Serious Sam HD: The First Encounter Review Summary

Last updated: 2026-10-10
Review summary
  • Co-op multiplayer supported
  • Massive enemy hordes
  • Retro arcade FPS remake
  • Huge weapon arsenal
  • Frame drops and stuttering
  • Gameplay is repetitive and tedious
Serious Sam HD: The First Encounter header

Categories

First-Person ShooterCooperative MultiplayerHorde ShooterClassic Arcade FPSAncient Egypt SettingWeapon VarietyBoomer ShooterRemaster

Emotions

Archetypes

Hardware

Windows <8GB VRAMpositiveWindows 12-15GB VRAMpositive

Snapshot History

Positive
Negative
182
77%
23%
333
77%
23%
Sample precision
Helpful reviews
72%
Unhelpful reviews
28%
Protest reviews
0%
Positive points
992
Negative points
457
Gameplay points
839
Perf. points
48
Rec. points
232
Misc points
406
Point
Co-op enhances fun
Description
Players consistently report that cooperative play is much more enjoyable, often describing it as the best way to experience the game. Playing with friends multiplies the chaos and prevents boredom.
Importance
41%
Overall awesome game
Description
Reviewers frequently describe the game as awesome, brilliant, and very good, highlighting its broad appeal and high quality within its genre.
Importance
31%
Game has aged well
Description
Despite being old, the game remains impressive and fun, playing briskly and cheerfully even decades after release. Many consider it timeless and still holding up incredibly well.
Importance
21%
Versatile weapon arsenal
Description
The game offers a large and varied arsenal, including shotguns, miniguns, rocket launchers, and more, providing diverse combat options.
Importance
20%
Classic gameplay unchanged
Description
The gameplay and atmosphere remain largely the same as the original, maintaining the same great experience that fans remember. This consistency is appreciated by long-time players.
Importance
14%
Secrets and easter eggs
Description
The game is packed with secrets, easter eggs, and hidden weapons across levels, rewarding exploration and adding replay value.
Importance
14%
Non-stop crazy action
Description
The gameplay is frenetic and chaotic with constant action, keeping players engaged and on their toes throughout.
Importance
12%
Classic FPS fun
Description
It is celebrated as a classic FPS arena that never gets old, delivering next-level fun for fans of the genre.
Importance
12%
Gore and violence
Description
Players note the abundance of blood, dismemberment, and decapitations, contributing to the game's over-the-top violent aesthetic.
Importance
12%
Retro shooter appeal
Description
The game is a solid old-school shooter that appeals to nostalgia and provides a refreshing experience for fans of classic shooters.
Importance
12%
Great soundtrack
Description
The soundtrack is highly praised for its great tracks, enhancing the overall experience and adding to the game's atmosphere.
Importance
12%