Info about Blockland:

Official game description:
Blockland is a non-linear sandbox game with no set goals, giving players the freedom to design and construct elaborate structures. Styled as a tiny minifigure, players build inside of the virtual world using bricks reminiscent of toy blocks. These structures can be built in either a single-player or multiplayer (either online or through a local area network) setting.

Release date: Dec 16, 2013

Categories: Sandbox, Building, Sandbox Creation, Multiplayer, Mod Support, First-Person, Open-World Exploration, Lego-like Visual Style


- Hardware Profile: No data
Feature extractions:
- Community Price:
  - Community fair range: $5.00 - $10.00
  - Reasoning: The quote about $12.99 indicates that even that price is considered too high, with the reviewer advising to wait for a sale. Another review directly states the game is not worth money in its current state. The only positive value note limits its worth to solo or small-group play, not the full community experience. The translated non-English review says it is not worth the full price, implying the full price is too high. Together, these suggest the community fair base-game price is below the $12.99 sale point, likely in the $5 to $10 range.
- Playtime Metrics:
  - Game completion: N/A
  - Story completion: N/A
  - Session length: 4.0h
  - Endgame: 3000.0h
  - Reasoning: The quotes directly describe Blockland playtime. A single server session lasted 4 hours, supporting a typical sessionLength of 4 hours. One reviewer reports playing 10+ hours a day, which supports long daily engagement but may include multiple sessions, so it is not used as the exact sessionLength. Another reviewer reports several thousand total hours over 2009-2015, supporting long-term/endgame engagement; a conservative value of 3000 hours is used for 'several thousand'. No review provides a clear time to complete the game or a story completion time, so gameCompletion and storyCompletion remain null.
- Time-to-fun:
  - Summary: Enjoyment is tightly tied to multiplayer with friends and community modes, but many reports say it later becomes lonely, outdated, or runs out of things to do as servers empty.
  - Stance: Fun then drops
  - Anchor: Playing multiplayer with friends or active community servers
  - Time to anchor: N/A
  - Friction: multiplayer servers are mostly dead; almost no one is still playing; solo play feels like a lonely, boring, outdated sandbox; a quirky start before getting into it
  - Unlock drivers: playing multiplayer with friends; community gamemodes like grappling hook and prison escape; custom content servers; seamless multiplayer architecture
  - Conditions: having friends to play with; active multiplayer servers; who you play with; liking RP, multiplayer, or creative games; servers remaining online; wanting a simple multiplayer game
- Player Archetypes:
  - Nostalgic Returning Veteran (buy)
    - Motivation: Reliving childhood memories and revisiting a game they grew up with.
    - Playstyle: Returns occasionally to wander old maps, revisit single-player content, and sometimes join the few remaining servers.
    - Experience: veteran
    - Purchase stance: buy
    - Labels: N/A
    - Reference games: N/A
  - Creative Sandbox Builder and Modder (buy)
    - Motivation: Building, experimenting, and expanding the game through addons and custom content.
    - Playstyle: Spends most time in single-player or custom modes constructing builds and installing addons via community tools.
    - Experience: familiar
    - Purchase stance: buy
    - Labels: N/A
    - Reference games: N/A
  - Social Multiplayer Player (sale)
    - Motivation: Playing and chatting with friends across the game's various multiplayer gamemodes.
    - Playstyle: Joins or hosts multiplayer servers and gamemodes with friends, coordinating play sessions together.
    - Experience: mixed
    - Purchase stance: sale
    - Labels: N/A
    - Reference games: N/A
  - Cautious Newcomer Seeking a Modern Alternative (no buy)
    - Motivation: Looking for an accessible, active block-building sandbox game to get into.
    - Playstyle: Would only dabble in single-player maps or switch to more populated alternatives rather than commit to online play.
    - Experience: newcomer
    - Purchase stance: no buy
    - Labels: N/A
    - Reference games: Garry's Mod; Roblox; Minecraft; Brickaida


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:
- Fun with friends (weight 0.14): Playing with friends enhances the experience, especially for building and messing around together. Social interaction is a key source of enjoyment.
- No pay-to-win (weight 0.08): The game has never adopted a pay-to-win system, which is positively noted by players. This contributes to a fair and enjoyable experience.
- Unique controls and feel (weight 0.07): The building system and controls have a unique feel and structure that sets it apart. This distinctiveness is appreciated by some players.

Common complaints:
- Game is dead (weight 0.49): Many players report the game is dead or dying, with a very small active playerbase. The lack of updates and players contributes to the game's decline.
- Developer abandoned game (weight 0.26): The developer has fully abandoned the game, with no major updates for over a year or even two years. Some mention over 10 years without updates.
- Servers are empty (weight 0.2): Servers are practically dead and disappearing, with few active servers and almost no players online. This makes multiplayer essentially unplayable.
- Original maps removed (weight 0.17): The developer removed all original maps, including iconic ones like Kitchen and Bedroom. This has upset many players.
- Bad controls (weight 0.16): Controls are uncomfortable, wonky, and difficult, needing a rework. Some find them hard to use initially.
- Community is dead or toxic (weight 0.16): The community is long dead, dwindling, and has become toxic and hostile. This drives away remaining players.
- Lack of content and purpose (weight 0.14): The game has been gutted and feels stagnant, with little to do. Players quickly run out of activities.
- Mod project killed (weight 0.08): The RTB mod project was killed by the developer, leaving only an archive. This removed a popular mod.
- Not worth buying (weight 0.08): Players cannot recommend the game in its current state, saying it's not worth the money. The game lacks value due to its issues.
- Game relies on add-ons (weight 0.08): Without add-ons, the game is very limiting and lacks content. Add-ons are essential for enjoyment.
- Poor graphics and optimization (weight 0.07): The game has rough graphics and lacks optimization options. This affects visual quality and performance.
- Developer bans critics (weight 0.07): The developer bans users who criticize the game's development or ask about updates on official forums. This suppresses feedback.

Gameplay feedback:
- Sandbox building game (weight 0.43): The game is primarily described as a sandbox and building experience, where players construct with blocks. It offers freedom to create and experiment.
- Lego-like visual style (weight 0.31): The game uses LEGO-like bricks and aesthetics, often compared to Lego-based building. This visual identity is a key selling point.
- Multiplayer and singleplayer modes (weight 0.3): The game supports both singleplayer and multiplayer, allowing solo exploration or playing with friends. Multiplayer is often highlighted as better with friends.
- Comparable to Garry's Mod (weight 0.25): Players frequently compare it to Garry's Mod, but with a blocky, cube-like aesthetic. It offers similar sandbox and modding capabilities.
- Varied game modes available (weight 0.25): It includes multiple game modes such as freebuild, deathmatch, treasure hunt, racing, and zombie survival. Community modes expand the variety.
- Building with bricks and addons (weight 0.2): Core building involves placing bricks and items, with default and community addons available. The system is similar to LEGO construction.
- Addon and mod support (weight 0.18): The game features an open addon system that allows players to expand content with mods, vehicles, and custom gamemodes. Addons significantly enhance gameplay.
- In-game eventing and scripting (weight 0.08): An eventing system allows players to create scripts and custom gameplay scenarios. This supports advanced user-generated content.

Performance notes:
- Server lag and connection delays (weight 0.12): Lag occurs on servers, worsened by high ping on overseas servers. Add-ons can also introduce server connection delays.
- Crashes and blackscreen issues (weight 0.09): Players report random crashes and a blackscreen that renders the game unplayable. These stability problems appear across multiple reports.
- Performance and shader optimization problems (weight 0.05): The game is poorly optimized, and shaders cannot be run by less than half the community. This suggests significant performance barriers for many players.
- General bugginess reported (weight 0.05): The game is described as buggy, indicating broader quality issues. This aligns with other technical complaints.
- Runs well on ThinkPad W520 (weight 0.04): One user reports the game runs well on a ThinkPad W520. This positive note contrasts with other performance complaints.

Recommendations:
- Not recommended for new players (weight 0.36): Several reviewers advise against buying the game for new players due to its outdated controls, lack of support, and declining player base. They feel it's not worth the money for those without nostalgia.
- Better with friends (weight 0.31): Many reviewers recommend playing with friends to enjoy the game, especially for nostalgia and multiplayer fun. Some suggest buying 4-packs to ensure you have people to play with.
- Negative recommendations: avoid (weight 0.3): A number of reviewers explicitly say not to buy the game, calling it a waste of money or not worth it in its current state. They cite lack of interesting content and poor support.
- Positive general recommendations (weight 0.29): A number of reviewers give the game a strong recommendation, praising its fun factor and unique experience. Some rate it highly, such as 8/10 or 10/10.
- Good for sandbox and building (weight 0.29): Reviewers recommend the game for fans of sandbox, building, and creative games, especially those who enjoy Lego. It's praised for its building mechanics and freedom.
- Nostalgia and past glory (weight 0.22): Long-time players fondly remember the game's past and recommend it for nostalgia, but acknowledge it's no longer what it used to be. Some would have recommended it years ago but not now.
- Community and support concerns (weight 0.22): Many negative reviews cite a toxic community, lack of addon support, and the game being abandoned by the developer. Some warn about low population and lack of updates.
- Consider Brickadia instead (weight 0.21): Multiple reviewers suggest checking out Brickadia as a modern alternative or spiritual successor to Blockland. They highlight its improved features, active development, and less toxic community.
- Wait for sale or bundle (weight 0.16): Several reviewers suggest waiting for a sale or buying in a bundle, as the game may not be worth the full price for many. They advise caution unless you get a good deal.
- Revive the fandom (weight 0.15): A few reviewers encourage buying and playing the game to revive the community and fandom. They urge current players to convince others to join or return.
- Useful mods and addons (weight 0.11): Reviewers recommend installing addons like Blockland Glass for more fun, especially in singleplayer. Some suggest checking the official forums for addons.
- Mixed or conditional recommendations (weight 0.09): Some reviewers have mixed feelings and cannot clearly recommend the game. They might recommend it only under certain conditions, such as if the community grows.
- Singleplayer content exploration (weight 0.07): Some suggest playing singleplayer on maps to see the content, or using addons for more singleplayer fun. This can be a way to enjoy the game without relying on multiplayer.
- Worth trying or checking trailer (weight 0.07): A few reviewers say the game is worth trying or at least checking out the trailer. They see potential despite its flaws.
- Not for those needing guides or English (weight 0.07): Reviewers note the game is not recommended for players who dislike confusing games, need guides, or require English. It may be frustrating for those who want clear instructions.
- Emojis as a selling point (weight 0.04): One reviewer humorously recommends buying the game for the emojis alone. This is a niche positive point.
- Request for RTB update (weight 0.04): One reviewer suggests an update to bring back Return To Blockland (RTB). This indicates a desire for restored features.
- Revert to pre-Steam version (weight 0.04): A reviewer suggests that if the developer reverts to the pre-Steam version, the game might be worth looking into again. This implies dissatisfaction with changes made on Steam.

Other player notes:
- Comparison to Roblox (weight 0.45): Blockland is frequently compared to Roblox, often as an alternative or competitor. Some view it as a better or more charming version, while others see it as outdated.
- Comparison to Minecraft (weight 0.45): The game is often compared to Minecraft, with reviewers noting similarities in building and creativity. Some consider Blockland an ancestor or predecessor to Minecraft.
- Release History and Versions (weight 0.35): Blockland was originally released in 2007, with a freeware version in 2004 and a Steam release in 2013. The game has been played since the mid-2000s.
- Comparison to Garry's Mod (weight 0.35): Many reviewers compare Blockland to Garry's Mod, noting similar gameplay but with a block aesthetic. It is often described as a cubic Garry's Mod.
- Declining Player Count (weight 0.34): The game's playerbase has significantly declined, with only about 10-50 players online at peak times. Many servers are empty or have few players.
- Community Decline (weight 0.33): The community has deteriorated, with forums dying and toxic behavior. The game's community is in a rut and needs help to return to its former glory.
- Developer Eric Hartman (Badspot) (weight 0.32): The game was developed by Eric Hartman, known as Badspot. He created it as an experiment and later abandoned it, with no updates in over 10 years.
- Community Add-ons and Mods (weight 0.3): The game has a large number of add-ons available on forums, and modding communities like Blockland Glass and Blockland Rebuilt keep the game alive.
- RTB Shut Down (weight 0.24): Return To Blockland (RTB), a popular add-on loader, was discontinued in 2014. It provided add-on management and other features, but was shut down after Steam integration.
- Game's Peak in Late 2000s (weight 0.23): Blockland had its glory days in the mid-late 2000s and early 2010s. It was popular and had active communities and servers.
- No Steam Workshop Support (weight 0.22): The game lacks Steam Workshop support, relying on community forum add-ons. Workshop support was hoped for but never arrived.
- Brickadia as Spiritual Successor (weight 0.22): Brickadia is seen as a spiritual successor to Blockland, developed by veterans using Unreal Engine. Some reviewers may not return to Blockland after trying it.
- Removal of Maps in V21 (weight 0.2): The V21 update in 2012 removed iconic maps like Bedroom and Kitchen, replacing them with a plain grassy area. This update killed the community and removed the map function.
- Unique Building Experience (weight 0.2): Blockland offers a unique building experience with near-infinite creativity. Building can be time-consuming but rewarding, with events and automation.
- Nostalgia and Childhood (weight 0.19): Many reviewers have fond memories of playing Blockland in their childhood. It holds a special place in their hearts despite its decline.
- Community Servers and Events (weight 0.19): Specific servers and gamemodes like Age of Dungeons, Unlimited Mining, and Trench Wars are mentioned. Servers can be active for events or new gamemode releases.
- Price Reduction (weight 0.13): The game was previously priced at $20 and now costs $10. Some reviewers consider the price decent, while others find it not worth full price.
- Comparison to LEGO (weight 0.13): Blockland is compared to LEGO, with some describing it as having only 1980s LEGO pieces. It is also likened to LEGO Worlds.

Emotions:
- Disappointment (weight 0.3): Players are deeply disappointed by the game's abandonment, with dwindling or empty servers, lack of updates, and a developer who has stopped supporting it. The community is often described as toxic or dead, and the removal of iconic maps has further eroded the game's value.
- Nostalgia (weight 0.12): Nostalgia stems from childhood memories of playing the game, especially classic maps like Bedroom, Kitchen, and Slopes, and community activities such as TDM battles and roleplay servers. Many recall the game's prime and the joy of building and socializing with friends.
- Frustration (weight 0.11): Frustration is driven by toxic players, a steep learning curve, clunky controls, and technical issues like crashes and lag. Players also struggle with multiplayer limitations, inactive servers, and the developer's hostility toward criticism.
- Enjoyment (weight 0.07): Enjoyment comes from the creative freedom to build with bricks, play with friends, and engage in various multiplayer modes and activities. The game's responsive developer and active modding community also contribute to the fun.
- Sadness (weight 0.04): Sadness arises from witnessing the game's decline, the loss of the modding community, and the contrast between nostalgic memories and the current dead state. The removal of maps and shutdown of services like RTB have left players mourning what the game once was.
- Excitement (weight 0.03): Excitement is fueled by the game's creative potential with community gamemodes and add-ons, as well as the upcoming release of Brickadia, seen as a spiritual successor. The promotional material and Garry's Mod-like gameplay also generate enthusiasm.
- Admiration (weight 0.03): Admiration is expressed for the game's unique and limitless creation potential, excellent building mechanics, and the creativity it enables. The strong community and add-ons further enhance this positive sentiment.
- Regret (weight 0.02): Regret stems from wasting money on the game, buying it multiple times without being able to play, and re-purchasing only to find a toxic community. These experiences leave players feeling disappointed in their financial and emotional investment.
- Dislike (weight 0.02): Dislike is directed at the creator's abandonment and attitude, toxic forums, and the game's rough graphics with limited visual options. These factors detract from the overall experience.
- Anger (weight 0.02): Anger is primarily aimed at the developer's poor management, intolerance of criticism, and banning of critics, as well as leaving the game to die. The lack of forum moderation and hostile attitude exacerbate these feelings.
- Enthusiasm (weight 0.02): Enthusiasm is driven by the vast creative possibilities with events and building, the wide array of weapons and vehicles, and the depth of the building and eventing systems. These features provide a rich sandbox experience.
- Fun (weight 0.01): Fun is derived from messing around in Freebuild or Speedkart with friends, and the freedom to build and create anything. These activities offer endless entertainment and social interaction.
- Love (weight 0.01): Love for the game is rooted in cherished childhood memories, enjoyable times with friends, and the unique customs and gamemodes. The game holds a special place in players' hearts.
- Amusement (weight 0.01): Amusement comes from chaotic roleplay experiences and the game's overall fun and likable nature. These moments create laughter and memorable interactions.
- Satisfaction (weight 0.01): Satisfaction is felt when the game provides great experiences, seamless multiplayer, and high-quality servers. These elements meet players' expectations and deliver a polished experience.
- Joy (weight 0.01): Joy is experienced through free build mode and TDM, which offer immense fun, as well as hosting MERP servers and reuniting with old players. These activities bring happiness and a sense of community.
- Liking (weight 0.01): Liking the game is a simple expression of overall enjoyment. The game resonates positively with these players.
- Dissatisfaction (weight 0.01): Dissatisfaction is caused by the game costing money. This financial barrier leads to negative feelings for some players.
- Delight (weight 0.01): Delight is specifically attributed to the magnificent emojis available for Steam chat. This small feature brings unexpected pleasure.
- Bittersweet (weight 0.01): Bittersweet feelings arise from witnessing the game's current state despite cherished memories. The contrast between past joy and present decline creates a poignant emotional mix.}