Info about Tales of Symphonia:

Official game description:
THE EPIC BATTLE FOR SURVIVAL  
In a dying world, legend has it that a Chosen One will one day rise from amongst the people and the land will be reborn. The line between good and evil blurs in this epic adventure where the fate of two interlocked worlds hangs in the balance.  
AN EPIC ADVENTURE – Over 80 hours of gameplay in this epic, emotionally charged storyline.  
REAL-TIME 3D BATTLE SYSTEM – Experience the fierce, action-packed battle system. Combine hundreds of special attacks and magic spells.  
A CLASSIC ART STYLE LIVES ON – Become absorbed in endearing cel-shaded characters designed by renowned artist Kosuke Fujishima  
FIRST TIME ON STEAM – Based on the PlayStation®3 port of the original GameCube game, this RPG classic is finally available for PC.

Release date: Feb 1, 2016

Categories: JRPG, Character Progression, Real-time Combat, Story-driven Gameplay, Cooperative Gameplay, Exploration, Puzzle Solving, Resource Management

Feature scans:
- Wiki: score 100; verdict: Needs Improvement; summary: The analysis of user feedback reveals several key issues impacting the user experience. The most significant problems include the need for external data to understand complex mechanics and complete dungeon puzzles, as well as frequent game crashes and bugs. Additionally, users report the need for grinding to achieve steam accomplishments and the inadequacy of in-game tutorials, which further emphasizes the reliance on external data sources.
- Steam Deck: score 55; verdict: Tinkering Required; summary: The analysis of user feedback reveals several key issues with the game. Stability issues, including crashes and problems with anti-tamper software, are significant concerns. Performance issues, particularly the 30 FPS lock, are also frequently mentioned. However, the game shows good compatibility with the Steam Deck when using Proton 10.0-3. Visual quality, while improved with patches, still reflects the game's early 2000s origins. Overall, the game has notable technical barriers that affect the user experience.

- Hardware Profile: No data
Feature extractions:
- Community Price:
  - Community fair range: $9.99 - $19.99
  - Reasoning: The evidence suggests that users find the game worth purchasing within a range of $9.99 to $19.99. Several reviews mention that the game is worth buying at these price points, especially when on sale. The general sentiment is that the game provides good value for money within this range.
- Playtime Metrics:
  - Game completion: 40.0h
  - Story completion: 40.0h
  - Session length: 4.0h
  - Endgame: 80.0h
  - Reasoning: The evidence provides several key insights into the playtime metrics. The first quote suggests that a casual playthrough typically takes at least 40 hours, indicating a substantial time investment for game completion. The second quote highlights the extensive dialogue, suggesting significant session lengths. The third and fourth quotes mention playtimes of over 80 hours and well over 1000 hours, respectively, indicating high replayability and extensive endgame content.
- Time-to-fun:
  - Summary: Tales of Symphonia has a slow start but becomes enjoyable after a few hours once the story picks up and players get past initial challenges.
  - Stance: Clicks after
  - Anchor: The story gets better
  - Time to anchor: 3h 0m
  - Friction: Slow start; Tedious dungeons; Pacing issues
  - Unlock drivers: Story progression; Character development
  - Conditions: Playing with friends; Using a controller; Following a guide
- Player Archetypes:
  - Modding Enthusiast (buy)
    - Motivation: Maximizing game content and customization.
    - Playstyle: Engages deeply with game mechanics, mods, and community enhancements.
    - Experience: veteran
    - Purchase stance: buy
    - Labels: JRPG lovers; completionist
    - Reference games: Tales of Arise; Persona 5 Royal
  - Nostalgic Veteran (buy)
    - Motivation: Reliving cherished gaming memories.
    - Playstyle: Enjoys the game for its nostalgic value and classic JRPG elements.
    - Experience: veteran
    - Purchase stance: buy
    - Labels: old-school player; franchise fan
    - Reference games: Tales of Symphonia (Gamecube); Final Fantasy series
  - Story-Driven Newcomer (sale)
    - Motivation: Experiencing a compelling story and engaging gameplay.
    - Playstyle: Focuses on story progression and character development.
    - Experience: newcomer
    - Purchase stance: sale
    - Labels: newcomer; JRPG beginner
    - Reference games: Final Fantasy; Persona series
  - Completionist Challenger (deep sale)
    - Motivation: Achieving all in-game goals and mastering gameplay mechanics.
    - Playstyle: Seeks out challenges and aims for 100% completion.
    - Experience: familiar
    - Purchase stance: deep sale
    - Labels: completionist; hardcore gamer
    - Reference games: Dark Souls; The Witcher 3


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:
- Fast-paced and fun combat (weight 0.66): The combat system is described as fast-paced, exciting, and fun. It features real-time battles with a focus on mastering different combat techniques.
- Engaging and well-written story (weight 0.58): The story is noted for being good, clever, captivating, and memorable. It features strong narrative arcs and is often described as top-notch and well-written.
- Well-developed characters (weight 0.55): Characters are praised for being well-developed, engaging, and feeling alive. The game features a strong cast with good character development and depth.
- Highly praised game overall (weight 0.52): The game is frequently described as great, enjoyable, and well-designed with excellent storytelling and characters. Players often recommend it and consider it one of their favorites.
- Memorable soundtrack (weight 0.28): The soundtrack is iconic, effective, and memorable. It is often described as beautiful, compelling, and outstanding.
- Mature and deep themes (weight 0.23): The game explores deep, mature, and emotionally resonant themes. It blends high fantasy with compelling and relevant topics.
- Expansive and rich world (weight 0.2): The game features an expansive fantasy world that is richly imagined and detailed. The world-building and lore are impressive.
- Colorful and detailed environments (weight 0.18): The game features colorful, varied, and attractive environments. The art style is vibrant, and the designs are detailed.
- Long gameplay duration (weight 0.1): The game offers long gameplay duration and high replayability, providing players with extensive content.
- Good voice acting (weight 0.1): The game features good voice acting, including both English and Japanese options. The voice acting is praised for its quality.
- Beautiful art and cutscenes (weight 0.1): The game is noted for its beautiful art and anime cutscenes. The 2D cutscenes are particularly praised.

Common complaints:
- Combat system flaws (weight 0.48): The combat system is widely criticized for being boring, grindy, tedious, and dated. Players find it difficult, poorly designed, and repetitive, with issues such as slow and unresponsive combat, limited movement, and punishing mechanics.
- Performance and technical issues (weight 0.33): Players report various performance issues, including frequent crashes, frame-rate issues, constant stuttering, micro stuttering, visual issues, and translation issues. Some players also experience screen freezing and black screen issues.
- Graphical and camera problems (weight 0.28): The game's graphics are criticized for being horrible, outdated, and having errors. The camera is also reported as awful, and there are issues with wooden and rigid animations.
- Outdated graphics and mechanics (weight 0.25): The game's graphics and mechanics are criticized for being outdated and obsolete. The cel-shaded graphics and textures are reported as unchanged and muddy.
- Repetitive and frustrating puzzles (weight 0.25): Puzzles in the game are criticized for being not fun, repetitive, meaningless, and frustrating. Some puzzles are also reported as nonsensical and tedious.
- Game length and tedium (weight 0.25): The game is criticized for being too long and tedious, with too many hours of gameplay. Some players find the game drawn out and repetitive, including side quests and backtracking.
- Story and pacing issues (weight 0.23): The story is criticized for having pacing issues, being confusing, convoluted, and drawn out. Some players find the plot twists excessive and predictable.
- Alt-tab and input issues (weight 0.22): Players report difficulty in exiting the game, with issues such as crashes when alt-tabbing, delays in alt-tabbing, and random input latency.
- Poor dialogue and writing (weight 0.19): The game's dialogue and writing are criticized for being bad, cringy, excessive, and poorly explained. Some dialogue lines are also reported as lost.
- No fast travel or quick-save (weight 0.13): The game lacks modern quality-of-life features such as fast travel and quick-save, which can make gameplay more inconvenient and time-consuming.
- Lack of explicit tutorial (weight 0.12): The game lacks an explicit in-game tutorial or manual, and the existing tutorials are reported as useless and not helpful, which can make it difficult for players to learn and understand the game mechanics.
- Spelling and translation errors (weight 0.1): The game has spelling errors, occasional typos, and translation issues, which affect the overall quality and player experience.
- Launch and initial issues (weight 0.09): Players report initial launch issues and technical problems at launch, which can affect the game's playability and performance.
- Vague directions and lack of guidance (weight 0.07): The game is criticized for having vague directions and a lack of clear guidance, which can make it difficult for players to navigate and understand.
- Quick enemy respawns (weight 0.07): Enemies in the game respawn too quickly, which can make combat and progression more difficult and frustrating for players.
- Achievements require grinding (weight 0.07): Steam achievements in the game require multiple playthroughs and grinding, which can be time-consuming and tedious for players.
- Mixed overall quality (weight 0.07): The game is reported as imperfect in many ways, with mixed quality overall. This includes various issues and criticisms that affect the player experience.
- AI behavior problems (weight 0.07): The game has issues with AI behavior, which can affect gameplay and make certain aspects of the game more difficult or frustrating.
- Unskippable cutscenes (weight 0.07): The game has unskippable cutscenes, which can be inconvenient and time-consuming for players, especially during repeated playthroughs.
- Mods needed to fix issues (weight 0.07): The game requires mods to semi-fix various issues, which can be an inconvenience for players and affect the overall gameplay experience.

Gameplay feedback:
- Strategic real-time combat system (weight 0.4): The game features a real-time combat system that is both strategic and addictive. Players enjoy the depth and challenge it provides, with options for combos and special abilities.
- Character development and interactions (weight 0.29): The game offers a robust character development system with meaningful interactions and relationships. Players appreciate the depth of character motivations and backstories.
- Classic RPG gameplay (weight 0.23): The gameplay is traditional and classic, reminiscent of old-school RPGs. While it can be repetitive, it is effective and appeals to fans of the genre.
- Puzzle-solving in dungeons (weight 0.2): Dungeons include puzzles that add a layer of challenge and intrigue. These puzzles are often long and require strategic thinking.
- Deep skill and EXP system (weight 0.17): The game includes a deep skill system and experience points mechanics, allowing for extensive character customization and progression.
- High replayability (weight 0.17): With high replayability and around 60 hours of gameplay, the game offers a long but fun experience that keeps players engaged.
- Cooperative gameplay (weight 0.13): The game includes cooperative battles and a couch co-op multiplayer mode, enhancing the social gaming experience.
- Customizable AI and controls (weight 0.13): Players can customize AI strategies and controls, providing a tailored gaming experience that suits individual preferences.
- Abundant side quests (weight 0.11): There are numerous side quests that complement the story-driven main quests, providing additional content and exploration opportunities.
- Linear Motion Battle System (weight 0.11): The combat system features a Linear Motion Battle System (LMBS), which is real-time and engaging, adding a unique twist to battles.
- Exploration mechanics (weight 0.11): The game offers various exploration mechanics, including the use of mounts, boats, and aircraft, enhancing the overall gaming experience.
- Easy to learn combat (weight 0.08): The combat system is easy to learn but offers depth for experimentation, making it accessible yet engaging for players.
- Non-automatic save system (weight 0.07): The game uses a non-automatic save system, which some players find challenging but adds to the strategic gameplay.
- Resource management (weight 0.07): The game includes resource management mechanics, adding another layer of strategy and depth to the gameplay.
- Multiple combat modes (weight 0.07): The game offers different combat modes, including full auto, semi-automatic, and manual modes, catering to various player preferences.

Performance notes:
- Graphical improvements and issues (weight 0.42): While some players appreciate the remastered graphics and improved resolution, others have noted issues such as blurry upscaling, muddy textures, and overall graphical quality problems.
- Framerate locked to 30fps (weight 0.4): The game is consistently reported to be locked at 30fps, with no options to change the framerate. This has been a common complaint among players.
- Performance issues and crashes (weight 0.4): Players have experienced various performance issues including lag spikes, FPS drops, frequent crashes, and stuttering. These issues significantly impact the gameplay experience.
- 60fps modding and patches (weight 0.26): Players have found ways to mod the game to run at 60fps, and some unofficial patches improve the game's performance and graphics. However, there are limitations and issues with these modifications.
- Alt-tabbing and compatibility issues (weight 0.19): The game has issues with alt-tabbing, causing crashes and delays. Additionally, there are reports of compatibility issues with certain systems and configurations.
- Positive performance reports (weight 0.18): Despite the numerous issues, some players have reported that the game runs well with stable and reliable performance, especially with certain configurations and patches.
- Resolution and display problems (weight 0.16): Players have reported various resolution-related issues, including problems with upscaling, internal resolution being locked at 720p, and general resolution problems.
- Game mechanics and missing features (weight 0.15): Players have reported issues with the game's mechanics, including missing features such as the 'Free Run' skill and quick-save options. There are also reports of wonky mechanics and battlesystem issues.
- Animation and camera issues (weight 0.11): The game has been criticized for its rigid and twitchy animations, as well as camera problems that affect gameplay.
- Audio and voice recording quality (weight 0.1): Some players have noted issues with the game's audio, including poor voice recording quality and synthesizer music.

Recommendations:
- Recommended for JRPG and Tales series fans (weight 0.42): The game is highly recommended for fans of JRPGs and the Tales series, including both longtime fans and newcomers. It is particularly noted for its appeal to those familiar with the combat system of the series.
- High praise for narrative and gameplay (weight 0.23): The game is praised for its masterful intersection of gameplay, art, and narrative philosophy, as well as being an enduring triumph in interactive storytelling.
- Consider newer or different versions (weight 0.18): Some reviews suggest playing later games in the series or different versions of the game, such as the GameCube version or using mods/emulators for an improved experience.
- Buy on sale (weight 0.13): Several reviews suggest purchasing the game only when it is on sale, indicating that the full price may not be seen as worthwhile by some players.
- Appeals to nostalgic players (weight 0.13): The game is recommended for players seeking a nostalgic experience, as well as those new to the genre who appreciate classic RPG elements.
- Use guides for better experience (weight 0.1): Players recommend using guides, either in parallel or for achieving platinum status, to enhance the gaming experience.
- Mixed recommendations based on graphics (weight 0.09): Reviews are mixed regarding the graphics, with some suggesting to wait for a sale if sensitive to older graphics, while others find the game enjoyable despite this.
- Request for more Tales games on PC (weight 0.07): There is a notable request from players for more Tales series games to be made available on the Steam platform.
- Wait for fixes before purchasing (weight 0.04): Some reviews advise waiting for fixes or improvements before purchasing the game, indicating potential issues with the current version.
- Avoid the anime adaptation (weight 0.04): Players advise against watching the anime adaptation of the game, implying it may not meet expectations or align well with the game experience.

Other player notes:
- Full circle experience (weight 0.05): The reviewer felt that the game provided a complete and satisfying experience from start to finish.
- Includes songs from different versions (weight 0.05): The game features a variety of songs from different versions, adding diversity to the gameplay.

Emotions:
- Nostalgia (weight 0.22): Players experience nostalgia due to the game's iconic soundtrack, remastered graphics, and memorable characters, which remind them of their childhood and the GameCube/PS2 era. The game's lasting value, classic RPG elements, and the ability to replay it while enjoying it as much as before also contribute to this feeling.
- Frustration (weight 0.17): Frustration stems from the game's technical issues, such as screen freezing, crashes, and frame rate problems. Additionally, players find the combat system difficult, puzzles repetitive and obtuse, and the game's balance and farming mechanics poorly designed.
- Enjoyment (weight 0.13): Players enjoy the game's engaging story, dynamic combat, and memorable characters. The game's length, character switching feature, and strong narrative contribute to a fun and entertaining experience.
- Disappointment (weight 0.1): Disappointment arises from the game's various shortcomings, including performance issues, lack of official translations, and poor port quality. Players also express regret over the game's story, character issues, and combat mechanics not meeting their expectations.
- Joy (weight 0.08): Joy comes from the game's compelling story, rewarding battle system, and positive overall experience. Players appreciate the game's environments, designs, soundtrack, and replayability, which contribute to a pleasant and fun experience.
- Excitement (weight 0.06): Excitement is generated by the game's engaging combat system, well-developed characters, and unpredictable story twists. Players are enthusiastic about the game's narrative, replayability features, and the prospect of exploring more of the 'Tales of' series.
- Satisfaction (weight 0.05): Satisfaction is derived from the game's solid story, characters, and complex gameplay mechanics. Players feel content with the overall satisfying gameplay experience, the game's length and content, and its unique features.
- Appreciation (weight 0.03): Appreciation is felt for the game's story, characters, and main themes. Players recognize the game as a true gem of the saga and appreciate its quality and reputation.
- Surprise (weight 0.02): Surprise comes from the game's quality, localization, and unexpected plot twists. Players are pleasantly surprised by the character writing and overall enjoyment of the game.
- Enthusiasm (weight 0.02): Enthusiasm is driven by the game's detailed praise for gameplay, visuals, and story. Players share positive impressions and high praise for the game's story and combat.
- Engagement (weight 0.01): Engagement is fostered by the game's compelling story, memorable characters, and captivating soundtrack. Players are drawn in by the engaging characters and story.
- Disappointment (weight 0.01): Déception est causée par la perte de qualité dans le portage et les combats répétitifs. Les joueurs trouvent le jeu daté et moins agréable que la version originale.
- Boredom (weight 0.01): Boredom sets in due to slow character movement, lack of fast travel, and the game becoming too long and tedious. Players find the gameplay repetitive and unengaging over time.
- Amusement (weight 0.01): Amusement is found in the game's ironically funny moments and the fact that controls are functioning. Players enjoy the humorous aspects and the smooth operation of the game.
- Admiration (weight 0.01): Admiration is felt for the game's detailed praise for its story, characters, and gameplay. Players admire the masterful intersection of gameplay, art, and narrative philosophy.
- Love (weight 0.01): Love for the game is expressed through the story, setting, battle system, and characters. Players consider it their favorite Tales game due to its great story, characters, and combat.
- Nostalgia (weight 0): La nostalgie est évoquée par les souvenirs du jeu. Les joueurs se remémorent des moments passés avec le jeu.
- Joy (weight 0): La joie est apportée par les musiques et l'ambiance du jeu. Les joueurs apprécient l'atmosphère générale et la bande-son.
- Pleasure (weight 0): Le plaisir est tiré des minijeux et des combats. Les joueurs s'amusent avec les différents aspects ludiques du jeu.
- Attachment (weight 0): Attachment is formed through the game's engaging characters and story. Players become emotionally invested in the game's narrative and characters.}