Info about Wallpaper Engine:

Official game description:
Wallpaper Engine enables you to use live wallpapers on your Windows desktop. Various types of animated wallpapers are supported, including 3D and 2D animations, websites, videos and even certain applications. Choose an existing wallpaper or create your own and share it on the Steam Workshop! In addition to that, you can use the free Wallpaper Engine companion app for Android to transfer your favorite wallpapers to your Android mobile device and take your live wallpapers on the go.  
**NEW:** Use the free Android companion app to transfer your favorite wallpapers to your Android mobile device.  
*   Bring your desktop wallpapers alive with realtime graphics, videos, applications or websites.  
*   Use animated screensavers while you are away from your computer.  
*   Personalize animated wallpapers with your favorite colors.  
*   Use interactive wallpapers that can be controlled with your mouse.  
*   Many aspect ratios and native resolutions supported including 16:9, 21:9, 16:10, 4:3.  
*   Multi monitor environments are supported.  
*   Wallpapers will pause while playing games to save performance.  
*   Create your own animated wallpapers in the Wallpaper Engine Editor.  
*   Animate new live wallpapers from basic images or import HTML or video files for the wallpaper.  
*   Use the Steam Workshop to share and download wallpapers for free.  
*   Wallpaper Engine can be used at the same time as any other Steam game or application.  
*   Supported video formats: mp4, WebM, avi, m4v, mov, wmv (for local files, Workshop only allows mp4).  
*   Use the free Android companion app to take your favorite scene and video wallpapers on the go.  
*   Support for Razer Chroma and Corsair iCUE.
Wallpaper Engine aims to deliver an entertaining experience while using as few system resources as possible. You can choose to automatically pause or completely stop the wallpaper while using another application or playing fullscreen (including borderless windowed mode) to not distract or hinder you while playing a game or working. Many options to tweak quality and performance allow you to make Wallpaper Engine fit your computer perfectly. As a general rule of thumb, 3D, 2D and video based wallpapers will perform best, while websites and applications will require more resources from your system. Having a dedicated GPU is highly recommended, but not required.
Choose from over a million free wallpapers from the Steam Workshop with new wallpapers being uploaded every day! Can't find a wallpaper that fits your mood? Let your imagination go wild by using the Wallpaper Engine Editor to create your own animated wallpapers from images, videos, websites or applications. A large selection of presets and effects allow you to animate your own images and share them on the Steam Workshop or to just use them for yourself.

Release date: Nov 16, 2018

Categories: Custom Asset Support, Customization, UI Development, Content Creation, User-Generated Content, Community-Driven Gameplay, Desktop Interaction

Feature scans:
- MTX: score 15; verdict: Mostly Fair; summary: The game is generally praised for its one-time purchase model with no additional microtransactions, which is seen as a positive aspect. However, there are concerns about some high-quality content being locked behind a paywall and potential pay-to-win mechanics. Some users also feel that the game is overpriced.
- Wiki: score 10; verdict: Generally Positive with Room for Improvement; summary: The analysis of user feedback reveals several key themes. Dual monitor support is a significant topic, with users frequently mentioning both positive experiences and issues related to multi-monitor setups. User interface and experience have also been highlighted, with some users encountering problems such as accidental alt-tab actions. Additionally, there is a substantial amount of positive feedback regarding the software's features, performance, and overall value. These insights provide a comprehensive overview of the user experience and satisfaction with the software.
- Proton/Linux: score 80; verdict: Poor Linux Support; summary: The analysis of user feedback reveals significant issues with the software's compatibility and support for Linux. The developer's clear stance against Linux support, coupled with the lack of native Linux compatibility, creates a high level of frustration among Linux users. Many users report difficulties in getting the software to work on Linux, often requiring extensive tweaking and scripting, which is not always successful. While some workarounds exist, they are inconsistent and not reliable for all users. This overall experience leads to a degraded user experience and forces some users to switch back to Windows. The sentiment among users is a strong desire for native Linux support and a more positive attitude from the developers towards Linux compatibility.
- Steam Deck: score 65; verdict: Tinkering Required; summary: The analysis of user feedback for Wallpaper Engine on Steam Deck reveals several critical issues. The lack of native Linux support and significant compatibility issues on Linux distributions are major concerns. Users have also reported stability issues, including frequent crashes and battery drain problems. However, the user interface and customization options are highly appreciated. The overall experience is marred by these technical barriers, leading to a less than optimal user experience for Linux users.

- Hardware Profile:
  - Summary: The game generally performs well across most hardware cohorts, with higher VRAM configurations experiencing smoother performance. Lower VRAM configurations may require settings adjustments but still largely report positive experiences.
  - Sample size: 810 (2% coverage)
  - Audience skew: Review sample is mostly Windows-based.
  - Windows <8GB VRAM / <16GB RAM (positive, 328 reports): Runs well with some adjustments needed for optimal performance.
  - Windows <8GB VRAM / 16-31GB RAM (positive, 147 reports): Smooth performance with minimal impact on system resources.
  - Windows 8-11GB VRAM (positive, 144 reports): Stable performance with minimal impact on FPS and system resources.
  - Windows 12-15GB VRAM (positive, 128 reports): Generally runs well, though some users report occasional crashes.
  - Windows 16GB+ VRAM (positive, 30 reports): Excellent performance with high-end hardware, though some wallpapers may not be optimized.
  - Caveats: 810 of 35267 reviews expose hardware metadata.; Review sample is mostly Windows-based.
Feature extractions:
- Community Price:
  - Community fair range: $2.50 - $5.00
  - Reasoning: The evidence consistently highlights the affordability and value of the software. Prices mentioned range from $2.5 to $5, with users emphasizing the extensive features and resources available for the price. The software is described as a one-time purchase with lifelong benefits, including access to a vast library of wallpapers and customization options. The overall sentiment is that the software is worth the price, often described as inexpensive or a good deal.
- Playtime Metrics:
  - Game completion: N/A
  - Story completion: N/A
  - Session length: 10.0h
  - Endgame: N/A
  - Reasoning: The evidence provides several direct mentions of playtime. One user mentions spending 31 hours on the program, another mentions watching their monitor for more than 10 hours, and another user mentions accumulating 10,000 hours. These quotes indicate significant engagement with the software, suggesting that users spend considerable time customizing and enjoying their wallpapers. The reasoning for the playtime metrics is based on the direct mentions of hours spent using the software and the context of prolonged usage for customization and enjoyment.
- Time-to-fun:
  - Summary: Wallpaper Engine provides immediate fun by transforming static wallpapers into dynamic ones, with a slight learning curve that is quickly overcome by its ease of use and customization options.
  - Stance: Fun immediately
  - Anchor: Applying the first animated wallpaper
  - Time to anchor: 0h 15m
  - Friction: Learning curve for setup and creation; Overwhelming editor for beginners
  - Unlock drivers: Ease of use; Variety of wallpapers; Customization options
  - Conditions: Variety of wallpapers; Customization options; Personalization; Ease of use
- Player Archetypes:
  - Customization Enthusiast (buy)
    - Motivation: Personalization and creativity
    - Playstyle: Explores and creates custom wallpapers, frequently changes desktop aesthetics.
    - Experience: mixed
    - Purchase stance: buy
    - Labels: Customization lover; Creative user
    - Reference games: None specifically mentioned, but comparisons to other customization tools
  - Community Explorer (buy)
    - Motivation: Community engagement and discovery
    - Playstyle: Actively participates in the community, shares and discovers new wallpapers, enjoys dynamic and creative content.
    - Experience: familiar
    - Purchase stance: buy
    - Labels: Community member; Creative explorer
    - Reference games: None specifically mentioned, but comparisons to other community-driven platforms
  - Performance Optimizer (buy)
    - Motivation: Performance and efficiency
    - Playstyle: Focuses on performance settings, optimizes resource usage, enjoys tweaking technical aspects.
    - Experience: veteran
    - Purchase stance: buy
    - Labels: Tech-savvy user; Performance enthusiast
    - Reference games: None specifically mentioned, but comparisons to other performance-oriented software


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:
- Extensive high-quality wallpaper library (weight 0.42): The software offers a vast collection of high-quality wallpapers in various styles and resolutions, including anime, games, landscapes, and more. Users appreciate the diversity and the sheer number of options available.
- Custom wallpaper creation and editing (weight 0.31): Users can create and edit their own wallpapers using a built-in editor, which supports various types of media like GIFs, videos, and photos. This feature allows for personalization without needing programming knowledge.
- Extensive customization options (weight 0.27): The software offers a high level of customization with various settings and effects, allowing users to personalize their desktop experience extensively.
- Interactive and animated wallpapers (weight 0.25): The software supports a large collection of live, animated, and interactive wallpapers. These wallpapers can be highly customizable and include audio-responsive elements.
- Minimal performance impact (weight 0.24): The software is lightweight and has minimal impact on system resources, including CPU, RAM, and battery life, ensuring smooth performance even on mid-range systems.
- Steam Workshop integration (weight 0.23): The software integrates with Steam Workshop, providing access to millions of user-created wallpapers and content, enhancing the variety and availability of wallpapers.
- Transformative desktop experience (weight 0.17): The software transforms the desktop appearance with beautiful animated and live wallpapers, turning a boring desktop into a vibrant and personalized space.
- Multi-monitor support (weight 0.17): The software supports multi-monitor setups and various resolutions, allowing users to set wallpapers across multiple monitors seamlessly.
- Good value for money (weight 0.15): Users find the software to be worth the price, offering a good price-to-quality ratio and excellent value for the investment.
- Community-driven content (weight 0.14): The software benefits from an active community that creates and shares high-quality content, providing a huge variety of user-created wallpapers and themes.
- Automatic pausing during games (weight 0.14): The software automatically pauses wallpapers during gameplay to save performance, ensuring a smooth gaming experience without unnecessary resource consumption.
- Positive user satisfaction (weight 0.13): Users are generally satisfied with the software, highlighting its good wallpaper quality, beautiful graphics, and the ability to frequently change wallpapers.

Common complaints:
- High resource consumption issues (weight 0.34): The application has been noted to consume significant system resources, particularly with complex or high-complexity wallpapers. This can lead to increased GPU usage and potential performance issues, especially on weaker systems.
- NSFW content concerns (weight 0.17): There is a notable presence of NSFW and inappropriate content, with concerns raised about the lack of effective moderation and filtering. This can make the platform less suitable for all audiences.
- Variable content quality (weight 0.11): The quality of wallpapers available varies significantly, with some being repetitive or of lower quality. This inconsistency can affect user satisfaction.
- Frequent crashes and bugs (weight 0.1): The application is prone to frequent crashes and occasional bugs, which can disrupt the user experience and reduce reliability.
- Difficulty finding suitable wallpapers (weight 0.1): Users often find it challenging to search for and find high-quality wallpapers due to an inconvenient UI and the need for precise search prompts.
- Limited platform availability (weight 0.09): The application is currently only available for Windows, with no support for macOS, Linux, or iOS. This limits accessibility for users on other platforms.
- Subscription and update issues (weight 0.07): Users have reported issues with subscriptions being deleted during updates and difficulties with managing favorites. This can lead to a frustrating user experience.
- Potential virus risks (weight 0.06): There is a risk of viruses in certain types of uploaded content, which poses a security concern for users downloading wallpapers.
- Cost concerns (weight 0.06): While there are free options available, the cost of some wallpapers may be a concern for users, especially when high-quality options are locked behind a paywall.
- Overwhelming content in Workshop (weight 0.06): The sheer amount of content in the Workshop can be overwhelming for new users, and the search and filtering mechanisms could be improved for better usability.
- Wallpaper disappearance issues (weight 0.06): Users have reported that wallpapers can disappear after Steam sync or if the original author deletes them, leading to potential loss of favored content.
- Limited wallpaper management (weight 0.05): Users cannot adjust the order of wallpapers or delete them without unsubscribing, which limits customization and management options.
- Productivity impact (weight 0.05): The application can be distracting and may negatively impact productivity, which is a concern for users who need to maintain focus.

Gameplay feedback:
- Interactive and customizable wallpapers (weight 0.08): Players appreciate the ability to customize and interact with live wallpapers, as well as upload and share them.
- Shooting game mechanics (weight 0.08): The game features shooting mechanics with combat against various creatures, which is a significant aspect of the gameplay.
- Unique mechanics and features (weight 0.08): The game includes various unique mechanics such as goodwill mechanics, special CG, memory gallery, and special interactions.
- Steam Workshop integration (weight 0.08): The game integrates with Steam Workshop, allowing players to interact with other Steam users and share content.
- High-quality graphics (weight 0.06): The game features high-quality graphics with 3D particles and hand-drawn animations.
- Complex plot and story (weight 0.06): The game features a complex plot, which adds depth to the gameplay experience.
- Dynamic content support (weight 0.06): The game supports dynamic videos, web pages, and applications as wallpapers, enhancing customization.
- Interesting single-player and multiplayer (weight 0.04): The game offers engaging single-player and multiplayer experiences.
- High difficulty level (weight 0.04): The game is noted for its high difficulty, which can be challenging for players.
- Varied gameplay duration (weight 0.04): Players have noted both infinite gameplay time and short gameplay duration, indicating a range of experiences.
- Challenging bosses (weight 0.03): Players find the bosses tough, adding a challenging element to the game.
- Immersive gaming experience (weight 0.03): Players find the game to be highly immersive, enhancing their overall experience.
- Community-driven content (weight 0.03): The game supports community-driven content sharing, enhancing the player community experience.
- Freedom in gameplay (weight 0.03): Players appreciate the freedom to play the game in their preferred way.
- Innovative and free aspects (weight 0.03): The game is praised for being extremely innovative or free, appealing to a wide audience.
- Diverse gameplay experiences (weight 0.03): The game offers diverse gameplay experiences, catering to a wide range of player preferences.
- Retreat and combat mechanics (weight 0.03): The game features retreat mechanics, adding a strategic element to combat.
- Cross-device synchronization (weight 0.03): The game supports cross-device synchronization, allowing players to switch between devices seamlessly.
- Advanced performance settings (weight 0.03): The game offers advanced settings for performance and display, allowing for customization based on player preferences.
- Familiar elements with twists (weight 0.02): The game mixes familiar elements with small twists, providing a fresh experience.
- Reaction to music and events (weight 0.02): The game reacts to music and system events, adding an interactive element.
- Resource management (weight 0.02): The process of finding and uploading resources is a part of the gameplay.
- Productivity features (weight 0.02): The game includes embedded to-do lists, which can help players stay organized.
- Single weapon gameplay (weight 0.02): The game features a single weapon throughout, simplifying the gameplay mechanics.
- Limited grinding (weight 0.02): There is nothing to grind in the game, which can be a positive or negative depending on player preferences.
- Limited side missions (weight 0.02): The game has no significant side missions, focusing mainly on the main storyline.

Performance notes:
- High resource consumption (weight 0.25): Complex wallpapers can lead to high resource consumption, including GPU, RAM, and CPU usage, potentially impacting system performance.
- Automatic pausing during games (weight 0.25): The software automatically pauses wallpapers during gaming or full-screen applications to save performance and system resources.
- Minimal performance impact (weight 0.2): The application is designed to have a minimal impact on system performance, using few system resources and running smoothly in the background.
- Smooth performance (weight 0.17): The software generally runs smoothly, even during gaming, with rock-solid performance on stronger PCs.
- High system requirements (weight 0.13): The application may require a high-end PC for optimal performance, especially for complex wallpapers.
- Customizable performance settings (weight 0.07): Users can adjust settings to manage performance and resource consumption, optimizing the application for various hardware configurations.
- Frequent crashes and black screens (weight 0.04): Some users report issues with frequent crashes and black screens, indicating potential stability problems.

Recommendations:
- Highly recommended for desktop personalization (weight 0.35): This software is praised for its ability to transform and personalize desktops with dynamic and interactive wallpapers, making it a must-have for users seeking to enhance their desktop aesthetics.
- Highly recommended purchase (weight 0.16): Many users highly recommend this software for its versatility, features, and overall value, making it a recommended purchase for a wide range of users.
- Worth the price (weight 0.08): Users find the software to be worth every penny, offering great value for the price and enhancing the desktop experience significantly.
- Tips for better experience (weight 0.07): Users suggest installing additional software like Translucent Taskbar and removing desktop icons for a better experience, as well as being cautious with wallpaper downloads.
- Consider system requirements and usage (weight 0.06): Users recommend the software for those with moderately powerful PCs who are looking for high-quality wallpapers, but suggest considering alternatives if system resource usage is a concern.
- Recommended with caution (weight 0.05): While the software is recommended, some users advise caution due to potential issues, suggesting it may not be suitable for everyone.
- Health and safety considerations (weight 0.05): Users advise moderation in usage to avoid physical strain and potential addiction, recommending exercise and willpower to maintain a healthy balance.
- Recommended for frequent computer users (weight 0.04): The software is particularly recommended for users who spend a significant amount of time on their computers, enhancing their desktop experience.
- Privacy considerations (weight 0.04): Users suggest keeping the account private if downloading certain wallpapers to maintain privacy and security.
- Not recommended for infrequent desktop users (weight 0.02): The software may not be suitable for users who do not see their desktop often, as its primary benefits are visual and aesthetic enhancements.

Other player notes:
No miscpoints

Emotions:
- Satisfaction (weight 0.36): Users are highly satisfied with the variety, quality, and customization options of wallpapers. The software's performance, ease of use, and affordability also contribute significantly to this positive sentiment.
- Excitement (weight 0.14): Users are excited about the extensive customization options and the variety of high-quality wallpapers available. The dynamic and interactive features, along with the community creations, add to the overall enthusiasm.
- Frustration (weight 0.14): Users experience frustration due to performance issues, high resource consumption, and difficulties in finding suitable wallpapers. Privacy concerns, frequent crashes, and the presence of inappropriate content also contribute to this sentiment.
- Disappointment (weight 0.04): Users feel disappointed due to the high price, limited high-quality wallpapers, and performance issues. The presence of unwanted content and the decline in software quality also lead to this emotion.
- Enthusiasm (weight 0.04): Users are enthusiastic about the extensive features, customization options, and the variety of wallpapers. The overall positive experience and the software's capabilities generate this excitement.
- Joy (weight 0.03): Users find joy in the aesthetic pleasure and diverse content provided by the software. The interactive and visually appealing wallpapers, along with the customization options, contribute to this happiness.
- Appreciation (weight 0.03): Users appreciate the variety and quality of wallpapers, as well as the community contributions. The software's ability to transform the desktop and the effort put in by creators are also highly valued.
- Amusement (weight 0.03): Users find amusement in the variety of wallpapers and the customization options. The unexpected and humorous content adds to the entertainment value.
- Anger (weight 0.02): Users feel anger due to perceived waste of money, unfair policies, and malicious reporting of wallpapers. High GPU usage and negative community behavior also contribute to this sentiment.
- Gratitude (weight 0.02): Users are grateful for the existence of the app, the open creator ecosystem, and the positive impact on their lives. The community and platform are highly appreciated.
- Admiration (weight 0.01): Users admire the software's ability to create living landscapes and the creativity of the creators. The technological advancements and community contributions are also highly regarded.
- Excited (weight 0.01): Users are excited about the features and possibilities offered by the software. The variety and customization options of wallpapers generate this excitement.
- Nostalgia (weight 0.01): Users feel nostalgia due to positive memories associated with the wallpapers and personal experiences. The long-term use of the app also contributes to this sentiment.
- Love (weight 0.01): Users express deep love for the software due to the variety and amount of wallpapers. The overall positive experience and features generate this strong emotion.
- Concern (weight 0.01): Users express concerns about inappropriate content, performance impact, and potential copyright issues. The potential increase in laptop heat is also a worry.
- Surprise (weight 0.01): Users are surprised by the additional features like screensaver options and mobile versions. Realizing the amount of time spent on the software also contributes to this emotion.
- Happiness (weight 0.01): Users are happy with the diversity and enjoyment of the wallpapers. The overall experience and features of the software contribute to this positive sentiment.
- Regret (weight 0.01): Users regret not buying the application earlier. Learning inappropriate things at a young age also contributes to this sentiment.}