Info about Serious Sam Classics: Revolution:

Official game description:
Serious Sam Classics: Revolution is a unified version of the Croteam's original Serious Sam Classic: The First Encounter and Serious Sam Classic: The Second Encounter experiences. The game started to be redesigned by Alligator Pit, an indie development team made of Serious Sam fans with support from Croteam, but it was “on ice” for a while due to life happening to Alligator Pit team, so recently Croteam took over the EA development and made it to the finish line.  
On top of everything available in Serious Sam Classics, Serious Sam Classics: Revolution includes additional enemies and 8 brand new campaign maps, including an epic new boss you can scrap with. Revolution is powered by an updated Serious Engine 1 featuring all-new advanced graphics shader support, full 64-bit compatibility, and Steamworks integration.  
Serious Sam Classics: Revolution is a standalone product and it is completely free to owners of original Serious Sam Classic games on Steam (Serious Sam Classic: The First Encounter and Serious Sam Classic: The Second Encounter).
KEY FEATURES:
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*   Become Sam “Serious” Stone - Travel through beautiful landscapes of Ancient Egypt, Mayan Civilization, Persian Empire and Medieval Europe. Confront countless members of the Mental's horde hell-bent on destroying the human race.  
*   Frantic Arcade-Style Action - Fight against Mental's nightmarish warriors, including old favorites like the Beheaded Kamikaze, Sirian Werebull, Kleer Skeleton and forgotten baddies that somehow got lost in time. Battle it out with three of Mental's fiercest generals to save the day or die trying!  
*   Special Weapons and Power-Ups - Wreak havoc with a huge arsenal of weapons including the classics such as the Double Shotgun, Minigun, Sniper Rifle, and Cannon! We also added the beloved Plasmagun and Minelayer from the Warped mod!  
*   Full Steamworks support - with Steam powered servers, game browser, achievements, leaderboards, and more!  
*   Friends and Enemies - Embrace the chaos of true online and local cooperative and versus multiplayer modes (split-screen included!). Jump in for some classic versus action in Deathmatch and Scorematch. When you've had enough of that, try out the all-new game modes unique to Revolution - Team Deathmatch, Capture-the-Flag, Control Zone and more!  
*   Survival - Try your luck at the brand new Survival game mode!  
*   Discover over 100 secrets spread throughout the battlefield!  
*   Powerful Editor - Create your levels, mods, textures and other content with the inclusion of the fully featured Serious Editor and the Serious Modeler!

Release date: Aug 30, 2019

Categories: First-Person Shooter, Cooperative Multiplayer, Split-screen Multiplayer, Survival Mode, Steam Workshop Integration, Retro Boomer Shooter, Horde Combat

Feature scans:
- Proton/Linux: score 10; verdict: Works Well; summary: User feedback indicates strong Linux/Proton compatibility. Multiple users report the game is playable on Linux Mint with default Proton settings, and one user explicitly thanks DXVK and Vulkan components. No Linux-specific launch failures, anti-cheat blockers, or required workarounds are mentioned. The only negative review concerns V-Sync/FPS capping but lacks any Linux, Proton, or SteamOS context, so it is not counted as a Linux compatibility issue.

- Hardware Profile:
  - Summary: For the Windows <8GB VRAM cohort, the available reports are dominated by crashes and instability, with only limited positive feedback.
  - Sample size: 38 (9% coverage)
  - Audience skew: Review sample is mostly Windows-based.
  - Windows <8GB VRAM (negative, 26 reports): Most included reports describe crashing on modern Windows systems, including repeated crashes after the intro, though one user recommends the game.
  - Caveats: 38 of 402 reviews expose hardware metadata.; Review sample is mostly Windows-based.
Feature extractions:
- Community Price:
  - Community fair range: $9.99 - $19.99
  - Reasoning: The clearest price anchor is $9.99 without a sale for both included encounters, which the reviewer frames as strong value compared with paying $34.00 separately. Other positive reviews express willingness to buy at full price and say the game is totally worth the money, supporting a fair base-game value at or above $9.99. Sale-focused comments around 1.80 and buying on discount show that lower prices are attractive, but they do not establish the base fair price. The negative review does not provide a specific price. Overall, the community sentiment supports a fair base-game range of roughly $9.99 to $19.99.
- Playtime Metrics:
  - Game completion: 73.0h
  - Story completion: 19.0h
  - Session length: N/A
  - Endgame: 1000.0h
  - Reasoning: The 73h all-achievements quote supports gameCompletion as a full completion time. The First Encounter and Second Encounter quotes give 5h and 8h for the two classic campaigns included in the target game, and the translated Spanish quote gives almost 6h for the expansion/new campaign, summing to about 19h for storyCompletion. The thousands-of-hours quote indicates extensive long-term/endgame replay in Campaign mode, conservatively estimated at 1,000 hours. No reliable quote for typical session length was found.
- Time-to-fun:
  - Summary: Serious Sam Revolution often starts fun, especially for classic-shooter fans and co-op groups, but many players report that enjoyment fades after the first hour or so as repetition, pacing, and multiplayer problems set in.
  - Stance: Fun then drops
  - Anchor: N/A
  - Time to anchor: N/A
  - Friction: Multiplayer desync and disconnects; Empty servers and few active players; Repetitive, slow, and tedious level design; Corrupted saves and crashes in co-op/multiplayer; High multiplayer latency; No progression mechanics beyond shooting and looting
  - Unlock drivers: Revolution bug fixes for multiplayer and 64-bit editor, plus widescreen support; Steam Workshop and mod download support for custom content
  - Conditions: Playing with friends or in co-op/splitscreen; Having active multiplayer servers/players; Familiarity with classic shooter pacing; Tolerance for repetition and chaotic encounters; Choosing singleplayer over unstable multiplayer; Playing for achievements or grinding; Using mods or Workshop content; Playing the Classic version with friends
- Player Archetypes:
  - Hardcore Old-School Arena Shooter Veteran (buy)
    - Motivation: To master intense old-school arena combat and relive classic Serious Sam challenge.
    - Playstyle: Campaign-focused, high-difficulty solo play with speed, endurance, and survival challenges.
    - Experience: veteran
    - Purchase stance: buy
    - Labels: Serious Sam fans; fan of the genre; old school FPSs; retro fps
    - Reference games: N/A
  - Co-op and Multiplayer Social Enthusiast (sale)
    - Motivation: To share classic Serious Sam chaos with friends in co-op and competitive multiplayer.
    - Playstyle: Co-op campaigns, split-screen, LAN or online deathmatch, and social competitive modes.
    - Experience: mixed
    - Purchase stance: sale
    - Labels: N/A
    - Reference games: N/A
  - Workshop Mod and Custom Campaign Explorer (buy)
    - Motivation: To extend the game through community-made campaigns, mods, and endless custom content.
    - Playstyle: Installs workshop campaigns and overhaul mods, explores community maps, and customizes the experience.
    - Experience: familiar
    - Purchase stance: buy
    - Labels: Serious Sam fans
    - Reference games: N/A
  - Classic Purist and Original Version Loyalist (no buy)
    - Motivation: To preserve the original Serious Sam Classic mechanics and avoid compromised changes.
    - Playstyle: Plays the original standalone Classic Encounters, often solo, and avoids Revolution unless grinding achievements.
    - Experience: veteran
    - Purchase stance: no buy
    - Labels: fan of classics
    - Reference games: Serious Sam Classic Encounters; Serious Sam Classic games; original Classic Serious Sam


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:
- Remastered graphics and fixes (weight 0.31): Graphics are well remastered for modern monitors and hardware, with improved framerate and graphical options. Many bugs have also been fixed.
- Split-screen multiplayer support (weight 0.29): Online multiplayer supports split screen for 2-4 players, including 4-way split-screen on one computer. This feature is appreciated by players.
- Bright Island new campaign (weight 0.28): Bright Island is a completely new campaign with around 7 levels and 2 secret levels, serving as a fitting bonus. It is worth playing and blends seamlessly into the experience.
- Overall positive gameplay experience (weight 0.16): The game is described as good, awesome, and very cool, with very good gameplay. Many players had fun with it and consider it a great deal.
- Large and varied arsenal (weight 0.12): The game features a huge arsenal with 17 different weapons, providing lots of guns to choose from. This adds to the gameplay variety.
- Huge enemy crowds and bosses (weight 0.1): Players face masses of enemies and huge bosses, with hundreds of enemies to fight. This is a signature feature of the game.

Common complaints:
- Multiplayer population is near dead (weight 0.2): Users report that multiplayer servers are mostly empty, making it difficult to find matches or populate games. Some note it is almost completely dead with only a few servers still active.
- Co-op mode barely functional (weight 0.15): Players describe co-op as tough, barely working, or almost impossible to play. There are also reports of it breaking down entirely during the finale.
- Early access game unfinished (weight 0.15): Reviewers point out that the game is in Early Access, meaning it is unfinished and may not be completed. Some also note it is still in beta with no new updates.
- Multiplayer desync is rampant (weight 0.13): Players frequently lose synchronization immediately upon joining servers, causing allies to appear invisible or shoot walls. The issue often requires a server reload to fix and makes multiplayer effectively unplayable.
- Graphics considered outdated (weight 0.12): The visuals are described as bad and not up to modern standards. Many feel the HD version shows little improvement over the original.
- HD version not worth it (weight 0.07): Players advise against buying the HD version unless seeking nostalgia. Some believe the original or classic version is better.
- New enemies are reskins (weight 0.06): The new enemies are merely reskinned versions of existing monsters, often just old models with guns attached. They add little to combat variety.
- Workshop campaign has bugs (weight 0.06): The Workshop campaign 'Abandoned Empire' contains a few bugs and starts with frustrating mazes. These detract from the overall experience.
- Fullscreen stuttering bug (weight 0.06): A stuttering bug occurs in fullscreen and borderless modes, but windowed mode avoids it. This forces players to use windowed mode for smooth performance.
- Original bugs not fixed (weight 0.06): Bugs present in the original version are definitely not fixed in this version. Some bugs that were absent in the classic version have appeared.
- New campaign unfinished (weight 0.06): The new campaign is not yet finished, and there is a lack of content as of now. Players are waiting for completion.

Gameplay feedback:
- Compilation of first two Serious Sam games (weight 0.67): This package combines Serious Sam: The First Encounter and The Second Encounter into a single unified release. It includes the classic versions of both games, with enhancements and improvements.
- Co-op and versus multiplayer support (weight 0.56): The game includes both online and local co-op, as well as versus modes. Split-screen is supported for up to four players, with adjustable settings, and multiplayer can be played over LAN or online with dedicated servers.
- Steam Workshop integration (weight 0.41): The game features Steam Workshop support, allowing players to download and share custom maps, campaigns, mods, skins, sounds, weapons, and characters. This extends the game's longevity through user-generated content.
- First-person shooter gameplay (weight 0.34): It is a classic first-person shooter with fast-paced action, large arenas, and a focus on fighting masses of enemies. The gameplay retains an old-school feel with modernized graphics.
- Bright Island campaign included (weight 0.32): A new campaign called Bright Island is included, featuring new weapons, enemies, and levels. It serves as a third campaign alongside the original two encounters.
- New weapons added (weight 0.24): The game introduces several new weapons, including three weapons from cut content that are hidden in maps. These additions expand the arsenal available to players.
- Survival game mode (weight 0.22): A survival mode is included, where players fend off waves of enemies across six maps. This mode adds a challenging cooperative experience.
- Extra enemies and campaign maps (weight 0.12): Eight new campaign maps are included, along with a new boss and forgotten enemies. This adds significant new content to the classic experience.

Performance notes:
- Frequent Game Crashes (weight 0.39): Players report frequent crashes across various scenarios, including after dying, loading, gameplay, and on modern hardware. Some crashes occur on specific levels or when joining multiplayer servers.
- Multiplayer Latency and Connection Issues (weight 0.17): Online multiplayer experiences heavy lag, high latency, and connection problems, making it often unplayable. Players also report difficulty connecting and intermittent connections.
- Stuttering and Frame Pacing Issues (weight 0.17): Players experience stuttering, frame hiccups, and input lag, particularly in fullscreen or borderless modes. Windowed mode is sometimes used as a workaround.
- Runs Well on Modern Hardware (weight 0.16): Some players report that the game runs very well on new PCs, with high framerates and no crashes or severe bugs.
- Poor Performance in Bright Island (weight 0.16): The Bright Island DLC and campaign suffer from severe framerate drops and stuttering, especially in open areas or when looking at distant objects. Even on high-end systems, performance drops to 30 FPS or lower.
- Performance Issues in Open Spaces (weight 0.14): Lag and framerate drops occur in large open areas, especially during big fights or when processing huge territories.
- Long Loading Times (weight 0.12): Loading times are noticeably longer than in previous versions, even on SSDs. Slower save times are also reported.
- High System Requirements (weight 0.12): The game has increased system requirements compared to the original, and ultra settings significantly load the system, making it unplayable on older machines.
- Stability Issues (weight 0.12): General instability, freezes, and crashes are reported, with some players describing the game as badly coded or a crash simulator.
- Game Fails to Start (weight 0.1): Some players report that the game fails to start entirely, or crashes with an error screen referencing a defunct bug report website.
- Improved Performance Over Original (weight 0.09): Some players observe improved framerates and optimization compared to the original game, with better performance on modern systems.
- Runs Acceptably on Weak PCs (weight 0.08): A few players note that the game runs acceptably on weak or old PCs, even on a potato computer, with low requirements.
- Broken Draw Distance (weight 0.07): The draw distance for foliage and other objects is broken, leading to pop-in and visual issues. This can affect gameplay and immersion.
- VSync and FPS Cap Not Working (weight 0.07): VSync and FPS capping features do not function correctly, leading to screen tearing and inconsistent framerates.
- Performance Worse Than Fusion (weight 0.06): The game runs somewhat weaker and looks worse than Fusion, with added lag in Revolution.
- Optimization Problems on AMD Hardware (weight 0.04): The game shows insufficient optimization for AMD hardware, with reports of poor performance and compatibility issues.
- DX11 Support (weight 0.03): The game includes DX11 support, which may improve performance and compatibility on modern systems.

Recommendations:
- Recommended for Serious Sam fans (weight 0.41): Many reviewers strongly recommend the game for fans of the Serious Sam series and those wanting to discover the classics. It is often described as an excellent purchase for anyone who enjoys the franchise.
- Buy the game (weight 0.29): Many reviewers simply recommend buying the game, stating it is worth the money and a great purchase. Some emphasize it is a must-have.
- Play HD versions instead (weight 0.28): Some reviewers suggest playing the HD remakes or the original classic games instead of this version. They often cite better graphics or more complete content in other versions.
- Recommended for old-school FPS fans (weight 0.28): The game is highly recommended for fans of old-school first-person shooters and classic FPS gameplay. It appeals to those who enjoy retro shooters.
- Worth buying on sale (weight 0.21): Several reviewers advise purchasing only during a sale, as the game may not be worth the full price. Some mention it is a cheap way to get the classic games.
- Not recommended (weight 0.19): Some reviewers do not recommend the game, stating it is unpolished, badly optimized, or simply not fun. They suggest playing other games instead.
- Recommended for newcomers (weight 0.19): The game is recommended for newcomers to the Serious Sam series as a way to experience the classics. Some note it can be a harsh entry but offers a learning path.
- Co-op and multiplayer issues (weight 0.18): Some reviewers warn about co-op and multiplayer problems, such as crashes, lags, and lack of matchmaking. They recommend other versions for a better multiplayer experience.
- Revolution specific recommendations (weight 0.17): Some reviewers recommend Serious Sam Revolution over other versions for its custom levels, mods, and workshop content. Others advise against it.
- Better play classics instead (weight 0.17): Several reviewers recommend playing the original classic Serious Sam games instead of this version, often citing better performance or mod support.
- Better alternatives exist (weight 0.14): Some reviewers suggest playing other games like Doom, Quake, or Dusk instead. They feel there are many better boomer shooters available.
- Includes original classic games (weight 0.13): The package includes the original Serious Sam classic games, which is a strong selling point. Many reviewers mention this as a reason to buy.
- Recommended for achievement hunters (weight 0.13): The game is recommended for achievement hunters, though some note it can be frustrating. It is seen as a good way to grind achievements.
- Worth the price (weight 0.12): Reviewers find the game worth its price, with some saying it is worth more than asked. It is often seen as a good value for the content offered.
- Good for nostalgia (weight 0.12): The game is recommended for players nostalgic for the old days and classic shooters. It provides a familiar yet refreshed experience.
- Recommended for serious shooter fans (weight 0.12): The game is recommended for fans of serious shooters and those who enjoy pure action. It is a must-play for the genre.
- Bright Island campaign opinion (weight 0.11): Opinions on the Bright Island campaign are mixed; some find it worth buying for, while others say it is unpolished or not worthwhile.
- Install mods for better experience (weight 0.11): Reviewers recommend installing mods such as the Xbox Overhaul mods or the Classics Patch to improve the experience.
- Survival mode and new content praised (weight 0.09): Reviewers praise the survival mode, new difficulty, mutators, and additional content. It adds value to the original campaigns.
- Recommended for old systems (weight 0.09): The game is recommended for players on old systems who need high frame rates for hardcore survival and speed runs. It is suitable for weak PCs.

Other player notes:
- Bundle of TFE and TSE (weight 0.45): The package includes enhanced versions of Serious Sam: The First Encounter and The Second Encounter in one collection. It provides both classic games together.
- Steam Workshop Support (weight 0.3): Revolution adds Steam Workshop support, enabling players to create and share mods and custom content. This feature was absent in the originals.
- Free for Existing Owners (weight 0.28): Owners of the original Serious Sam Classic games on Steam receive Revolution for free. Additionally, buying Revolution grants the two classic games for free.
- Affordable Pricing (weight 0.24): The game is sold at a low price, often cheaper than buying the two classic games separately. It offers two games for the price of one.
- Extra Content and Modes (weight 0.17): The package includes additional maps, achievements, co-op, and community-made levels. It also features a new campaign with newer levels and weapons.
- Level Editor and Modding Tools (weight 0.13): Includes the Serious Editor for creating mods and integrates with Steam Workshop. Official SDK code from decades ago still works.
- Developed by Croteam and Fans (weight 0.12): The game is developed by Croteam in collaboration with the fan team Alligator Pit and published by Devolver Digital.
- Early Access Title (weight 0.1): The game is currently in Early Access, meaning it is still under development and may receive updates.
- Russian Voice Acting (weight 0.06): The game features Russian voice acting, including legendary performances by Nikita Dzhigurda for the second part.
- 64-bit Support (weight 0.06): The game includes 64-bit support for modern PCs, ensuring compatibility with current hardware.

Emotions:
- Frustration (weight 0.23): Players are frustrated by severe technical issues such as frequent crashes, co-op desynchronization, and performance problems including frame rate drops and input lag. These issues often make multiplayer unplayable and corrupt saves, while poor optimization and broken mechanics further compound the frustration. Additionally, tedious achievements, difficult navigation, and unfair enemy spawns contribute to a highly frustrating experience.
- Disappointment (weight 0.16): Reviewers express disappointment due to the game feeling unfinished, buggy, and lacking in new content, with the Bright Island campaign being particularly criticized as unbalanced and poorly polished. The removal of features like Workshop campaigns and Italian language support, along with lackluster new weapons and a dead multiplayer scene, further disappointed players. Many felt the remaster was careless and abandoned, failing to meet expectations set by previous titles.
- Nostalgia (weight 0.07): Nostalgia is a major factor as many players fondly remember playing Serious Sam during their childhood, often evoking memories of early 2000s gaming and local multiplayer sessions. The remastered versions and classic gameplay mechanics bring back these memories, with some reviewers noting that the dated graphics and old-school design remind them of simpler times. Annual traditions and family involvement also play a role in the nostalgic appeal.
- Satisfaction (weight 0.07): Players find satisfaction in completing the game, enjoying the remastered content, and experiencing the classic fast-paced shooter gameplay. The inclusion of both original encounters, improved graphics, and added features like network play and mod support contribute to a rewarding experience. Many appreciate the value of getting two games in one package and the ability to blast through hordes of enemies.
- Excitement (weight 0.05): Excitement stems from the game's pure, non-stop action, featuring massive enemy hordes, legendary weapons, and frantic combat that keeps players on the edge of their seats. The new Bright Island campaign and the return of classic elements like gravity rooms add to the thrill. The high-speed, arena-style battles and epic boss sequences create an exhilarating experience.
- Annoyance (weight 0.05): Annoyance is caused by tedious achievements, long loading times, and performance issues like FPS drops and crashes. Enemies spawning endlessly or appearing out of nowhere, along with multiplayer problems such as bad ping and desync, further irritate players. The forced inclusion of the game with purchases and small menu text in 4K also contribute to the annoyance.
- Enjoyment (weight 0.04): Players enjoy the game's beautiful visuals, varied arena battles, and fun gameplay, especially in the DLC. The fast-paced gunplay, cooperative modes, and challenging levels provide a satisfying experience. The classic run-and-gun action and well-balanced encounters keep players engaged and entertained.
- Amusement (weight 0.04): Amusement arises from the game's absurd humor, over-the-top action, and silly elements like kamikaze enemies screaming as they charge and Sam whistling the Indiana Jones theme. Chaotic co-op sessions full of explosions and hilarious moments, along with the game's dynamic and fun nature, provide plenty of laughs. The humorous quotes and crazy world contribute to the overall amusement.
- Anger (weight 0.02): Anger is directed at the game's broken state, including glitches in the modern port, unbalanced arenas on serious difficulty, and a co-op mode that reproducibly breaks at the end. The game being the buggiest release in the series and not worth full price, along with hidden overpowered weapons, further infuriates players.
- Joy (weight 0.02): Joy is derived from the pure pleasure of playing the game, especially with friends, and the chaotic speed and explosions that create a feeling of mad fun. Annihilating alien enemies and experiencing the fun gameplay with modifiers and physics contribute to the joyful experience. Being able to replay a favorite childhood game also brings joy.
- Fun (weight 0.02): Fun comes from dynamic firefights, huge enemy crowds, and a variety of weapons that make the shooting gameplay fast, direct, and addictive. Playing co-op with others and destroying everything while collecting secrets adds to the enjoyment. The multiplayer mode is particularly fun for many players.
- Boredom (weight 0.02): Boredom sets in due to slow gameplay, enemies with too much health, and maps that feel like walking simulators with huge, blocky areas lacking detail. The story is unimpressive and repetitive, and the tourist difficulty is too easy, allowing players to run past everything. Having to clear every enemy to progress further contributes to the boredom.
- Appreciation (weight 0.01): Appreciation is expressed for the great level design, brutal gameplay, and awesome arsenal in the core games, as well as the cult classic status and pleasant community. Croteam's decision to finish the project and give it free to owners of the original games is also appreciated.
- Love (weight 0.01): Love for Serious Sam stems from it being a dearest childhood game, with many players cherishing the classic titles. The cartoon-like vibe and humor of the games further endear them to fans.
- Enthusiasm (weight 0.01): Enthusiasm is high for the classic arcade shooter and its remaster, especially with the first and second games bundled together. The game offers a great deal and a true Serious Sam FPS experience, with Steamworks integration, Workshop support, and a new campaign. Dynamic gameplay, a huge amount of weapons, and many enemy types keep players enthusiastic.
- Admiration (weight 0.01): Admiration is directed at the Bright Island campaign and Croteam's efforts to maintain quality by adding features like Russian localization and modern graphics to a twenty-year-old game. The changes, additions, and improvements introduced so far are also admired.
- Happiness (weight 0.01): Happiness is found in the remaster running at high frame rates and supporting modern resolutions, as well as the online mode being active again. Fans are happy to have Serious Sam available again.
- Confusion (weight 0.01): Confusion arises from secrets that are nearly impossible to figure out and from how the game was broken.
- Disgust (weight 0.01): Disgust is caused by the hoop mechanic inside the pyramid being stupid and seeing the beta label at the top of the game.
- Mild frustration (weight 0.01): Mild frustration is due to ping issues in multiplayer and menu text being too small in 4K.}