Info about Black Ink:

Official game description:
Discover Black Ink, the GPU-based painting application that redefines artistic creativity.  
Leave behind pens, papers, and traditional techniques to embrace an entirely computer-based, generative approach to creation. Whether you're an experienced artist or a first-time digital painter, Black Ink offers a world of possibilities.  
Black Ink empowers you to transform your brushes into extensions of your creativity. Modify them at will, from realistic brushes to the most imaginative ones, and share your creations with others for endless possibilities. The unique node-based system allows you to easily define brush behavior and experiment with advanced configurations without constraints and for those with advanced skills, you can even program your own brushes.  
With its intuitive interface and node-based layer editor, you can create without limits in a non-destructive manner. While it may seem confusing at first, you'll quickly adapt to this innovative way of working.  
Finally, thanks to Black Ink's GPU technology, pixels are no longer a concern. Create in high definition, whether it's 4K, 10K, or even 64K, without any loss of performance on real bitmap documents. The only limit is your imagination.  
Learn | Brush making | Tips and tricks
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**Key Features**  
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*   GPU rendering technology offering unprecedented speed with full bitmap high resolutions documents (4K, 10k up to 64K)  
*   Non-realistic brushes for generative computer based creation  
*   Powerful node-based brush customization tool  
*   Brush Shader Language  
*   Unique and intuitive user interface  
*   Node-based layer editor
Under development

Release date: Feb 8, 2016

Categories: Art Creation, Node-based Architecture, Brush Customization, GPU Rendering Technology, High-Resolution Support, Procedural Generation, Non-Destructive Workflow, Digital Painting

Feature scans:
- MTX: score 15; verdict: Standard DLC, No Predatory Monetization; summary: User feedback focuses on dissatisfaction with a paid DLC update, citing unclear descriptions and a perceived paywall for new content. However, the monetization model is standard one-time DLC, not microtransactions or pay-to-win. No evidence of predatory practices was found. The score remains low as traditional DLC cannot push above 20 per the scoring criteria.
- Steam Deck: score 0; verdict: Insufficient Data; summary: No relevant feedback was provided. The submitted text compares drawing software across platforms but contains no references to Steam Deck, Proton, launcher issues, battery drain, or any other technical barrier on the device.

- Hardware Profile: No data
Feature extractions:
- Community Price:
  - Community fair range: $20.00 - $30.00
  - Reasoning: The reviews consistently reference a $20 historical purchase price and compare favorably to Clip Studio Paint at $23 on sale, suggesting the community regards a base price around $20–30 as fair. Complaints about full-price upgrades imply higher base prices are seen as unfair, while positive mentions of sale purchases reinforce this range. The evidence points to $20–30 as the acceptable base price.
- Playtime Metrics:
  - Game completion: 4000.0h
  - Story completion: N/A
  - Session length: N/A
  - Endgame: N/A
  - Reasoning: The logged value of 4000 hours from one reviewer provides direct evidence for total playtime (gameCompletion). The refund statement confirms at least 2 hours, supporting that some users exceed that threshold, but no specific session length or story/endgame metrics are given.
- Time-to-fun:
  - Summary: The software requires overcoming a learning curve, but after adaptation it becomes intuitive and offers powerful tools, indicating that fun is achieved after early friction is resolved.
  - Stance: Clicks after
  - Anchor: N/A
  - Time to anchor: N/A
  - Friction: learning curve; shader language complexity; cumbersome color selection; steep learning curve for power users
  - Unlock drivers: becoming familiar with intuitive interface; accessing powerful tools and brush possibilities; using tutorials and updates; understanding shader language
  - Conditions: personal skill and background affect effectiveness; tutorial quality influences learning speed; learning curve may be horizontal or steep; shader language requires extra effort; color selection requires extra clicks; updates may improve experience over time
- Player Archetypes:
  - Experimental Concept Artist (buy)
    - Motivation: Creative exploration and generating new ideas through unconventional tools.
    - Playstyle: Loose, experimental, using brushes for concept sketches and abstract creations.
    - Experience: familiar
    - Purchase stance: buy
    - Labels: N/A
    - Reference games: N/A
  - Skeptical Professional (no buy)
    - Motivation: Professional quality and production efficiency.
    - Playstyle: Precise, multi-layered, complex compositions requiring robust layer management and integration.
    - Experience: veteran
    - Purchase stance: no buy
    - Labels: professional
    - Reference games: N/A
  - Enthusiastic Sketching Hobbyist (buy)
    - Motivation: Enjoyment of the drawing process and creative expression.
    - Playstyle: Casual, joyful sketching and painting for personal enjoyment.
    - Experience: familiar
    - Purchase stance: buy
    - Labels: N/A
    - Reference games: N/A


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:
- Highly customizable brush engine (weight 0.87): Users consistently praise the brush engine's vast customization options, including parametric controls, custom brush creation, and a node-based editor. The ability to create and download countless brushes is a standout feature.
- User-friendly and intuitive (weight 0.45): Multiple reviews note that the application is easy to learn and use, with an uncluttered and beautiful UI. The intuitive interface appeals to both beginners and experienced artists.
- Powerful and unique painting tools (weight 0.38): Reviewers describe the app as a slick, innovative painting tool that offers a distinct drawing feel compared to other programs. It is particularly suited for technical-minded artists seeking novel creative possibilities.
- Versatile for various artistic styles (weight 0.38): The software excels at both realistic and non-realistic artwork, including illustrations, sketches, and doodles. Users appreciate its flexibility for multiple creative applications.
- Affordable alternative to Photoshop (weight 0.33): Compared to Photoshop, the software is seen as a cheaper option without a subscription model. Users appreciate the cost savings and intuitive interface as an alternative.
- Supports high-resolution artwork (weight 0.32): The program can handle huge resolutions, allowing artists to produce very large paintings without performance issues. Users also note excellent performance even with massive canvases.
- Excellent graphics tablet support (weight 0.24): The software works flawlessly with professional graphics tablets, including smooth pressure sensitivity and overall compatibility. Users highlight seamless tablet integration as a key positive.
- Node-based workflow is appreciated (weight 0.22): The node-based, non-destructive workflow allows for precise procedural brush crafting and maintains a flexible editing process. This feature is particularly valued by advanced users.
- Fun and satisfying brush feel (weight 0.21): Brushes are described as weighty, gooey, and realistic, making the painting experience enjoyable. Users find the brush physics delightful and engaging.
- Ideal for technical artists (weight 0.2): The program serves as a laboratory for geeks to construct new brushes from algorithms, offering extensive control for technically inclined users. This aspect is highly valued by a niche audience.
- Great for quick sketching (weight 0.18): The program is praised for its suitability for sketching and drawing, allowing artists to quickly capture ideas. It functions well as a robust drawing and doodling application.
- Clean and beautiful UI (weight 0.16): The interface is described as beautiful, clean, and uncluttered, which contributes to an enjoyable user experience. The UI design is a notable positive aspect.
- Fast and smooth performance (weight 0.16): The software runs smoothly and efficiently, even with complex brushes and large files. Users note that it performs like a dream, enhancing the overall creative workflow.
- Works well with mouse input (weight 0.1): Even without a tablet, the software is natural and fun to draw with using a mouse. Users appreciate the responsive input across different devices.
- Custom brushes via imported textures (weight 0.1): Users can create brushes using their own imported textures, adding a painterly feel. Additionally, custom brushes can be shared and imported from other users, expanding the creative toolkit.

Common complaints:
- Feature updates are paid DLC (weight 0.76): The 2023 update is a paid DLC, not free, which many users find unfair, especially those who bought early or during beta. This paywall includes basic features and bug fixes, alienating loyal customers and breaking earlier promises of free updates.
- Frequent crashes and instability (weight 0.66): The software crashes often, with reports of random crashes, crashes when performing complex tasks, and even losing work on save. Instability is a major concern, rendering the tool unreliable for serious projects.
- Poor developer communication (weight 0.59): Developers are slow to respond, with years-long silence on bug reports and requested features. Users feel abandoned, with no updates or fixes for critical issues, leading to loss of trust.
- Not beginner-friendly (weight 0.5): The interface is complicated, with no adequate tutorials or documentation, making it hard for new users. Even experienced artists from other software find the learning curve steep due to non-standard shortcuts and unclear tool functions.
- Insufficient brush selection (weight 0.49): Out-of-the-box brushes are limited, with few satisfactory options and a lack of essential brushes like airbrush, smudge, and blending tools. Customization is difficult and often requires scripting, creating a high barrier for users from other programs.
- Limited to 8 layers (weight 0.48): The layer count is severely restricted to 8, which hampers complex artwork and sketching habits. Users find this limit restrictive and wish for more layering options.
- Lack of essential tools (weight 0.41): Missing features include fill, bucket, mirror, wand, smudge, geometric tools, and various selection tools, making it hard to perform basic tasks. Users also note the absence of blending modes and other common functions found in similar software.
- Limited export and integration (weight 0.27): Users can only save in PNG or the native format, with no PSD or TIF export, limiting workflow compatibility. There is also an inability to import images into existing files and a minimum export size of 50x50 pixels.
- Poor documentation and tutorials (weight 0.25): Documentation is sparse and incomplete, with help features opening web browsers and leading to search results. Videos are laggy and sometimes require VPN, making learning difficult.
- Pen pressure issues (weight 0.24): Pen pressure sensitivity is problematic, with brushes requiring high pressure and calibration being difficult. This affects drawing precision and causes offset issues, hindering the artistic experience.
- Not suitable for professionals (weight 0.24): Lacks advanced features like symmetry, vector precision, and high-resolution support, making it unsuitable for professional work. Users feel it is not aimed at artists.
- Unresponsive support (weight 0.2): Support is slow and unreliable, with users waiting indefinite times for fixes. The lack of response to bug reports exacerbates frustration.
- Compatibility problems (weight 0.18): Works only on Windows, with no Mac version, and may not launch on certain laptops or after Windows updates. It also has issues with some drawing tablets.
- Missing language support (weight 0.17): The software lacks Chinese and Russian language support, making it less accessible for non-English speakers. Additionally, the English-only interface is a drawback for some users.

Gameplay feedback:
- Procedurally generated customizable brushes (weight 0.63): The brush engine is procedurally generated via math modules or shader language, allowing for deep customization of parameters like pressure, speed, and direction. Users can craft unique brushes that produce effects traditional tools cannot.
- Node-based non-destructive workflow (weight 0.38): Multiple reviews highlight the software's node-based, procedural, and non-destructive workflow, which allows for dynamic adjustments and complex layer systems. This appears to be a core selling point, offering flexibility similar to 3D modeling tools.
- Graphics tablet support (weight 0.3): The software supports professional graphics tablets and pressure-sensitive styluses, with some brushes being tilt-sensitive and pressure-sensitive. This indicates a focus on professional digital artists.
- Brush-specific drawing program (weight 0.3): The tool is fundamentally a brush-focused drawing program, with a simple interface centered on brushes and layers. Some compare it to making a collage on paper, focusing on line and shape creation.
- GPU-intensive requirements (weight 0.25): The software is GPU-intensive and requires a graphics processor, with rendering handled by the video card. Canvas size may be limited by system RAM and cache speeds rather than GPU, but performance depends on hardware capabilities.
- Non-realistic painting focus (weight 0.25): The software deliberately avoids simulating traditional media and instead offers abstract, non-realistic tools that produce interesting results. Reviews note it can draw lines that real brushes cannot, appealing to creative experimentation.
- Powerful yet complex workflow (weight 0.18): Reviews acknowledge the software's powerful and fast workflow, but also note it requires effort to understand and is hard to master. It is easy to use at a basic level but offers deep complexity for advanced users.
- Node-based layer customization (weight 0.18): Layer editing is node-based, and customization options resemble rendering settings in 3D modeling tools. Users can adjust layer alpha and other properties dynamically.
- Canvas limits due to RAM (weight 0.08): Canvas size is limited by hardware constraints, specifically system RAM and cache speeds, rather than GPU limitations. This indicates scalability depends on system memory.
- Undo shortcut quirk (weight 0.06): One review notes that the undo shortcut is CtrlZ but requires pressing Z before Ctrl, which is unintuitive. This is a minor usability issue.
- Lazy mouse feature (weight 0.06): The software includes a lazy mouse feature, which helps stabilize strokes, likely beneficial for artists seeking smoother lines.
- Instant color picking (weight 0.06): A feature allows instant color picking during drawing, enhancing workflow efficiency. This is a niche but useful capability.
- Autosave feature included (weight 0.05): An autosave feature is present, which is a standard convenience that helps prevent data loss during work.
- Line deletion slower than SAI (weight 0.05): One review notes that deleting lines or going backwards takes longer compared to Paint Tool SAI, potentially affecting workflow speed for some users.

Performance notes:
- Good performance on capable hardware (weight 0.19): Users with powerful hardware report smooth performance, even with complex brushes and large canvases. This suggests the software performs well when hardware requirements are met.
- Performance issues on weak hardware (weight 0.15): Users experience lag and unusable performance on laptops and systems with low-end GPUs, such as Intel integrated graphics. This highlights a lack of optimization for lower-spec devices.
- General instability and bugs (weight 0.15): Users describe the program as buggy and unstable, with various issues occurring across multiple computers. This suggests persistent underlying bugs that affect overall user experience.
- Launch failures after updates (weight 0.15): The software fails to launch on some laptops, particularly after Windows 10 updates. This indicates compatibility issues that prevent the app from starting in certain environments.
- Import issues with file types (weight 0.11): Importing certain file types, like PNGs, can cause crashes or produce artifacts. This points to specific bugs in file handling that disrupt workflows.
- Needs hardware but works well (weight 0.06): While the software requires good hardware and has occasional crashes, it runs smoothly when those requirements are met. This suggests a trade-off between performance and stability.
- Autosave window flickers (weight 0.06): The autosave window flickers and is unusable, making it difficult to interact with autosave features. This is a specific UI bug that hampers usability.
- High CPU usage (weight 0.06): The software consumes more CPU than some heavy games, which can affect overall system performance. This is a resource concern for users with limited processing power.
- Tablet calibration bugs (weight 0.06): There are bugs with tablet calibration, which could hinder precise input for drawing. This is a niche but important issue for artists using tablets.
- Update brought needed fixes (weight 0.06): One user appreciates that an update included bug fixes that were necessary, indicating active development and improvement. This is positive feedback for the software's evolution.
- Stability good for some (weight 0.06): Some users report good stability, contradicting the frequent crash reports. This variability may depend on hardware and specific usage patterns.
- Save file reload problems (weight 0.06): One user reported that save files would not reload in the past, though this may have been addressed. This indicates historical issues with data persistence.
- Performance compared to Krita (weight 0.06): One user notes the software runs more smoothly at higher resolutions than Krita, indicating competitive performance on certain setups. This is a positive comparison for the software.

Recommendations:
- Mixed overall recommendations (weight 0.38): Reviewers are divided, with some giving strong recommendations while others advise against purchase. This indicates the software's polarizing nature.
- Discouragement and warnings (weight 0.31): Some reviewers outright discourage purchase, advising to avoid the software or wait for development. These warnings are based on stability and value concerns.
- Suggest alternative software (weight 0.29): Several reviewers recommend alternatives like Krita, Clip Studio Paint, or Photoshop instead of this product. This reflects dissatisfaction with the software's value.
- Demo recommended before purchase (weight 0.27): Multiple reviewers advise trying the demo to gauge the software's suitability. This is especially helpful for assessing stability and features.
- For tinkerers and enthusiasts (weight 0.25): The software appeals to those who enjoy experimenting and tinkering. It is recommended for hobbyists and enthusiasts rather than professionals.
- Limited to sketching and concepts (weight 0.2): The software is praised for sketching and concept art but not for final or production work. Reviewers highlight its limitations for professional output.
- Value depends on sale price (weight 0.19): Reviewers note the software is a good buy on sale but not at full price. This suggests the value proposition is price-sensitive.
- Recommended for specific use cases (weight 0.19): The software is recommended for specific uses like textless illustration, casual sketching, or as a Photoshop aid. These targeted recommendations highlight niche benefits.
- Good for beginners (weight 0.18): Some reviewers recommend the software for beginners in digital art. It is seen as accessible for newcomers.
- Caveats about limitations (weight 0.15): Reviewers warn potential buyers about various limitations, urging caution before purchasing. This centers on stability, features, and overall value.
- Unique node-based experience (weight 0.15): Reviewers highlight the unique node-based workflow as a distinctive feature. This appeals to users interested in experimental approaches.
- Community engagement encouraged (weight 0.13): Reviewers suggest engaging with the community for brushes and support. This adds value for existing users.
- Brush quality is a plus (weight 0.11): Reviewers praise the brush quality, making it recommended for users who value brushes. This is a positive aspect of the software.
- Fun for casual users (weight 0.1): The software is enjoyable for casual users and those not skilled at drawing. This broadens its appeal to a non-professional audience.
- Technical knowledge required (weight 0.06): Reviewers note that the software is recommended for users with technical experience, such as shader coding. This limits its accessibility.
- Time investment for realism (weight 0.06): Reviewers advise that achieving realistic results requires more time investment. This is a consideration for potential buyers.
- Not ideal for blending (weight 0.06): The software is not ideal for blending layers and composition work compared to Photoshop. This is a limitation for certain tasks.
- Upgraded version worthwhile (weight 0.06): One reviewer finds the upgraded version very worthwhile, indicating added value in premium tiers.
- Consider graphics tablet (weight 0.06): A reviewer suggests considering a graphics tablet as an input device. This is an additional recommendation for enhancing use.

Other player notes:
- Paid 2023 update controversial (weight 0.44): The 2023 update is structured as paid DLC or an upgrade, which has sparked criticism from existing users who feel it charges them for essential features and bug fixes. Some reviewers find the one-time payment acceptable compared to subscription models, but others see it as poor value for long-time buyers.
- Compared to Photoshop (weight 0.42): Multiple reviewers compare the software to Adobe Photoshop, noting advantages like lower cost, no subscription, better high-resource performance, and superior default brushes, but also acknowledging it lacks many features. Some consider it a viable alternative for certain tasks.
- Development still ongoing (weight 0.4): The software is described as still in development, often in beta, with updates being infrequent or slow. Some note that while bug fixes come quickly, feature updates are rare, and a major update is anticipated.
- Pricing concerns (weight 0.29): The price may be considered high for some users, though it is often on sale and is cheaper than many competitors. Some reviewers find it not justified by performance, while others see it as fair.
- Community and communication (weight 0.21): Developers communicate through Discord, Steam, Facebook, and forums, and they are responsive to community feedback. However, some users could not find them on Twitter, and monetization plans were not initially communicated clearly.
- Compared to Krita (weight 0.19): Several reviewers compare the software to Krita, which is free, more powerful, and constantly evolving. Some recommend Krita over this product, while others note its strokes are more beautiful despite Krita's pixelation issues.
- Small development team (weight 0.19): The program is developed by a very small team, possibly just one person, who is working hard but faces limitations and high costs. This impacts update frequency and feature implementation.
- Subscription model rejected (weight 0.19): Reviewers strongly oppose subscription pricing, praising the one-time purchase model instead. Some suggest donations might be a better alternative to charging for updates.
- Potential and shortcomings (weight 0.19): The software shows great potential but has many limitations and shortcomings, making it suitable mainly for semi-professionals or advancing users. It excels in concept art and exploratory painting.
- Demo and sale availability (weight 0.18): A demo is available for potential users, and the program is currently on sale, making it more accessible for evaluation and purchase.
- Feature gaps and missing tools (weight 0.16): The software lacks many features compared to Photoshop, and essential tools like blend modes and adjustment layers are missing or overdue. Users have been requesting these for years, and the update includes some basics but not all.
- Compared to Clip Studio (weight 0.14): The software is compared to Clip Studio Paint in terms of accessibility and features, with some recommending Clip Studio Paint as a superior alternative. A sale on Clip Studio also influences some comparisons.
- Upgrade policy based on date (weight 0.14): Free upgrade keys are granted to users who purchased after 2021, while older users must pay for updates. This policy has been criticized for not benefiting long-term customers.
- Unique brushed features (weight 0.14): The brush system is praised for its artificial intelligence that anticipates paths, giving gorgeous strokes. It also offers circular palette and blur features, but lacks some advanced brush creation compared to Photoshop CS5.
- Lifetime purchase with no subscription (weight 0.14): The software requires a one-time purchase, which is a lifetime purchase with no ongoing subscription fees. This is seen positively compared to subscription-based alternatives.
- Comparison to abandonware (weight 0.11): Some reviewers claim the software is effectively abandonware due to lack of ongoing support and long update gaps, despite a notification indicating developers are still active.
- Performance on large canvases (weight 0.1): The software performs well on large canvases, being more responsive than Photoshop. It also works well with graphic tablets like Wacom Bamboo.
- Tutorials and documentation gaps (weight 0.09): The developer promised tutorials to cover documentation gaps, and the community provides tutorials and custom brushes. However, documentation may still be lacking.

Emotions:
- Frustration (weight 0.2): Users frequently experience crashes, lost work, and bugs that waste time and money. Additionally, the software's lack of updates, documentation, and basic features, combined with slow developer support, exacerbates user frustration.
- Satisfaction (weight 0.11): Users appreciate the software's performance, ease of use, and capability to handle large files, making it a worthwhile purchase. It is often seen as an affordable alternative to Photoshop with excellent rendering and a user-friendly interface.
- Disappointment (weight 0.09): Users feel let down by the limited implementation of the node system, lack of tutorials, and the requirement to pay extra for bug fixes and updates. The lack of updates, basic features, and support further compounds their disappointment.
- Excitement (weight 0.07): The brush engine and unique features spark enthusiasm, with users finding the customization capabilities limitless. Anticipation for future updates and the program's innovative approach to digital art contribute to the excitement.
- Love (weight 0.05): Users love the program for its fun, affordability, and powerful brush creation UI. It works smoothly with tablets, allowing creative expression and becoming a preferred choice for digital art.
- Admiration (weight 0.04): Users admire the program's UI, performance, and powerful tools for brush creation. The developer's ability to create such a feature-rich and versatile application is highly praised.
- Appreciation (weight 0.03): The program's uniqueness, innovation, and node-based workflow are appreciated for spurring creativity. The developer's provision of a demo and the overall drawing feel also contribute to this positive sentiment.
- Amazement (weight 0.02): Users are amazed by the program's features, affordability, and the sheer number of updates it has received. The capability to blow users' minds with its functionality and value is a key factor.
- Gratitude (weight 0.02): Users are grateful for the developers' attentiveness and quick bug fixes, which enhance the software experience. The program has also given some users a new hobby and passion for art, making their purchase rewarding.
- Enthusiasm (weight 0.02): The node-based workflow and brush generation are seen as fun and creative, providing precise control. Users recommend the software for its ability to create awesome art quickly, with brush control exceeding Photoshop.
- Enjoyment (weight 0.02): Drawing with the program, whether with a mouse or tablet, is enjoyable and has revitalized interest in digital art. Users find it fun even with its limitations, bringing life back into their artistic practice.
- Delight (weight 0.02): The program is a delight to use, especially for creating first artworks and experimenting with unique brush capabilities. It works smoothly on supported hardware, and the experience with a graphics tablet is described as magical.
- Anger (weight 0.02): Users are angered by being asked to pay for bug fixes and essential tools that should have been included long ago. The lack of development and unresolved serious issues over seven years heighten this frustration.
- Concern (weight 0.01): Users worry that the software may no longer work after purchase, and the risk of crashes and save issues threatens to waste hours of work. These stability concerns create significant anxiety.
- Confusion (weight 0.01): Users are confused about why updates cost money and about the rules for the update and free DLC keys. The unclear monetization strategy leads to misunderstandings and dissatisfaction.
- Distrust (weight 0.01): Distrust arises because the developer broke the original promise of free updates and failed to communicate the monetization plan clearly. This breach of trust undermines user confidence in the developer.
- Betrayal (weight 0.01): Users feel betrayed when the developer broke the promise of free updates and instead charged for DLC. The perceived abandonment of the software after making money further compounds this sense of betrayal.
- Hope (weight 0.01): Users hope for additional language support and more robust features like palette management and vector tools. They look forward to improvements in documentation to enhance usability.
- Amusement (weight 0.01): The software's ability to make anyone into a 'fake artist' with a simple workflow is amusing. Users find the ease of creating art entertaining and fun.
- Happiness (weight 0.01): Happiness stems from the developers proving they care by continuing updates and the overall satisfaction with the program. Using the software with a drawing tablet brings joy, and users are not disappointed with their purchase.}