09): There are reports of NPCs getting stuck or not moving properly, which can disrupt gameplay and immersion.
- Graphical and engine performance (weight 0.09): Players have noted issues with graphical and engine performance, affecting the overall visual quality and smoothness of the game.
- Audio issues (weight 0.08): Players have encountered various audio problems, including sound bugs and intro sound glitches. These issues can affect the immersive experience of the game.
- Black screen problems (weight 0.08): Players encounter black screen issues, which can be frequent and disruptive to the gaming experience.
- Game launch problems (weight 0.08): There are reports of the game not launching or stopping working altogether, which can be frustrating for players.
- Low-quality cutscenes (weight 0.07): The game's cutscenes are criticized for their low graphical quality and framerate, affecting the overall cinematic experience.
- Gameplay pauses and freezes (weight 0.06): Players have encountered gameplay pauses and freezes, which can disrupt the gaming experience and make the game less enjoyable.
- Control and input issues (weight 0.06): Some players report issues with controls and inputs, including problems with gamepads and specific keys not working correctly.
- Animation and texture issues (weight 0.06): Players have noted issues with animations and textures, including bugs and resolution problems, particularly on the Steam Deck.
- Combat system problems (weight 0.04): There are reports of issues with the combat system, affecting the gameplay experience and making combat less enjoyable.
- Specific boss fight bugs (weight 0.04): Players have encountered specific bugs during boss fights, such as the Killer Croc boss fight, which can disrupt the gameplay experience.
- Visual glitches (weight 0.04): There are reports of various visual glitches, including issues with Batman's cape and other graphical anomalies.
- Save corruption bugs (weight 0.03): There are reports of game-breaking save corruption bugs, which can result in lost progress and frustration for players.
- Severe lagging issues (weight 0.03): There are reports of severe lagging issues, which can significantly impact the gameplay experience and make the game less enjoyable.
- Long boot-up sequence (weight 0.03): Players have criticized the long, glitchy, and unskippable boot-up sequence, which can be frustrating and time-consuming.
- Patchable bugs (weight 0.03): Some players note that certain bugs can be fixed with patches, suggesting that ongoing updates could improve the game's stability and performance.
- Screen fitting issues (weight 0.02): Some players experience screen fitting issues, which can affect the visual presentation and gameplay.
- Localization issues (weight 0.02): There are reports of localization issues, which can affect the game's accessibility and enjoyment for non-English speaking players.
- Vsync issues on Linux (weight 0.02): There are reports of Vsync issues specifically on Linux, which can affect the game's performance and visual quality on this platform.

Recommendations:
- Highly recommended game (weight 0.19): The game is frequently recommended by players, with many suggesting it to everyone, especially those who enjoy superhero games.
- Worth playing for Arkham fans (weight 0.18): Fans of the Arkham series find this game worth playing and consider it a masterpiece. It is highly recommended for those who love the Arkham formula and series.
- Recommended for full Arkham experience (weight 0.13): Players recommend this game to have the full Batman Arkham experience and suggest playing it first for pacing and story context.
- Worth buying on sale (weight 0.12): Many players suggest that the game is worth buying, especially when it is on sale, indicating good value for money.
- Mandatory for Batman fans (weight 0.09): Batman fans consider this game a must-play. It is highly recommended for anyone who is a fan of Batman.
- Recommended for fans of the genre (weight 0.07): The game is recommended for fans of the genre and those who liked other games in the series, but some suggest buying it on sale if you have played the others.
- Use mods for better experience (weight 0.07): Players recommend using mods to enhance the gaming experience, including specific patches and multiplayer achievements.
- Worth the attention of DC Comics fans (weight 0.05): The game is recommended for fans of the DC Comics universe and Batman fans, indicating it has elements that appeal to this audience.
- Not the first Arkham game to play (weight 0.05): Some players suggest that this is not the first Arkham game to play and recommend playing other Arkham games first.
- Valuable and entertaining experience (weight 0.05): The game is described as a valuable and entertaining experience, making it a worthy addition to any game library.
- Recommended for action game lovers (weight 0.05): The game is suggested for lovers of action games and those who enjoy an open world with strong narrative design.
- Best played during Christmas season (weight 0.04): A few players suggest that the game is best played during the Christmas season or winter, adding a seasonal appeal.
- Desire for a remaster (weight 0.03): There is a desire among players for a remastered version of the game with updated graphics and features.
- Best played on controller (weight 0.03): The game is recommended to be played on a controller for a better experience.
- Recommended DLC with Mr. Freeze (weight 0.03): Players recommend playing the DLC that features Mr. Freeze, indicating it adds significant value to the game.
- Stick to console versions (weight 0.03): Some players suggest sticking to the console versions of the game for a better experience.
- Considered a good work (weight 0.03): The game is considered a good work by players, indicating overall satisfaction with the game.

Other player notes:
- Mods enhance gameplay (weight 0.03): Players recommend several mods to improve the gaming experience, including visual enhancements and gameplay mechanics.
- DLC available (weight 0.03): The game offers downloadable content (DLC).

Emotions:
- Frustration (weight 0.38): Players are frustrated primarily due to the game's numerous bugs, which include game-breaking save corruption, performance issues, and various glitches. Additionally, the combat system, puzzles, and repetitive side missions contribute to the frustration, along with an inconsistent difficulty curve and unresponsive controls.
- Enjoyment (weight 0.18): Players enjoy the game's narrative, combat mechanics, and boss fights, which are often described as superb and engaging. The unique Christmas atmosphere, detective cases, and overall gameplay mechanics also contribute to a positive experience.
- Appreciation (weight 0.18): Players appreciate the game's story, character development, and combat mechanics. The atmosphere, graphics, and voice acting, particularly the portrayal of characters like the Joker, are also highly valued.
- Excitement (weight 0.17): Players are excited about the game's combat system, boss fights, and unique atmosphere. The engaging narrative, challenging gameplay, and the introduction of new enemies and mechanics also contribute to the excitement.
- Satisfaction (weight 0.15): Players are satisfied with the game's story, boss fights, and overall gameplay mechanics. The positive evaluation of the game's performance, value, and the achievement of 100% completion also contribute to their satisfaction.
- Disappointment (weight 0.14): Players express disappointment due to the game's bugs, lack of innovation, and the discontinuation of online services. The game's lack of polish, repetitive side missions, and underdeveloped villains also contribute to this sentiment.
- Nostalgia (weight 0.07): Players feel nostalgic about the game's atmosphere, specific missions, and the Christmas setting in Gotham. The game's connection to past experiences and its unique atmosphere evoke a sense of nostalgia.
- Joy (weight 0.06): Players experience joy from the game's boss fights, combat system, and overall entertainment value. The pleasant graphics, fun action sequences, and the unique atmosphere contribute to their enjoyment.
- Positive (weight 0.04): Players have a positive experience with the game's story, gameplay, and graphics. The engaging narrative, characterizations, and overall value of the game contribute to their positive sentiment.
- Negative (weight 0.04): Players express negative sentiments due to the game's bugs, gameplay issues, and lack of polish. Frustration with controls, story, and character development also contribute to their negative experience.
- Enthusiasm (weight 0.04): Players are enthusiastic about the game's story, gameplay mechanics, and overall quality. The positive aspects of the game, including its cutscenes and narrative, contribute to their enthusiasm.
- Mixed (weight 0.03): Players have mixed feelings, enjoying the story and atmosphere but finding issues with execution, side quests, and bugs. They appreciate certain aspects but are critical of others.
- Criticism (weight 0.03): Players criticize the game for its bugs, lack of innovation, and various technical issues. The game's polish, world design, and movement mechanics are also points of criticism.
- Admiration (weight 0.02): Players admire the game's story, visuals, and combat mechanics. The villain design, directing, and music are also highly appreciated.
- Love (weight 0.02): Players love the game for its narrative, atmosphere, and its place in the Arkham saga. The overall enjoyment and appreciation for the game's story contribute to their love for it.
- Excited (weight 0.02): Players are excited about the game's narrative, atmosphere, and cutscenes. The action, storytelling, and character development also contribute to their excitement.
- Frustrated (weight 0.01): Players are frustrated with the game's bugs, audio issues, and game-breaking bugs. These technical problems significantly impact their experience.
- Surprise (weight 0.01): Players are surprised by the positive experience despite negative reviews. The detective work and unique aspects of the game evoke a sense of surprise.
- Regret (weight 0.01): Players express regret over purchasing and spending time on the game due to its launch state and the negative reception it received.
- Nostalgic (weight 0.01): Players feel nostalgic about the game's atmosphere and lore. The desire to return to the game to experience its unique elements again contributes to this sentiment.}