Info about Original War:

Official game description:
An American geological expedition, under a UN mandate, assesses the natural resources in a distant part of Siberia, deep in the trackless steppes of Eastern Russia. But instead of oil, they discover a deposit of a hitherto unknown mineral.  
American scientists working for Department of Defense find out that this mineral is in fact identical to the substance used to power an extraterrestrial artifact in their possession. This object is called the EON (Extraterrestrial Object Nexus).  
It was found in 1919 by Colonel Emerson near the site of the Tunguska explosion. Emerson was the commander of a US military unit in charge of transporting US war supplies from the city of Vladivostok to the Eastern front during World War I.  
DoD Experiments have shown that items placed in the capsule are transported hundreds of thousands of years back in time. The American scientists were not able to understand its construction, nor could they manage to synthesize its fuel. Eventually, the machine - classified Top Secret - was stored, pending further advances in human science.

Release date: Jan 27, 2014

Categories: Real-time Strategy, Character Progression, Permadeath, Branching Narrative, Base Building, Resource Management, Vehicle Customization

Feature scans:
- Steam Deck: score 10; verdict: Seamless with Minor Setup; summary: The game runs well on Steam Deck using Proton with OpenGL, requiring only a minor resolution adjustment to fix UI scaling. No crashes, launcher issues, or anti-cheat errors reported, resulting in a seamless experience.

- Hardware Profile: No data
Feature extractions:
- Community Price:
  - Community fair range: $5.00 - $10.00
  - Reasoning: The community consistently finds the current $9.99 base price fair, with frequent sales at $5 considered excellent value. The upper bound of $10 reflects the full price that reviewers deem worthwhile, while the lower bound of $5 captures the common sale price that prompts purchases. Evidence includes direct mentions of $10 full price and $5 sale price, as well as affirmations that the game is worth its asking price.
- Playtime Metrics:
  - Game completion: 60.0h
  - Story completion: 40.0h
  - Session length: N/A
  - Endgame: N/A
  - Reasoning: The 40-hour claim for both campaigns with achievements and the 60-hour claim for all bonus objectives on highest difficulty indicate full game completion typically takes 40-60 hours, with 145 hours being an outlier due to background running. Story completion for the main campaigns is supported by the 40-hour figure for both campaigns and 23 hours for a single campaign, suggesting approximately 40 hours for the full story. Session length and endgame playtime lack specific numerical evidence, so those are set to null.
- Time-to-fun:
  - Summary: Original War starts with technical issues and outdated graphics that frustrate new players, but after a few hours of campaign gameplay, the engaging mechanics, story, and community make it enjoyable.
  - Stance: Clicks after
  - Anchor: After the first few hours of campaign gameplay when technical hurdles are overcome and the game's mechanics and story engage
  - Time to anchor: N/A
  - Friction: technical startup issues; outdated graphics; lack of AI skirmish or practice mode; small multiplayer community; initial resolution setup issues
  - Unlock drivers: unobtrusive tutorial hints integrated into campaign; engaging campaign missions with permadeath and character progression; active modding community; functional multiplayer community; overcoming initial technical barriers
  - Conditions: overlooking outdated graphics; patience with initial technical setup; playing through the campaign first; engaging with community channels; catching the game on sale
- Player Archetypes:
  - Nostalgic Returnee (sale)
    - Motivation: Reliving childhood memories and completing campaigns for sentimental value.
    - Playstyle: Replays singleplayer campaigns and occasionally explores mods, savoring nostalgic moments.
    - Experience: veteran
    - Purchase stance: sale
    - Labels: old fan
    - Reference games: N/A
  - Hardcore Tactician (buy)
    - Motivation: Seeking a challenging, thoughtful blend of RTS and RPG mechanics with meaningful consequences.
    - Playstyle: Plays meticulously, values each unit due to permadeath, and embraces high difficulty and tactical decision-making.
    - Experience: veteran
    - Purchase stance: buy
    - Labels: hardcore fans; die-hard fan
    - Reference games: N/A
  - Community Modder & Multiplayer Enthusiast (buy)
    - Motivation: Contributing to and enjoying the active community, modding, and multiplayer longevity.
    - Playstyle: Participates in the modding scene, creates or uses custom content, plays multiplayer matches, and engages with the community on Discord or other platforms.
    - Experience: veteran
    - 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:
- Unique RTS RPG blend (weight 0.78): The game is praised for its innovative combination of real-time strategy and role-playing game elements, offering a unique gameplay experience with character development and strategic depth.
- Meaningful permadeath mechanic (weight 0.59): Permadeath adds tension and significance to each unit, making players care about their soldiers' survival and adding weight to strategic decisions.
- High replay value (weight 0.48): Players highlight the game's exceptional replayability, with many having completed campaigns multiple times and invested hundreds of hours due to branching stories and diverse missions.
- Narrative choices with consequences (weight 0.47): The game interweaves tactical and narrative choices that affect gameplay, featuring branching storylines, multiple endings, and dialogue options that enhance replayability.
- Active community support (weight 0.44): The game still enjoys an active and dedicated community that continues to provide updates, mod support, and maintains a lively multiplayer environment, even years after its release.
- Great music and sound (weight 0.42): The music and sound effects are highly praised, contributing to the game's atmosphere and overall quality, alongside notable voice acting.
- Modular vehicle system (weight 0.42): Players enjoy the modular vehicle customization, allowing them to choose chassis, engine, weapon, and other components, giving freedom and distinct looks to their units.
- Distinct character personalities (weight 0.33): Characters have evolving relationships, unique dialogues, and distinct personalities conveyed through voice acting and writing, making them memorable and engaging.
- Engaging time travel story (weight 0.33): The narrative features an interesting time travel plot set in a unique prehistoric context, with moral dilemmas and compelling storytelling that captivates players.
- Varied and complex missions (weight 0.27): Missions are diverse with multiple objectives, offering a variety of challenges that keep gameplay fresh and engaging throughout the campaigns.
- Two main campaigns (weight 0.21): The game offers two extensive campaigns (US and Russian), each with its own narrative and branching paths, providing significant content and replay value.
- Valued soldier system (weight 0.21): Each soldier has a name, portrait, voice, and skill progression across professions, making them feel valuable and personalized, adding depth to the gameplay.
- Great strategy game (weight 0.2): The game is recognized as a great old-school strategy title, offering a unique and enjoyable experience that stands out in the genre.
- Spanish dubbing available (weight 0.19): The game is fully translated and dubbed into Spanish, with well-received voice acting that makes it accessible and enjoyable for Spanish-speaking players.

Common complaints:
- Dated graphics and visuals (weight 0.52): Multiple clusters mention that the game's graphics are outdated, with simple sprites and low resolution, making them not good by modern standards. This is a common concern for new players.
- Poor voice acting quality (weight 0.51): Several reviews criticize the voice acting, particularly in the Russian and Arabic campaigns, describing it as terrible, inconsistent, or like a parody. The English version is also noted as poor.
- No sequel or successor (weight 0.49): Many reviews express disappointment that the game never received a sequel or additional content, with one noting the developer was absorbed and a sequel is unlikely.
- Unfair difficulty and design (weight 0.46): Some missions are described as unfairly difficult, with infinite enemy resources, teleporting troops, and unavoidable attacks that target only the player. One campaign mission is considered broken.
- Bugs and technical issues (weight 0.43): Various bugs are mentioned, including softlocks in missions, keyboard input freezes with Japanese layout, and compatibility issues with modern systems like Windows 10.
- Slow and monotonous gameplay (weight 0.4): Several reviews describe the gameplay as slow, monotonous, and lacking urgency, with soldiers moving slowly and missions requiring excessive waiting or base building.
- Missing features and content (weight 0.32): Players frequently mention the absence of a skirmish mode, random map generation, and a third faction (Arabs) campaign. The game also lacks a sequel despite its potential.
- Lack of localization support (weight 0.29): Chinese, Korean, and Spanish language support are missing or not properly listed on Steam. Some subtitles and help screens remain untranslated in certain versions.
- Repetitive dialogue and story (weight 0.28): Dialogue lines become repetitive, and the story, while engaging to some, is considered linear, stupid, or padded. The Russian campaign is particularly criticized for being drawn out.
- Pathfinding and movement issues (weight 0.26): Persistent pathfinding problems, invisible obstacles, and vehicles getting stuck in workshops or map borders are frequently reported. This affects gameplay on larger maps.
- Outdated user interface (weight 0.25): The UI is considered outdated, confusing at first, and problematic at higher resolutions, requiring players to lower display settings. The client also needs modernization.
- Poor AI and lack of diversity (weight 0.24): The AI is weak in many missions, lacks coherent autonomy, and enemies do not fight each other. AI behavior is predictable and lacks diversity, making gameplay repetitive.
- Compatibility and startup problems (weight 0.22): The game has compatibility issues with modern systems, causing startup hassles. Some players report broken buttons, missing dialogues, and trojan downloads from certain sources.
- Controls and micromanagement (weight 0.22): Controls are uncomfortable and require too much micromanaging. The gameplay is not suitable for fast action seekers, and attacking without thought is not viable.
- Obscure achievements and missing features (weight 0.19): Achievements are somewhat obscure and may require a guide. The game lacks trading cards and has no multiplayer options beyond basic skirmish, with low player counts on certain days.
- Community patch issues (weight 0.13): Community patches introduce new bugs and require non-public patches to be installed manually, which can be inconvenient for players seeking fixes.
- Small maps and limited space (weight 0.13): Maps are small with little free space, partly due to the game's age, which limits strategic options and can cause congestion.
- Steam mod management errors (weight 0.08): Steam mod management causes errors due to not deleting old files, leading to technical issues for players using community modifications.

Gameplay feedback:
- Real-time strategy core (weight 0.9): This is a real-time strategy game combining base building, resource management, and unit control. Classic RTS mechanics form the foundation, with RPG elements mixed in for progression.
- Branching campaign narratives (weight 0.7): The campaign features branching missions and choices that affect the story and lead to multiple endings. Player decisions have meaningful consequences and encourage replayability.
- Permadeath for characters (weight 0.7): Characters and units can die permanently, with no way to revive them. This loss impacts gameplay and narrative, forcing careful tactical decisions.
- Profession and class system (weight 0.56): Characters have professions or classes such as soldier, mechanic, engineer, and scientist. These roles define skill sets and progression, adding strategic depth to unit management.
- Factions: American and Russian (weight 0.56): The game features two main factions, American and Russian, each with their own campaign. An Arab faction is also mentioned as a third playable side.
- Modular vehicle construction (weight 0.52): Vehicles are built from modular components like chassis, engine, weapons, wheels, or tracks. Customization is a major feature, allowing players to tailor vehicles to their strategy.
- Limited and irreplaceable units (weight 0.36): Units are finite, have unique names, skills, and cannot be replaced if lost. This scarcity heightens tension and forces players to value each soldier.
- Resource management complexity (weight 0.36): Resources include salvaged fuel, supplies, solar, oil, and syberite, requiring careful management. Vehicles also need drivers and fuel, adding logistical depth.
- Time travel premise (weight 0.15): The story involves a time travel concept, which ties into the permadeath and branching choice mechanics. It provides a unique narrative framing.
- Taming wild creatures (weight 0.14): Players can tame apemen or other creatures, adding a unique unit acquisition method beyond construction or recruitment.
- Pause and command system (weight 0.14): The game allows pausing to issue orders, giving players time to plan tactics in real-time. This feature enhances strategic control.
- Multiplayer with community (weight 0.14): Multiplayer is supported with community maps and a player base, extending replayability beyond the campaign.
- Mod support (weight 0.14): Mods can add additional content and campaigns, significantly increasing the game's longevity. The community is active in creating mods.
- Tech tree and AI control (weight 0.13): There is a tech tree for AI control of vehicles, allowing autonomous combat or support units. This adds another layer to tactical options.
- Soldier experience carryover (weight 0.13): Soldier skills and experience carry over between missions, rewarding players for keeping their units alive. Progression adds long-term depth.
- Base building with upgrades (weight 0.13): Base building is a core mechanic, allowing construction and upgrades of structures. This supports the strategic resource and unit management loop.

Performance notes:
- Good performance on modern hardware (weight 0.2): The game runs well on modern PC hardware and is compatible with various systems, including Windows 7. Users report no bugs or crashes on capable machines.
- Keyboard input freeze issue (weight 0.09): There is a keyboard input freeze bug specifically triggered by using a Japanese keyboard layout. This can make the game unplayable for users with that setting.
- Compatibility issues exist (weight 0.09): Some users encounter general compatibility problems that prevent the game from running smoothly. These issues may require troubleshooting or specific system configurations.

Recommendations:
- Recommended for RTS fans (weight 0.97): The game is widely recommended for fans of real-time strategy games, including both veterans and beginners. Many reviews specifically highlight its appeal to those who enjoy RPG elements within an RTS framework.
- RPG elements praised (weight 0.76): Several reviews specifically praise the game's combination of RTS mechanics with RPG elements, such as character development and a meaningful loss of a character. This unique blend is seen as a strength.
- Great value for price (weight 0.44): Multiple reviews highlight the game's low price (often under $10 or on sale for very little) as a strong selling point. The game is considered well worth the money for the content it offers.
- Good for old-school strategy fans (weight 0.44): The game is recommended for fans of old-school strategy games who appreciate gameplay depth and are not put off by its older graphics or mechanics.
- Strong single-player campaign (weight 0.34): The single-player campaign is highly recommended by many reviewers, and the game is considered a must-play for solo strategy fans. The story and campaign are highlighted as standout features.
- Unique game design (weight 0.34): Reviews appreciate the game's unique design, including its limited units, basebuilding, tactical soldier management, and the need for strategic thinking. It's seen as a challenge for hardcore RTS fans.
- Not for everyone (weight 0.32): A significant number of reviews acknowledge that the game is not universally appealing, due to its difficulty, permadeath, complexity, or dated nature. It is specifically not recommended for new players or those seeking a modern RTS experience.
- Engaging story and narration (weight 0.19): The story, narrator, and diary sketches are praised, with recommendations to enjoy these narrative elements. The engaging story is a key draw.
- Recommended despite flaws (weight 0.19): Some reviews recommend the game despite acknowledging its flaws, noting that its unique vision and strengths outweigh the negatives for many players.
- Appeals to nostalgic players (weight 0.18): Some reviews recommend the game primarily to those who played it before, noting that it has aged well. It is seen as a nostalgic trip for returning players.
- Existing multiplayer community (weight 0.13): There are reports of an active multiplayer community, particularly in Poland, and recommendations to join the Discord for multiplayer games. This suggests the game still has a dedicated player base.
- Modding support praised (weight 0.13): The game is recommended for fans of modding, and one review specifically praises the 'Sand of Siberia' mod. Mod support adds significant replay value.
- Strong emotional endorsement (weight 0.13): Some reviews use passionate language such as 'GO BUY THIS GAME NOW!' and 'Please, if this sounds even slightly intriguing, BUY IT!', indicating very strong positive sentiment.
- Continued support and updates (weight 0.07): One review highlights that the continued support for the game adds to its value, indicating that the developer(s) have maintained the game post-release.
- Recommendation for beginners at easy difficulty (weight 0.07): A specific review suggests that new players should start on the easiest difficulty, providing practical onboarding advice to manage the game's complexity.
- Not for Starcraft comparison seekers (weight 0.07): One review advises against buying for those seeking a 'Starcraft killer', clearly setting expectations that the game is different from modern RTS heavyweights.
- Czech language support mentioned (weight 0.06): One review specifically recommends the game for its Czech language support, which may be a niche but important feature for some players.

Other player notes:
No miscpoints

Emotions:
- Appreciation (weight 0.13): Players appreciate the ongoing community support, unique mechanics like vehicle customization and permadeath, and the high-quality Polish dubbing. The game's innovative design, strategic depth, and active multiplayer even after 20+ years are highly valued.
- Nostalgia (weight 0.13): Many players have fond childhood memories of playing the game extensively, often replaying it over 20 years. The game evokes nostalgia for classic Westwood RTS titles and the experience of playing the demo and full game as a child.
- Admiration (weight 0.12): Players admire the game's depth, innovative combination of RTS and RPG mechanics, and detailed features like line of sight and grass flattening. The engaging story, meaningful decision-making, and active community despite the game's age are frequently praised.
- Excitement (weight 0.11): Excitement stems from the game's continued community updates, modern features like widescreen support, and its branching narrative with permadeath. The developer sharing source code has spurred ongoing modding, and the engaging story and characters keep the experience fresh.
- Frustration (weight 0.09): Frustration arises from bugs, particularly in specific missions like the AM11 mission or the last American mission, which are seen as unfairly difficult. Poor pathfinding, weak AI, and slow unit movement also contribute to negative experiences.
- Enjoyment (weight 0.08): Players enjoy the deep, unique gameplay mechanics, the engaging three-sided story, and the humorous, well-acted dubbing. The combination of classic RTS gameplay, good level design, and community support provides lasting fun.
- Satisfaction (weight 0.06): Satisfaction comes from discovering a hidden gem with quality features like excellent Polish dubbing, Japanese translation, and game mechanics such as time control. The challenging but rewarding gameplay, clear mission objectives, and good customization provide a fulfilling experience.
- Disappointment (weight 0.06): Disappointment is driven by the lack of a sequel despite the game's potential and age, with the developer being absorbed. Other issues include poor English voice acting, a short linear campaign, and the absence of a proper skirmish mode.
- Attachment (weight 0.04): Players become attached to the non-anonymous units that carry over between missions, each with unique personalities and permadeath. This encourages emotional investment in their survival and makes every character's loss impactful.
- Surprise (weight 0.04): Players are surprised to discover the game as a classic gem over 20 years after its release, especially due to its unknown status and unique concept. The ongoing updates and active mod community also exceed expectations.
- Joy (weight 0.03): Joy is derived from shared experiences like building bases with a brother, and from the evident love and detail in every aspect of the game. The deep character development and vehicle design are highlights.
- Annoyance (weight 0.03): Annoyance is caused by slow soldier movement and frequent pauses in the campaign, as well as the overuse of the word 'comrade' in the Russian campaign. Unfair comparisons to Command & Conquer in negative reviews also irritate players.
- Love (weight 0.03): Players love the unique combination of RTS and RPG with meaningful, named units that matter. Years of fun gameplay and yearly returns to the game demonstrate a deep, lasting affection.
- Amazement (weight 0.02): Amazement comes from the game's ability to remain engaging and surprising after multiple playthroughs. The compelling characters and deep gameplay mechanics continue to impress.
- Fondness (weight 0.02): Fondness is expressed for the game as an old-school classic that players still return to despite its age. Nostalgic appreciation for its enduring quality drives this sentiment.
- Affection (weight 0.02): Players feel affection for the game's charming dialogue and memorable characters, as well as its endearing voice acting. These elements contribute to a warm, lasting impression.
- Happiness (weight 0.01): Happiness is experienced when discovering a hidden gem that perfectly fits the player's nostalgia for old-school RTS games. The game delivers exactly what they were looking for.
- Gratitude (weight 0.01): Gratitude is directed at the community for keeping the game working on modern operating systems. This support ensures the game remains playable after many years.
- Desire (weight 0.01): Players express a desire for a sequel or a similar game set in space with added trading mechanics. They hope to see the game's concepts expanded into a new setting.
- Friendship (weight 0.01): Friendship is formed through the game's active community, with players connecting over their shared interest. The community is a source of lasting social bonds.}