Info about DUSK HD: Official game description: DUSK HD IS A FULL VISUAL REMASTER OF DUSK THAT OWNERS OF THE ORIGINAL GAME CAN DOWNLOAD **_100% FREE._** **Steam Deck Users!** Before you can launch DUSK HD: Go to properties > Compatibility > Change the proton version to Proton 8.0-4 or Experimental > **ENJOY!** -------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Release date: Dec 11, 2023 Categories: First-Person Shooter, Boomer Shooter, Retro FPS, Single-player Campaign, Mod Support, Virtual Reality, Exploration Feature scans: - Proton/Linux: score 60; verdict: Tinkering Required; summary: DUSK's base game is native Linux and reportedly runs fine without Proton, but the DUSK HD content is Windows-only and requires forcing Proton compatibility. Some Linux and Steam Deck users get HD working with Proton Experimental or Proton 8, while others report that enabling Proton prevents the game from launching and makes HD inaccessible. There is also frustration that native Linux support was dropped for the updated visuals. Overall, Linux support is workable through Proton for some users but inconsistent, requiring compatibility-tool tinkering rather than working out of the box. - Steam Deck: score 70; verdict: Broken / Unstable on Steam Deck; summary: The audit finds that Dusk's base game can run natively on Linux, but the Dusk HD content is Windows-only and forces Steam Deck users to enable Proton compatibility. Some players successfully use Proton 8 or Proton Experimental, yet multiple reports describe launch failures or inability to access Dusk HD after enabling compatibility. The experience is therefore not seamless: it requires tinkering, and the launch-failure evidence pushes the friction into the Broken range. - Hardware Profile: No data Feature extractions: - Community Price: No data - Playtime Metrics: - Game completion: N/A - Story completion: N/A - Session length: N/A - Endgame: N/A - Reasoning: The reviews confirm that DUSK HD supports a fresh playthrough and post-completion replay, and one review vaguely says it offers 'hours of entertainment.' However, none provides a measurable number of hours for completing the DLC, finishing its story, a typical session, or endgame content. The 'freezes every 5 minutes' comment describes a technical problem, not play-session length, so no numeric playtime metric can be extracted. - Time-to-fun: - Summary: Reviewers describe the game as addictive from the first moment, with engaging multiplayer and broad appeal; only a minor advanced-move learning curve is noted as friction. - Stance: Fun immediately - Anchor: The first moment - Time to anchor: N/A - Friction: Learning curve for some advanced moves and techniques - Unlock drivers: N/A - Conditions: N/A - Player Archetypes: - VR Motion-Control Enthusiast (buy) - Motivation: Immersive VR combat with full motion controls. - Playstyle: Plays in VR using motion controllers and community mods. - Experience: familiar - Purchase stance: buy - Labels: N/A - Reference games: N/A - Old-School Challenge Purist (buy) - Motivation: Authentic old-school challenge and secret exploration. - Playstyle: Methodical single-player with frequent saves and secret hunting. - Experience: veteran - Purchase stance: buy - Labels: N/A - Reference games: N/A - HD Visual Upgrade Seeker (buy) - Motivation: Enhanced HD visuals and animation while playing Dusk. - Playstyle: Plays the updated HD version for its improved look. - Experience: familiar - Purchase stance: buy - Labels: N/A - Reference games: N/A - Feature-Hungry Multiplayer Veteran (buy) - Motivation: Fresh content and expanded multiplayer/co-op features. - Playstyle: Fast-paced multiplayer and seeking co-op support. - Experience: veteran - Purchase stance: buy - Labels: N/A - Reference games: The Ultimate Doom 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: - Massive Visual Overhaul (weight 0.68): DUSK HD delivers a comprehensive visual upgrade with high-resolution textures, updated models, and improved animations that are far more legible than the original. This makes the game look significantly better while preserving its core aesthetic, often described as a quality face-lift or glow-up. - Free and Optional DLC (weight 0.65): The HD update is offered for free to all owners of DUSK and is entirely optional, allowing players to switch between original and HD visuals. Reviewers widely praise this consumer-friendly approach and the substantial value provided at no extra cost. - Improved Animations and Models (weight 0.62): Enemy and character animations are smoother and more immersive, with specific improvements noted for enemies like the Wendigo, Horror, and Intoxigator. HD models are faithful to the originals, adding more polygons and detail without losing their recognizable designs. - Retains Original Style (weight 0.56): Despite the visual upgrades, DUSK HD successfully maintains the original lo-fi aesthetic and atmosphere, with a cohesive and consistent new style. The update enhances the game's vibe without undermining its late-90s FPS feel or low-poly charm. - Definitive Way to Play (weight 0.45): Many reviewers consider DUSK HD the best or definitive way to experience the game, offering a fresh experience even for veterans. It provides an excellent reason to replay DUSK, with enhanced visuals that make the game more attractive and immersive. - New Content and Features (weight 0.4): The HD update includes new content such as a brand new weapon (Dark Claw), full motion controller support in VR, and modding tools like the map editor and Steam Workshop integration. These additions provide fresh experiences and extend the game's longevity. - High Praise for the Game (weight 0.38): Many reviewers consider DUSK one of the best shooters of the last decade or even ever, with some calling it the most original and genre-bending FPS since Half-Life. The game is frequently described as fantastic, incredible, and a must-play. - Positive Developer Support (weight 0.38): Reviewers appreciate that the developers, New Blood and David Szymanski, released the HD update for free and showed care in preserving the game's charisma. The update is seen as a substantial free addition rather than a cash grab. - Level Design and Exploration (weight 0.3): The game features well-crafted, varied maps with a good balance of exploration and action, plus plenty of hidden secrets. The level design is some of the best in the shooter genre, and the updated maps integrate seamlessly with the HD visuals. - Community and Modding Support (weight 0.29): The inclusion of Steam Workshop support and a map editor allows players to create and play custom maps, including those from other games like Quake and GoldSRC. This greatly extends the game's replayability and creative potential. - Enhanced Atmosphere and Immersion (weight 0.28): The updated visuals, animations, and particle effects significantly enhance the game's atmosphere, making it more immersive and spooky. The mix of folk horror and cosmic horror is accentuated, and scenery becomes more worth stopping to admire. - Great Gameplay and Gunplay (weight 0.27): DUSK HD maintains the fast, tight movement and shooting of classic boomer shooters, with smooth and responsive controls. The gunplay is highly praised, and the game offers a challenging old-school difficulty with a variety of weapons. - Excellent Performance (weight 0.24): DUSK HD runs smoothly and maintains high performance, often better than the original, without sacrificing gameplay or framerate. It works well on various platforms, including Steam Deck, and provides a responsive experience. - VR Support (weight 0.24): DUSK HD supports VR with full motion controller support, offering a near-perfect VR experience that feels almost native. It provides a new and better-than-remembered way to play, though some may find the original version more immersive on ultra-wide. - High-Quality Remaster (weight 0.24): Reviewers consistently describe DUSK HD as a high-quality remaster that goes beyond simple texture updates, with professional and cohesive improvements to models, textures, and environments. It sets a standard for how remasters should be done. - Cohesive Visual Style (weight 0.2): The HD update presents a cohesive and consistent new style that improves upon the original without feeling disjointed, unlike some other HD remasters. The visual designs, textures, and animations have more character and are coherent with the game's tone. - Weapon Improvements (weight 0.19): Weapon models have been updated to look more like actual guns rather than amorphous polygons, better selling the aesthetic. Some weapons have changes, and the overall weapon design is professionally done. - Soundtrack and Audio (weight 0.19): The game features a great soundtrack and haunting sound effects that add to the immersive experience. The music is in unison with the visual upgrades, enhancing the overall atmosphere. - Good Value and Replayability (weight 0.19): DUSK offers a lot of content, high replay value, and is considered good value for its price. The HD update provides a fresh experience that encourages multiple playthroughs. - New Weapon: Dark Claw (weight 0.12): The update adds a new weapon, the Dark Claw, which deals significant damage but uses morale and HP as ammo. Reviewers find it incredibly fun to use, adding a fresh gameplay dynamic. Common complaints: - Models look goofy or less scary (weight 0.33): New HD models are often described as goofy, less scary, and losing the original's low-poly charm. Specific enemies like leathernecks and cultists are mentioned as looking worse. - Proton compatibility issues on Linux (weight 0.32): Many users report that DUSK HD and sometimes the base game fail to launch or crash when using Proton on Linux. The HD DLC is not native to Linux, requiring Proton, which leads to various problems. - Save data loss and progress resets (weight 0.28): Several reviewers experienced resets of their progress in regular DUSK and deletion of saved data when using the HD version. This forces players to start over, which is highly frustrating. - Achievements disabled in HD mode (weight 0.2): Achievements cannot be earned while playing DUSK HD, and some users suspect a bug. This is a common complaint among players who care about achievement progression. - HD visuals miss original atmosphere (weight 0.2): The HD pack is criticized for being too bright and losing the grimy, atmospheric feel of the original. Some also note that levels could have been more detailed and that viscera effects are reduced. - Incomplete remaster with pixelated graphics (weight 0.19): Despite being an HD remaster, some graphics remain pixelated, and not everything was remade faithfully. Only some weapons have new animations, and lightmaps have issues with normal maps. - HD remaster perceived as unnecessary (weight 0.17): Some reviewers feel the HD remaster wasn't really needed and doesn't make DUSK a brand new experience. They also dislike HD mods for old games and triple-A remasters of recent games. - Visual style preferences for original (weight 0.15): Many players prefer the original low-poly look over the HD version, citing familiarity and charm. The blocky and simplistic level design is also preferred by some. - Enemy telegraph and difficulty issues (weight 0.15): Some enemies lack clear telegraphs for attacks, such as the dog's charging attack, and others like the Mama can kill quickly with fast grenades. These issues affect gameplay balance. - Dark Claw exclusive and unbalanced (weight 0.14): The Dark Claw weapon is only in DUSK HD and is not critical enough to warrant playing the HD version if you've already finished the original. It also conflicts with the crossbow, preventing switching. - Enemy animations unchanged or inconsistent (weight 0.11): Some enemy animations remained the same as in the original, and others don't play consistently. This detracts from the HD experience for players expecting improved animations. - Separate installation and storage issues (weight 0.11): DUSK HD requires additional storage space and a separate installation, which can be confusing, especially on Linux where the base game is native. This adds friction for users. - Collision and control problems (weight 0.1): There are reported issues with collisions and controls, including the removal of weapon flipping from gamepad layouts. These control changes may frustrate players used to the original. - Missing features like map and sound options (weight 0.09): Some users noted the absence of a map and the inability to replace campaign sounds. These missing features are seen as drawbacks compared to the original or expectations. - Developer behavior criticized (weight 0.09): A few reviewers criticize the developers and publishers as 'kinda cringe' and note passive-aggressive responses to negative reviews. This affects community perception. - HD DLC not integrated as option (weight 0.07): DUSK HD is a separate game rather than an option within the original game's settings, which some users find inconvenient. It also cannot be used as a mod or toggle easily. - Advanced techniques have learning curve (weight 0.05): Some players mention a learning curve for advanced moves and techniques, which may take time to master. This could be a barrier for new players. - Settings and graphics compared unfavorably (weight 0.05): Some users find the settings and graphics less appealing compared to modern boomer shooters like Prodeus and Ion Fury. This is a niche complaint. Gameplay feedback: - Same core gameplay (weight 0.35): DUSK HD preserves the original gameplay unchanged, with the same structure and feel as the 2018 release. The gameplay loop remains running, shooting, collecting keys, and progressing. - Retro first-person shooter (weight 0.25): DUSK is described as a retro first-person shooter. It is a fast and violent FPS originally released in 2018. - DUSK HD is optional DLC (weight 0.23): DUSK HD is an optional DLC that provides an HD replay of the game rather than a forced visual change. It is added as a separate executable and launch option. - HD assets overhaul (weight 0.23): The addon replaces all textures and models with HD counterparts, making DUSK look like a game from the mid 2000s. Basically every asset has been re-modeled and/or re-textured. - Remastered visuals only (weight 0.17): DUSK HD is essentially a texture and model pack that remasters the visuals. It does not change enemy count or balance. - One new weapon added (weight 0.15): DUSK HD adds one new weapon to the existing arsenal. This is a notable addition to the otherwise unchanged gameplay. - Exploration and secrets (weight 0.14): Levels offer exploration and action, with hidden secrets to find. The design keeps players moving forward. - Map editor and workshop (weight 0.1): A map editor is included that allows playing custom maps. Steam Workshop integration supports Quake and GoldSRC map support. - Single and multiplayer modes (weight 0.09): The game includes both single-player and multiplayer modes. It offers a variety of weapons for combat. - Enemy variety (weight 0.09): Enemy types include horrors, rats, and cowgirls. The game involves slaying cultists in HD. - Old school challenge (weight 0.09): The game provides an old school challenge. Players should save often due to the difficulty. - HD mode available (weight 0.09): The game has an HD mode option. This allows players to switch between old school and HD visuals. - VR with motion controls (weight 0.06): The game supports VR with full motion controller support. This provides an immersive way to play. - Advanced moves and techniques (weight 0.06): The game features advanced moves and techniques that require learning. This adds depth to the gameplay. - Replay value (weight 0.06): The remaster offers replay value. Players can experience the game again with updated visuals. - Native Linux support (weight 0.05): The original DUSK runs native on Linux. This is a plus for Linux users. - Soap picking (weight 0.05): The game involves picking up soap as part of the gameplay. It is a minor but memorable interaction. Performance notes: - Game fails to launch (weight 0.17): Multiple reviewers report that Dusk HD will not open or start, including one who had to uninstall and reinstall to get it working temporarily. This suggests a critical startup issue. - Steam Deck compatibility broken (weight 0.12): The game is unplayable on Steam Deck, causing freezes that require reboots. It fails to run even with Proton 8.5 or experimental versions. - Good performance when working (weight 0.11): When the game runs, it performs smoothly with no frame drops and can utilize native monitor refresh rates. Reviewers find it as fast as the base game. - Frequent freezes during gameplay (weight 0.07): One reviewer notes that the game runs at a solid 60 fps but freezes every 5 minutes, disrupting play sessions. This indicates stability problems on some systems. Recommendations: - Get the free DUSK HD DLC (weight 0.4): Many reviewers highly recommend the free DUSK HD DLC, noting it is optional and free for owners of the original. Some suggest it is worth supporting or even paying for. - Top recommendation for DUSK HD (weight 0.23): Reviewers give DUSK HD high praise, with some rating it 10/10 and 100% recommended. It is seen as the best way to experience the game. - Not for everyone but worthy (weight 0.17): While the DLC is not for everyone, it is still considered worthy and recommended. Those who prefer the original style can skip it. - Good excuse to replay DUSK (weight 0.15): The DLC provides a good reason to replay the original game, especially for those who have already beaten it. It adds replay value. - May appeal to non-old-school fans (weight 0.15): Players who were put off by the original's simplistic design or old-school visuals may find the HD version more enjoyable. It offers a different visual style. - Steam Deck compatibility workaround (weight 0.11): To play DUSK HD on Steam Deck, users need to enable Proton compatibility mode, specifically Proton 8 or Experimental. This is a Windows-only release otherwise. - VR mode is a no-brainer (weight 0.11): For those with a VR headset, playing DUSK HD in VR is highly recommended. It is considered a must-try experience for fans. - Must-play for retro shooter fans (weight 0.11): DUSK HD is a must-play for anyone who enjoys retro-style first-person shooters. It appeals to fans of classic FPS games. - Respect original art; HD optional (weight 0.1): Some players prefer the original Dusk art style and feel it has no replacement. They should not leave negative reviews since the HD version is free and optional. - Support New Blood Interactive (weight 0.06): Buying DUSK HD and other games from New Blood Interactive is encouraged to support the publisher. It is a project that deserves backing. - Also get the soundtrack (weight 0.06): Some players suggest purchasing the soundtrack alongside the game. It complements the overall experience. Other player notes: - Free HD remaster praised (weight 0.97): Many reviewers appreciate that DUSK HD is offered for free, unlike typical paid graphical updates. Clusters highlight it is a free remaster, free DLC, and free for owners of the original. - HD remaster compared to classics (weight 0.33): Reviewers frequently compare DUSK HD to other remasters like Quake, Half-Life HD Pack, and classic boomer shooters, noting similarities and improvements. Some feel it changes the game's feel from Quake 1 to Quake 2. - Visual upgrades and new models (weight 0.31): The HD version includes new models, animations, and higher-poly maps, enhancing the original's low-poly aesthetic. Reviewers note it stylizes the visuals while maintaining the core look. - New Blood praised as publisher (weight 0.23): New Blood is praised for providing free updates, supporting developers, and not engaging in cash-grabs. They shared December profits with the HD remaster developers. - Requests for more content (weight 0.23): Some reviewers wish for additional content such as a new episode, co-op mode, or mod support. They compare to other games that added substantial content in updates. - Steam and GOG availability (weight 0.21): The game is available on Steam and GOG, with Steam Workshop support. Some reviewers bought it again on Steam to support the developer. - Modding tools and Workshop support (weight 0.19): The DLC includes modding tools, an SDK, and Steam Workshop integration, supporting Quake and GoldSRC maps. This is seen as a positive for community creativity. - Linux and Mac port requests (weight 0.16): A few reviewers would like the developers to port DUSK HD to Mac and Linux, though the original runs natively on Linux and the DLC works via Proton. The DLC is officially only on Windows. - Release timing and Halloween plans (weight 0.13): DUSK HD was released the day after Doom's 30th anniversary, though it was originally meant for Halloween. The DLC came out 5 years after the original game. - Steam Deck compatibility via Proton (weight 0.11): DUSK HD requires forcing Proton compatibility to run on Steam Deck, though it works with Proton 8. This is noted by some reviewers as a minor inconvenience. - Personal preference for visuals (weight 0.11): Whether one prefers the original low-poly graphics or the HD versions ultimately depends on personal preference. Some reviewers like the HD version more, while others find the choice weird. - Developer support and file issues (weight 0.1): A reviewer reported a file corruption issue that was resolved by developer support after months, though Steam support redirected to the New Blood website. This highlights positive developer engagement. - Free VR mod available (weight 0.09): There is a free VR mod by Astien, but DUSK never received official VR support. This is mentioned by a small number of reviewers. - Free graphical DLC with storage cost (weight 0.06): The free graphical DLC increases storage space requirements. It is available for free and optional, but takes up more disk space. - Performance impact of HD mods (weight 0.06): Most HD mods improve appearance at the cost of gameplay or framerate, but DUSK HD does not. This is seen as a positive by a reviewer. - Separate executable and launch option (weight 0.06): DUSK HD is added as a separate executable that becomes a launch option when installed. This technical detail is noted by some players. - Store page mocks re-releases (weight 0.06): The store page description contains mockery of re-releases and cash-grabs. This aligns with New Blood's anti-cash-grab stance. - Soundtrack described as workout music (weight 0.05): The soundtrack is described by a reviewer as good workout or shop music. This is a minor positive note. - Developer response to negative reviews (weight 0.05): The developer's response to negative reviews changed in an attempt to save face. This is a single mention and may reflect a specific incident. - References to external media (weight 0.04): A review references a Bellular video about Starfield, which is unrelated to DUSK HD. This is a single mention and not a common theme. Emotions: - Satisfaction (weight 0.13): The texture pack and HD update provide a significant visual upgrade that makes the game prettier while maintaining smooth performance. Players also appreciate the engaging gameplay, variety of game modes, and the overall value of the content, including improved models and environments. - Appreciation (weight 0.1): The remaster is offered for free to existing owners, which players find rare and generous. The developer's care in preserving the original game's charisma and their decision to support the HD developers with profits are highly valued. - Disappointment (weight 0.09): Many players are unable to access the content on Mac or Linux, with the HD DLC dropping native Linux support despite the base game running natively. Additionally, visual changes in the remaster are seen as ruining the original atmosphere, and there is a lack of achievement support and map functionality. - Excitement (weight 0.07): The DLC completely transforms the game's visuals with new HD models, and playing in VR with full motion controls is thrilling. The free facelift and SDK release for a game comparable to classics generates strong enthusiasm. - Admiration (weight 0.07): Developers are praised for not reselling the same game unchanged and for releasing a large update for free. The high-quality textures and models that realize the creator's vision, along with humorous store page descriptions, earn respect. - Gratitude (weight 0.06): Players are thankful for receiving a quality face lift and HD DLC entirely for free. The content being provided as a gift without additional cost is deeply appreciated. - Enjoyment (weight 0.04): The game remains fun and enjoyable with the HD update, and the new weapon is particularly fun to use. The spooky vibe is enhanced, adding to the overall enjoyment. - Frustration (weight 0.04): Technical issues such as repeated uninstalls, loss of save data, and game freezes on Steam Deck cause significant frustration. Achievements not unlocking and progress resets further aggravate players. - Amusement (weight 0.04): Humorous details like more horrific-looking horrors, animated rats, and the ability to collect soap in-game provide lighthearted amusement. The updated character model detail with zoom capability adds to the fun. - Enthusiasm (weight 0.04): Players enthusiastically recommend the game and the spectacular complete rework with new models and animations. They believe the developers deserve support for their efforts. - Love (weight 0.03): The free HD remaster, boomer shooter gunplay, and the new visual aesthetic resembling late-90s shooters are deeply loved by players. The combination of these elements creates a strong emotional connection. - Dislike (weight 0.03): Some players dislike that the HD version is a separate game rather than a settings option, and they criticize triple-A publishers for remastering games less than a decade old. This approach feels unnecessary and inconvenient. - Preference (weight 0.03): Certain players prefer the original graphics over the new ones because they fit the game's atmosphere better. The original visual style is seen as more cohesive with the intended experience. - Joy (weight 0.03): Dusk HD brings the game design, visuals, and music into unison, creating a joyful experience. The HD visuals and fresh feel of the game elicit pure happiness. - Confusion (weight 0.03): Players are confused by the removal of weapon flipping from gamepad layouts and achievements being disabled in HD mode without explanation. It also took time to realize the DLC didn't install on Linux. - Engrossment (weight 0.01): The visual upgrade and updated enemy animations fully engross players in the game. These enhancements create a more immersive and captivating experience. - Refreshed (weight 0.01): The upgrade makes the game feel new, providing a refreshing experience for players. It revitalizes their interest and enjoyment. - Welcome acceptance (weight 0.01): The new version is welcomed as it may bring more people to enjoy the game. Players accept it as a positive addition to the community. - Relief (weight 0.01): One player felt relief upon discovering that a problem was due to their own shortcut creation and that the game is good. This resolved their initial frustration. - Pleasant surprise (weight 0.01): A player who typically does not like boomer shooters was pleasantly surprised to enjoy Dusk. This unexpected enjoyment added to their positive experience.}