Info about Crimsonland:

Official game description:
  
Thousands of aliens, zombies, giant spiders, mutant lizards, and more are on the attack - can you survive the onslaught? In Crimsonland you will unlock new weapons and perks constantly improving your abilities and arsenal. Your screen will be filled with literally hundreds of monsters and thousands of giblets. Grab your gun and prepare for endless hours of intense top-down shooter fun!  
The original Crimsonland was released in 2003. After the game was greenlit at the end of 2013, 10tons decided to give the game a complete tune-up. The brand new 2014 version introduces countless gameplay fixes, a new chapter with new enemies, new perks, and new weapons. On top of that we've done a complete art overhaul!  
What are perks? **Perks** are like talents in an RPG game. You earn **XP** by killing monsters and with XP you earn levels. After leveling up you get to choose a perk. For example, a perk called **Fastloader** enables you to reload extremely fast. During a session perks will stack up a and every game will be a bit different. You'll unlock perks during the quest mode after which they become available in the survival game modes.  
We've created a huge arsenal of **30 unique weapons** ranging from the humble pistol to the mysterious Shrinkifier 5k. The weapons are unlocked by playing the quest mode and they become available in survival game modes as well. The better your arsenal - the better chances you have at scoring higher outside the quest mode.  
Crimsonland features up to four player local co-op. All game modes including the quest can be played in co-op mode. There are also separate leaderboards for co-op games so gather your friends and show the internet who wields the gauss shotgun like a pro!  
*   Quest mode with six chapters  
*   FIVE survival modes: Survival, Rush, Blitz, Weapon Picker, and Nukefism  
*   30 unique weapons  
*   55 awesome perks  
*   Steam leaderboards: global and friends  
*   Steam achievements & stats  
*   Full controller support  
*   Up to four player local co-op

Release date: Jun 11, 2014

Categories: Twin-stick Shooter, Horde Shooter, Local Multiplayer, Character Progression, Weapon Customization, Survival, Arcade, Roguelike

Feature scans:
- Steam Deck: score 10; verdict: Seamless Experience; summary: Crimsonland runs perfectly on Steam Deck with full controller support, no technical barriers, and excellent Linux compatibility. All feedback indicates a seamless out-of-box experience.

- Hardware Profile: No data
Feature extractions:
- Community Price:
  - Community fair range: $5.00 - $10.00
  - Reasoning: Multiple reviews advise waiting for a discount or express that the current price is too high for the content provided. One review specifically mentions hesitating at $14, and another recommends a 40-50% off sale, which would bring the price to $7–$8.40. A positive review states it's worth buying at any price, but the overall sentiment suggests a fair base-game price is lower than $14, likely between $5 and $10 to match perceived value.
- Playtime Metrics:
  - Game completion: 20.0h
  - Story completion: 4.0h
  - Session length: N/A
  - Endgame: N/A
  - Reasoning: Game completion (100% achievements) is supported by a review stating 'over 20 hours' for all achievements. Story completion on normal difficulty is reported as '4 hours or less' and on easy as 'less than four hours'. A Chinese review mentions 'one or two hours to clear' likely referring to a speedrun or easy completion, so 4 hours for normal is a reasonable consensus. Session length varies from 5 minutes to several hours, not a single reliable number. Endgame is not quantified; though some players mention replaying for achievements or leaderboards, no specific hour estimates are given.
- Time-to-fun:
  - Summary: Players find Crimsonland immediately fun and addictive, with simple yet engaging gameplay that is easy to pick up from the start. Some later repetitiveness does not delay initial enjoyment.
  - Stance: Fun immediately
  - Anchor: N/A
  - Time to anchor: N/A
  - Friction: N/A
  - Unlock drivers: N/A
  - Conditions: N/A
- Player Archetypes:
  - Nostalgic Veteran (sale)
    - Motivation: Nostalgia and revisiting a childhood classic.
    - Playstyle: Completionist, playing on all difficulty levels and seeking to unlock everything.
    - Experience: veteran
    - Purchase stance: sale
    - Labels: old school
    - Reference games: Crimsonland (original)
  - Local Co-op Enthusiast (buy)
    - Motivation: Social fun and cooperative play with friends.
    - Playstyle: Cooperative, playing on easier difficulties and experimenting with perks with friends.
    - Experience: mixed
    - Purchase stance: buy
    - Labels: N/A
    - Reference games: N/A
  - Hardcore Achievement Hunter (buy)
    - Motivation: Mastery and completion of all challenges.
    - Playstyle: Methodical, focusing on high difficulty, grinding for achievements, and using optimal strategies.
    - Experience: veteran
    - Purchase stance: buy
    - Labels: achievement hunter; maniac
    - Reference games: N/A
  - Casual Time-Killer (buy)
    - Motivation: Relaxation and quick, mindless fun.
    - Playstyle: Casual, playing on easier difficulties, not seeking maximum challenge.
    - Experience: newcomer
    - Purchase stance: buy
    - Labels: casual gamer
    - 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:
- Vast weapon and perk variety (weight 0.89): Players consistently praise the game's extensive arsenal of weapons, perks, and power-ups. The variety allows for creative combinations and different playstyles, significantly enhancing fun and replayability.
- Excellent four-player co-op (weight 0.54): The game supports local co-op for up to four players, which is frequently highlighted as a major positive. Players enjoy the shared experience and coordination with friends.
- Engaging survival modes (weight 0.4): The variety of survival modes, each with unique twists and engaging challenges, keeps the gameplay fresh and addictive. High score chasing and difficulty across modes add depth.
- Fun and well-balanced gameplay (weight 0.4): Reviews describe the game as super fun, fast-paced, and well-balanced, remaining playable and enjoyable even after many years. It's a solid, entertaining experience overall.
- Top-down shooter benchmark (weight 0.35): Many reviewers consider this one of the best top-down shooters, setting a standard for the genre. Its classic gameplay and design are praised as benchmarks.
- Great time-killer (weight 0.27): Players find the game a perfect way to pass time, with quick sessions that are easy to pick up. Its simplicity and fun factor make it an ideal casual gaming option.
- Impressive enemy diversity (weight 0.26): The variety of enemies is a standout feature, offering distinct types that keep combat interesting. Combined with weapon variety, it ensures a dynamic experience.
- High replayability value (weight 0.22): Multiple modes, randomized elements, and difficulty levels contribute to strong replayability. Players find themselves returning to the game time and again.
- Keyboard trainer mode unique (weight 0.2): Special modes like the keyboard trainer, where players type monster names to defeat them, offer a creative twist. These unique modes add extra variety and fun.
- Improved graphics from original (weight 0.19): The game features improved graphics compared to its older version, enhancing the visual experience. The updated presentation is well-received by players.
- Nostalgic classic experience (weight 0.18): The game evokes strong nostalgia, being a classic that brings back memories. Players appreciate the opportunity to revisit this beloved title.
- Bloody and satisfying combat (weight 0.17): The game's blood and gore, along with satisfying hit feedback, make combat feel impactful. This visceral element is a key aspect of the fun.
- Multiple game modes (weight 0.15): The game offers several modes of mayhem, including survival, quest, and more, providing a range of experiences. This variety helps maintain interest over time.
- Addictive gameplay loop (weight 0.11): The engaging and addictive nature of the gameplay is frequently mentioned, with players noting its compelling pull. The combination of action and progression keeps them hooked.
- Precise and responsive controls (weight 0.09): Players praise the precise and perfect controls, which enhance the gameplay experience. Good controls are essential for a shooter, and this game delivers.
- RPG-esque perk system (weight 0.09): The perk system allows for playstyle customization, akin to an RPG, which is well-received. It adds strategic depth to the shooter action.
- No story, simple and straightforward (weight 0.08): The game's simplicity, with no complex story or cutscenes, is appreciated for its directness. It focuses on pure gameplay without unnecessary distractions.
- Improved quest mode perks (weight 0.07): Perks were added back to quest mode in an update, restoring original functionalities. This enhancement improves the quest experience.
- Three difficulty levels (weight 0.06): The addition of a new difficulty level offers more challenges for players. This increases the game's replay value and accessibility.
- Great audio quality (weight 0.06): The game's audio is top-notch, enhancing the overall atmosphere and gameplay. Good sound design contributes to the immersive experience.

Common complaints:
- Repetitive and tedious gameplay (weight 0.34): The game becomes repetitive and boring over time, particularly after completing quests, with many modes relying heavily on randomness. This leads to a lack of long-term engagement.
- Perks locked to survival (weight 0.28): Perks are only available in Survival mode, not in the Quest or main story modes, unless using a secret password. This removes a core gameplay feature and reduces the variety and appeal of the main quest.
- Fails to match original (weight 0.21): Players consistently feel the remake is inferior to the original, lacking the charm and appeal that made the original compelling. This is a recurring criticism across multiple reviews.
- Missing online multiplayer (weight 0.21): There is no online co-op or multiplayer; only local co-op on a single device is supported. This limits play options and disappoints players expecting to team up online.
- Enemies spawn instantly on player (weight 0.16): Enemies can spawn directly on top of the player without warning, leading to unavoidable instant deaths. This is a frustrating gameplay flaw that disrupts the experience.
- Telekinesis nerfed and harmful (weight 0.16): The telekinetic perk has been nerfed, causing it to attract unwanted items and making it useless or even harmful. This removes a vital tool for players and changes gameplay dynamics for the worse.
- Movement slow and clunky (weight 0.11): Player movement is slow and feels clunky, making it easy to get caught by enemies and miss bonus items, which frustrates players and hampers gameplay.
- Lacks engaging story (weight 0.11): There is no meaningful story or narrative in the game, which reduces immersion and makes the experience feel shallow.
- Difficulty is harsh and unrelenting (weight 0.11): The game is very difficult even on normal mode, with hardcore modes being even more punishing. This can alienate players who prefer a less grindy experience.
- Game is too short (weight 0.1): The game is considered too short and lacks satisfying content or length, leaving players wanting more and feeling the experience is incomplete.
- Overpriced for old game (weight 0.1): The price is perceived as too high for a game that has been out for many years, with price increases making it a poor value proposition.
- Interface feels mobile-like (weight 0.1): The UI and HUD resemble a mobile game interface, feeling less powerful and detracting from the desktop gaming experience.
- New UI loses original charm (weight 0.1): The revamped UI is seen as bland and forgettable, lacking the feel and personality of the original's interface.
- Graphics outdated and not improved (weight 0.1): The new graphics are not considered pretty and fail to show meaningful improvement over the original, appearing outdated for a modern release.

Gameplay feedback:
- Multiple game modes (weight 0.8): The game offers various modes including quest, survival, and missions, each with distinct twists. Multiple difficulty settings add variety.
- Top-down twin-stick shooter (weight 0.7): The game is consistently described as a top-down or twin-stick shooter with action-focused gameplay. Players face endless waves of monsters and clear levels.
- Diverse weapons and perks (weight 0.68): Players have access to a large arsenal of weapons, perks, and power-ups, enabling varied builds. The game includes 30 weapon types and 55 perks.
- Up to four-player co-op (weight 0.46): Support for local co-op with up to four players is a key feature, allowing solo or multiplayer play. This is highlighted as a major social aspect.
- Survival modes with variants (weight 0.39): There are several survival modes, each with unique rules and twists, such as endless waves and leaderboards. These modes emphasize lasting as long as possible.
- Permanent and run-based progression (weight 0.27): Players level up with randomly offered perks and acquire weapons through random drops, adding roguelike elements. Runs are varied and offer build customization.
- Extensive level and quest content (weight 0.26): Quest mode contains multiple chapters with numerous levels and missions, offering substantial content. Additionally, the game has many standalone levels.
- Genre classifications (weight 0.23): The game is classified into various subgenres like twin-stick shooter, horde mowing, and shoot 'em up, indicating its blend of mechanics. These classifications help players understand the core loop.
- Multiple difficulty settings (weight 0.21): The game includes several difficulty levels, such as Normal, Hardcore, and Grim, catering to different skill levels. Mission modes have their own difficulty variations.
- Simple and easy gameplay (weight 0.15): The game is described as simple and easy to pick up, making it accessible to a wide audience. This simplicity is a notable contrast to deeper progression systems.
- Influential predecessor to Vampire Survivors (weight 0.11): The game is identified as a precursor to popular titles like Vampire Survivors and Brotato, indicating its influence on the genre. This legacy is a point of interest.
- Enemy waves from all directions (weight 0.11): Players fight off waves of enemies that swarm from all sides, requiring constant movement and awareness. The horde-based combat is central to gameplay.
- Level-up shield and push (weight 0.11): Leveling up grants a temporary shield and pushes enemies away, providing brief breathing room. This mechanic adds a tactical layer to progression.
- Absence of story or dialogue (weight 0.09): The game lacks a story and dialogue, focusing purely on gameplay. This is a minor omission but may affect narrative-driven players.

Performance notes:
- Performance praised across platforms (weight 0.2): Players report smooth operation on Windows, Mac, and Steam Deck, with one noting it runs on a toaster. Overall optimization is considered excellent.
- Fullscreen ALT+TAB hang bug (weight 0.07): Pressing ALT+TAB in fullscreen mode causes the game to hang, which can disrupt gameplay and require forced termination. This is a specific usability bug.
- Mac crash issues (weight 0.06): At least one user experiences frequent crashes on Mac OS, which detracts from the otherwise positive performance reports. This suggests platform-specific stability concerns.
- Linux compatibility works well (weight 0.06): The game runs without issues on Linux with Intel HD Graphics 4400, showing broad hardware support. This is a positive sign for Linux gamers.
- Startup bug requires restart (weight 0.06): An odd bug prevents the game from starting until a computer reboot, indicating a rare but annoying launch issue. This may confuse users and hinder initial access.
- DirectX 9/11 option available (weight 0.06): The game offers a choice between DirectX 9 and 11, allowing players to select the version that best suits their hardware or preferences. This flexibility is appreciated.

Recommendations:
- Buy on sale (weight 0.37): Multiple reviewers advise waiting for a discount before purchasing, with some specifying a 40-50% reduction or a bundle.
- Positive overall (weight 0.37): Overall, the game receives many recommendations, with some strongly encouraging purchase and play.
- Recommended for shooter fans (weight 0.28): The game is highly recommended for fans of top-down and twin-stick shooters, with special praise for those seeking a challenging yet non-bullet-hell experience.
- Original Crimsonland fans rejoice (weight 0.24): Fans of the original Crimsonland are strongly encouraged to play this remake, which evokes nostalgic feelings and offers a similar experience, often considered a must-have.
- Worth the money (weight 0.2): Several players affirm the game provides good value for its price and time investment, with some considering it a must-buy even at full price.
- Great for casual play (weight 0.19): The game is suitable for casual sessions on lower difficulties, serving as a way to pass time or relax, even while doing other activities like listening to podcasts.
- Fun with friends (weight 0.18): The game shines in local co-op or multiplayer settings, providing competitive and cooperative fun on a single PC.
- Avoid remake (weight 0.17): A few reviewers do not recommend the remake, suggesting players play the original instead, and some even prefer the original version 1.9.8.
- Recommended to genre fans (weight 0.17): Those interested in the genre or slightly interested are advised to try it, highlighting its appeal to a broader audience within the niche.
- Nostalgia important (weight 0.15): For some, the game's value is tied to nostalgia for the original, implying it may not offer much to newcomers or those without prior attachment.
- Good for newcomers (weight 0.1): New players who haven't experienced the original are encouraged to try the game, with some noting it's a great entry point.
- Carnage and upgrades (weight 0.1): Players enjoy mowing down hordes of enemies and upgrading weapons, providing a satisfying power fantasy.
- Alternatives suggested (weight 0.09): Some reviewers recommend other games like Tesla vs. Lovecraft, Nation Red, or Versus Squad as better alternatives.
- Difficulty warning (weight 0.09): The game is noted to be challenging, and pacifists should stay away, emphasizing its combat-focused nature.
- Not worth full price (weight 0.07): While the game is enjoyable on sale, it is not considered worth its full retail price by some players.
- Suitable for roguelike fans (weight 0.06): The game fits fans of roguelike, hardcore, old school, and simple gaming, appealing to a diverse set of players.
- Niche audience appeal (weight 0.06): The game may not be understood or appreciated by everyone, implying a specific target audience.
- Not for balance seekers (weight 0.06): The game lacks a balanced experience, which may deter players looking for that aspect.
- Lack of online co-op (weight 0.06): Warning that the game does not offer online co-op, which may be a drawback for some.
- Interface quality criticized (weight 0.05): The game is not recommended for those expecting a high-quality interface, suggesting possible shortcomings.

Other player notes:
- Remake of 2003 original (weight 0.75): The game is widely recognized as a remake or remaster of the 2003 original Crimsonland. Many reviews mention the inclusion of the original version, either as a bonus or accessible via a menu option, and note that the Steam release is a refreshed version of the classic.
- Favorable comparison to Vampire Survivors (weight 0.48): Players frequently compare the game to Vampire Survivors, often viewing it as a predecessor or a favorable alternative. Some note it is cheaper and has higher difficulty, while others mention it inspired the popular vampire game.
- Comparison to other twin-stick shooters (weight 0.48): Players compare the game to modern twin-stick shooters such as Tesla vs. Lovecraft, Nation Red, Alien Shooter, and Nuclear Throne, often noting that newer titles have improved upon the formula. Some view it as a spiritual successor or inspiration, while others point to games like Helldivers or Doom for comparison.
- Nostalgic classic from the past (weight 0.4): The game evokes strong nostalgia, with reviewers recalling it from childhood or as a classic from the early internet era. It is described as a cult classic and a pioneer of the survivor-like genre, with some players having played it since 2003.
- Supports multiple platforms and localization (weight 0.38): The game runs on various platforms, including Steam Deck, Linux, and Ubuntu, and features multiple control options such as local co-op for 4 players with keyboard, mouse, and gamepad support. Localization includes Ukrainian, Russian, and Chinese, with some noting incompleteness in Chinese.
- Pricing and value concerns (weight 0.32): Several reviewers express concerns about the price, calling it unreasonable for a decade-old game or noting regional pricing issues. However, others find it cheap or worth the cost given the content, with some attributing price increases to Steam's new suggestions.
- Active developer support and updates (weight 0.29): The developer has continuously improved the game since its release, adding features like cloud saves, new chapters, and tweaks based on player feedback. Reviews mention a 1.1.0 update that resolved earlier disappointment and note updates addressing player complaints.
- Improvements over original (weight 0.29): The remaster adds new weapons, powerups, game modes, achievements, leaderboards, and improved graphics while keeping the core gameplay intact. Players appreciate these additions, though some feel they don't compensate for changes to the original's feel.
- Criticism of changes and implementation (weight 0.28): Some reviewers criticize the developer for not understanding the original's strengths and note that modern titles have superseded this game. They mention that the remake may disappoint original fans, while new players may find it enjoyable.
- Hidden features and secret console (weight 0.27): Reviewers highlight secret features such as entering 'grim' in the menu to unlock a console or enabling perks in mission mode. Additionally, typing 'gembine' in the credits unlocks a 2048-like mini-game that helps obtain the last perk.
- Extensive content and modes (weight 0.27): The game offers a large amount of content, including 70 scenarios, 7 survival modes, multiple difficulty levels, and a 60-mission campaign. Players appreciate the variety and replayability, though some note a lack of story in story mode.
- Lack of story and focus on action (weight 0.17): Reviews emphasize the absence of a story, cutscenes, and complex graphics, with the game focusing purely on violence and action. Some see this as a strength, while others note that other games like Alien Shooter have a story.
- Short gameplay duration (weight 0.14): The game is noted for its short length, with playtimes ranging from 1-2 hours to around 4 hours on normal difficulty. Some reviewers find this a drawback, while others see it as a quick time killer.
- Positive reception as a time killer (weight 0.14): The game is frequently praised as a good time killer or a way to relax with mindless shooting. Some rate it 7/10 for this purpose, and describe it as a classic for passing time.
- Technical and platform-specific feedback (weight 0.12): Various technical aspects are mentioned, such as the game being available on multiple systems, having consistent interface across platforms, and including ads for the developer's own games. Some note the game's plain store page appearance despite detailed gameplay.
- Wishes and suggestions for improvement (weight 0.09): Some reviewers express wishes for mods or features, such as making monsters furries, and suggest improvements like adding a story or better pricing. These are niche requests from individual players.

Emotions:
- Nostalgia (weight 0.15): The game evokes strong childhood memories of playing it at school computer classes, on 4399, and during the Flash era. Many reviewers recall the original 2003 version, playing it before Steam, and competing with family, which creates a deep sense of reliving past times and classic top-down shooter memories.
- Enjoyment (weight 0.13): Players enjoy the fun, addictive gameplay, which features endless monster waves, diverse weapons and perks, and the ability to play with friends in local co-op. The game is praised for being engaging, replayable, and satisfying, with many finding it a pleasure to revisit or play for long sessions.
- Frustration (weight 0.11): Frustration stems from unbalanced difficulty, slow player movement, enemies that are faster and can spawn on top of the player, and random-dependent mechanics that lead to frustrating deaths. Additionally, issues like frequent crashes, lack of online co-op, and achievements requiring a second gamepad, along with balance and price complaints, contribute to this sentiment.
- Satisfaction (weight 0.1): Satisfaction arises from well-crafted gameplay that is challenging but engaging, with satisfying gunplay and sound effects. The developer's responsiveness in restoring perks and addressing feedback, along with the variety in weapons, perks, and game modes, makes the game gratifying and a good time-killer.
- Excitement (weight 0.09): Excitement is driven by the fast-paced, intense gameplay, involving hordes of monsters, power-ups, and the promise of chaotic fun. The game's arrival on Steam and improved effects, coupled with the option for 4-player couch co-op, heighten anticipation and enjoyment.
- Disappointment (weight 0.08): Players are disappointed by the remake's short length, lack of content and depth, and changes that diminish the classic feel, such as missing perks, inferior survival mode, and nerfed weapons. The anticlimactic final boss, limited music tracks, and reliance on random luck also contribute to dissatisfaction.
- Fun (weight 0.04): Fun is derived from the overall enjoyable gameplay, including no-hit runs, combining weapons and perks in creative ways, and the engaging survival mode. The arcade shooter nature and co-op play add to the lighthearted, enjoyable experience.
- Appreciation (weight 0.03): Players appreciate the game's longevity, remaining relevant after more than a decade, with a modding system, varied game modes, and balanced gameplay that pays homage to the original. The developer's willingness to listen to community feedback and restore features is also valued.
- Anger (weight 0.02): Anger is sparked by specific design choices, such as the disliked match-3 minigame, the nerfing of the telekinetic perk, and forced perk upgrades, which ruin the original experience. Additionally, perceived poor developer practices, including lack of replay checking and an unfair price for an old game, fuel this emotion.
- Relaxation (weight 0.02): The game provides a relaxing and stress-relieving experience, ideal for unwinding after a hard day, thanks to its enjoyable and non-frustrating difficulty. The gameplay allows players to easily relax and release steam, making it a perfect evening pastime.
- Boredom (weight 0.02): Boredom emerges because the game becomes repetitive and samey over time, with gameplay feeling too slow and clunky. This leads to dwindling interest as the experience loses its novelty.
- Love (weight 0.02): Players express deep love for Crimsonland as a benchmark and central part of their lives, having been a favorite for over a decade. Its status as one of the best in its kind reinforces this strong emotional attachment.
- Admiration (weight 0.01): Admiration is felt for the game's quality and genre pioneering, with it being considered one of the best in its genre and still feeling great after 20+ years. This respect underscores its enduring value.
- Annoyance (weight 0.01): Annoyance comes from random drops that often leave players with a worthless peashooter or screw them over, and the random opening of a blocking screen in the middle of action. These unpredictable elements disrupt gameplay and cause irritation.
- Disgust (weight 0.01): Disgust is directed at the game's monotonous weapons and items, and it is derogatorily compared to used toilet paper, indicating a strong negative reaction to the game's content.
- Engagement (weight 0.01): Engagement is high as the game keeps players captivated at every second, especially while progressing through levels. It is described as fun and hard to put down, indicating a compelling experience.
- Addiction (weight 0.01): The game is highly addictive and engaging, providing an extremely absorbing splatter shooter experience. This addiction draws players in and keeps them playing.
- Praise (weight 0.01): Praise is lavished on the game for being a masterpiece and a classic, with highly satisfying gameplay. This positive evaluation reflects the game's excellence.
- Surprise (weight 0): Surprise is expressed upon finding the game again after a long time, evoking a sense of unexpected rediscovery.
- Adrenaline (weight 0): The type-o-shooter mode delivers an adrenaline-pumping experience, likely due to its intense and fast-paced nature.}