Info about Grim Dawn:

Official game description:
Enter an apocalyptic fantasy world where humanity is on the brink of extinction, iron is valued above gold and trust is hard earned. This ARPG features complex character development, hundreds of unique items, crafting and quests with choice & consequence.
Key Features
------------
*   **Dual Class** - Combine any of six distinct classes with over 25 skills and modifiers per class. Base classes include Soldier, Demolitionist, Occultist, Nightblade, Arcanist and Shaman.  
*   **Hundreds of Item Skills** - Augment your class build with a diverse array of over 250 unique skills granted by items and equipment add-ons.  
*   **Collect hundreds of Items** - Common, magical, rare, epic and legendary classes of loot. Plus over 20,000 possible magical affix combinations and over 200 rare affixes.  
*   **Quests with Choice and Consequence** - You will face tough decisions that leave significant impacts upon the world. Strangers on the road, desperate families and even entire villages may live or perish based on your actions. Currently over 35 quests with 75+ lore notes to be collected.  
*   **Friendly and Enemy Factions** - Earn favor with human factions to unlock additional quest lines, vendor discounts and special faction-based items and augments. Some neutral factions can be turned into allies but aiding one will make the enemy of another. Hostile factions will remember your deeds and deepen their hatred of you, sending out large packs and elite heroes to hunt you down.  
*   **Devotion**, an additional layer of skill customization allows you to acquire bonuses and powerful secondary effects for your class skills. These are unlocked from a giant constellation map with points acquired by finding and restoring destroyed or corrupted shrines hidden throughout the world.  
*   **Rebuild the World** - Help human enclaves survive and flourish by securing vital necessities, rebuilding structures and rescuing survivors who can then lend their services to your cause.  
*   **4 Person Multiplayer** - Connect with Friends or make new allies in glorious multiplayer. Multiplayer encounters will put your teamwork to the ultimate challenge.  
*   **Fast-paced Visceral Combat** - Enemy blood spatters, ragdoll physics and satisfying enemy death effects. Smash in doors and fight house to house, leaving a path of demolished furniture in your wake.  
*   **Rotatable Camera** - If you choose to survey the full beauty of the world and always fight from the most optimal angle. Levels are still designed so that players are not forced to rotate the camera; it is purely optional.  
*   **Secrets and Perils Abound** - 200+ Enemy heroes and bosses, hand-configured with their own unique arrays of deadly skills. 20+ secret areas hidden behind crumbling walls, hidden gaps and mysterious locked doors. Explode obstacles or repair structures to open new paths.  
*   **Rogue-Like Dungeons** - Descend into special locked challenge dungeons that require a rare crafted key, where enemy levels increase as you progress and player teleport is disabled. There is no way out except to complete the dungeon or die trying.  
*   **Dynamic Weather** - The world is brought to life with region-specific climates and a variety of weather effects. A sunny day can cloud over with mild rain showers that builds into a booming thunderstorm. Variable wind gusts blow grass and affect objects like windmills.  
*   **Recipe Based Crafting** - Collect over 250 crafting recipes that allow you to combine salvaged components into unique crafted items and then, later, use those basic crafted items with higher-tiered recipes to complete items of amazing power.  
*   **Reclaim Skill Points** - The ability to pay to reclaim points alleviates the fear and frustration of having to make early, uninformed skill choices that could permanently gimp a character.
Crate Entertainment is a small indie studio founded by the lead gameplay designer of Titan Quest and includes veterans from such companies as Blizzard North, Irrational and Harmonix. Join the Grim Dawn community and provide feedback on the ongoing development of the game. Help shape the future of development and be among the first to receive news about Grim Dawn by participating in polls and discussions on our forum.

Release date: Feb 25, 2016

Categories: Action RPG, Character Progression, Character Customization, Exploration, Multiple Endings, Cooperative Multiplayer, Looter Shooter, Crafting

Feature scans:
- MTX: score 20; verdict: Mixed Monetization Strategy; summary: The reviews for Grim Dawn highlight a mix of positive and negative aspects regarding its monetization. On the positive side, many users appreciate the lack of microtransactions and the value provided by the DLCs, which are seen as worthwhile purchases. However, there are concerns about the pricing and necessity of DLCs to access significant portions of the game, as well as the locking of certain features behind DLC paywalls. Overall, while the game is praised for its content and lack of predatory monetization, the DLC strategy is seen as both a positive and a negative depending on the user's perspective.
- Wiki: score 50; verdict: Needs Improvement; summary: The game suffers from several significant issues, including complex mechanics that require external resources to understand, an outdated UI that lacks detailed information, and technical problems such as alt-tabbing issues. Players often need to consult wikis and build guides, which detracts from the overall gaming experience. Additionally, the lack of quality-of-life features and the time-consuming nature of managing skills and information further frustrate users.
- Proton/Linux: score 15; verdict: Works Well; summary: The game generally performs well on Linux and SteamOS with minor tweaks required for optimal performance. The native Linux port is praised for its stability and smooth gameplay. Some users report the need for specific launch options to address certain issues, but overall, the game is well-received on Linux platforms.
- Steam Deck: score 50; verdict: Playable with Notable Issues; summary: The analysis of user feedback for Grim Dawn on the Steam Deck reveals several key themes. Significant issues with UI scaling and controller support are prominent, making the game difficult to navigate and play. However, the game's performance and battery life on the Steam Deck are praised, and users appreciate the depth of gameplay and customization options. Overall, despite some notable drawbacks, many users are satisfied with the game and its compatibility with the Steam Deck.

- Hardware Profile: No data
Feature extractions:
- Community Price:
  - Community fair range: $4.00 - $20.00
  - Reasoning: The evidence consistently highlights that the game is considered a great value, especially when purchased on sale. Many users mention that even at full price, the game offers substantial content and replayability, making it worth the cost. The frequent mentions of the game being worth it at discounted prices around $4 to $5 suggest that the community finds this range particularly fair. Additionally, the sentiment that the game is worth its full price further supports that the fair price range is likely just below the current base game price of $24.99.
- Playtime Metrics:
  - Game completion: 60.0h
  - Story completion: 53.0h
  - Session length: 3.0h
  - Endgame: N/A
  - Reasoning: The evidence provides multiple accounts of playtime experiences. The first quote indicates that a player spent over 50 hours without reaching the endgame, suggesting a lengthy campaign and substantial content. The second quote mentions completing the main campaign in 53 hours, implying a significant time investment for story completion. The third and fourth quotes highlight the game's potential for extensive playtime, reinforcing the idea of long sessions and substantial total playtime for game completion.
- Time-to-fun:
  - Summary: Grim Dawn starts slow and can be boring initially, but it becomes more engaging as players progress through the story and unlock more content, with a strong emphasis on progression and world-building.
  - Stance: Fun after initial grind
  - Anchor: Progression through the story and unlocking more content
  - Time to anchor: 2h 0m
  - Friction: Slow start; Initial boredom; Complex Devotion system
  - Unlock drivers: Story progression; Devotion system; Character progression
  - Conditions: Exploration; Side quests; Co-op play; Atmospheric storytelling
- Player Archetypes:
  - Build-Crafter Grinder (buy)
    - Motivation: Mastery and exploration
    - Playstyle: Extensive farming, building, and exploring with a focus on discovering new secrets and mastering character builds.
    - Experience: veteran
    - Purchase stance: buy
    - Labels: ARPG fan; Explorer
    - Reference games: Diablo; Path of Exile; Baldur's Gate
  - Nostalgic Soloist (buy)
    - Motivation: Nostalgia and single-player depth
    - Playstyle: Prefers single-player mode with a focus on deep, nostalgic gameplay reminiscent of classic ARPGs.
    - Experience: veteran
    - Purchase stance: buy
    - Labels: ARPG veteran; Single-player fan
    - Reference games: Diablo 2; Titan Quest
  - Casual Grinder (sale)
    - Motivation: Enjoyment of grinding and exploration
    - Playstyle: Enjoys grinding and exploring maps, appreciates the nostalgic feel and modern twists, and is motivated by the hunt for perfect items.
    - Experience: familiar
    - Purchase stance: sale
    - Labels: Casual gamer; Explorer
    - Reference games: Diablo; Overlord
  - Single-Player Purist (buy)
    - Motivation: Depth and passion in single-player mode
    - Playstyle: Prefers single-player mode, appreciates the depth and passion, and sees Grim Dawn as a superior successor to classic ARPGs.
    - Experience: veteran
    - Purchase stance: buy
    - Labels: Single-player fan; ARPG veteran
    - Reference games: Diablo 2; Titan Quest


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:
- Extensive build customization (weight 0.42): The game provides near-infinite build possibilities with a high number of class combinations and character customization options. This allows for a wide variety of playstyles and build diversity.
- Engaging and rewarding gameplay (weight 0.42): The game offers an engaging and rewarding gameplay experience with fun combat, a compelling storyline, and high replayability. The game mechanics are robust and challenging, keeping players engaged until the end.
- Top-tier ARPG experience (weight 0.34): The game is considered one of the best modern ARPGs, offering a complete and classic ARPG experience. It is highly recommended for fans of the genre and is praised for its engaging gameplay and immense content.
- Rich and interesting lore (weight 0.25): The game features well-written and interesting lore, with a solid story that integrates well with the gameplay. The world-building is believable and relatable.
- Best in genre (weight 0.22): The game is considered one of the best in its genre, offering innovation and a classic experience. It is highly recommended for fans of similar games like Diablo and Titan Quest.
- Variety of classes and skills (weight 0.2): The game features a wide variety of classes and skills, allowing for diverse builds and playstyles. This variety contributes to the game's high replay value.
- Easy to learn, hard to master (weight 0.18): The game is easy to pick up and play, with a straightforward learning curve. However, it offers a challenging experience to master, making it accessible yet deep.
- Great value for money (weight 0.18): The game is considered worth every penny, offering fantastic value for its price. It is highly recommended for fans of the genre and provides a substantial amount of content.
- Diverse enemies and environments (weight 0.17): The game features a variety of enemies, constellations, and regions, providing diverse challenges and environments for players to explore.
- Active modding community (weight 0.17): The game has an active and thriving modding community, offering extensive mod support and seasonal content. This enhances the game's longevity and player engagement.
- Dark fantasy setting (weight 0.15): The game is set in a dark fantasy world with a grim and immersive atmosphere. This setting is rich and detailed, similar to classic games like Diablo.
- Immersive atmosphere (weight 0.15): The game offers an atmospheric and immersive world with a dark and beautifully crafted environment. The detailed world and atmospheric soundtrack enhance the overall experience.
- Focus on fun gameplay (weight 0.15): The game emphasizes fun and enjoyable gameplay, with fast and engaging combat. It offers fun activities and is enjoyable to play with friends.
- Offline playability (weight 0.13): The game can be played fully offline, with no mandatory server connection required. This makes it accessible and convenient for single-player experiences.
- Classic hack and slash gameplay (weight 0.13): The game offers classic hack and slash gameplay with character progression, making it a fun and engaging experience for fans of the genre.
- Deep and complex mechanics (weight 0.13): The game is deep and complex, offering player freedom and rewarding those who dive deep into its mechanics. It is great for those who love depth and complexity in their games.

Common complaints:
- Outdated and subpar graphics (weight 0.37): The graphics are frequently criticized for being outdated and not up to modern standards. Many players find the visuals dated and not appealing.
- Unengaging and weak story (weight 0.22): The story is often described as lackluster, generic, and forgettable. Players find it uncompelling and poorly explained, leading to a lack of engagement.
- Lack of in-game guidance (weight 0.19): There is a notable lack of in-game tutorials and guidance, making it difficult for new players to understand the game mechanics and quests.
- Repetitive gameplay and grinding (weight 0.16): Gameplay can become repetitive over time, with grinding and repeated missions leading to monotony for some players.
- Poor endgame content (weight 0.16): The endgame content is often criticized for being dull, repetitive, and less rewarding compared to other games in the genre.
- Excessive and irrelevant loot (weight 0.15): There is an excessive amount of loot in the game, much of which is irrelevant or useless, leading to a cluttered inventory.
- Inconvenient map system (weight 0.12): The map system is frequently described as inconvenient and poorly designed, leading to frustration among players.
- Steep learning curve (weight 0.12): The game has a steep learning curve, which can be challenging for new players to overcome.
- Cluttered and overwhelming UI (weight 0.11): The user interface can feel cluttered and overwhelming, especially for beginners.
- Controller-only with poor camera controls (weight 0.11): The game lacks WASD controls and is controller-only, which can be inconvenient for some players. Additionally, the camera controls are poorly implemented.
- Frequent bugs and crashes (weight 0.1): The game suffers from numerous bugs and frequent crashes, leading to a poor player experience.
- Slow progression and leveling (weight 0.09): Progression and leveling in the game can feel slow, especially in the early stages, which may frustrate some players.
- Limited content without DLCs (weight 0.09): The base game is often criticized for having limited content, with expansions or DLCs required for a more fulfilling experience.
- Frustrating exploration (weight 0.08): Exploration in the game can be frustrating due to long exploration times and unclear quest markers.
- Limited character customization (weight 0.05): Players find the character customization options limited, restricting flexibility in character builds.
- Toxic community (weight 0.05): The community can be toxic, with instances of bullying and negative interactions.
- Multiplayer limitations (weight 0.05): The multiplayer features are limited, with restrictions on trading and other multiplayer functionalities.
- Character creation bug (weight 0.05): There is a persistent bug that prevents the deletion of characters with Chinese names, causing inconvenience for affected players.
- Unmemorable music (weight 0.05): The music in the game is often described as unmemorable and lacking originality.
- Disappointing compared to Diablo 4 (weight 0.04): Some players express disappointment and criticism when comparing the game to Diablo 4.

Gameplay feedback:
- Diverse build customization options (weight 0.6): The game offers a wide variety of build options and customization, allowing players to create and experiment with different character builds and playstyles.
- Dual-class system for diverse playstyles (weight 0.42): The dual-class system allows for diverse playstyles and build strategies, offering players flexibility and depth in character customization.
- ARPG with deep character customization (weight 0.33): As an action RPG, the game features deep character customization and build variety, along with class-based mechanics and a dual-class system.
- Engaging loot and itemization system (weight 0.23): The game includes a loot-based progression system with an engaging loot spiral, encouraging players to collect and manage equipment and items.
- Scaling difficulty and challenge (weight 0.14): The game features scaling difficulty tiers and enemy level scaling, providing players with a balanced and challenging experience.
- Successor to Titan Quest (weight 0.13): Developed by the creators of Titan Quest, this game builds upon the same engine with major updates, offering a similar ARPG experience.
- Devotion system for skill augmentation (weight 0.12): The devotion system, similar to Path of Exile, offers unique buffs and skills with almost infinite combinations, enhancing character customization.
- Rich lore and worldbuilding (weight 0.1): The game features deep lore and worldbuilding, with a detailed and immersive environment for players to explore.
- Variety of enemies and bosses (weight 0.1): Players will encounter a variety of enemies and bosses with different strengths, weaknesses, and tactics, adding depth to combat.
- Offline and multiplayer support (weight 0.1): The game supports both offline and multiplayer modes, catering to players who prefer solo or cooperative gameplay experiences.
- Engaging combat and mechanics (weight 0.1): The game features engaging combat and interesting mechanics, contributing to an enjoyable gameplay experience.
- Dark and immersive atmosphere (weight 0.09): The game presents a dark and immersive world, with a gritty and visceral atmosphere that draws players in.
- Secrets and side quests (weight 0.09): Players can discover secret areas, hidden bosses, and side quests, adding depth and exploration to the gameplay experience.

Performance notes:
- Performance issues and crashes (weight 0.22): Some players experience frequent performance issues, including FPS drops, crashes, and freezing. These issues are often tied to poor optimization.
- Dated graphics engine (weight 0.17): Many players have noted that the game's graphics are outdated and not up to modern standards. The graphical quality is frequently criticized as being subpar.
- Optimized for Steam Deck (weight 0.11): The game runs exceptionally well on Steam Deck, with reports of stable performance and high frame rates. Players have noted it works perfectly on this platform.
- Specific graphical bugs (weight 0.1): Certain graphical issues cause crashes and black screens, particularly with multiple monitors. There are also reports of excessive particle effects.
- UI and graphical issues (weight 0.08): There are various UI issues reported, including lack of scaling for 4K TVs and general graphical problems. Some players also experience eye strain from the graphics.
- Multiplayer and progression bugs (weight 0.08): There are stability and interface issues in multiplayer mode, along with bugs affecting character progression and causing unfair deaths.
- Server disconnections (weight 0.06): Players have reported occasional and random server disconnections, affecting the gameplay experience.
- Loading times and FPS stability (weight 0.05): The game is noted for having instant loading times and stable performance across various FPS settings.
- Binary and engine issues (weight 0.05): The x32 binary has worse performance compared to the x64 version. The game's old engine is also cited as a cause for performance issues.
- Performance on Linux (weight 0.03): The game runs flawlessly on Linux Mint with Proton, indicating good compatibility and performance on this platform.
- Language-specific bugs (weight 0.03): There are specific bugs reported in non-English versions of the game, such as issues with portals in certain scenarios.

Recommendations:
- Highly recommended for ARPG fans (weight 0.32): The game is frequently recommended for fans of Action Role-Playing Games (ARPGs), especially those who enjoy classic games like Diablo II and Path of Exile. It is praised for its complex builds, dark atmosphere, and extensive loot.
- Highly recommended game (weight 0.2): The game is highly recommended by many players, often cited as worth the price and suitable for a wide audience, including teenagers and adults.
- Buy with expansions (weight 0.16): Many players suggest purchasing the game along with its expansions for the full experience.
- Recommended for deep gameplay mechanics (weight 0.13): Players who enjoy in-depth RPGs with complex systems and deep gameplay mechanics are likely to appreciate this game.
- High value for price (weight 0.1): The game is often praised for its high value, especially during frequent sales.
- Recommended for fans of specific games (weight 0.09): Fans of Diablo I, Diablo II, Path of Exile, and Titan Quest are particularly recommended to try this game.
- Highly recommended for character customization (weight 0.08): The game is recommended for players who enjoy complex character customization and optimization.
- Recommended for players interested in similar games (weight 0.08): Players who enjoy games similar to Grim Dawn are recommended to try it out.
- Must-play for action RPG enthusiasts (weight 0.08): The game is considered a must-play for fans of Hack & Slay or ARPGs.
- True successor to classic ARPGs (weight 0.06): The game is considered a true successor to classic ARPGs like Diablo II and Titan Quest.
- Best ARPG on the market (weight 0.06): Some players regard this game as the best ARPG available on the market.
- Recommended for challenging gameplay (weight 0.06): Players seeking a challenge and those who enjoy deep combat mechanics and trial and error are recommended to play this game.
- Frequent sales and high-quality mods (weight 0.06): The game is often on sale and has high-quality mods available, adding to its value.
- Use external resources for better experience (weight 0.05): Some players recommend using external resources to enhance the gameplay experience.
- Support the developers (weight 0.05): Buying the game is seen as a way to support the developers, especially for future projects like Grim Dawn 2.
- Middle-ground between Diablo and Path of Exile (weight 0.03): The game is positioned as a middle-ground between Diablo and Path of Exile, offering a balanced experience.
- Clear purchase recommendation (weight 0.03): Many players clearly recommend purchasing the game, often citing it as a worthwhile investment.
- Improvement over Titan Quest (weight 0.03): The game is seen as an improvement over Titan Quest, offering a better experience.
- Quick and easy to pick up (weight 0.03): The game is noted for being quick and easy to pick up and play, making it accessible for new players.
- Use mods to improve graphics (weight 0.03): Players suggest using mods like Grimtex and Grimshade to enhance the game's graphics.
- Play on Veteran difficulty for experienced players (weight 0.03): Experienced players are recommended to play on Veteran difficulty for a greater challenge.
- Alternative for Diablo 2 fans (weight 0.03): Diablo 2 fans or PoE players tired of spreadsheets are recommended to try this game.
- Perfect for killing time (weight 0.03): The game is considered perfect for killing time, offering an engaging experience.
- Buy all DLCs except Crucible (weight 0.03): Players suggest buying all DLCs except Crucible for the best experience.
- Beginner tips available (weight 0.03): There are beginner tips available, such as for class selection, to help new players get started.
- Wait for a discount (weight 0.03): Some players recommend waiting for a discount before purchasing the game.
- Buy on sale instead of Diablo 4 (weight 0.03): Some players suggest buying this game on sale instead of Diablo 4.
- Check out videos or subreddit (weight 0.03): New players are suggested to check out videos or the subreddit for tips and guidance.
- Play Path of Exile or Last Epoch (weight 0.03): For a more comprehensive experience, some players recommend playing Path of Exile or Last Epoch instead.
- Not recommended for deep story seekers (weight 0.03): The game is not recommended for those seeking interesting gameplay and a deep story.
- Chronicon as a better alternative (weight 0.03): Some players suggest Chronicon as a better alternative to Grim Dawn.

Other player notes:
- 10 year anniversary celebration (weight 0.03): Players are acknowledging and celebrating the 10 year anniversary of the game.
- Desire for official merchandise (weight 0.03): There is a notable wish among players for official Grim Dawn merchandise to be made available.

Emotions:
- Frustration (weight 0.16): Players experience frustration due to a variety of gameplay issues, including difficulty scaling, complex mechanics without proper tutorials, and persistent bugs. The game's initial confusion, lack of guidance, and performance issues such as crashes and optimization problems also contribute significantly to this frustration.
- Enjoyment (weight 0.16): Players enjoy the game for its engaging and fun gameplay mechanics, including a variety of builds, deep customization, and enjoyable combat. The rich lore, detailed narrative, and the ability to play for long hours without fatigue also contribute to the overall enjoyment.
- Excitement (weight 0.15): Players are excited about the game's upcoming DLCs, new professions, and the potential for different builds and character variety. The deep customization system, engaging combat mechanics, and the vast constellation system with infinite possibilities also generate excitement.
- Satisfaction (weight 0.14): Players find satisfaction in the game's depth, variety of builds, and the ability to play at their own pace. The lack of pay-to-win mechanics, smooth combat flow, and the engaging achievement system also contribute to a satisfying experience.
- Appreciation (weight 0.06): Players appreciate the developer's dedication, the game's depth, and the lack of microtransactions. The offline mode, high level of build customizability, and the game's overall quality and content are also highly valued.
- Nostalgia (weight 0.05): Players feel nostalgic due to the game's old-school dark fantasy vibe, reminiscent of classic games like Diablo 2 and Titan Quest. The familiar systems and atmosphere bring back memories of earlier gaming experiences.
- Disappointment (weight 0.04): Players express disappointment with the game's repetitive gameplay, lack of originality, and unmemorable music. The forgettable story and homogenized dual-class system also contribute to this feeling.
- Enthusiasm (weight 0.03): Players are enthusiastic about the game's depth, variety of builds, and engaging combat mechanics. The flexible class system, high replayability, and the game's rich atmosphere also generate enthusiasm.
- Admiration (weight 0.03): Players admire the game's depth, extensive post-release support, and the vast build space. The game's craftsmanship, reverence for the genre, and unique ARPG mechanics are also highly regarded.
- Excited (weight 0.03): Players are excited about the upcoming expansion and the game's depth and replayability. The vast amount of build options and the enjoyment of character building and respecs also contribute to this excitement.
- Joy (weight 0.02): Players experience joy from the game's extensive content, enjoyable character building, and perfect core gameplay. The game's depth and the pure joy it offers are also highlighted.
- Satisfied (weight 0.02): Players are satisfied with the game's depth, variety, and beginner-friendly gameplay. The clear story, fun and satisfying gameplay, and the game's overall enjoyment contribute to this satisfaction.
- Frustrated (weight 0.02): Players feel frustrated due to issues with the control scheme, map icons, and controller targeting. The camera angle and item system also contribute to this frustration.
- Anticipation (weight 0.01): Players anticipate the new DLC and upcoming expansion. The excitement of updating the review after extensive gameplay also contributes to this anticipation.
- Enthusiastic (weight 0.01): Players are enthusiastic about the game's depth, variety, and detailed features. The game's systems, replayability, and detailed analysis of its features generate this enthusiasm.
- Love (weight 0.01): Players love the game for its features and quality. The lack of live service elements and the overall enjoyment of the game contribute to this love.
- Gratitude (weight 0.01): Players feel gratitude for the long-term care and attention to detail by the developers. The developer support and updates, as well as the game's quality, contribute to this gratitude.
- Boredom (weight 0.01): Players experience boredom due to repetitive gameplay, excessive loot, and repetitive level design. The lack of variety in enemy types and one-shot mechanics also contribute to this boredom.
- Happy (weight 0.01): Players are happy with the game's fun and enjoyable gameplay. The lively world and the overall enjoyment of the game contribute to this happiness.}