Info about 巫兎 - KANNAGI USAGI -:

Official game description:
This game is a boss battle only, stage-clearing sword-fighting action game.  
Find an opening to attack, repel counterattacks, and inflict heavy damage with "Special Strikes" to cut down your opponent's stamina.  
There are 8 stages in total. The volume of the game can be played in 10 to 20 minutes.

Release date: Nov 2, 2023

Categories: Boss Rush, Parry-based Combat, Soulslike Combat, Single-player Story, Sword-based Combat, Rhythm Game, High Difficulty, Replay

Feature scans:
- MTX: score 10; verdict: Fair; summary: Reviews explicitly mention no microtransactions.
- Proton/Linux: score 30; verdict: Works with minor tweaks; summary: The game runs on Steam Deck/Linux using Proton with some required configuration. Users report needing to select a specific Proton version, install dependencies in the game prefix, and use SteamOS button remapping for controls. No reports of crashes or anti-cheat issues. Overall, compatibility is good with minor tweaks.
- Steam Deck: score 45; verdict: Tinkering Required; summary: The game is playable on Steam Deck but requires forcing Proton Experimental and installing dependencies. Control customization is limited but usable with SteamOS workaround. Performance and controller support are good.

- Hardware Profile:
  - Summary: The Windows <8GB VRAM cohort reports playable performance with some compromises, such as lower framerates and difficulty achieving top ranks, but overall positive.
  - Sample size: 48 (5% coverage)
  - Audience skew: Review sample is mostly Windows-based.
  - Windows <8GB VRAM (positive, 33 reports): Players reported playable performance at 30 FPS on low-end GPUs like the RX 550, though achieving high ranks may be difficult.
  - Caveats: 48 of 912 reviews expose hardware metadata.; Review sample is mostly Windows-based.
Feature extractions:
- Community Price:
  - Community fair range: $1.99 - $8.00
  - Reasoning: Two reviews explicitly state price points that the community considers fair: one suggests $8 as a fair price, and another indicates the game is worth at least $1.99. Combined, these form a lower bound of $1.99 and an upper bound of $8.00, representing the range where users feel the base game would be reasonably priced. Other reviews praise the game while noting its current free status, reinforcing that a modest price is acceptable.
- Playtime Metrics:
  - Game completion: 1.5h
  - Story completion: N/A
  - Session length: N/A
  - Endgame: 1.5h
  - Reasoning: Game completion time is consistently reported as 1-2 hours (20-60 minutes to 2 hours) from evidence quotes 1-3. Endgame time for acquiring all S ranks is reported as an additional 1-2 hours, with specific examples like 'another hour or two' and an extra hour in quote 3, leading to an estimated 1.5 hours extra. Session length is not explicitly stated as a typical play session; quote 4 gives per-boss duration but not overall session duration, so it is left null. Story completion is not applicable since the game is a pure boss rush with no narrative progression.
- Time-to-fun:
  - Summary: Players initially struggle with the tutorial boss and a janky early boss, but after learning the parry timing and enemy patterns, the game becomes addictive and satisfying, though some later find it boring due to lack of variety.
  - Stance: Clicks after
  - Anchor: Mastering the parry timing and enemy patterns
  - Time to anchor: N/A
  - Friction: tutorial boss difficulty; janky parry windows on early boss; lack of skill progression system
  - Unlock drivers: learning enemy attack cues; practicing parry timing; mastering the combat rhythm
  - Conditions: player's prior experience with Sekiro-like games; willingness to practice parry timing; tolerance for repetitive environments; expectation of skill-based progression
- Player Archetypes:
  - Sekiro Veterans (buy)
    - Motivation: To experience more Sekiro-like combat and satisfaction
    - Playstyle: Deflect-based, precise timing, seeking mastery
    - Experience: veteran
    - Purchase stance: buy
    - Labels: veteran Sekiro player
    - Reference games: Sekiro
  - Sekiro Aspirants (buy)
    - Motivation: Learn Sekiro-style combat and decide whether to invest in Sekiro
    - Playstyle: Cautious, learning, focusing on parry timing
    - Experience: newcomer
    - Purchase stance: buy
    - Labels: N/A
    - Reference games: Sekiro
  - Completionists (buy)
    - Motivation: Complete mastery and perfection (S ranks, hitless)
    - Playstyle: Methodical, repetitive practice until perfect
    - Experience: veteran
    - Purchase stance: buy
    - Labels: achievement hunters
    - Reference games: N/A
  - Casual Relaxed Players (buy)
    - Motivation: Relaxation and casual fun without frustration
    - Playstyle: Laid-back, not concerned with perfect performance
    - Experience: mixed
    - Purchase stance: buy
    - Labels: casual 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:
- Game is wonderful and fun (weight 0.36): A significant number of players express overall satisfaction, calling the game wonderful, satisfying, and a breath of fresh air. The positive reception indicates strong general appeal.
- Better or equal to Sekiro (weight 0.21): Some reviewers consider this game superior to Sekiro, citing its polish, noticeable deflection feedback, and charming anime aesthetics. Others see it as an excellent substitute or love letter to the original.
- Combat is engaging and fun (weight 0.19): The combat system itself earns high marks for being fun, rewarding, and tight. Players appreciate its rhythm, satisfaction, and overall enjoyment.
- All missions S-rankable (weight 0.17): Players note that every level and boss can be completed with an S rank, providing a satisfying challenge and replayability. Achieving all S ranks is a praised feature.
- Free game with quality content (weight 0.16): Reviewers are impressed by the high quality and content offered for free. The game delivers a polished experience that exceeds expectations for a free title.
- Boss movesets are unique (weight 0.12): Each boss features a distinct and clever moveset that is satisfying to learn and master. The variety and design of boss fights are highlighted as a strong point.
- Cute anime art style (weight 0.1): The character models and overall art style are described as cute and charming, adding a positive visual appeal. This aesthetic is a bonus for many players.
- Optimization and polish praised (weight 0.09): The game runs smoothly and feels well-made, with a high level of polish. Players appreciate the technical performance and overall refinement.
- Boss rush is fun (weight 0.09): Fighting bosses back-to-back is described as satisfying and entertaining. The variety of bosses keeps the constant action engaging.
- Enjoyable overall experience (weight 0.09): The game is broadly enjoyable, with players describing it as a fun and satisfying experience from start to finish. Positive overall sentiment is common.
- Perfect parry feel (weight 0.08): The parry mechanic is highlighted as very comfortable and perfectly executed, with a strong emphasis on timing. It adds to the core satisfaction.
- Learning patterns rewarding (weight 0.08): Players find learning enemy patterns and executing perfect timings to be highly rewarding. The challenge is engaging and encourages mastery.
- Swordplay is rhythmic and smooth (weight 0.08): The sword fighting mechanics are praised for being rhythmic, smooth, and satisfying. Players enjoy the fluidity and engaging nature of combat.

Common complaints:
- Missing story and narrative (weight 0.11): Several reviews mention a lack of narrative, story depth, and lore, indicating the game fails to provide engaging storytelling. This is a common criticism affecting overall immersion.
- No key rebinding options (weight 0.1): Multiple players report that the game lacks any ability to rebind keys or customize keybindings, which hampers accessibility and personal preference. This is a common and specific complaint.
- Game is very difficult and frustrating (weight 0.09): Several players describe the game as extremely hard, sometimes causing tears or frustration. This indicates the difficulty may be too punishing for many users.
- Store page incorrectly claims no English (weight 0.07): Reviews point out that the store page falsely warns about no English support, even though the game includes English text. This misleading information may deter potential buyers.
- Parry rewards and stagger are weak (weight 0.05): Players feel that parrying gives little reward and that the enemy stagger bar is nearly meaningless, reducing the satisfaction of skillful play. This specific mechanic flaw is highlighted by multiple users.
- Controls feel clunky or unresponsive (weight 0.05): Multiple reviews mention that controls feel imprecise, clunky, or not quite right, affecting gameplay fluidity. This is a significant quality-of-life issue.
- Bosses are overtuned and unfair (weight 0.05): Some reviews claim bosses are overtuned, with non-stop swings or cheap attacks that break defense or deplete resources, making them feel unfair. This is a specific issue affecting boss encounters.
- Gameplay repetitive and monotonous (weight 0.05): Feedback indicates a lack of variety, making the gameplay feel repetitive and monotonous over time. This affects long-term engagement.
- Input lag issues reported (weight 0.05): Players mention occasional or serious input lag, which can disrupt gameplay timing. This is a technical performance issue.
- Lacks Sekiro-like ninja tools (weight 0.05): Players point out that compared to Sekiro, the game is missing ninja tools and grab attacks, reducing gameplay depth. This is a specific comparison complaint.
- Hard to play with one hand (weight 0.05): Players report that the game is difficult to play one-handed, likely due to the control scheme's complexity. This may limit accessibility.
- Lacks voice acting (weight 0.05): Players note the absence of voice acting, relying only on text, which reduces immersion. This is a common but less critical complaint.
- Game duration misrepresented (weight 0.05): The store description claims a 10-20 minute playtime, but a reviewer took 3.5 hours, indicating a misleading estimate. This affects purchase expectations.

Gameplay feedback:
- Combat heavily inspired by Sekiro (weight 0.8): Players consistently compare the combat system to Sekiro, noting similarities in parrying, swordplay, and boss fights. The game is often described as a Sekiro clone or a simplified version of Sekiro's mechanics.
- Boss-rush game structure (weight 0.41): The game is predominantly a boss rush, consisting only of boss fights with no regular enemies or traditional levels. It offers a series of boss encounters that players must overcome sequentially.
- S-rank scoring system (weight 0.24): The game includes an S-rank scoring system for fights and missions, adding a layer of replayability. Achieving all S-ranks is challenging and extends the game's longevity.
- Simplified version of Sekiro (weight 0.24): The game is often described as an easier, beginner-friendly version of Sekiro, with reduced difficulty and fewer mechanics. Players who have experienced Sekiro find it easy to pick up, while others note it lacks prosthetics and other features.
- Boss difficulty ratings via stars (weight 0.23): Bosses are assigned star ratings indicating their difficulty, though some players note that the actual difficulty does not always match the star rating. This system helps players gauge challenges but can be inconsistent.
- Parry-centric gameplay mechanics (weight 0.23): The core combat loop revolves around parrying, with features like perfect parry, mikiri counter, and execution moves. This parry-based system is a defining characteristic of the game.
- Bosses copied from Sekiro (weight 0.13): Many boss movesets are directly copied or heavily inspired by Sekiro bosses, with some even including a character from Sekiro (Genichiro). While there are slight variations, the similarities are striking.
- Short completion time (weight 0.11): Players report that the game can be finished in under an hour or within two hours, making it a very short experience. This brevity may be a point of criticism for those expecting a longer game.
- Appeals to souls-like fans (weight 0.07): The game is positioned as a souls-like title, appealing to fans of that genre. Its combat mechanics and challenge level are reminiscent of Souls games, particularly Sekiro.
- Progressive difficulty across bosses (weight 0.07): Bosses become progressively more difficult, despite all being accessible from the start. This ensures a growing challenge and encourages player improvement.
- Sword combat focus (weight 0.06): The game is a sword-fighting game with blade-based combat mechanics. Players engage in melee combat using sword techniques and parries.

Performance notes:
- Mixed performance feedback overall (weight 0.16): Reviews show a split between those experiencing smooth, well-optimized gameplay and others facing poor frame rates and optimization issues. Specific complaints include low FPS, frame drops, and a lack of optimization, while some users report no problems on high-end hardware.
- Optimization needed for mid-range (weight 0.11): Several reviews indicate that while the game runs well on top-tier hardware, it struggles on mid-range GPUs, with frame rates around 20-30 FPS. Users suggest that optimization requires work to improve performance on less powerful but common systems.
- Some report smooth performance (weight 0.1): A subset of players experience zero issues, noting smooth gameplay, good frame pacing, and no stuttering on their specific setups. These reports often come from users with newer or high-end GPUs, indicating that performance bugs may not affect everyone.
- Low FPS on weak hardware (weight 0.1): Players with low-end or older GPUs encounter very low frame rates, sometimes averaging around 15 FPS, making the game nearly unplayable. This is a common complaint among those not meeting recommended specs, highlighting the need for better low-spec optimization.
- Performance dependent on hardware (weight 0.09): Performance varies significantly with hardware, ranging from unplayable on low-end systems to flawless on high-end GPUs like a 3080 Ti. Users with mid-range hardware report acceptable but not stellar frame rates, while others on weak PCs see severe FPS issues.
- Game runs on Steam Deck (weight 0.05): The game is reported to run well on Steam Deck, providing a positive experience on that platform. However, one user notes that Linux/Steam Deck users may need to install vcrun2022 via protontricks to ensure proper performance.
- Scaling settings cause lag (weight 0.02): An in-game scaling setting is reported to cause lagging, suggesting a performance bottleneck related to rendering scale. Players can mitigate this by adjusting the scaling option, indicating a configurable performance trade-off.
- Text display bugs on resolutions (weight 0.02): Some players encounter text display bugs when using non-standard screen resolutions, which can affect readability and UI clarity. This is a specific issue that may only affect certain monitor configurations.
- Startup error after DirectX (weight 0.02): One user encountered an initial startup error that was resolved by installing DirectX, suggesting a potential missing dependency issue. This is an isolated case but points to possible environmental prerequisites for the game.

Recommendations:
- Recommended for Sekiro fans (weight 0.65): The majority of recommendations explicitly target players who enjoy Sekiro's combat and want a similar experience. Many suggest it as a direct alternative or sequel for Sekiro enthusiasts.
- Good Sekiro demo (weight 0.59): A significant portion recommends the game as a free demo or test for Sekiro, letting players sample the combat before purchasing. This helps evaluate interest and skill without buying the full game.
- Practice Sekiro skills (weight 0.49): Players recommend it for practicing parry-focused combat and Souls-like mechanics, helping improve skills before tackling Sekiro. It serves as a training ground for the genre's core systems.
- Free Sekiro alternative (weight 0.19): Many players see it as a free substitute for Sekiro, especially for those who cannot afford the original. It offers similar gameplay mechanics without the cost, making it accessible to a wider audience.
- Great free game (weight 0.18): Numerous recommendations highlight the game's value as a free-to-play title with high replayability and quality. Players appreciate the overall experience despite having no cost.
- Highly recommended overall (weight 0.16): Many players simply recommend the game without specific conditions, praising its fun and quality. It is considered a worthwhile experience for anyone.
- Recommended for Souls-like fans (weight 0.12): Beyond Sekiro, many recommend the game to general Souls-like enthusiasts who enjoy challenging combat. It offers a casual yet engaging experience that appeals to fans of the genre.
- Enjoyable boss fights (weight 0.05): The game is recommended for focusing on boss encounters, offering a condensed and engaging experience for those who prefer pure boss battles without extra content.
- Good difficulty challenge (weight 0.05): Some players recommend it for those seeking a fun but challenging experience, with difficulty being a positive factor. It offers a satisfying level of challenge without being overwhelming.
- Quick play sessions (weight 0.05): Players recommend the game for its short duration and quick sessions, ideal for players with limited time. It provides a fast-paced and enjoyable gaming experience.
- Entry point for genre (weight 0.05): It is recommended for newcomers to Souls-like games as an accessible introduction to the mechanics. The game helps players grasp core concepts before moving to harder titles.
- Practice before Sekiro (weight 0.05): Players suggest it as a warm-up or foundation-laying tool before tackling Sekiro. It allows players to build necessary skills and confidence for the full game.
- Caution before buying Sekiro (weight 0.04): Some players advise against buying Sekiro if this game proves too difficult, using it as a litmus test for the challenge. It helps set expectations for the genre's difficulty.

Other player notes:
- Frequently compared to Sekiro (weight 0.97): The majority of reviews draw direct comparisons to Sekiro, describing the game as a clone, a budget version, or a practice tool for Sekiro. Many note the combat is nearly identical, while some claim it is better or more fun than Sekiro.
- Short completion time (weight 0.35): Reviews consistently note the game is very short, with completion times ranging from under an hour to around 4.5 hours for all S ranks. This is often mentioned as a drawback, but some appreciate the lean experience.
- English support mislabeled (weight 0.23): Several reviews point out that the Steam page incorrectly states the game does not support English, but the UI and text are fully translated. This misinformation may deter potential players.
- Game is free (weight 0.22): Multiple reviews highlight that the game is completely free with no microtransactions, DLC, or upfront cost. This is seen as a major positive, with some reviewers saying they would have paid for it.
- Simplified compared to Sekiro (weight 0.15): Some reviews describe the game as a simplified version of Sekiro, with fewer boss attack patterns and a less complex visual presentation. This is often seen as making it more accessible or easier.
- Nudity tag inaccurate (weight 0.14): Reviews indicate the game is marked as having frequent nudity or sexual content, but there is none. This incorrect tag may hurt visibility or mislead players.
- Compared to other soulslikes (weight 0.1): A few reviews compare the game to Lies of P and Dark Souls, noting similarities in difficulty and combat. One reviewer claims it is better than Dark Souls 2, while another says it is harder than Dark Souls.
- Boss-only content (weight 0.05): The game consists solely of boss fights with no story or levels, and the number of bosses is limited. This is a defining characteristic that some players enjoy, while others find it lacking.
- Souls-like genre (weight 0.05): The game is explicitly categorized as a souls-like, which aligns with the frequent Sekiro comparisons. This genre classification helps set player expectations.
- Sekiro practice tool (weight 0.05): Some reviewers recommend the game as a trial or practice for Sekiro, allowing players to test the mechanics before committing to the full experience. This is seen as a valuable use case.
- Steam Deck support works (weight 0.05): Despite being marked as unsupported, the game runs on Steam Deck when using Proton or Proton Experimental. This is useful information for Steam Deck owners.
- Language support gaps (weight 0.05): Some reviews note missing language support, specifically Russian and Spanish, which may limit accessibility for non-English speakers.
- Desire for more content (weight 0.05): A couple of reviewers express hope for a sequel or update, indicating they enjoyed the game but want more content. This suggests the short length leaves players wanting more.

Emotions:
- Enjoyment (weight 0.19): Players consistently praise the combat, which closely mirrors Sekiro's parry-based mechanics and provides satisfying boss duels. The difficulty is seen as exciting rather than punishing, and the pursuit of S-ranks adds a rewarding layer of replayability.
- Satisfaction (weight 0.18): The main sources of satisfaction are mastering the parry-focused combat, clearing all bosses with S-ranks, and experiencing a polished, well-optimized game for free. The challenge is fair and the bosses are well-designed, providing a sense of accomplishment after each victory.
- Frustration (weight 0.1): Players report frustration from input lag, delayed parry timing, and inconsistent input registration, making precise combat feel unreliable. Unfair boss telegraphs and overtuned difficulty on certain fights, combined with technical issues like low FPS and a lack of control rebinding, compound the negative experience.
- Admiration (weight 0.07): The game's exceptional recreation of Sekiro's combat, combined with high-quality boss design and animations, earns strong admiration from players. Many consider it a masterpiece and even superior to Sekiro, praising the developer's talent and love for the genre.
- Excitement (weight 0.06): The game instantly evokes the adrenaline of Sekiro's swordplay, thrilling players with intense parry battles and the challenge of no-hit S-ranks. Its free availability intensifies the excitement, as players feel they've discovered a hidden gem that delivers peak combat.
- Appreciation (weight 0.05): Players appreciate the high-quality, free experience that faithfully replicates Sekiro's combat, along with cute character designs and polished visuals. The developer's sincerity and craftsmanship are recognized as exceptional for a free title, making players feel the game was made with love.
- Amusement (weight 0.05): The game's unique combination of brutal Sekiro-like gameplay with cute anime girls, including humorous defeat animations, provides a lighthearted and entertaining contrast. Players find joy in joking about the game's quirks and references, making the experience fun beyond just the combat.
- Disappointment (weight 0.04): Disappointment stems from a lack of content depth, including limited progression, exploration, and variations from Sekiro, making the game feel like a mere demo. Controls that don't feel quite right and a short playtime leave players wanting a fuller experience.
- Approval (weight 0.03): Players approve of the game as a worthwhile Sekiro alternative that is easy to pick up and provides a good challenge. It is praised for being short, free, and well-crafted for its scope, with some even considering it superior to Sekiro in its boss-rush design.
- Fun (weight 0.02): The combat is described as genuinely fun, transforming boss fights into a rhythmic dance of attacks and parries. The game's free price and compact size enhance its appeal, delivering a fun experience without excessive grind.
- Surprise (weight 0.02): The game exceeded expectations with its high-quality combat and lack of jank, especially considering it is a small free title. Unexpectedly challenging and well-designed bosses also contributed to the positive surprise.
- Impressed (weight 0.02): Players are impressed by the game's smooth combat and faithful recreation of Sekiro's mechanics, which feel even better than the original at times. The high-quality graphics, soundtracks, and clever boss design for a free, solo-developed game are notable achievements.
- Gratitude (weight 0.02): Players are grateful for receiving a high-quality, free game that satiates their Sekiro cravings, especially with anime-style characters. The game's availability and its role as a helpful practice tool are sources of gratitude.
- Joy (weight 0.01): The game brings joy through its fun and polished gameplay, closely mirroring Sekiro's style. The 1v1 swordfights and improved boss designs are particularly enjoyable, making the game a very good and thoroughly enjoyable experience.
- Enthusiasm (weight 0.01): Enthusiasm is driven by the game's status as a top-tier Sekiro-like, described as an 'absolute banger' and 'peak'. Its free availability with quality combat amplifies the positive reaction.
- Annoyance (weight 0.01): Annoyance arises from misleading tags (nudity/English), bad hitboxes that punish perfect parries, and visual clutter like ears blocking the view. Specific boss moves that are poorly telegraphed or too similar also irritate players.
- Amazement (weight 0.01): Players are amazed that the game captures the exact feel of Sekiro while being free, calling it one of the best experiences in life. The incredible combat and quality as a free title are sources of wonder.
- Satisfied (weight 0.01): The game satisfies players by focusing purely on boss fights without trash mobs or traversal, matching their preferences. Achievement of all S-ranks and improvement in parrying skills further enhance satisfaction.
- Frustrated (weight 0.01): Frustration stems from overtuned bosses that feel unfair, killing the player in three hits while the player deals minimal damage. Poor optimization and a lack of progression systems compound the difficulty issues.}