Info about Rivals of Aether II:

Official game description:
Rivals of Aether II - The Fun-For-All Update
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Features
========
**Every Character Will Be Free:** On top of a launch roster of 10 iconic Rivals, all future characters will be added to the game for free and customizable with an expanding library of awesome cosmetics.
**Clobber Friends And Foes:** Duke it out against CPUs, embarrass your friends locally, or hop online with reliable rollback netcode - all in either 1v1, 2v2, or Free-for-All battles.
**Easy To Play, Fun To Master:** Customizable controls and expansive, genre-original gameplay mechanics make this a multiplayer brawler that anyone can enjoy
**The Aether Adventure Continues:** In post-launch updates, experience an engaging and living world full of special event updates, new characters, additional modes, and exciting customizations and lore.
About the Game
==============
_Rivals of Aether II_ is the next generation of platform fighters and multiplayer brawlers. This sequel to the hit indie fighting game Rivals of Aether is expanded and upgraded with 3D visuals, new mechanics, improved online support, and more!
The Aether Universe is a world where warring civilizations summon the power of Fire, Water, Air, and Earth - and powerful Rivals harness those powers to clobber each other! _Rivals of Aether II_ continues the franchise’s iconic focus on competitive depth, accessible gameplay, and unforgettable characters. Whether you’re a competitive master of the genre or a newcomer looking to have fun, _Rivals of Aether II_ delivers a fast-paced and flashy brawler experience that you won’t forget.
_Rivals of Aether II_ features an exciting base roster of new and returning characters - with post-launch plans to add additional playable characters to the game for free! Each of these playable Rivals have an expansive moveset featuring new mechanics and special moves that are not only an upgrade over the original game, but new to the platform fighter genre as a whole. Shields, ledges, grabs and throws add new layers to the frenetic flow of combat in _Rivals of Aether II_. On top of that, the Pummel Special, Ledge Special, and Getup Special provide unique combat options that push the genre forward in exciting new ways.

Release date: Oct 23, 2024

Categories: Platform Fighter, Multiplayer Brawler, Competitive, Character-based Combat, Combo System, Online Multiplayer, Local Co-op, Casual Game

Feature scans:
- MTX: score 25; verdict: Fair Monetization; summary: The game's monetization strategy is generally well-received, with a focus on cosmetic-only microtransactions, free and non-expiring battle passes, and a generous currency system. However, some players feel that the microtransactions are overpriced and that the developers are focusing too much on monetization rather than game improvements. Overall, the game avoids predatory monetization practices and provides a fair experience for players.
- Wiki: score 50; verdict: Needs Improvement in Learning Resources; summary: The primary issues highlighted by users revolve around the steep learning curve and the necessity to rely on external wiki pages to understand game mechanics and character movesets. While the gameplay is praised, the in-game communication of these elements is found lacking. Tutorials have been added recently and are appreciated, but there is a demand for more comprehensive guides on advanced mechanics.
- Proton/Linux: score 45; verdict: Mixed Performance; summary: The game has mixed reviews regarding its performance on Linux and the Steam Deck. While some users report significant lag, performance issues, and controller input problems, others have had a positive experience by adjusting graphics settings. There are also reports of the game not running well or having issues starting properly on the Steam Deck.
- Steam Deck: score 75; verdict: Tinkering Required; summary: The game faces significant performance and compatibility issues on the Steam Deck, with users reporting lag, poor optimization, and unplayable conditions. Control configuration issues and mixed gameplay experiences are also notable concerns.

- Hardware Profile:
  - Summary: Performance varies significantly across hardware cohorts, with lower VRAM configurations experiencing more issues. Higher VRAM setups generally report better performance, though some still encounter crashes and optimization problems.
  - Sample size: 46 (2% coverage)
  - Audience skew: Review sample is mostly Windows-based.
  - Windows <8GB VRAM (mixed, 18 reports): Performance is inconsistent, with some users reporting smooth gameplay while others experience crashes and poor optimization.
  - Windows 8-11GB VRAM (positive, 15 reports): Users generally report good performance, though some note the game being heavy for a 2D fighter and occasional crashes.
  - Windows 12-15GB VRAM (negative, 5 reports): Users report frequent crashes, particularly with mods.
  - Caveats: 46 of 2370 reviews expose hardware metadata.; Review sample is mostly Windows-based.
Feature extractions:
- Community Price:
  - Community fair range: $15.00 - $30.00
  - Reasoning: The evidence suggests that the community finds the game worth its price point, especially when compared to similar games like Smash Ultimate. Many users mention that the game is worth it at a price range of $15 to $30, particularly when on sale. The game's unique mechanics, balance, and character diversity are highlighted as reasons for its value within this price range.
- Playtime Metrics:
  - Game completion: 500.0h
  - Story completion: 100.0h
  - Session length: 2.0h
  - Endgame: 400.0h
  - Reasoning: The evidence provided includes direct mentions of playtime and context that implies extensive play sessions. The first quote mentions 'over 500 hours in the game,' which directly supports the game completion and endgame metrics. The second quote discusses the developer's roadmap and updates, implying long-term engagement. The third quote mentions grinding for in-game currency, suggesting significant playtime for story completion and endgame content. The fourth quote again mentions 'over 500 hours,' reinforcing the extensive playtime metrics.
- Time-to-fun:
  - Summary: The game is fun with friends and has a competitive edge, but it has a steep learning curve and lacks proper tutorials, making it less enjoyable for newcomers and casual players. The fun starts after overcoming the initial learning phase.
  - Stance: Fun then drops
  - Anchor: Overcoming the initial learning phase and finding others at the same skill level or playing with friends.
  - Time to anchor: 2h 0m
  - Friction: Steep learning curve; Lack of proper tutorials; Harsh for newcomers; Repetitive gameplay; Unfriendly matchmaking for newcomers
  - Unlock drivers: Playing with friends; Finding others at the same skill level; Learning advanced techniques; Practicing against bots
  - Conditions: Playing with friends; Competitive mindset; Willingness to learn and improve; Casual play with friends
- Player Archetypes:
  - Competitive Veteran (buy)
    - Motivation: Competitive play and mastery of game mechanics.
    - Playstyle: Focused on competitive play, attending LAN events, and mastering advanced mechanics.
    - Experience: veteran
    - Purchase stance: buy
    - Labels: Competitive player; Veteran
    - Reference games: Super Smash Bros. Melee; Project M
  - Casual Transitional (sale)
    - Motivation: Enjoying the game casually and transitioning to more competitive play.
    - Playstyle: Casual play with some competitive elements, enjoying the game with friends and in local tournaments.
    - Experience: familiar
    - Purchase stance: sale
    - Labels: Casual player; Transitional player
    - Reference games: Super Smash Bros. Ultimate; Rivals of Aether 1
  - Struggling Newcomer (deep sale)
    - Motivation: Learning the game and improving their skills.
    - Playstyle: Struggling to get into the game, often facing more experienced players and feeling overwhelmed.
    - Experience: newcomer
    - Purchase stance: deep sale
    - Labels: New player; Beginner
    - Reference games: Super Smash Bros. Ultimate; Brawlhalla


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:
- Top-tier platform fighter experience (weight 0.47): The game is widely praised as one of the best platform fighters, offering a fantastic and competitive experience for fans of the genre. It is considered a well-built, fun, and high-execution platform fighter that stands out among indie games.
- Unique and well-designed characters (weight 0.39): The game features a roster of characters that are praised for their uniqueness, interesting kits, and well-balanced mechanics. Each character has distinct abilities and playstyles, making them fun to learn and play.
- Polished and crisp gameplay (weight 0.27): The gameplay is noted for being polished, crisp, and smooth. The controls are responsive, and the combat is fun, contributing to a high-quality gaming experience.
- Overall enjoyable game (weight 0.24): The game is described as fun, amazing, and excellent overall. It offers enjoyable gameplay with great mechanics and music, making it a highly recommended experience.
- Fun casual gameplay (weight 0.18): The game offers enjoyable casual gameplay with fun party modes and casual-focused content. It is accessible and fun for new players, making it a great experience for all skill levels.
- Free updates and characters (weight 0.18): The game offers free new characters, game modes, and updates. All post-launch characters and battle passes are free, providing great value to players.
- Amazing visuals and music (weight 0.15): The game is praised for its beautiful visuals, superb animations, and great music. The art and animation are highly readable and contribute to the overall enjoyment of the game.
- Active and caring developers (weight 0.12): The developers are praised for their frequent updates, accessibility, and active support. They consistently provide bug fixes, balance changes, and cool events, showing their commitment to the game.
- Customizable and responsive controls (weight 0.12): The game supports various controllers and offers highly configurable and accessible controls. The controls are responsive and easy to customize, enhancing the gameplay experience.
- Easy to pick up, hard to master (weight 0.08): The game is easy to get into but offers depth and complexity, making it accessible for new players while providing a challenge for experienced players.
- Strong and supportive community (weight 0.08): The game has a lovely, helpful, and active community. The community is supportive and contributes to a positive gaming environment.

Common complaints:
- Floorhugging mechanic is problematic (weight 0.22): The floorhugging mechanic is widely criticized as frustrating, poorly designed, and overpowered. It creates unbalanced and unsatisfying gameplay moments.
- Game is not casual friendly (weight 0.21): The game is perceived as too competitive and not enjoyable for casual players. It lacks content and features that would make it more welcoming for a casual audience.
- Matchmaking needs improvement (weight 0.2): Players frequently report issues with matchmaking, including long wait times and unbalanced matches due to significant skill level differences. This leads to a frustrating experience for many users.
- Lack of single-player content (weight 0.19): Players express disappointment over the lack of substantial single-player content, including story modes and solo gameplay options.
- Steep learning curve (weight 0.14): New players find the game difficult to learn due to its harsh learning curve and complex mechanics. This makes it less accessible and enjoyable for newcomers.
- Character balance issues (weight 0.12): There are complaints about character balance, with some characters being underpowered or overpowered, leading to an unbalanced gameplay experience.
- Feels like a Smash clone (weight 0.1): Many players feel that the game has become too similar to Smash, losing its unique identity and feeling like a generic clone.
- Lacks unique features (weight 0.09): The game is criticized for losing the unique features and identity that made the original game stand out. It feels like it has lost some of its original charm.
- Ranked mode is challenging (weight 0.08): The ranked mode is considered hard and poorly designed, making it difficult for new players to enjoy and succeed in competitive play.
- Low player count (weight 0.07): The game suffers from a dwindling player base, which affects matchmaking and overall enjoyment due to fewer available opponents.
- Game is not worth the price (weight 0.07): Many players feel that the game is not worth its current price point, considering it a money grab in its present state.
- Poor UI and tutorial (weight 0.06): The game is criticized for its poor UI design and lack of an intuitive tutorial, making it harder for players to learn and enjoy.

Gameplay feedback:
- Similar to Super Smash Bros (weight 0.22): The game is frequently compared to Super Smash Bros., particularly in terms of gameplay mechanics and accessibility. It shares similarities with various iterations of Smash Bros., including Ultimate and Melee.
- Platform fighter genre focus (weight 0.21): The game is a platform fighter with complex mechanics, unique characters, and both casual and competitive modes. It is praised for its depth and variety within the genre.
- Unique character mechanics (weight 0.15): Characters have specific mechanics, abilities, and movement tech that shape their attacks and playstyle. This adds depth and variety to the gameplay.
- High skill ceiling and learning curve (weight 0.12): The game has a high skill ceiling and a steep learning curve, requiring players to invest time and effort to master its mechanics. It offers in-depth learning resources.
- Combo-heavy gameplay (weight 0.11): The gameplay involves a significant focus on combos, with interactive and free-form combo systems. However, some players find the combos repetitive.
- Ledge and grab mechanics (weight 0.11): The game features ledge grab mechanics, get-up and ledge specials, and grab/throw mechanics. Some players criticize the ledge game as being worse.
- Fast-paced and technical combat (weight 0.1): The game is a fast-paced, technically advanced fighting game with blazing-fast combat. It is praised for its speed and technical depth.
- Online multiplayer and matchmaking (weight 0.1): The game features online multiplayer and server-based matchmaking, allowing players to engage in online versus mode and competitive matches.
- Casual and competitive modes (weight 0.09): The game includes both casual and competitive modes, with casual stages and online casual play. However, some players feel it lacks sufficient casual game modes.
- Ranked and competitive matches (weight 0.08): The game includes ranked matches and a competitive 1v1 mode, catering to players looking for a more competitive experience.
- Similar to Melee (weight 0.07): The game is compared to Melee in terms of gameplay style and mechanics. It plays similarly to Melee and Project M.
- Workshop and tutorials (weight 0.07): The game includes a workshop and tutorials, providing players with resources to learn and create content. It also features workshop characters.

Performance notes:
- Optimization and performance issues (weight 0.25): The game suffers from various optimization and performance issues, including poor optimization, frame rate issues, and stuttering. These problems affect the overall gameplay experience and need to be addressed.
- Netcode and server issues (weight 0.24): While some players praise the netcode and server performance, others report issues such as unreliable netcode, high ping, and server communication problems. These inconsistencies affect online play.
- Steam Deck performance issues (weight 0.11): The game has mixed performance on Steam Deck, with some players reporting poor performance and frame drops, while others find it runs well with minor hiccups. Optimization for Steam Deck needs improvement.
- Game crashes and bugs (weight 0.1): Frequent game crashes and buggy menus are reported by players. These issues can significantly impact the gameplay experience and need to be fixed.
- Controller input issues (weight 0.06): Players have reported various controller input issues, including disconnections and inputs getting eaten. These problems can hinder the gameplay experience.
- Performance issues with multiple players (weight 0.02): The game's framerate is reported to be significantly affected when playing with multiple players online, leading to a poor gameplay experience.
- Heavy system requirements (weight 0.02): The game is reported to be heavy for a 2D fighter, requiring powerful devices to run smoothly. This can limit accessibility for some players.
- Mods crashing the game (weight 0.02): There are reports of mods causing the game to crash, which can be frustrating for players who use mods to enhance their gaming experience.
- Audio issues (weight 0.02): Some players have reported audio issues, such as audio only coming out of the deck speakers. This can affect the overall gaming experience.

Recommendations:
- Recommended for platform fighter fans (weight 0.56): This game is highly recommended for fans of platform fighters and competitive players. It is praised for its technical and skill-based gameplay, making it a great choice for those who enjoy the genre.
- Not for casual players (weight 0.37): The game is not recommended for casual players or those looking for a party game experience. It lacks substantial single-player content and can be frustrating for inexperienced players.
- Best with friends (weight 0.21): Playing with friends or using Discord to find similar skilled players is highly recommended. The game is more enjoyable when played with others rather than solo.
- Alternative to Smash Bros (weight 0.17): The game is recommended for fans of Smash Bros and those looking for a similar experience. It is seen as a serious alternative to Smash Ultimate.
- Not recommended in current state (weight 0.16): Some reviewers cannot recommend the game in its current state due to various issues such as lack of content, high price, and frustrating mechanics.
- Worth it on sale (weight 0.14): The game is recommended especially if found on sale. It offers good value for money when purchased at a discounted price.
- Stick to Rivals 1 (weight 0.12): Some reviewers suggest sticking to the original Rivals of Aether game instead of this sequel, citing better gameplay and experience.
- Good for competitive and casual play (weight 0.07): The game is praised for being great for both competitive and casual players, offering a balanced experience for different types of gamers.
- Recommended for Melee fans (weight 0.07): The game is recommended for fans of Melee and those who enjoy Melee-style games. It is seen as a perfect alternative for fans of Melee or Project M.

Other player notes:
No miscpoints

Emotions:
- Frustration (weight 0.31): Players are frustrated with various aspects of the game, including the need to create additional accounts, controller input issues, and specific gameplay mechanics like floor-hugging and crouch cancelling. Matchmaking problems, such as being paired with higher-ranked players and long wait times, also contribute to this frustration. Additionally, the steep learning curve, lack of tutorials, and the game's competitive nature make it difficult for new and casual players to enjoy the game.
- Excitement (weight 0.22): Players are excited about the game's smooth and fun gameplay, unique character designs, and the variety of gameplay mechanics. The addition of new features, such as seasonal events and casual modes, as well as the potential for future updates and competitive play, contribute to this excitement. The game's visuals, animations, and the active community also enhance the overall experience.
- Disappointment (weight 0.19): Players express disappointment due to the game's deviation from the original, including changes in mechanics, character balance, and the lack of certain features. The game's monetization, lack of casual content, and matchmaking issues also contribute to this disappointment. Additionally, the game's performance issues, lack of single-player content, and the perceived identity crisis compared to its predecessor are significant concerns.
- Enjoyment (weight 0.05): Players enjoy the game for its polished gameplay, unique characters, and the ability to play with friends. The game's depth, creative movement, and entertaining gameplay mechanics contribute to this enjoyment. Despite some issues, the overall gameplay experience is found to be fun and engaging.
- Joy (weight 0.05): Players find joy in the game's fluid and fun gameplay, unique characters, and the ability to pull off satisfying combos. The game's rewarding learning curve, enjoyable movement, and the overall positive experience with gameplay mechanics and character designs contribute to this joy.
- Satisfaction (weight 0.05): Players are satisfied with the game's smooth gameplay, unique movesets, and the responsive development team. The game's competitive gameplay, character depth, and regular updates with bug fixes and balance changes contribute to this satisfaction. The fair economy, free content, and the game's potential for competitive play are also appreciated.
- Love (weight 0.03): Players love the game for its accessibility, creative gameplay, and the supportive community. The game's personality, charm, and the developer's responsiveness and support enhance this love. The enjoyable mechanics, character depth, and the overall positive experience with the game contribute to this emotion.
- Hope (weight 0.03): Players are hopeful about the game's future updates and improvements. The potential for the game to grow and improve over time, along with the developer's efforts and the promising roadmap, contribute to this hope. Players look forward to potential changes and fixes that could enhance the game's experience.
- Appreciation (weight 0.02): Players appreciate the game's accessibility in controls, the developers' passion and transparency, and the amount of free support and high-quality content. The lenient skin economy and the absence of predatory pricing or battle passes are also appreciated. The game's music, sound design, and the developers' responsiveness to community feedback contribute to this appreciation.
- Anger (weight 0.02): Players are angry about the game's issues, including frustrating CPU behavior, toxic player interactions, and poor design choices. The changes made to the game and the pricing model also contribute to this anger. Laggy opponents and the lack of beginner options further exacerbate this emotion.
- Frustrated (weight 0.01): Players are frustrated with the ranked matchmaking system, which often pairs them with opponents of significantly different skill levels. The floor-hugging mechanic and the parrying system are seen as unbalanced and inconsistent. Additionally, the game's harsh treatment of new players and the matchmaking system's flaws contribute to this frustration.
- Nostalgia (weight 0.01): Players feel nostalgia when comparing the game to its predecessors and other fighting games like Smash. The game's similarities to Rivals 1 and its unique aspects evoke a sense of nostalgia. The game's patches and content seasons also remind players of previous beloved games.
- Happy (weight 0.01): Players are happy with the game's fun and polished gameplay, unique characters, and nice graphics. The new patch that makes the game more accessible and the overall enjoyable experience contribute to this happiness. The game's positive aspects and the fun platform fighter experience enhance this emotion.
- Hate (weight 0.01): Players express hate towards specific gameplay mechanics and certain characters, such as Clairen, due to their frustrating and unbalanced nature. The ranked mode and the behavior of some players also contribute to this strong negative emotion.
- Approval (weight 0.01): Players approve of the game's awesome gameplay and the active community. The game's good mechanics, responsive development team, and the overall positive experience contribute to this approval. The game's potential for improvement and the developer's efforts are also appreciated.
- Sadness (weight 0.01): Players feel sadness due to the game's control issues and the loss of some of its identity compared to its predecessor. The game's changes and the perceived lack of content for casual players contribute to this sadness. The overall negative experience and the game's issues further enhance this emotion.
- Confusion (weight 0.01): Players are confused about certain aspects of the game, such as the lack of clarity in disadvantage and the purpose of the battle pass and expensive skins. The game's mechanics and the lack of in-game explanations for essential mechanics contribute to this confusion. The overall complexity and the lack of intuitiveness in character design further exacerbate this emotion.
- Annoyance (weight 0.01): Players are annoyed by certain characters' crazy moves with unintuitive counterplay and the behavior of bots. The game's mechanics and the lack of beginner options contribute to this annoyance. The overall frustrating experience and the game's issues further enhance this emotion.
- Hopeful (weight 0.01): Players are hopeful about the game's future updates and the roadmap for new content aimed at casual players. The new update that brought much-needed changes for casual players contributes to this hope. The game's potential for improvement and the developer's efforts to address player concerns further enhance this emotion.
- Appreciative (weight 0.01): Players are appreciative of the developers' support for the community and the game's excellent core balancing and gameplay. The game's positive aspects, such as the responsive development team and the high-quality content, contribute to this appreciation. The overall enjoyable experience and the game's potential for growth further enhance this emotion.}