Info about Serious Sam Classic: The Second Encounter:

Official game description:
Serious Sam: The Second Encounter, the highly anticipated arcade action FPS sequel to the Serious Sam: The First Encounter, is a high-adrenaline arcade-action shooter heavily focused on frantic arcade-style single player action. In a world where cyberpunk meets fantasy-fiction and advanced technology is mixed with black magic and psycho-powers, Sam travels through the three beautiful worlds, confronting countless Mental's minions on his way to the Mental's base.
Key Features
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*   **Various Environments and Secrets** - Unleash mayhem on 3 different spectacular worlds: South America, ancient Mesopotamia and medieval Europe. Discover over 100 secrets!  
*   **Unique Enemies and Bosses** - Fight with 27 nightmarish warriors in Mental's army, including old favorites from The First Encounter like Beheaded Kamikaze, Syrian Werebull and Kleer Skeleton. Go head to head against 5 new enemies and 3 new Bosses!  
*   **Special Weapons and Power-Ups** - Wreak havoc with a huge arsenal of weapons including 3 new toys: the Sniper Rifle, Flamethrower and Chainsaw. Use Power-Ups to additionally increase your fighting and agility skills!  
*   **Co-Op Multiplayer** - Embrace the mayhem with up to 16 players!  
*   **Versus Multiplayer** – Drop the gauntlet and let the heavy ordinance fly in incredible Deathmatch and Scorematch!  
*   **Split Screen** – Huddle up with up to 4-player local split screen co-op and versus modes!  
*   **Level Editor** – Create your own levels, MODs, textures and other content with the inclusion of the fully featured Serious Editor and Serious Modeller!

Release date: Aug 30, 2019

Categories: First-Person Shooter, Arcade Shooter, Horde Shooter, Cooperative Multiplayer, Deathmatch, Level Editor, Old-School Mechanics, Weapon Variety


- Hardware Profile: No data
Feature extractions:
- Community Price: No data
- Playtime Metrics:
  - Game completion: 8.0h
  - Story completion: N/A
  - Session length: 1.5h
  - Endgame: 100.0h
  - Reasoning: The English review states the game is fun for 8 hours, which supports a game completion estimate of 8 hours. The Turkish review mentions that after 1-2 hours the player would get bored and quit, indicating a typical session length of about 1.5 hours. Another Turkish review describes finishing the game repeatedly and searching for secrets, estimating about 100 hours total, which supports an endgame or completionist playtime of 100 hours. No evidence specifically addresses story completion, so it is null.
- Time-to-fun:
  - Summary: The game is broadly reported as fun immediately, particularly in co-op or multiplayer with friends; solo difficulty and repetition can add friction, and some players find it tiresome after extended play. No review supports a required wait before enjoyment begins.
  - Stance: Fun immediately
  - Anchor: N/A
  - Time to anchor: N/A
  - Friction: Singleplayer difficulty is high; Repetitive enemy waves can become annoying; Occasional multiplayer network issues; Multiplayer/community can be almost dead; Outdated graphics and menu options; Pacing and arena design can feel tedious or janky
  - Unlock drivers: Playing co-op with friends; Co-op item instancing (no item stealing); Lower death penalty in co-op; Improved level variety; Better pacing in the sequel; HD version for multiplayer
  - Conditions: Playing with friends; Choosing co-op or multiplayer modes; Selecting the HD version for multiplayer; Difficulty setting chosen; Availability of active multiplayer matches; Whether playing singleplayer or co-op
- Player Archetypes:
  - Old-School FPS Veteran (buy)
    - Motivation: The pure, challenging run-and-gun action of classic FPS design.
    - Playstyle: Plays on high difficulties, fights massive enemy waves, hunts secrets, and rejects modern open-world and RPG trends.
    - Experience: veteran
    - Purchase stance: buy
    - Labels: hardcore gamer; traditional hardcore
    - Reference games: DOOM; Serious Sam: The First Encounter; Serious Sam HD
  - Co-op Multiplayer Social Player (buy)
    - Motivation: Sharing chaotic co-op action and PvP with friends.
    - Playstyle: Focuses on campaign co-op and PvP arenas, valuing fair item drops and low death penalties.
    - Experience: mixed
    - Purchase stance: buy
    - Labels: N/A
    - Reference games: Serious Sam HD
  - Nostalgic Series Fan (buy)
    - Motivation: Reliving childhood memories and continuing a beloved classic series.
    - Playstyle: Revisits earlier entries, plays in short bursts, and enjoys familiar enemies, humor, and series callbacks.
    - Experience: familiar
    - Purchase stance: buy
    - Labels: N/A
    - Reference games: Serious Sam: The First Encounter; Serious Sam HD
  - Secret and Lore Explorer (buy)
    - Motivation: Discovering hidden secrets, lore, and epic boss encounters.
    - Playstyle: Explores levels thoroughly for secrets, reads enemy and weapon lore, and saves power-ups for tough situations.
    - Experience: familiar
    - Purchase stance: buy
    - Labels: N/A
    - 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:
- New weapons enhance gameplay (weight 0.75): Players praise the addition of new weapons such as the chainsaw, sniper rifle, and flamethrower for adding fun and changing gameplay. These additions are frequently highlighted as a major positive.
- Worthy sequel to First Encounter (weight 0.55): The game is seen as a worthy successor that improves upon the original in many ways. Many consider it better than the first encounter.
- Diverse arsenal available (weight 0.41): The game offers a wide range of weapons, from shotguns to plasma guns, providing variety in combat. Many reviewers appreciate the large selection.
- Levels improved over first game (weight 0.38): Levels and environments are considered more interesting, bigger, and more varied than in the first game. This improvement is frequently mentioned.
- Excellent soundtrack (weight 0.37): The music and soundtrack are highly praised as top-notch and fitting the action perfectly. This is a common positive point.
- More content than first game (weight 0.33): The game offers more varied battles, environments, enemy types, traps, and weapons compared to The First Encounter. This is a common comparison.
- Diverse enemies require tactics (weight 0.17): Enemies have different tactics that keep tension high and require movement, enhancing gameplay. This adds depth to combat.
- Funny easter eggs (weight 0.17): The game contains many interesting easter eggs and secrets that add to the fun. This is a minor but positive feature.
- Nostalgic childhood classic (weight 0.16): For some, this is one of the best games of their childhood, holding a special place. This sentiment is shared by several reviewers.
- Beautiful graphics (weight 0.16): The graphics are described as beautiful and nicely done, with bright colors. This is a positive visual aspect.

Common complaints:
- Outdated and not worth playing (weight 0.56): Many consider the game outdated with dated graphics and old-school design, making it not worth playing today except at a very low price. The HD version is also criticized for losing atmosphere and selling at almost the same price.
- Online multiplayer is dead (weight 0.45): Online multiplayer is dead due to low player counts, server shutdowns, and network issues. Finding a match can feel like searching for intelligent life.
- Monotony and repetition (weight 0.45): The game becomes monotonous and boring over its length, with repetitive identical arenas and endless enemy waves. This leads to exhaustion and loss of motivation.
- Few changes from first game (weight 0.43): The game has not many changes compared to the first part, with few new weapons and recycled elements. It feels like an expansion rather than a sequel.
- Final boss and ending disappoint (weight 0.43): Players find the final boss too easy and unsatisfying, and the game ends on a cliffhanger that has never been resolved. The 'To Be Concluded' scene feels like a lack of restraint and leaves a poor impression.
- Story is weak and minimal (weight 0.39): The story is minimal, weak, and often just an excuse to shoot things. Some story moments raise questions and the plot is simple.
- Technical issues and bugs (weight 0.37): The game has stutters, bugs requiring patches, and issues with scripts not triggering or doors not opening. Some enemies get stuck and achievements may not trigger.
- Difficulty is too high (weight 0.34): Even on normal difficulty, the game is very hard, with unfair traps and overwhelming enemy numbers. It can enrage players and cause them to quit.
- Gravity gimmicks are frustrating (weight 0.28): Random gravity gimmicks and spike rooms are annoying and feel cheap, often pulling players into spikes despite correct input. They detract from the classic Serious Sam experience.
- No language support for many (weight 0.26): The game lacks Chinese, Russian, and German language support, both for text and voice acting. This limits accessibility for non-English speaking players.
- Bosses are unimpressive (weight 0.25): Bosses are less impressive than the first game's boss and are all defeated by the same algorithm. Some bosses summon interfering creatures.
- Dull sections and level design (weight 0.22): Some sections, especially the Great Cathedral, are dull, with barren arenas and terrible level design. The Persia section with backtracking is also drawn out.
- HD version lacks gravity gimmicks (weight 0.2): The HD version removes several gravity-based gimmick rooms, including variable gravity and zero-gravity areas. This changes the classic experience.
- Weapon switching is cumbersome (weight 0.2): Weapon switching has a delay because Sam takes out each weapon individually, requiring two key presses for some guns. The single handgun becomes obsolete quickly.
- Platforming and jumping sections annoy (weight 0.2): Jumping puzzles, especially near the start, are boring and annoying. Platforming is clunky and frustrating, with sections like the jumping floor and walls being particularly disliked.
- No achievements in classic version (weight 0.16): The classic version lacks achievements, removing programmed dopamine for some players. Multiplayer achievements are also hard to get.
- Tone and humor miss mark (weight 0.11): The silly bits, meh one-liners, and lame Netricsa entries make the tone sillier than the First Encounter. This can take players out of the experience and feel like retro cringe.
- No save points, restarts level (weight 0.11): There are no save points, so dying restarts the player from the beginning of the level. This adds to the frustration and difficulty.
- Repetitive weapon stripping trope (weight 0.07): The game constantly repeats the trope of stripping the player's weapons and forcing them to rebuild their arsenal. This becomes tedious and predictable.
- Short duration compared to others (weight 0.06): The game is short compared to the first, second, or third game. This makes it feel less substantial.

Gameplay feedback:
- New weapons added (weight 0.66): The game introduces new weapons such as a sniper rifle, flamethrower, chainsaw, and serious bomb. These expand the arsenal beyond the original.
- New enemies and power-ups (weight 0.59): New enemy types and power-ups such as invulnerability, speed boost, and serious damage are included. Some versions also add new interactive locations.
- First-person shooter genre (weight 0.43): It is a first-person shooter, often described as an action-arena shooter with high enemy counts. The gameplay is focused on shooting.
- Massive enemy hordes (weight 0.35): The game emphasizes large crowds of enemies on screen, with hundreds of enemies in huge locations, especially in multiplayer. This creates dynamic, bloody slaughter.
- Co-op multiplayer supported (weight 0.34): Co-op multiplayer is available for up to 16 players, including campaign and PvP arenas. This allows team-based play.
- Boss fights included (weight 0.34): The game features boss fights, including arena-style encounters and battles against huge creatures. There are three boss fights across different territories.
- Gravity gimmick levels (weight 0.28): Some levels feature gravitational pull gimmicks, altered gravity, and bouncing sections. There are also moving walls of darkness and gravity challenges.
- Similar to predecessor (weight 0.27): Many players note that the game is practically the same as the first game, with identical gameplay and graphics but more content. It is very similar with some differences.
- Level editor and mods (weight 0.26): The game includes a level editor (Serious Editor and Serious Modeller) that supports custom levels, mods, textures, campaigns, and models. This enables community content.
- Diverse world settings (weight 0.21): The game is set in three different worlds: South America, ancient Mesopotamia, and medieval Europe. Locations include Maya, Babylon, and medieval castle settings.
- Varied weapon arsenal (weight 0.2): The game offers a great range of weapons and a diverse arsenal. Various weapons are available for different playstyles.
- Run and gun gameplay (weight 0.17): The gameplay involves running and shooting, often described as run and gun. It is a fast-paced shooter with constant action.
- Deadly traps present (weight 0.16): The game features traps such as collapsing floors, wall arrows, spike corridors, jumping rooms, tilting floors, and gravity-altering corridors. These add challenge.
- Story continues from first (weight 0.16): The story continues directly from the end of the first game, starting right after the previous game ended. Developers consider it an 'Episode 2' rather than a sequel.
- Old-school FPS style (weight 0.16): It is an old-school first-person shooter, often described as a classic FPS or old school 3D shooter. This appeals to fans of retro shooters.
- Secrets to discover (weight 0.15): There are secrets to find, including funny secrets. Exploration rewards players with hidden content.

Performance notes:
- Modern Windows compatibility (weight 0.23): Several users report the game runs fine out of the box on modern Windows, including Windows 10, even at Full HD. The Steam classic version also works well, indicating broad compatibility.
- Multiplayer network issues (weight 0.18): Multiplayer suffers from occasional network issues and ping around 100, leading to chaotic input. These problems can affect gameplay experience.
- Stability with Classics Patch (weight 0.14): Using the Classics Patch results in extremely stable performance with zero crashes. This version is also noted to be more stable than Revolution or Fusion.
- Visual decline in modern resolutions (weight 0.12): Serious Engine 1 supports modern resolutions but has noticeably declined visually. The game was technically magnificent at the time, running fast and looking stunning.
- Stuttering and launch mute (weight 0.12): Some users experience occasional stuttering and muting during the first part of launch. These issues are infrequent but noticeable.
- Lens flare framerate issue (weight 0.08): The lens flare setting significantly reduces framerate if not turned off. Users recommend disabling it to maintain smooth performance.
- Lightweight performance (weight 0.07): The game is light because it is almost two decades old, contributing to its smooth performance on modern systems.

Recommendations:
- Loved by original game fans (weight 0.42): Players who enjoyed the first game highly recommend this sequel. It meets expectations and provides a similar experience.
- HD remaster often preferred (weight 0.34): Numerous reviews suggest playing the HD remaster or 2017 remaster instead of the classic version. Improved graphics and preserved gameplay make it a better choice for many.
- High overall recommendation rate (weight 0.34): A large number of reviews simply recommend the game without caveats. It is broadly praised by players.
- Buy on sale or bundle (weight 0.34): Reviewers advise waiting for a discount or purchasing bundles for better value. The game is considered worth it at a lower price.
- Great for classic FPS fans (weight 0.31): Many reviewers recommend this to fans of old-school shooters and fast-paced action. It appeals to those who enjoy traditional FPS mechanics without modern frills.
- Classic version has advantages (weight 0.26): Some prefer the classic release over HD due to art style, gravity manipulation, and additional features. The classic patch fixes bugs.
- Co-op multiplayer doubles enjoyment (weight 0.23): Reviewers strongly recommend playing with friends to enhance the experience. The game is designed for cooperative play and delivers fun in groups.
- Worth buying and affordable (weight 0.22): Many state the game is worth every penny and offers great value. The price is reasonable for the content.
- Recommended for series fans (weight 0.22): Fans of the Serious Sam series are encouraged to play this game to see its origins. It is a must-buy for dedicated followers.
- Recommended for old-timers and nostalgic (weight 0.19): Older players and those tired of modern games may enjoy this classic. It appeals to nostalgia and retro preferences.
- Good for speedrunning and short bursts (weight 0.17): The game suits speedrunning and casual playthroughs. It is better enjoyed in short sessions rather than marathons.
- Serious Sam Complete Pack recommended (weight 0.13): Reviewers suggest buying the complete pack to get the full series. It is seen as a good deal for fans.
- Difficulty settings affect experience (weight 0.13): Playing on easy reduces stress, while higher difficulties provide frenetic action. Reviewers recommend choosing based on desired intensity.
- Use Dzhigurda voice acting (weight 0.12): The Russian voiceover by Dzhigurda is considered mandatory by some for the best experience. It adds a unique flavor.
- Not for modern game fans (weight 0.12): Those seeking modern progression, constant rewards, or deep story should avoid this. It lacks contemporary mechanics and community matchmaking.
- Install Serious Classics Patch (weight 0.12): Using the patch fixes bugs and enhances the original experience. It is recommended for playing the classic version.
- Play with two players recommended (weight 0.12): Some specifically recommend two-player co-op for the best experience. It doubles the fun and is well-suited for pairs.
- Tactical advice: keep moving (weight 0.12): Reviewers advise not hoarding ammo and using the environment. Staying mobile in tight corridors is key to survival.
- Xbox mod with mouse and keyboard (weight 0.07): For the best version, use the Xbox mod with mouse and keyboard controls. This setup is praised for overall quality.
- Skip early levels for better environments (weight 0.07): Later levels offer more interesting environments, so skipping the first few may be beneficial. This is a common tip.

Other player notes:
- HD version recommended over original (weight 0.5): Many reviewers suggest the HD rerelease is the preferred version due to improved visuals and added features like achievements, though a few note some areas look better in the original and that the classic version has a different art style and makes secret-finding easier.
- Multiple editions and bundles available (weight 0.48): There is a Classic version alongside an HD version, and a Revolution edition that combines the first and second encounters into one package. Other editions exist that reviewers may not be familiar with.
- Direct sequel to First Encounter (weight 0.38): The game directly continues the story of The First Encounter and is longer, with little overall change to the formula. It is a sequel developed by Croteam in 2002.
- Favorably compared to The First Encounter (weight 0.33): Reviewers often compare it favorably to the first game, with some finding the atmosphere more intense and the experience more enjoyable, though it does not reach the same heights as The First Encounter.
- Often available at low price (weight 0.3): The game is cheap, frequently goes on deep discount (up to 90% off), and can be found for very cheap during sales. It was considered a small price at the time of review.
- Includes level editor and multiplayer (weight 0.27): The game includes a level editor and modding capabilities, as well as multiplayer, co-op, split-screen, and Remote Play Together. The multiplayer mode is dead but still accessible.
- Russian voice acting by Dzhigurda (weight 0.15): The Russian localization features canonical voice acting by Nikita Dzhigurda, which is noted as a notable feature.
- Comparable to Doom (weight 0.12): Reviewers compare the game to Doom and Doom II, noting it is similar but less old-school in feel.
- Dated but functional graphics (weight 0.11): The graphics are considered old and dated, but they remain functional for the gameplay experience.
- Varied playtime reported (weight 0.11): Some reviewers report a duration of about 8 to 9 hours, while others mention a longer duration of around 18 hours, indicating varied playtimes.
- Possibly best in series (weight 0.11): Some reviewers consider it possibly the best game in the Serious Sam series, and it is noted as an HD remake of an expansion add-on to the first game.
- Steam trading cards available (weight 0.09): Steam trading cards were added to the game, providing an additional collectible feature.

Emotions:
- Nostalgia (weight 0.13): This emotion stems from childhood memories of playing Serious Sam, often with family and friends on old computers. The game evokes a simpler era of early 2000s shooters and holds a timeless, mystical presence in players' hearts.
- Enjoyment (weight 0.12): Players enjoy the new weapons, creative enemies, and varied level design that offer intense battles and co-op fun. The game's old-school atmosphere and mass monster slaying remain engaging and addictive even today.
- Excitement (weight 0.09): Excitement is driven by frantic arena action, massive enemy hordes, and powerful weapons that create chaotic, dynamic battles. Epic levels and the feeling of being unstoppable against swarms of bizarre enemies keep players thrilled.
- Disappointment (weight 0.09): Disappointment arises from underwhelming final bosses, dead multiplayer, and a cliffhanger ending without a proper sequel. The game feels like an experimental expansion with less innovation, poor level design, and a soundtrack not as good as the first encounter.
- Frustration (weight 0.08): Frustration is caused by tedious frontloaded sections, annoying enemies, and cheap level gimmicks that detract from the classic experience. Bugs, no save points, and unfair challenges lead to quitting.
- Satisfaction (weight 0.06): Satisfaction comes from the top-notch soundtrack, stable performance, and constant action with diverse difficulties. The game offers depth and improvement over the first encounter, providing a fulfilling experience.
- Amusement (weight 0.06): Amusement is fueled by the game's over-the-top humor, silly jokes, and ultraviolence. Memorable characters and funny dialogue, including Sam's interactions with his tech girlfriend, make players laugh.
- Joy (weight 0.04): Joy is derived from pure fun, excellent soundtrack, and engaging gameplay that surpasses the first part. Playing co-op with friends and experiencing the epic finale brings happiness.
- Appreciation (weight 0.04): Appreciation focuses on the visual polish, improved level design, and great music that enhance the experience. The game's timeless quality, diverse locations, and developer effort are highly praised.
- Admiration (weight 0.03): Admiration is for the game's historic, cult classic status and its achievement of big levels and beautiful graphics in 2001-2002. It is considered a pinnacle of video-game engineering.
- Enthusiasm (weight 0.02): Enthusiasm comes from the game's awesome arenas, funny secrets, and banger soundtracks. It is seen as one of the best parts of the series with new features and improvements.
- Love (weight 0.02): Love is expressed for the masterful old-school shooting frenzy and memorable levels like the red stadium. Players enjoy every minute, even when getting their ass kicked.
- Boredom (weight 0.02): Boredom arises from repetitive tropes, dull sections like the Great Cathedral, and tedious jumping puzzles. The game becomes monotonous and longer than necessary.
- Annoyance (weight 0.02): Annoyance is caused by unresolved endings, tedious backtracking levels, and repetitive door-opening algorithms. Repetitive waves of enemies and performance issues like lens flare add to the irritation.
- Happiness (weight 0.01): Happiness is linked to cherished memories of playing with dad and the joy of new weapons. Gratitude for a happy childhood is expressed.
- Hope (weight 0.01): Hope is inspired by potential quality-of-life updates and the possibility of achievements being added soon. Players look forward to the game's continued improvement.
- Anticipation (weight 0.01): Anticipation is for the full completed storyline and a possible sequel hinted by the open ending. Players eagerly await more content.
- Fondness (weight 0.01): Fondness is felt for the game's enduring quality and the humor brought by Russian voice acting. It remains as good as it was in the early 2000s.
- Affection (weight 0.01): Affection stems from nostalgia and enjoyment of the Serious Sam series, making it a favorite game of all time. Players hold deep love for the franchise.
- Sadness (weight 0.01): Sadness is due to developers moving away from expansion packs and this being the last Serious Sam game playable on one computer without a joystick. It marks the end of an era.}