Info about Crimson Moon:

Official game description:
**SEPTEMBER 1, 2026 | $19.99 USD (STANDARD EDITION)\***
The city of Gildenarch has fallen. Once a holy jewel, it is overrun by demons, undead, vampires, and Hellgrowth abominations. Humanity's last hope is the Order of the Crimson Moon, and its most feared weapon is you.
Whether you crusade alone or slay together in co-op, the prophecy is yours to fulfill.
Embody a Nephilim, a human-angel hybrid forged to defend the world from Hell. Master supernatural powers, weapons, melée combat, and angelic transformations to fight through brutal missions and survive boss encounters with the Dead Gods.
*   **Blood-soaked Melée Combat** - Fight hordes of abominations with relentless, visceral combat
*   **Single Player or Co-Op** - Crusade solo or slay together
*   **High Risk, High Reward Missions** - Every successful run presents new missions, modifiers, and skill achievements
*   **Upgrade to Superhuman** - Evolving Nephilim powers bestow temporary abilities for devastating attacks
*   **Seek Sanctuary Between Runs** - The Church is your home base for upgrades, NPC interactions, and War Table planning
*   **Set Your Difficulty** - Dynamic difficulty scaling allows every mission to match your skill - but with higher difficulties come greater rewards
\*Release timing and pricing may vary per region and retailer.

Release date: Sep 1, 2026

Categories: Soulslike Combat, Cooperative Multiplayer, Roguelike, Action RPG, Character Progression, Loot and Gear Systems, Boss Fights, Third-Person Perspective

Feature scans:
- Proton/Linux: score 80; verdict: Barely Playable on Linux/Proton (Steam Deck); summary: The available Linux/Proton evidence is exclusively negative and focused on Steam Deck performance. Users report a maximum of 10 FPS during gameplay and state the game is not working well on the Deck. No positive Linux/Proton reports or workaround mentions were provided. The generic crash report was excluded as it lacked a Linux/Proton context.
- Steam Deck: score 85; verdict: Broken on Steam Deck; summary: The game is currently broken on Steam Deck due to severe performance issues (low FPS, crashes), unresponsive and non-remappable controls, and broken menus with additional bugs, making it unplayable in its current state.

- Hardware Profile:
  - Summary: Performance is inconsistent across hardware tiers: mid-range VRAM (8-15GB) systems predominantly report poor optimization and instability, while high-end (16GB+) systems show a split and low-end (<8GB) systems mostly run well.
  - Sample size: 116 (23% coverage)
  - Audience skew: Review sample is heavily weighted toward Windows PCs with 10GB+ VRAM.
  - Windows 12-15GB VRAM (negative, 50 reports): Most users report serious performance problems including crashes, stuttering, and inability to maintain 60 FPS, though a few find it well optimized.
  - Windows 8-11GB VRAM (negative, 31 reports): The majority report frequent crashes, harsh frame drops, and poor optimization, with only a few experiencing stable performance.
  - Windows 16GB+ VRAM (mixed, 21 reports): Reports are split: about half praise smooth performance and high frame rates, while the other half cite crashes, input lag, and poor optimization.
  - Windows <8GB VRAM (positive, 13 reports): Most users report smooth performance with only minor frame drops, and one user experienced severe issues regardless of settings.
  - Caveats: 116 of 514 reviews expose hardware metadata.; Review sample is heavily weighted toward Windows PCs with 10GB+ VRAM.
Feature extractions:
- Community Price:
  - Community fair range: $15.00 - $20.00
  - Reasoning: Multiple reviews explicitly reference a $20 price point as fair or good value, with some noting the game feels more expensive than its £17 (~$21) tag. While a few negative reviews claim it is not worth the price or suggest a $5 sale price, the majority of price-related comments support $20 as a reasonable base price. Thus, the community fair range is estimated between $15 and $20, allowing for slight discounting while acknowledging the positive reception at the current price.
- Playtime Metrics:
  - Game completion: N/A
  - Story completion: N/A
  - Session length: 2.0h
  - Endgame: N/A
  - Reasoning: Two players explicitly report playing in sessions of about two hours, supporting a session length of 2 hours. No direct reports of game completion, story completion, or endgame playtime were found, so those metrics are set to null.
- Time-to-fun:
  - Summary: The game has a frustrating start with camera, control, and bug issues, but players who persist past the first hour report it becomes fun, especially in co-op.
  - Stance: Clicks after
  - Anchor: After getting past the frustrating start
  - Time to anchor: 1h 0m
  - Friction: Camera and lock-on issues; Clunky combat and poor hitboxes; Unrebindable controls and input lag; Tutorial bugs and crashes; Co-op progression and loot sharing problems
  - Unlock drivers: Getting past the tutorial
  - Conditions: Playing co-op; Getting past the tutorial; Being familiar with soulslike mechanics; Having a co-op partner; Persisting through the first hour; Not expecting a triple-A game
- Player Archetypes:
  - Co-op Enthusiast (buy)
    - Motivation: Shared fun and social play with friends in a co-op roguelike setting
    - Playstyle: Plays co-op with friends, focusing on runs, builds, and shared progression
    - Experience: familiar
    - Purchase stance: buy
    - Labels: N/A
    - Reference games: Dark Souls
  - Soulslike Veteran (no buy)
    - Motivation: Seeking a polished, well-executed soulslike experience that meets genre standards
    - Playstyle: Plays solo or co-op but critically evaluates mechanics, performance, and design against other soulslike games
    - Experience: veteran
    - Purchase stance: no buy
    - Labels: soulslike veteran; played every souls game
    - Reference games: Lords of the Fallen
  - Technical Critic (no buy)
    - Motivation: Wanting a functional, well-optimized game with proper controls and QoL features
    - Playstyle: Attempts to play but is hindered by technical flaws, often refunding or not recommending
    - Experience: mixed
    - Purchase stance: no buy
    - Labels: N/A
    - Reference games: N/A
  - Roguelike Build Crafter (buy)
    - Motivation: Experimenting with builds and enjoying meta-progression loops
    - Playstyle: Plays solo or co-op, focusing on loadout optimization and long-term character growth
    - 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:
- Visuals and graphics praised (weight 0.16): Many reviews highlight the game's beautiful graphics, art direction, and aesthetic appeal. The visual presentation is a standout positive aspect.
- Game runs and plays well (weight 0.13): Players consistently report smooth performance, good visuals, and an overall enjoyable experience. The game is described as fun, smooth, and visually appealing.
- Co-op enhances fun (weight 0.06): Playing with a friend in co-op is highlighted as a fantastic experience. The game shines in co-op mode, adding to the overall enjoyment.
- High potential for improvement (weight 0.06): Many players see great potential in the game, noting it is good with room for improvement. Minor patches could elevate it further.
- Decent gameplay overall (weight 0.04): Some reviews describe the gameplay as acceptable and decent, with promise. It is considered fine and enjoyable, though not exceptional.
- Fun and straightforward (weight 0.04): The game is described as fun and straightforward, providing a good time. It is easy to pick up and enjoy.
- Extensive build variety (weight 0.03): The game offers a huge amount of build variety, allowing for extensive experimentation. Players appreciate the depth in build possibilities.
- Soundtrack is loved (weight 0.03): The soundtrack receives high praise, with players loving the music. It contributes positively to the overall experience.
- Souls-like gameplay enjoyable (weight 0.03): Fans of souls-like games find the gameplay enjoyable and worth it. It is considered a decent addition to the genre.
- Addicting gameplay loop (weight 0.03): The gameplay loop is described as addicting and interesting, keeping players engaged. It is a key factor in the game's fun factor.
- Great and enjoyable time (weight 0.03): Overall, the game is considered great and a blast to play. It provides an enjoyable experience for players.

Common complaints:
- Keybinds cannot be customized (weight 0.32): Players consistently report that keybindings cannot be changed or remapped, with only flawed preset profiles available. This affects both keyboard and controller users, making controls unintuitive and frustrating.
- Camera is problematic and erratic (weight 0.16): The camera, especially lock-on targeting, is poorly implemented, often blocking views, spinning wildly, and going under the ground. This makes combat, particularly boss fights, nearly unplayable and disorienting.
- Game feels unfinished and unpolished (weight 0.14): Players feel the game is in a rough state, resembling an early access or alpha build rather than a finished product. The lack of polish and overall jankiness makes the game feel poorly put together.
- Parry timing is inconsistent (weight 0.12): The parry window is described as early, janky, and unreliable, with players missing parries frequently due to unclear timing and input delay. The mechanic feels broken and inconsistent, even when performed at the same moment.
- Mouse sensitivity cannot be adjusted (weight 0.12): There is no option to change mouse sensitivity, and the default sensitivity is very low, making aiming difficult. Players are forced to use a fixed sensitivity that feels unresponsive and hampers gameplay.
- Combat feels clunky and imprecise (weight 0.1): Combat mechanics are described as janky, clunky, and lacking polish in animations, hitboxes, and enemy detail. The overall combat system feels sloppy and not as tight as expected, detracting from the experience.
- AZERTY keyboard support is broken (weight 0.06): The AZERTY profile is unusable because number keys 1-5 are not recognized, making consumables inaccessible. This is a specific issue for AZERTY users, but it highlights broader key mapping problems.

Gameplay feedback:
- Soulslike combat and mechanics (weight 0.24): The game is widely described as a souls-like with combat similar to Dark Souls, Nioh, and Elden Ring. It combines soulslike and roguelike elements, featuring parry, dodge, and block mechanics.
- Controller support and preference (weight 0.12): The game plays well on both controller and keyboard/mouse, but many reviewers prefer or recommend using a controller. Controls are often compared to Dark Souls, especially the first game.
- Souls-roguelike hybrid (weight 0.11): The game combines soulslike mechanics with roguelite elements, creating a unique hybrid experience. This is a key selling point for many players.
- Co-op multiplayer modes (weight 0.1): The game supports solo and co-op play, including online co-op for up to two players. Co-op is generally praised, though progression is not shared between players.
- Parry and dodge mechanics (weight 0.07): Parrying is a key combat feature, along with dodging and blocking. Players must master these mechanics to succeed, as the game is punishing without them.
- Loot and gear systems (weight 0.06): The game includes loot collection with stats, as well as a build-centered gear and upgrade system. This adds depth to character progression and customization.
- Fast and weighty combat (weight 0.05): Combat is described as fast, weighty, and brutal, with good impact. It includes light and heavy attacks, with charged and uncharged versions.
- Boss fights and elites (weight 0.04): The game features boss fights, including a first boss that players are expected to lose against. Elite enemies require finishing moves to defeat.
- Difficulty levels and progression (weight 0.03): The game has difficulty levels, with higher ones being harder. It also features a progression system with death and unlock mechanics, similar to roguelites.
- Third-person lock-on camera (weight 0.03): The game is a third-person action combat game with a lock-on camera system. This is typical of the soulslike genre and aids in targeting enemies.
- Angel form ability (weight 0.03): The game includes an angelic form as an ultimate ability, which is a notable gameplay feature. This adds a unique twist to the combat system.
- Death and currency loss (weight 0.02): The game includes souls-like mechanics such as losing currency on death. This adds risk and tension to exploration and combat.

Performance notes:
- Mixed performance reports (weight 0.16): Players report both smooth high-FPS experiences and severe stuttering or low FPS, indicating inconsistent optimization across different hardware configurations.
- Optimization widely criticized (weight 0.11): Many reviews label the game as poorly optimized, with complaints about inability to hit 60 FPS on high-end GPUs and poor scaling across settings.
- Crashes and launch errors (weight 0.08): Multiple reports of crashes at launch, during gameplay, or when changing settings, with some issues persisting after driver updates or file verification.
- Frame rate caps and locks (weight 0.06): Players note the game is locked to 60 or 120 FPS, with limited options for uncapped or custom frame rates, frustrating those with high-refresh monitors.
- Visual settings limitations (weight 0.05): Many graphical options are hidden or limited, such as motion blur not fully disabling and DLSS causing visual artifacts like blurriness or rippling.
- High system requirements (weight 0.05): The game demands powerful hardware, with even high-end GPUs like RTX 5080 struggling, and CPU usage being excessive for the visuals.
- Frame generation issues (weight 0.04): Several users report that frame generation does not work or provides no performance improvement, despite being advertised as a feature.
- Performance varies by resolution (weight 0.03): Players see significant FPS differences between native and DLSS resolutions, with some finding DLSS improves performance but degrades image quality.
- Resource consumption high (weight 0.03): The game consumes excessive CPU/GPU resources relative to its visuals, leading to high power draw and heat generation.
- Input lag and responsiveness (weight 0.03): Players report significant input lag, especially in combat, with delays up to 3 seconds, making the game feel unresponsive.
- Thermal and power issues (weight 0.03): The game pushes hardware thermals to high levels, with one report of 75°C on medium settings, and uses 99% GPU, raising concerns about long-term damage.
- Steam Deck and handheld issues (weight 0.03): The game performs poorly on Steam Deck, with one user reporting max 10 FPS, while another found it playable on ROG Ally, indicating inconsistent handheld support.
- Performance degrades over time (weight 0.02): Some players experience worsening performance the longer they play, with restarts not resolving the issue, suggesting memory leaks or thermal throttling.
- Shader compilation and stutter (weight 0.02): Shader precaching occurs every launch, and stutters are attributed to asset loading, causing hitches during gameplay.
- Frame pacing and smoothness (weight 0.02): Even at high FPS, some players feel the game is not smooth due to bad frame pacing, and others experience micro-stuttering and screen tearing.
- Settings changes ineffective (weight 0.02): Changing quality settings or toggling Nvidia features does not affect performance for some, indicating poor optimization or bottlenecks elsewhere.
- Performance issues in missions (weight 0.02): Stutters and FPS drops occur specifically during missions, while hubs run smoother, and issues persist when joining friends.
- Limited FPS options (weight 0.02): Players cannot set custom FPS limits above 60 without external tools, and the game lacks options for 90, 120, or 144 FPS locks.
- Driver and update issues (weight 0.02): Some launch problems are resolved by updating graphics drivers, but others persist after updates, causing frustration.

Recommendations:
- Cannot recommend current state (weight 0.12): Many reviewers advise against purchasing the game in its current state due to unresolved issues. They suggest waiting for patches or a sale before buying.
- Refund recommended (weight 0.12): A significant number of reviewers suggest using Steam's refund system, either immediately or after a short playtime, due to dissatisfaction. Some plan to repurchase after fixes.
- Not worth the money (weight 0.11): Several reviewers feel the game is overpriced for its current quality, with some calling it a waste of money. They recommend waiting for a discount or buying a different game instead.
- Wait for patches (weight 0.09): Many reviewers advise waiting for patches to address bugs, optimization, and control issues before playing. They believe the game has potential but needs fixes.
- Recommended for soulslike fans (weight 0.08): Fans of soulslike games, especially those with ARPG or loot mechanics, are likely to enjoy this game. Reviewers highlight its genre blend and recommend it to this audience.
- Controller recommended (weight 0.07): Reviewers strongly recommend using a controller for a better experience, as keyboard and mouse controls are problematic. Some suggest buying a gamepad if needed.
- Avoid negative reviews (weight 0.05): Some reviewers advise ignoring negative reviews and forming your own opinion, as the game may be better than its current rating suggests. They encourage trying it.
- Co-op recommended (weight 0.04): Reviewers suggest playing in co-op for a more enjoyable experience, as solo play can be challenging. The game is recommended for friends seeking a soulslike adventure.
- Buy alternative game (weight 0.04): A few reviewers suggest buying a different game instead, such as Far Far West, or any soulslike at the same price. They feel the game is not worth it.
- Not for everyone (weight 0.03): The game is not universally appealing; it may not suit fans of open worlds or large-scale battles. Reviewers note it's niche and not for all players.
- Data harvesting concern (weight 0.02): One reviewer mentions a data harvesting clause and suggests an opt-out option. This is a niche but notable concern for privacy-minded players.
- Check back later (weight 0.01): Reviewers suggest checking back occasionally to see if issues are fixed, and to consider purchasing after patches.
- Motion blur off (weight 0.01): A reviewer recommends turning off motion blur to improve the experience. This is a minor but practical tip for players.
- Frustrating start (weight 0.01): The game has a frustrating start, but it becomes fun once you get past it. Reviewers encourage persistence.
- Review bombing warning (weight 0.01): One reviewer warns against review bombing the game before giving it a fair chance. They suggest waiting more than a day before judging.
- Support developers (weight 0.01): A reviewer encourages buying the game to support the developers, implying the game has potential despite issues.

Other player notes:
- Souls-like comparisons are unfavorable (weight 0.16): Reviewers frequently compare the game to Dark Souls, Demon's Souls, and other soulslikes, often stating it falls short of these titles. The game is described as a lighter or worse version of the genre.
- Good value for price (weight 0.12): Multiple reviewers consider the game to be worth its price, describing it as a decent project and a fair deal. The game is not considered expensive for what it offers.
- Full release not Early Access (weight 0.06): Reviewers note that the game is a full 1.0 release rather than an Early Access title. This is seen as a positive point, distinguishing it from unfinished products.
- Should have been Early Access (weight 0.05): Many reviewers feel the game should have launched into Early Access rather than as a full release. The game feels like an Early Access product to them.
- Developers fixing pressing issues (weight 0.03): The developers have announced they are working on fixing some of the most pressing issues. A hotfix is planned for a number of problems.
- Keybind fix is in development (weight 0.03): The developers are currently working on fixing the keybind issue. Key rebinding is planned for the next patch.
- Visuals compared unfavorably to Godfall (weight 0.03): The game's visuals are compared to Godfall, and the comparison is not favorable. Reviewers find the graphics lacking in this regard.
- Compared to Nightreign and Elden Ring (weight 0.03): The game is compared to Elden Ring Nightreign, with one reviewer saying it is everything they wanted that game to be. However, another reviewer compares it unfavorably to both Nightreign and Elden Ring.
- Russian language not supported (weight 0.03): The game does not support the Russian language. This is a point of criticism for Russian-speaking reviewers.
- Parry system compared to Sekiro (weight 0.03): The parry system is compared unfavorably to other soulslikes and Sekiro. Reviewers also compare the parry mechanic to Dark Souls 1.
- Parry timing compared to Mortal Shell 2 (weight 0.03): The parry timing is compared to Mortal Shell 2, with reviewers noting it was easier there. Some recommend Mortal Shell 2 instead.

Emotions:
- Frustration (weight 0.45): The game suffers from numerous technical and design issues, including a broken camera and lock-on system, unchangeable keybindings, and a nearly impossible parry window. These problems are compounded by performance issues, co-op bugs, and a lack of basic settings, making the game feel unfinished and unplayable for many.
- Disappointment (weight 0.16): Despite high expectations and a promising concept, the game delivers a janky, unpolished experience with poor combat, camera, and performance. The lack of basic PC features and the feeling of an unfinished product left many players let down.
- Enjoyment (weight 0.1): Players find the game fun, especially in co-op, with satisfying combat, engaging build variety, and a compelling atmosphere. Despite bugs, the core gameplay loop and the ability to play with friends provide a positive experience.
- Satisfaction (weight 0.06): The game provides a satisfying experience for many, with tight controls, rewarding combat, and good performance on capable hardware. Players appreciate the value for the price and the overall polish, leading to a positive impression.
- Excitement (weight 0.04): The game's captivating gameplay loop, build potential, and promising future content generate excitement. Players are eager to explore harder difficulties and see the game's potential realized, especially with friends.
- Anger (weight 0.03): Players are angered by the lack of keybinding and accessibility options, poor optimization, and perceived unfairness in the refund policy. The game's technical state and the developer's decisions have led to feelings of being robbed and frustrated.
- Hope (weight 0.02): Despite current issues, players hold hope that the developers will fix the game and realize its potential. The game's premise and core ideas are seen as promising, and many are willing to return if improvements are made.
- Annoyance (weight 0.01): Annoyance arises from minor but persistent issues like camera angles, excessive UI elements, and the 'kill all enemies' mechanic. These small frustrations, along with other players' complaints, detract from the experience.
- Appreciation (weight 0.01): Players appreciate the game's environmental storytelling, atmospheric sound and visuals, and the effort put into its world. The game is seen as artistically beautiful and entertaining, with a level of polish that exceeds many early access titles.
- Fun (weight 0.01): The game is fun, especially when played with friends, offering good combat and laughter. Co-op play enhances the experience, making it an enjoyable way to spend time.
- Disgust (weight 0.01): Some players are disgusted by the game's low-quality feel, comparing it to a mobile game or a poorly made product. The dated graphics, bad animations, and overall poor quality evoke strong negative reactions.
- Approval (weight 0.01): Players approve of the game's value, progression, and lack of microtransactions, finding it a good purchase. The familiar controls and potential for polish contribute to a positive assessment.
- Frustrated (weight 0.01): Frustration is specifically tied to the inability to remap keys, which is a basic feature for many players. This, along with other control issues, makes the game unplayable for some, especially on certain devices.
- Admiration (weight 0.01): The game earns admiration for its weighty combat system, impressive graphics, and well-executed spells and skills. The art style and combination of elements from praised titles are particularly noted.
- Confusion (weight 0.01): Players are confused by the loot system and the negative reviews, finding the game's mechanics unclear. The lack of a minimap and unclear perk interactions add to the confusion.
- Joy (weight 0.01): The game brings joy to players, especially when played with a controller or with friends. The enjoyable solo and duo experiences contribute to a positive emotional response.
- Concern (weight 0.01): Concerns are raised about combat and camera issues, as well as invasive data collection and a problematic EULA. These aspects worry players about the game's future and their own experience.
- Disappointed (weight 0.01): Players are disappointed that the game plays worse than older titles and that the full release still runs the early access version. The good concept is poorly realized, leading to a letdown.
- Love (weight 0): The game's soundtrack and the combination of visuals and sound are loved by players. These elements come together to create a memorable and enjoyable experience.
- Boredom (weight 0): Boredom stems from the combat being too repetitive with too few skills, and the overall style being unengaging. The lack of variety makes the game feel dull.}