Info about Trine 3: The Artifacts of Power:

Official game description:
A fairytale journey in full 3D
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Amadeus, Pontius and Zoya have had enough of a magical artifact commandeering their lives, and set about giving their gifts back. It does not go to plan. The Trine shatters, an ancient sorcerer walks free, and the three heroes are left with a broken artifact and a great deal to put right.  
Breathtaking sceneries, and room to move
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A fairytale world of wonderful contraptions, dangerous foes and enchanting creatures — and for the first time in the series, one you can move around in properly. Conjured boxes can be pushed into place, gaps can be crossed sideways as well as forward, and every puzzle has depth to it.  
Conjure, charge or grapple your way past
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Amadeus the Wizard conjures boxes to build a way through. Pontius the Knight solves things with sword and shield. Zoya the Thief crosses the widest gaps by grappling hook, and shoots arrows with her bow from afar. Switch between them as the challenge ahead demands.
Play alone or with friends
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Up to three players, in online or local co-op, across the whole game. Any mix works — two local and one online, or switch between single-player and multiplayer as you go.  
Eighteen levels of fairytale adventure
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Eight story levels carry the heroes through the world of Trine, and ten Lost Page levels sit alongside them — shorter, self-contained challenges built around the most incredible contraptions and character-driven puzzles in the game.
An experiment in three dimensions
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Trine 3 takes the series into full 3D, and it is a shorter, more focused game than the entries around it.
Features
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*   The Trine series in full 3D  
*   1–3 player co-op, online and local, in every level  
*   Play as wizard, knight and thief, switching freely at any time  
*   Eight story levels and ten Lost Page challenge levels  
*   Award-winning soundtrack by Ari Pulkkinen

Release date: Aug 20, 2015

Categories: Puzzle Solving, 3D Platformer, Local Multiplayer, Online Co-op, Physics-based Puzzle, Action Platformer, Character Switching Mechanics, Fantasy

Feature scans:
- Proton/Linux: score 38; verdict: Minor Tweaks Required; summary: Linux users report that the native build is completely broken, but the game is mostly playable through Proton with some graphical bugs and a recommendation to use the Windows version for multiplayer compatibility. The evidence indicates workaround-dependent but functional Linux compatibility rather than a total failure.
- Steam Deck: score 55; verdict: Tinkering Required; summary: The reviews indicate the game is not seamless on Steam Deck: the native Linux build is broken and users must fall back to Proton, where it runs mostly okay but with graphical glitches. Controller support is a major friction point because some commands do not work on a gamepad and reviewers prefer keyboard and mouse. General optimization and error reports add further instability, so the experience is playable only with tinkering rather than out of the box.

- Hardware Profile: No data
Feature extractions:
- Community Price:
  - Community fair range: $5.00 - $10.00
  - Reasoning: The reviews repeatedly reject the current full price because the game is described as short and overpriced. Positive comments are conditional on buying it on sale, with one reviewer specifically calling a 70%–80% discount appealing. That implies a fair base-game price well below the current $21.99, roughly in the $5–$10 range.
- Playtime Metrics:
  - Game completion: 6.0h
  - Story completion: 5.0h
  - Session length: N/A
  - Endgame: N/A
  - Reasoning: The evidence consistently describes a very short campaign: players report finishing the full game or reaching credits in about 4 to under 5 hours, and translated reviews place the game at roughly 3 to 5 hours depending on play mode. I therefore set storyCompletion to about 5 hours for reaching the abrupt campaign ending. A separate report says 100% completion with all achievements took 6 hours, so I set gameCompletion to 6 hours as a practical full-completion estimate. No review provides a reliable typical session length, and no distinct post-story endgame duration is reported, so sessionLength and endgame are null.
- Time-to-fun:
  - Summary: Early co-op bugs, poor cameras, and awkward 3D design create friction, but players who get past the first half hour and play with friends often find it acceptable or fun.
  - Stance: Clicks after
  - Anchor: Getting past the first half hour and adjusting to the game's limitations
  - Time to anchor: N/A
  - Friction: Severe co-op bugs, including invisible characters and broken cameras; Unstable online servers and multiplayer glitches; Poor controls and physics; Awkward 3D depth design that punishes exploration; Removed skill tree and weak progression; Boring combat and limited character skill variety
  - Unlock drivers: Getting past the first half hour and becoming familiar with the game's limitations; Playing in co-op with friends; Finding the multiplayer jank funny rather than frustrating
  - Conditions: Playing co-op with friends; Having a group of three for multiplayer; Playing local couch co-op; Getting past the first half hour; Tolerance for bugs and jank; Buying at a steep discount or under $5; Avoiding single-player
- Player Archetypes:
  - Co-op Social Player (sale)
    - Motivation: Sharing a colorful, often chaotic platforming adventure with friends or a partner.
    - Playstyle: Plays local or online co-op with two or three people, often in couch sessions, and treats jank as part of the shared fun.
    - Experience: mixed
    - Purchase stance: sale
    - Labels: N/A
    - Reference games: N/A
  - Veteran Franchise Critic (no buy)
    - Motivation: Holding each new entry to the series' established puzzle-platforming standards and story continuity.
    - Playstyle: Plays across the Trine series, compares mechanics and level design to earlier games, and values polished 2D puzzles over experimental 3D structure.
    - Experience: veteran
    - Purchase stance: no buy
    - Labels: N/A
    - Reference games: Trine 1; Trine 2; Trine 4
  - Solo Completionist (sale)
    - Motivation: Clearing achievements and judging a short, casual platformer by how efficiently it can be 100% completed.
    - Playstyle: Plays alone, finishes all achievements in one or few runs, and compares completion time against other Trine content.
    - Experience: mixed
    - Purchase stance: sale
    - Labels: N/A
    - Reference games: Trine 1; Trine 2


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:
- Beautiful and vibrant graphics (weight 0.31): Many reviewers highlight the visuals as beautiful, vibrant, and a standout feature. The graphics are frequently described as some of the best in the series.
- Fun and enjoyable gameplay (weight 0.24): Players consistently describe the game as fun, enjoyable, and good for passing the time. The core gameplay is praised for its charm and overall appeal.
- Excellent soundtrack and sound design (weight 0.16): The soundtrack and atmospheric sound design are highly praised for being immersive and high quality. Music is noted as a major strength of the game.
- Engaging and well-designed puzzles (weight 0.13): Puzzles are considered fun, interesting, and well thought out, adding significant value to the gameplay experience. The 3D transition further enhances puzzle design.
- Fun multiplayer experience (weight 0.09): Playing with friends or a partner is enjoyable, and the multiplayer mode offers silly fun despite some jankiness. The game supports both solo and cooperative play.

Common complaints:
- Unfinished story ends abruptly (weight 0.51): Many players report that the story ends abruptly, often on a cliffhanger with no resolution, leaving the narrative incomplete and mid-sentence.
- 3D perspective causes problems (weight 0.31): The 3D perspective leads to depth perception issues, awkward camera angles, and frequent falls. Players find it hard to judge where to jump.
- Game is extremely short (weight 0.29): The game is criticized for being very short, with common playtimes around 5-7 hours and far fewer levels than previous titles. Some note it is only half the length of earlier games.
- 3D transition unsuccessful (weight 0.23): The move from 2D to 3D is widely considered a failure, ruining what made the series great. The 3D implementation is poorly done and loses the fun of platforming.
- Game is very buggy (weight 0.22): The game is frequently described as a buggy mess with numerous programming errors, poor optimization, and a feel of a beta test. Co-op mode is particularly plagued by bugs.
- Game feels severely unfinished (weight 0.21): Players perceive the game as only one-third to 40% complete, with many calling it a raw experiment and noting that it feels unfinished upon completion.
- Leveling and upgrades removed (weight 0.2): The character leveling and skill upgrade systems were cut entirely, leaving characters with monotonous skills and no progression.
- Controls are clunky and unresponsive (weight 0.17): Controls feel clumsy, unresponsive, and confusing, with many calling them a major downside that outweighs positives. Keyboard controls are specifically noted as bad.
- Frustrating gameplay experience (weight 0.17): The game causes tons of frustration due to clunky mechanics, awkward puzzles, and constrained platforming.
- Worst Trine installment (weight 0.17): Many consider it the weakest entry in the series, a step down from previous games, and the least successful Trine title.
- Story is almost absent (weight 0.09): There is very little story, with some saying it is almost absent and the flow is bad, feeling like a mismatched mesh of small adventures.
- Camera is frustrating (weight 0.05): The camera is often awkward and frustrating, especially when players are not close together.
- Only one chapter (weight 0.05): The game consists of only one chapter and ends abruptly, leaving players with a sense of incompleteness.
- Characters lack skill variety (weight 0.05): Each character's gameplay skills are very monotonous, lacking variety and depth.
- Simplified compared to predecessors (weight 0.05): The game is simpler than the first two, with reduced complexity and fewer features.
- 3D platforming not felt (weight 0.05): Despite being a 3D platformer, the 3D platforming is not felt on most levels, making it bland.
- More janky due to 3D (weight 0.05): The 3D environments make the game more bumpy and janky than the first two games.
- Co-op mode very buggy (weight 0.05): Co-op mode is reported to be very buggy, with many bugs that hinder the experience.

Gameplay feedback:
- Transition to 3D gameplay (weight 0.51): The game has shifted from 2D or 2.5D to full 3D gameplay, featuring 3D movement, perspective, and environments. This is a major change from its predecessors.
- Three-player co-op support (weight 0.4): The game supports co-op play for up to three players, both online and locally. This is a key feature for multiplayer experiences.
- Puzzle-solving core mechanic (weight 0.27): Puzzles are a central gameplay element, often integrated with the 3D space and physics. They are mostly straightforward but essential to progression.
- Absence of skill tree (weight 0.19): Unlike previous games, there is no skill tree, leveling system, or character upgrades. Progression and additional abilities have been removed.
- Three distinct playable characters (weight 0.17): Players control three protagonists, each with unique abilities such as box creation, and can switch between them to overcome obstacles. The characters are a thief, warrior, and wizard.
- Local and online co-op modes (weight 0.16): The game offers both local couch co-op with two gamepads and online co-op with friends. Single-player is also available.
- Action platformer genre (weight 0.1): The game is an action platformer with platforming elements. It features 3D platforming with a fixed camera in some sections.
- Boss fights included (weight 0.09): The game features boss fights, including a final boss. However, some players note there is only one boss fight.
- Collectibles and achievements (weight 0.08): The game includes collectibles such as triangles and achievements for players to gather.
- Controller and keyboard support (weight 0.07): The game supports both controller and keyboard/mouse controls, designed with controller use in mind.
- Physics-based puzzles (weight 0.06): Puzzles often involve physics interactions, adding depth to the puzzle-solving experience.
- 2.5D perspective option (weight 0.06): Some parts of the game use a 2.5D perspective instead of full 3D or side-scrolling, offering variety in gameplay.

Performance notes:
- Severe multiplayer connectivity problems (weight 0.1): Numerous connection problems, constant disconnects in co-op, and servers dropping during online play make multiplayer nearly unplayable. The netcode is also criticized as bad.
- Poor performance and optimization (weight 0.08): The game runs terribly and performance is well below expectations. Poor optimization is a common complaint.
- Persistent crash issues (weight 0.06): Minidump crashes continue to occur, and crashes can corrupt game files, requiring verification. This makes the game unstable and frustrating.
- Linux build broken (weight 0.06): The Linux build is completely broken, and running the Windows version via Proton causes graphical bugs with character portraits and texts.
- No technical issues encountered (weight 0.05): Some players experienced no bugs and found the game ran well with good optimization.
- Game unplayable due to issues (weight 0.03): Some players report the game is totally unplayable because of various technical problems.
- Erratic camera control (weight 0.03): Camera control is erratic, which hinders co-op play and makes the experience frustrating.
- Gamepad resets constantly (weight 0.03): The gamepad keeps resetting, disrupting gameplay for controller users.
- Softlocks force level restarts (weight 0.03): Softlocks occur, requiring players to restart levels and lose progress.
- Russian servers unstable (weight 0.03): Servers in Russia work unstably, causing connection issues for players in that region.
- Game caused computer to explode (weight 0.03): One player reported that the game nearly caused their computer to explode, indicating extreme performance issues.
- Proton works mostly okay (weight 0.03): Running through Proton works mostly okay, providing a somewhat functional experience on Linux via compatibility layer.

Recommendations:
- Skip Trine 3, play others (weight 0.32): Many reviewers recommend skipping Trine 3 and playing Trine 1, 2, 4, or 5 instead. The third installment is widely considered inferior and not worth playing when better entries exist.
- Great co-op with friends (weight 0.22): Reviewers frequently praise the co-op experience, especially local multiplayer with two to three friends. The chaotic fun with friends is a key selling point.
- Only worth at steep discount (weight 0.2): Multiple reviewers say the game is only worth buying on sale, in a bundle, or at a steep discount. It is not considered worth full price.
- Not recommended for general players (weight 0.17): Several reviewers explicitly do not recommend the game, describing it as unfinished or not earning a positive rating. General players are advised to avoid it.
- Mixed positive recommendations (weight 0.16): Despite criticism, some reviewers give positive recommendations, calling it a good game worth trying. It is recommended for those who enjoy puzzles and casual platformers.
- Only for hardcore Trine fans (weight 0.14): The game is only recommended for die-hard Trine fans or completionists. Newcomers are advised to start with earlier, better games in the series.
- Good for newcomers and children (weight 0.1): Some reviewers find the game enjoyable for newcomers as a gentle, aesthetic platformer. It is also recommended for playing with children or partners.
- Play after other Trine games (weight 0.1): Reviewers suggest playing this only after experiencing other Trine games, treating it as a bonus. It is not a good starting point for the series.
- Underwhelming and skippable (weight 0.1): The game is often described as skippable or average, with some calling it the weakest in the series. It can be played once but is not worth revisiting.
- Unfinished story and negative (weight 0.1): Reviewers criticize the unfinished story and give negative recommendations. The game is seen as incomplete and not worth playing.
- Major disappointment for series fans (weight 0.08): Fans of the Trine series express disappointment due to short length, simplified gameplay, and lack of narrative closure. The game fails to meet expectations set by earlier entries.
- Prefer earlier Trine titles (weight 0.05): Reviewers consistently prefer the first two Trine games over this one. Trine 1 and 2 are considered much better and more fun.
- Play solo or with partner (weight 0.05): Some reviewers find it more fun solo than in co-op, while others recommend it for playing with a partner. Co-op is not universally preferred.
- Control and camera issues (weight 0.05): Reviewers mention lack of camera control and preference for keyboard and mouse over gamepad. These control issues affect the experience.
- Good for casual play (weight 0.04): Some reviewers recommend it for casual platforming that does not require intense focus. It is a good small game when taken on its own.
- Immersion and charm praised (weight 0.04): A few reviewers praise the immersive 3D world and creative charm. These positive aspects appeal to some players.
- Play at your own risk (weight 0.04): A reviewer warns players to play at their own risk. The experience is described as awful by some.
- Not recommended as first entry (weight 0.03): The game is not recommended as an introduction to the series. Newcomers should start with earlier, better games.
- 3D shift criticized (weight 0.03): One reviewer believes the game should have stayed in 2D. The shift to 3D is seen as a negative change.
- Side mission tip (weight 0.02): One reviewer advises only doing side missions that award 25 points, as they are short. This is a specific gameplay tip.

Other player notes:
- Worse than previous Trine games (weight 0.25): Many reviewers compare this entry unfavorably to Trine 1, 2, 4, and 5, calling it inferior or horrible. It is often seen as a step down from earlier titles.
- Incomplete due to budget issues (weight 0.2): The studio reportedly ran out of money, resulting in an unfinished game. The story and content are incomplete, with less than half the intended game made.
- Easier and fewer puzzles (weight 0.11): Compared to Trine 1 and 2, the puzzles are simpler and less complex. Reviewers note a lack of challenge and reduced puzzle variety.
- Unresolved cliffhanger ending (weight 0.11): The game ends on a cliffhanger that is not resolved in Trine 4 or Trine 5. The story is left abandoned and will not be concluded.
- Recommended earlier Trine games instead (weight 0.1): Reviewers often recommend Trine 1, 2, or 4 over this entry, especially for fans of the 2D platformer style. The side-scrolling gameplay of earlier titles is preferred.
- 3D change lost series strengths (weight 0.1): The shift to 3D is criticized for losing the precision and strengths of the 2D games. Some call it a destruction of the franchise.
- Third game in series (weight 0.07): This is the third installment in the Trine franchise, developed by Frozenbyte. It differs from the two previous games.
- Some praise compared to predecessors (weight 0.04): A few reviewers find this entry surpasses the previous two Trine games in everything. However, this is a minority opinion.
- Russian dub included (weight 0.04): The game features a Russian dub with voice actors. This is a neutral or positive note for some players.
- Epic Games Launcher DRM (weight 0.04): The game now includes the Epic Games Launcher as DRM. This may be a negative for some users.

Emotions:
- Disappointment (weight 0.32): Players are deeply disappointed by the shift to 3D, which introduced janky physics and simplified or removed core mechanics like the upgrade system. The game is also criticized for being much shorter than predecessors and ending abruptly mid-story, leaving the narrative incomplete. Many feel it is the weakest entry in the series, lacking the charm, challenge, and polish of the first two games.
- Frustration (weight 0.25): Frustration stems from poor camera controls and depth perception in 3D, making platforming and aiming imprecise and leading to frequent falls. Numerous bugs, softlocks, and performance issues further hinder progression, especially in co-op modes. Forced collectible grinding and awkward puzzle design add to the irritation.
- Enjoyment (weight 0.08): Despite its flaws, many players enjoy the game's beautiful visuals, soundtrack, and fun puzzle-adventure gameplay, particularly in co-op with friends or family. The 3D gameplay and improved art direction are appreciated, and the game offers a satisfying experience for those who embrace its changes.
- Annoyance (weight 0.03): Annoyance is caused by frequent bugs, glitches, and softlocks, as well as inconvenient co-op mechanics like partner revival and uncredited collectibles. The clunky 3D gameplay and cartoonish book chapters also irritate players, along with the feeling of being charged for too little content.
- Boredom (weight 0.03): Boredom arises from low puzzle difficulty, repetitive and uninspired level design, and tedious side missions. The simplified character skills, especially the mage's limited cube ability, make gameplay feel mindless and lacking challenge.
- Admiration (weight 0.03): Players admire the graphical step up, beautiful world design, and excellent music and sound design. The ambitious 3D scenarios and magical dioramas are visually impressive, and the developer's attempt to expand the series mechanics is respected.
- Anger (weight 0.03): Anger is driven by game-breaking bugs, frustrating controls, and the game being perceived as an incomplete scam. The short playtime and unfinished story, along with broken cutscenes and poorly designed trials, provoke strong negative reactions.
- Dissatisfaction (weight 0.02): Dissatisfaction comes from the removal of the skill tree, awkward camera depth, and the game feeling like a downgrade from previous entries. The short length and lousy story, combined with forced replaying of levels, leave players unsatisfied.
- Amusement (weight 0.02): Amusement is found in the chaotic glitches and janky physics during co-op play, which create funny and unexpected situations. The silly fun and wild laughter with friends make the game entertaining despite its flaws.
- Satisfaction (weight 0.02): Satisfaction is derived from good stage composition, expanded exploration, and challenging boss fights. The removal of exploits encourages honest play, and achievement hunting is friendly, providing a sense of accomplishment.
- Disgust (weight 0.01): Disgust is expressed toward the 3D format and bugs that ruin the experience, making the game feel rushed and careless. The 2.5D style and dizzying 3D mess are considered a complete nightmare by some.
- Excitement (weight 0.01): Excitement is generated by the anticipation of playing Trine in 3D and the successful evolution of the series. Couch co-op fun and glitchy rides add to the thrill.
- Confusion (weight 0.01): Confusion arises from the 2.5D perspective, which sometimes makes controls unclear and depth perception difficult. The abrupt ending with no continuation also leaves players puzzled.
- Sadness (weight 0.01): Sadness is felt because the story was not continued due to budget constraints, and seeing so much negativity in reviews is disheartening for fans.
- Surprise (weight 0.01): Surprise comes from enjoying the third part more than the first two despite mixed reviews, and the 3D experience being better than expected.
- Mild frustration (weight 0.01): Mild frustration is caused by the initial adjustment to 3D gameplay and occasional bother with jumping in 3D spaces.
- Delight (weight 0.01): Delight is brought by the fairy-tale atmosphere, colorful presentation, and beautiful graphics and music.
- Appreciation (weight 0.01): Appreciation is felt for the game being underrated and fun, with excellent music and art.
- Regret (weight 0.01): Regret is expressed over the game being released unfinished, the removal of leveling and abilities, and purchasing it even on sale.
- Shame (weight 0): Shame is felt because the game looks primitive and plays poorly for a 2015 release.}