Info about FORCED: Slightly Better Edition:

Official game description:
Forced is a challenging one- to four-player co-op arcade action RPG with puzzle and tactical elements. You are cast as slaves in the toughest fantasy gladiator school of them all, condemned to fight to the death, all the while attempting to win your freedom. You will face deadly trials and huge creatures, but Balfus, your Spirit Mentor will guide you in your quest to break the chains of oppression.
Features
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*   1-4 player campaign, carefully balanced for the number of players  
*   Local and online co-op, it's easy to plugin controllers and play on one computer  
*   A challenging Gladiator campaign with monstrous foes and tricky puzzles  
*   Four Unique Character Classes with very distinctive play styles  
*   Skill focused: all enemy attacks can be evaded, it's your job to figure out how!  
*   The Spirit Mentor, an extra party member which players must control together to gain an upper hand over the enemy  
*   Survival Arena Mode (more modes coming)  
*   Mark Combat System. Apply marks to enemies with your basic attacks, to set them up for devastating special attacks from you or your allies.
History
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BetaDwarf - the team behind FORCED spent 3 years developing it while living together. It all started by illegally moving into a classroom at a university - see: The Story (it has awesome pictures)
Massive new Co-op game from BetaDwarf
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We're making a massive new co-op game and will start invites for alpha testing soon, join now to get access!  
**GET FREE DLC FOR ALL OUR GAMES**
News
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// //
The other awesome games we made in the same world:
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Minion Masters, a real time CCG where the Minions come alive!  
FORCED SHOWDOWN, a twin stick, rogue like deck building game!

Release date: Oct 24, 2013

Categories: Cooperative Multiplayer, Action RPG, Puzzle Solving, Character Progression, Wave-based Survival


- Hardware Profile: No data
Feature extractions:
- Community Price:
  - Community fair range: $3.00 - $5.00
  - Reasoning: Multiple reviews center around the $4 sale price, with one finding it fair and another feeling ripped off, indicating $4 is a key threshold. The statement 'I would pay full price for it without hesitating' suggests that the base price (original price) could be higher but remains acceptable, while 'well worth the money' reinforces value. Combined with general advice to 'get it on sale', the community sentiment implies a fair base price slightly below or at the sale price, leading to a range of $3–$5.
- Playtime Metrics:
  - Game completion: 24.0h
  - Story completion: 11.0h
  - Session length: N/A
  - Endgame: N/A
  - Reasoning: Game completion (100%/all achievements) is supported by two conflicting reports: 24 hours and 50 hours. The 24-hour figure is from a player who completed all achievements, while 50 hours is from another 100% completion. The variation likely reflects playstyle differences (co-op vs solo, difficulty). The German review '11 Stunden etwas kurz geraten' implies a total playtime around 11 hours, which likely refers to main story/campaign completion, as the game has 25 scenarios across 5 worlds. Session length is not explicitly reported; chambers take 3-5 minutes, but session length varies widely (10 minutes to an hour) with no typical number. Endgame hours are not mentioned in any review. Given the inconsistency for game completion and indirect evidence for story, confidence is moderate.
- Time-to-fun:
  - Summary: FORCED delivers fun after players overcome initial setup friction and learn to coordinate with friends on puzzle mechanics; the game's difficulty and trial-and-error nature make the breakthrough moments highly rewarding.
  - Stance: Clicks after
  - Anchor: Cracking each arena's puzzle with coordinated teamwork
  - Time to anchor: N/A
  - Friction: Controller/keyboard setup issues for local co-op; Steep difficulty curve requiring trial and error; Orb mechanics causing frustration and arguments; Singleplayer less enjoyable as levels are built for co-op; Online connection issues and desyncs; Unforgiving difficulty may discourage achievement hunters
  - Unlock drivers: Playing with friends in co-op mode; Learning and mastering orb movement and puzzle mechanics; Strategizing spell and class selection before trials; Teamwork and communication to solve arenas
  - Conditions: Must play with at least one other player (co-op preferred); Willingness to endure trial-and-error and high difficulty; Local or online co-op with stable connection; Mindset of cooperative puzzle-solving rather than casual hack-and-slash
- Player Archetypes:
  - Co-op Enthusiast (buy)
    - Motivation: To enjoy challenging cooperative gameplay with friends, solving puzzles and overcoming obstacles through teamwork and communication.
    - Playstyle: Plays exclusively in co-op (local or online) with 2-4 friends, experimenting with different character classes and skill combinations, and prioritizing coordination on the orb mechanic over individual performance.
    - Experience: familiar
    - Purchase stance: buy
    - Labels: co-op gamer; local co-op fan; team player; friend group gamer
    - Reference games: Gauntlet; StarCraft 2 Challenges; WoW raids; Diablo
  - Hardcore Solo Challenger (deep sale)
    - Motivation: To conquer extreme difficulty through repeated trial and error, achieving 100% completion (all crystals and achievements) as a testament to skill and perseverance.
    - Playstyle: Plays solo most of the time, meticulously learning each arena's pattern, optimizing skill loadouts, and enduring frustration to master the game's hardest challenges.
    - Experience: veteran
    - Purchase stance: deep sale
    - Labels: hardcore gamer; masochist; achievement hunter; completionist
    - Reference games: Diablo; Dark Souls
  - Casual Co-op Fun Seeker (sale)
    - Motivation: To have a lighthearted, social gaming session with friends where dying and failing are part of the fun and laughter.
    - Playstyle: Plays primarily in co-op with friends, not overly concerned with achievements or optimization, willing to fail repeatedly as long as the group enjoys the shared experience.
    - Experience: newcomer
    - Purchase stance: sale
    - Labels: casual gamer; for fun; social gamer; relaxed player
    - 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:
- Excellent co-op experience (weight 0.42): Reviewers consistently praise the co-op mechanics, puzzles requiring teamwork, and overall fun when playing with friends. This is the most frequently mentioned positive aspect, with 12 reviews highlighting it.
- Four unique character classes (weight 0.26): Each of the four classes has its own playstyle, abilities, and skill trees, including active and passive skills. Skills can be shared across classes.
- Challenging and rewarding gameplay (weight 0.25): The difficulty is described as tough but satisfying, with a rewarding sense of accomplishment. Some note the difficulty scales with player count.
- Engaging puzzles and levels (weight 0.24): The puzzles are fun, variable in difficulty, and often require thinking. Levels are varied with unique twists and interesting designs.
- Teamwork and strategy required (weight 0.17): Players emphasize the need for good coordination, tactics, and teamwork to succeed, which enhances the cooperative experience.
- Deep and fun combat system (weight 0.17): The combat system, including abilities and distinct weapon classes, is praised for its depth and satisfying mechanics.
- Supports up to four players (weight 0.16): Multiple reviews confirm the game supports both local and online co-op for up to four players, making it a great multiplayer title.
- Clever mix of action, puzzles, and RPG (weight 0.15): The game blends action combat, puzzle-solving, and RPG elements (skill trees, classes) into a unique and refreshing experience.
- Good graphics and visuals (weight 0.13): The graphics are noted as nice, contributing to the overall positive impression of the game.
- Best played with friends (weight 0.12): Many reviewers state the game is significantly more enjoyable when played with friends, making it a top choice for group gaming.
- Great voice acting and characters (weight 0.1): Many reviews highlight the enjoyable characters and quality voice acting, contributing to the game's charm.
- Great for couch co-op (weight 0.1): The game is highlighted as one of the best recent couch co-op titles, ideal for local multiplayer sessions.
- Nice story (weight 0.06): The story is mentioned as being good, though it is not the most frequently discussed feature.
- Spiritual mentor adds depth (weight 0.06): The Spiritual Mentor mechanic is noted for adding depth and enhancing team play.
- Variety of enemies (weight 0.06): The game offers a good variety of enemies, keeping combat interesting and diverse.
- Replayable levels with challenges (weight 0.06): Levels have optional challenges and time trials, adding replay value beyond the main campaign.
- Medal system for unlocking skills (weight 0.06): Skills are unlocked via a medal (crystal) system, providing a clear progression path.

Common complaints:
- Solo mode is too hard (weight 0.34): Multiple players report solo play is extremely hard, nearly impossible, and frustrating. High difficulty may drive players mad and is not recommended for solo play.
- Single-player experience is poor (weight 0.24): Solo play is described as boring, not engaging, not fun, and not a proper single-player game. The game seems designed for co-op only.
- Minor technical issues (weight 0.12): Some minor bugs exist but they are not game-breaking. However, overall technical problems are noted.
- Online co-op is buggy (weight 0.11): Online co-op suffers from desync, black screens, freezes, lag, and unplayable bugs. Network connections are inconsistent.
- Offline lag issues (weight 0.08): Players experienced more lag than any other game even on lowest settings. Offline lag occurs even with 'ugly but fast' graphics settings.
- Combat is unsatisfying (weight 0.08): The slappy combat is described as bad and not fun. This negatively impacts the overall gameplay experience.
- Low player population (weight 0.08): There are not enough players online, making finding matches difficult. This further hinders the co-op experience.
- Graphics are mediocre (weight 0.07): Graphics are considered mediocre but sufficient. They are not particularly fine but acceptable for gameplay.
- High difficulty frustrates players (weight 0.07): The extreme difficulty frustrates less skilled or easily annoyed players. This contributes to the negative solo experience.

Gameplay feedback:
- Co-op focused gameplay (weight 0.53): The game is heavily centered on cooperative play, supporting local and online co-op for 2-4 players, and requiring teamwork and communication to progress.
- Crystals unlock skills (weight 0.37): Players collect crystals by completing levels to unlock active and passive abilities, with each class having unique skill slots and progression shared across classes.
- Mix of action and puzzles (weight 0.3): The gameplay blends hack-and-slash combat with puzzle-solving elements, often set in arena-style levels with traps and monsters.
- Four weapon classes (weight 0.29): The game features four distinct weapon classes (e.g., hammer, bow, shield, gauntlets), each with unique skills and roles, providing variety in combat.
- Action RPG with co-op (weight 0.22): Described as a cooperative action RPG with puzzle elements, skill trees, and a strong focus on multiplayer teamwork.
- Difficulty scales with players (weight 0.2): Enemy difficulty and scaling adjust based on the number of players, ensuring a balanced challenge whether playing solo or with a full group.
- Gladiator arena setting (weight 0.2): The game is set in a gladiatorial combat arena, featuring tactical co-op action and survival mode in a top-down perspective.
- Orb mechanics for puzzles (weight 0.17): An orb mechanic is used to activate altars, traps, and solve puzzles, requiring manipulation such as moving, lighting, or exploding the orb.
- Challenges reward extra crystals (weight 0.12): Additional challenges and time attacks exist to reward players with extra crystals, providing replayability and incentives for mastery.
- Steep difficulty curve (weight 0.12): The game has a steep difficulty curve with challenging levels that ramp up quickly, potentially frustrating some players.
- Similar to Gauntlet (weight 0.11): The game is frequently compared to Gauntlet, but described as faster, harder, and with a top-down Diablo-esque perspective.
- Skill tree progression (weight 0.1): Multiple character classes come with skill trees for progression, and skill unlocks are shared across classes, encouraging experimentation.
- Twin-stick shooter style (weight 0.07): The combat is described as a twin-stick shooter with medieval weapons, adding a unique twist to the action.
- Solo play less interesting (weight 0.07): Playing solo is considered less engaging, as the game is clearly designed for cooperative play with multiple players.
- 25 levels in 5 groups (weight 0.07): The game offers 25 levels divided into 5 groups, providing structured content for players to progress through.
- RPG with puzzles and strategy (weight 0.07): The game is a hybrid of RPG, arcade, and puzzle elements, requiring strategic thinking alongside combat.
- No leveling system (weight 0.06): Unlike traditional RPGs, the game has no level or experience system, focusing instead on skill unlocks via crystals.

Performance notes:
- Severe lag and stuttering issues (weight 0.14): Many players report frequent lag spikes, microstutters, and game freezes that occur both online and offline. These performance problems happen even on high-end hardware with SSDs and high FPS.
- Mixed feedback on optimization improvements (weight 0.1): Some players mention that initial optimization issues were resolved, with the game running well on older machines, while others still encounter occasional technical bugs.
- Online co-op plagued by bugs (weight 0.08): Online co-op modes suffer from desync, black screens, freezes, and lag, making cooperative play unreliable and frustrating.
- Crashes and technical errors common (weight 0.08): The game is reported to crash frequently, including upon accessing the first challenge, along with various technical errors that disrupt the experience.
- Netcode and connection issues severe (weight 0.08): Unstable netcode and severe connection issues, such as requiring DMZ configuration, are reported, impacting online gameplay significantly.
- Abilities trigger lag for others (weight 0.08): Players note that using certain character abilities causes lag and frame drops for other players in the session, suggesting unresolved gameplay-related performance bugs.
- Poor graphics optimization and high GPU load (weight 0.08): Graphics optimization is criticized for causing high GPU load and elevated temperatures, even on lower settings, which affects system stability.
- 4K resolution support requested (weight 0.04): A player points out the lack of 4K resolution support, indicating a gap in display options for high-end monitors.

Recommendations:
- Strongly recommended for co-op (weight 0.52): The majority of positive feedback centers on the game being excellent for cooperative play, especially with friends or local co-op. Reviewers frequently give high scores (e.g., 9/10) specifically for co-op experiences.
- Friends essential for fun (weight 0.28): Players repeatedly emphasize that the game is designed for and best enjoyed with a consistent group of friends. Reviews recommend buying a four-pack to share with others and warn against playing without a coordinated team.
- Hardcore difficulty warning (weight 0.24): The game is noted for its high difficulty, requiring patience and a tolerance for repeated failure. This is a caveat for both solo and co-op players, and the challenge is seen as a core feature for hardcore gamers.
- Recommended for challenge lovers (weight 0.2): The game is praised for its fair challenge and is recommended to those who enjoy difficult gameplay, beating hordes of monsters, and learning through repeated attempts. It appeals to hardcore and puzzle enthusiasts.
- Best played with 3-4 players (weight 0.2): Specific recommendations mention that the co-op experience shines with three or four players, and that two-player co-op is not recommended. The ideal group size is emphasized for the best gameplay.
- Negative reviews due to bugs (weight 0.17): Several players advise avoiding the game due to numerous technical issues, bugs, server problems, or poor design. These critical reviews highlight reasons to steer clear, especially regarding game stability and online support.
- Worth buying on sale (weight 0.15): Some players advise purchasing the game during a sale, either to get a good deal or to offset perceived value issues. A specific price point of around $4 is mentioned as appropriate, though opinions on full price vary.
- Technical and server issues (weight 0.11): Dead servers, bugs, and poor online stability are cited as reasons to avoid the game. These problems affect both solo and co-op experiences, contributing to negative reviews.
- Price concerns raised (weight 0.1): Some reviewers feel the game is overpriced even on sale, while others find it underappreciated. Value perception is mixed, with some recommending purchase only at a discount.
- Unique gameplay praised (weight 0.1): The game is described as a hidden gem with unique and fascinating gameplay that deserves attention. This positive outlier highlights its special appeal beyond co-op and difficulty.
- Avoid for casual gamers (weight 0.09): Multiple warnings state that the game is not suitable for casual players or those who get frustrated easily. The high difficulty and co-op requirement make it niche and demanding.
- Game difficulty requires patience (weight 0.09): Multiple reviews emphasize the need for patience and tolerance for repeated failure, especially in solo play. This is a consistent theme across both positive and negative feedback.
- Controller versus keyboard debate (weight 0.06): Some players recommend using a keyboard and mouse over a controller, particularly for the archer class. This suggests control scheme preferences may affect gameplay enjoyment.
- Achievements require skill (weight 0.06): Players note that achievements are achievable but demand significant skill and persistence. This is relevant for achievement hunters considering the game.
- Communication recommended (weight 0.03): Using a microphone and having a thick skin is advised for team coordination, indicating that voice chat improves the cooperative experience.
- Family friendly option (weight 0.03): One review recommends the game for families with children, suggesting it is suitable for younger players when played cooperatively.
- Steam Link compatibility issue (weight 0.03): One player warns against using Steam Link for local co-op, citing poor performance or compatibility.

Other player notes:
- Deluxe version feels useless (weight 0.04): One player expressed that the deluxe version of the game offers no meaningful value, suggesting it is not worth the extra cost.
- Controller setup instructions helpful (weight 0.04): A reviewer noted that instructions for setting up a controller are provided, which they found useful for gameplay.

Emotions:
- Frustration (weight 0.28): Players are frustrated by poor difficulty design including stunlock mechanics, unbalanced early game, and unfair boss fights that often require restarting from the beginning with no save points. Technical issues like bugs, crashes, server disconnections, and UI glitches that prevent skill viewing further compound the frustration. The game's requirement for multiple players even in solo mode, and mechanics like orb passing that cause arguments, alienate solo players and small groups.
- Satisfaction (weight 0.17): Players feel satisfaction from overcoming the game's high difficulty after repeated deaths and learning, especially completing levels, missions, and boss fights solo or with a friend. The creative boss mechanics, class variety, and well-designed co-op gameplay reward teamwork and mastery, making the 15-20 hour experience feel worthwhile. The revive system and strategic depth contribute to a sense of accomplishment and value for money.
- Disappointment (weight 0.11): Players are disappointed that a good core concept and foundations are ruined by poor execution, including repetitive orb-passing mechanics, bad combat, and lack of narrative depth or character personalization. False claims of single-player support and inability to play solo effectively, along with technical bugs and mediocre puzzles, make the game feel unpolished. The short story and lack of variety leave players feeling the game does not live up to its potential.
- Excitement (weight 0.1): Players experience excitement from the strategic class and skill systems, diverse arenas and bosses, and the rewarding feeling of overcoming tough challenges with friends. The addictive gameplay, compared to titles like Magicka and Diablo, offers a rare hardcore co-op experience that is both fun and demanding. The variety of tasks and puzzles, combined with advanced AI and progression, keeps the action engaging and brings a storm of emotions.
- Enjoyment (weight 0.1): Players enjoy the game for its variety of classes, abilities, and weapons, as well as the progression system and co-op experience with friends. The combat, puzzles, and boss fights provide tight coordination and communication, leading to a beautiful and funny gameplay experience. Despite difficulty, the game remains fresh and engaging, with positive reviews highlighting the excellent overall experience.
- Anger (weight 0.02): Players express anger at the game's clunky mechanics that feel like a poor Diablo clone without rewarding gear progression, and at unfair designs like the knockback mechanic in Area 3. Game-breaking issues such as being kicked from one's own session and forced requirements like gems lead to uninstallation. Difficulty spikes and frustrating interactions with friends add to the anger.
- Boredom (weight 0.02): Players find the game boring because the gameplay does not change significantly after Area 2, becoming repetitive and dull. Despite some positive aspects, the lack of variety makes the experience feel like playing with marbles, causing rapid disinterest.
- Amusement (weight 0.02): Players are amused by the pleasant humor and good references in the game, as well as the hilarious chaos of watching friends panic and get slaughtered by new content. Even dying yields laughter, making the co-op experience entertaining despite failure.
- Fun (weight 0.02): Players have fun with co-op gameplay that involves communication and coordination, especially the chaos arising from miscommunication. Cooperation with the orb mechanic is enjoyable, and conquering enemies and puzzles with friends provides a real good time.
- Pleasure (weight 0.01): Players derive pleasure from playing through the game and experiencing new mechanics and unique characters. The novelty and variety contribute to a satisfying gameplay loop.
- Joy (weight 0.01): Players feel joy from having the best fun with friends in a co-op game, with laughter throughout the entire experience. The social interaction and shared challenges create a positive and memorable experience.
- Annoyance (weight 0.01): Players are annoyed by inconsistent network performance and high latency that cause progression issues, as well as puzzle sections that feel more tedious than fun. These technical and design flaws interrupt the flow of the game.
- Anticipation (weight 0.01): Players anticipate the Last Man Standing level as a promising activity for future nights with friends, and despite needed work, the game shows potential. The hopeful outlook suggests players see room for improvement but remain interested.
- Celebration (weight 0.01): Players celebrate when they crack each arena's puzzle, achieving a sense of victory and teamwork. The puzzle-solving aspect provides rewarding moments that are worth celebrating.
- Maddening (weight 0.01): Players find the camera zooming out during tense moments maddening, as it disrupts spatial awareness and aiming. This design flaw adds unnecessary frustration to already challenging situations.
- Engagement (weight 0.01): Players find the game engaging due to its difficult and challenging gameplay that requires concentration and skill. The high difficulty keeps them involved and invested in overcoming obstacles.
- Confidence (weight 0.01): Players feel confident playing with children, suggesting the game is accessible enough for younger players or that experienced players can guide them successfully. This positive sentiment indicates a family-friendly co-op dynamic.
- Disengagement (weight 0.01): Players disengage because they did not find the game very engaging, likely due to repetitive mechanics or lack of compelling content. The game fails to hold their attention over time.
- Nostalgia (weight 0.01): Players feel nostalgia for the fun times experienced when playing through the game for the first time. The fond memories of initial playthroughs highlight a drop in novelty over repeated sessions.
- Affection (weight 0.01): Players feel affection for the game, considering it a favorite due to the great teamwork it enables. The cooperative dynamics and shared achievements create a strong emotional bond.}