Info about The Elder Scrolls III: Morrowind® Game of the Year Edition:

Official game description:
The Elder Scrolls III: Morrowind® Game of the Year Edition includes Morrowind plus all of the content from the Bloodmoon and Tribunal expansions. The original Mod Construction Set is not included in this package.  
An epic, open-ended single-player RPG, Morrowind allows you to create and play any kind of character imaginable. You can choose to follow the main storyline and find the source of the evil blight that plagues the land, or set off on your own to explore strange locations and develop your character based on their actions throughout the game. Featuring stunning 3D graphics, open-ended gameplay, and an incredible level of detail and interactivity, Morrowind offers a gameplay experience like no other.  
In Tribunal, you journey to the capital city of Morrowind, called Mournhold, to meet the other two god-kings of Morrowind, Almalexia and Sotha Sil. Your journey will lead you to the Clockwork City of Sotha Sil and massive, epic-sized dungeons, where strange and deadly creatures await you, including goblins, lich lords, and the mysterious Fabricants.  
Bloodmoon takes you to the frozen Island of Solstheim where you'll experience snow, blizzards, and new creatures, including frost trolls, ice minions, and wolves... just to name a few. You'll have a choice of stories to follow and have the opportunity to defend the colony, take control over how the colony is built up, and eliminate the werewolves. Or, you can decide to join the werewolves and become one of them, opening up a whole new style of gameplay.  
Key features:  
*   Players can take their existing Morrowind characters and save games and continue their adventures in the Morrowind GotY edition  
*   Adds up to 80 hours of new gameplay and quests for current Morrowind players  
*   Explore the forests, caves, and snow-covered wastelands of the island of Solstheim  
*   Delve into new, epic-sized dungeons and visit the Capital City of Mournhold and the Clockwork City of Sotha Sil  
*   Fight new creatures including bears and wolves, lich lords and goblins, ice minions and spriggans  
*   Direct the construction of a mining colony and face the threat of savage werewolves  
*   Become a werewolf and indulge your thirst for the hunt  
*   New armor and weapons including Nordic Mail and Ice blades

Release date: Jun 16, 2009

Categories: Open-World Exploration, Character Progression, Character Customization, Rich Lore and Storytelling, Unique Magic System, Extensive Quest System, High Replayability, Old School RPG Style

Feature scans:
- Mods: score 40; verdict: Moderate Reliance on Mods; summary: The analysis of user feedback for Morrowind reveals a significant reliance on community mods to enhance and fix various aspects of the game. Users frequently recommend mods for graphical improvements, bug fixes, and overall gameplay enhancements. While the vanilla game is praised for its landscapes and core experience, the consensus is that mods are essential for addressing bugs and improving visuals.
- Wiki: score 10; verdict: Technical Issues and High Wiki Dependency; summary: The game has significant technical issues, particularly with crashing when alt-tabbing. It also has a steep learning curve and lacks handholding, requiring players to use external resources like wikis extensively. Despite these challenges, users appreciate the depth and uniqueness of the game world and mechanics.
- Proton/Linux: score 30; verdict: Minor Tweaks; summary: The game requires some tweaks and configurations, such as using OpenMW and adjusting launch options, to run well on Linux and Steam Deck. Despite these requirements, users report that the game can be configured to run great on these platforms.
- Steam Deck: score 50; verdict: Tinkering Required; summary: The analysis of user feedback for Morrowind on the Steam Deck reveals several key issues. The lack of official controller support and the need for an external launcher to improve playability are significant barriers. Additionally, the game requires additional setup and configuration to run smoothly, which adds friction to the user experience. However, the availability of mods and community-supported enhancements like OpenMW can significantly improve the game, albeit with additional effort.

- Hardware Profile: No data
Feature extractions:
- Community Price:
  - Community fair range: $6.00 - $15.00
  - Reasoning: The evidence suggests that the game is considered worth its full price, but it is often recommended to purchase it on sale. The mention of a specific sale price of $6 and the repeated emphasis on the game being worth it, especially when bought at a discounted price, supports the idea that the community finds the game to be of good value within a lower price range.
- Playtime Metrics:
  - Game completion: 50.0h
  - Story completion: 30.0h
  - Session length: 4.0h
  - Endgame: 500.0h
  - Reasoning: The evidence provided includes multiple references to extensive playtime, with users reporting hundreds to thousands of hours spent on the game. This suggests that the game has a high replay value and can keep players engaged for long periods. The playtime metrics are derived from direct statements about the total hours spent on the game, completion of main quests, and engagement in various playthroughs.
- Time-to-fun:
  - Summary: The game has a steep learning curve and initial friction points, but it becomes highly enjoyable and rewarding once players adapt to its mechanics and overcome early challenges.
  - Stance: Fun then drops
  - Anchor: Mastering the game mechanics and overcoming early challenges
  - Time to anchor: 1h 0m
  - Friction: Steep learning curve; Frustrating early combat mechanics; Slow travel and exploration; Repetitive quests
  - Unlock drivers: Getting used to the mechanics; Accepting the game's unique systems; Sticking through the slow beginning
  - Conditions: Patience and persistence; Willingness to experiment with different characters and builds; Appreciation for deep lore and world-building; Acceptance of slower-paced gameplay
- Player Archetypes:
  - Nostalgic Veteran (buy)
    - Motivation: Nostalgia and deep appreciation for the game's unique mechanics and lore.
    - Playstyle: Explorative and immersive, often using mods to enhance the experience.
    - Experience: veteran
    - Purchase stance: buy
    - Labels: veteran player; lore enthusiast
    - Reference games: The Elder Scrolls III: Morrowind; The Elder Scrolls V: Skyrim; The Elder Scrolls IV: Oblivion
  - Lore-Seeking Explorer (sale)
    - Motivation: Exploration and immersion in a rich, lore-heavy world.
    - Playstyle: Explorative and immersive, focusing on lore and character development.
    - Experience: familiar
    - Purchase stance: sale
    - Labels: lore enthusiast; explorer
    - Reference games: The Elder Scrolls V: Skyrim; The Elder Scrolls IV: Oblivion
  - Curious Newcomer (deep sale)
    - Motivation: Learning and adapting to a new, complex game world.
    - Playstyle: Explorative and experimental, often seeking guidance and using mods to ease the learning curve.
    - Experience: newcomer
    - Purchase stance: deep sale
    - Labels: new player; mod user
    - Reference games: The Elder Scrolls V: Skyrim
  - Challenge-Seeking Connoisseur (sale)
    - Motivation: Seeking a deeper, more challenging RPG experience.
    - Playstyle: Strategic and immersive, focusing on mastering complex mechanics and exploring rich lore.
    - Experience: familiar
    - Purchase stance: sale
    - Labels: RPG enthusiast; challenge seeker
    - Reference games: The Elder Scrolls V: Skyrim; The Elder Scrolls IV: Oblivion


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:
- Rich and immersive worldbuilding (weight 0.75): The game features a detailed and immersive world that players find engaging and enjoyable to explore. The lore and world-building are extensively praised for their depth and complexity.
- Highly engaging and fun gameplay (weight 0.42): Players appreciate the fun and rewarding gameplay mechanics, including open-ended gameplay, challenging combat, and high replay value.
- Freedom and player choice (weight 0.26): The game offers a high degree of freedom, allowing players to make choices that genuinely impact the story and gameplay.
- Best in the Elder Scrolls series (weight 0.22): Many players consider this game to be the pinnacle of the Elder Scrolls series, surpassing other titles like Skyrim and Oblivion in various aspects.
- Strong modding community (weight 0.16): The game has a thriving and passionate modding community that enhances the gameplay experience with high-quality mods.
- Rewarding character progression (weight 0.09): Players find the character progression system to be tangible and gratifying, adding to the overall enjoyment of the game.
- Aged well and still enjoyable (weight 0.08): Despite its age, the game holds up well and continues to be enjoyable for both new and returning players.
- Beautiful and captivating environments (weight 0.08): The game features beautiful landscapes and captivating environments that enhance the overall immersion and enjoyment.
- Hundreds of hours of content (weight 0.08): The game offers a vast amount of content, providing hundreds or even thousands of hours of gameplay for players to enjoy.

Common complaints:
- Outdated and glitchy graphics (weight 0.36): The game's graphics are frequently described as outdated, glitchy, and not having aged well. Many players mention the early 2000s graphics and the need for texture mods to improve visual quality.
- Clunky and outdated mechanics (weight 0.29): The game mechanics are often described as clunky, outdated, and difficult to understand. Players find the controls and gameplay mechanics antiquated and unintuitive.
- Bugs and technical issues (weight 0.25): The game is noted for being bug-riddled, with players experiencing various annoying and frustrating bugs. These technical issues can detract from the overall gameplay experience.
- Difficult for beginners (weight 0.17): New players may find the game difficult to understand and play due to its lack of guidance and harder gameplay style. The learning curve is steep, and mechanics can feel alien at first.
- Lack of map markers (weight 0.15): The absence of real-time map markers and quest markers can make navigation challenging. Players often get lost and struggle to find important locations.
- Limited voice acting (weight 0.15): The game lacks voice acting, which can make it feel less immersive. Players note the absence of voice lines for characters.
- Poor combat system (weight 0.14): The combat system is frequently criticized as outdated, clunky, and frustrating. Players mention that attacks don't always hit and the combat mechanics feel weird and ineffective.
- Slow character movement (weight 0.06): The character's walking speed is described as slow, leading to poor mobility. This can make traversing the game world feel tedious.
- Ineffective journal system (weight 0.06): The journal system is criticized as chaotic and unworkable. Players find it difficult to keep track of quests and important information.
- Poor render distance (weight 0.05): The game has a limited render distance, which can affect the visual experience. Players mention the poor draw distance as a drawback.
- Magic system imbalance (weight 0.05): The magic system is noted as being either too weak or overpowered. Players find it difficult to balance the use of magic in the game.
- Time-consuming gameplay (weight 0.05): The game requires a significant time investment from players. It is noted as being time-consuming and requiring more effort to progress.

Gameplay feedback:
- Character progression and customization (weight 0.2): The game features extensive character progression and customization options, including character creation, builds, and leveling. Players enjoy the depth of character customization and the impact of skills on gameplay.
- Open-world exploration focus (weight 0.19): The game emphasizes open-world exploration with freedom in gameplay and open-ended quests. Players appreciate the real exploration and interaction-based questing, although some mention vague instructions.
- Rich lore and storytelling (weight 0.17): The game is praised for its rich lore, immersive world, and complex storytelling. Players appreciate the depth of the lore and the intricate worldbuilding.
- Dice roll combat mechanics (weight 0.17): Combat in the game is based on dice roll mechanics, where skills and dice rolls affect combat outcomes. This system adds a layer of randomness and strategy to fights.
- No quest markers (weight 0.12): The game does not use quest markers, requiring players to follow NPC directions and explore without the aid of a compass or map markers. This design choice is appreciated by some for its old-school approach.
- Unique magic system (weight 0.12): The game features a unique magic system with elemental damage, various spells, and spell crafting. Players appreciate the depth and complexity of the magic mechanics.
- Extensive quest system (weight 0.11): The game features an extensive quest system with main quests, side quests, and dialogue-driven quests. Players enjoy the variety and depth of the quest mechanics.
- High replayability (weight 0.11): The game offers high replayability with a variety of quests, factions, and choices that encourage multiple playthroughs.
- Old school RPG style (weight 0.08): The game is praised for its old-school RPG elements, including classic RPG mechanics and a deep, detailed RPG experience.
- Complex and mysterious story (weight 0.08): The game's story is complex, mysterious, and thought-provoking, requiring players to interpret and uncover the truth for themselves.
- Limited fast travel (weight 0.07): The game has limited fast travel mechanics, relying on in-world services rather than modern fast travel systems. This can make traversal more challenging and immersive.
- Levitation and teleportation mechanics (weight 0.07): The game includes levitation and teleportation mechanics, adding unique gameplay elements and strategies for players.
- Engaging world design (weight 0.06): The game features an engaging world design with rich lore, immersive environments, and thoughtful worldbuilding.
- Unique and special experience (weight 0.06): The game is considered unique and special, offering an experience that is different from typical RPGs and appreciated for its distinct qualities.
- Unique in-game events (weight 0.06): The game includes unique in-game events and scripted events, providing players with memorable and engaging experiences.
- Challenging gameplay (weight 0.06): The game offers challenging gameplay with harder difficulty settings, appealing to players who enjoy a tougher experience.
- Less handholding (weight 0.06): The game provides less guidance and handholding, requiring players to explore and discover things on their own.
- Exploiting game mechanics (weight 0.06): Some players enjoy finding and exploiting game mechanics, adding a layer of depth and replayability to the game.

Performance notes:
- Bugs and crashes (weight 0.2): The game is known for having various bugs and crashes. Players suggest using unofficial patches and OpenMW to mitigate these issues.
- Outdated graphics and textures (weight 0.19): The game's graphics and textures are considered outdated and poor by many players. This includes issues with pixelation, blurriness, and overall visual quality.
- Performance issues (weight 0.15): The game struggles with performance on modern PCs and may require adjustments to settings or the use of mods for better performance.
- Compatibility with various systems (weight 0.14): The game can run on a wide range of systems, including older laptops and even phones. However, it may require third-party applications or specific configurations.
- Render distance issues (weight 0.11): The game has problems with render distance, which can be improved using mods like Morrowind Graphics Extender. However, the default render distance is quite limited.
- Dated game design (weight 0.06): The game's design is considered outdated and may feel awkward to modern players. This includes combat mechanics and control schemes.
- Sound and audio issues (weight 0.05): While the game has good audio, some sound effects are lacking. There are also mentions of specific audio bugs.
- Resolution and scaling issues (weight 0.04): The game may require manual adjustments for FullHD resolution and has issues with screen proportions and UI scaling.

Recommendations:
- Mods enhance gameplay (weight 0.29): Players suggest using various mods to improve graphics, gameplay mechanics, and overall experience. Mods like Project Tamriel, Tamriel Rebuilt, and others add content and enhance visuals.
- Game highly recommended (weight 0.23): The game is highly recommended for its story, combat, and overall experience. Players suggest trying the game, especially if you are a fan of the Elder Scrolls series or RPG games in general.
- Use OpenMW for enhanced experience (weight 0.22): Many players recommend using OpenMW, a modern engine for Morrowind, to enhance graphics, stability, and overall gameplay experience. It is often suggested to be used with various mods and texture packs for an improved visual and gameplay experience.
- Recommended for Elder Scrolls fans (weight 0.13): The game is recommended for fans of the Elder Scrolls series, especially those looking for a different experience than Skyrim. It is praised for its depth and lore.
- Install essential patches (weight 0.11): Players recommend installing essential patches like the Morrowind Code Patch and Morrowind Patch Project for bug fixes and a smoother experience.
- Explore and engage with the world (weight 0.1): The game encourages exploration and engagement with its written world. Players suggest talking to people, reading books, and exploring the world to fully immerse yourself in the game.
- Patience required for old game (weight 0.1): The game requires patience due to its age and outdated mechanics. Players suggest taking your time and understanding the basics to fully enjoy the experience.
- Beginner guides and tutorials (weight 0.07): Players suggest watching beginner guides on YouTube and reading the manual to understand the game mechanics and common bugs better.
- Quest markers and guidance (weight 0.06): Some players recommend using quest marker mods if you have difficulty with directions or need guidance. The game is not recommended for those who rely heavily on quest markers and clear instructions.
- Use movement and speed mods (weight 0.04): Some players recommend using movement speed mods and other quality-of-life mods to enhance the gameplay experience and make it feel less dated.

Other player notes:
- Game obtained for free (weight 0.04): Some players received the game for free, either as a gift or due to Bethesda closing their launcher.
- Players use Steam Deck (weight 0.02): Some players mentioned using Steam Deck to play the game.
- Understanding game mechanics (weight 0.02): Players have noted personal growth in understanding the game mechanics better.

Emotions:
- Nostalgia (weight 0.27): Players express nostalgia for Morrowind due to its deep personal connections, often tied to childhood memories and long-term engagement with the game. Many reviewers reflect on the game's unique qualities, immersive world, and the significant impact it had during their formative years, making it a cherished experience that they revisit over time.
- Frustration (weight 0.15): Players feel frustrated with Morrowind primarily due to its outdated mechanics, such as slow movement speed, clunky combat, and lack of modern conveniences like quest markers. Additionally, technical issues, crashes, and the game's difficulty without guides contribute to this frustration.
- Joy (weight 0.1): Players find joy in Morrowind's deep and immersive gameplay, rich character development, and the freedom to explore and experiment within the game's world. The game's longevity, engaging story, and rewarding progression also contribute to this positive emotion.
- Enjoyment (weight 0.09): Players enjoy Morrowind for its immersive and detailed world-building, unique fantasy setting, and rich lore. The game's open world, magic system, and the overall positive experience it provides, including its unique art style and music, contribute to this enjoyment.
- Excitement (weight 0.08): Players are excited about Morrowind's unique gameplay mechanics, deep lore, and the freedom it offers to become whatever they want within the game's world. The game's fluid movement, extensive content, and the potential for modding also contribute to this excitement.
- Enthusiasm (weight 0.06): Players are enthusiastic about Morrowind due to its depth, complexity, and the strong recommendation from the community. The game's modding potential, rewarding nature, and the fun bugs/glitches add to this enthusiasm, making it a highly recommended experience.
- Satisfaction (weight 0.06): Players feel satisfied with Morrowind due to its engaging and immersive experience, despite initial challenges. The game's endless content, replayability, and the rewarding combat and magic systems contribute to this satisfaction.
- Admiration (weight 0.03): Players admire Morrowind for its depth, freedom, and immersive world. The game's unique qualities, rich lore, and the lasting quality of its story and world-building are highly praised.
- Appreciation (weight 0.03): Players appreciate Morrowind for its rich lore, immersive environment, and unique mechanics. The game's atmosphere, RPG elements, and the depth of its world-building and storytelling are highly valued.
- Love (weight 0.02): Players express deep love for Morrowind due to its unique features, historical significance, and the deep emotional connection they have with the game. The game's aesthetics, music, and lore contribute to this strong affection.
- Amusement (weight 0.01): Players find amusement in Morrowind's humorous and unexpected in-game events, as well as the game's jankiness, which adds to its charm. The engaging experience of stealing a plate and the powerful mage spells are also sources of amusement.
- Surprise (weight 0.01): Players are surprised by Morrowind's depth and extent of gameplay, as well as how well the game holds up despite its age. The initial overwhelm with the game's world and lore also contributes to this surprise.
- Disappointment (weight 0.01): Players feel disappointed with Morrowind due to its dated and clunky mechanics, as well as the lack of faction stories and boring quests.
- Comfort (weight 0.01): Players find comfort in Morrowind, comparing it to a home-cooked meal and noting how it brought peace and comfort during past months.
- Confusion (weight 0.01): Players feel confused due to the difficulty in understanding the game and its cryptic instructions, as well as the lack of quest tracking.
- Awe (weight 0.01): Players are in awe of Morrowind's depth of story and the uniqueness of its game world. The game's unique feel and aesthetics compared to other Elder Scrolls games also contribute to this awe.
- Hope (weight 0.01): Players feel hopeful about future Elder Scrolls titles incorporating elements from Morrowind, anticipating future games with similar depth and complexity.
- Interest (weight 0): Players are interested in Morrowind due to its weird, strange, and unique qualities that set it apart from other games.
- Affection (weight 0): Players have affection for Morrowind, often listing it as one of their favorite games alongside other titles like Oblivion.}