Info about The Sexy Brutale:

Official game description:
  
All the guests are being murdered — horribly! — at this extravagant masquerade party set all across the sprawling and bizarre Sexy Brutale casino mansion.  
Then at midnight, the clock re-winds and the grisly pantomime all plays out again in exactly the same way.  
You awake on the floor of one of the rooms wearing a mask with a bloody handprint across it. It protects you from the worst of the evil that lays across the mansion, but you can only watch, and spy, and try to learn each guest's secrets so you can save them from their bloody fate.  
10 unique and grisly murder scenarios  
\- Witness evisceration by arachnid! (highly creepy!)  
\- Observe expiration via immolation! (they burn!)  
\- Behold perishing through perforation! (the spike goes right through!)  
...and so many more murderous mysteries to solve!  
Everything in the mansion happens on a 12 hour loop, simultaneously  
\- What is the gunshot heard across the mansion at 3:45?  
\- Where is the bell that tolls after 6pm?  
\- Why are the lights flickering every day after noon?  
...it will not stop until you stop it!  
Is everyone in this place a weirdo?  
\- Clockmaster Sixpence - a genius mechanic who cannot outsmart a bullet?  
\- Blind artist Trinity - so beautiful and talented, but gets into a sticky situation?  
\- Brutish bouncer Clay - not strong enough to stomach a shot of pure spider venom?  
...they just won't stop being murdered by staff in gas-masks!  
Every life you save grants you a new ability!  
\- Not a second to lose? The Clockwork Mask grants control over time!  
\- Murderers whispering their secrets? The Moth Mask picks up the quietest of sounds!  
\- Ghostly goings-on? The Voodoo Mask opens your eyes to beyond the grave!  
...but for every new power comes new responsibilites!

Release date: Apr 11, 2017

Categories: Puzzle Solving, Point-and-click Adventure, Narrative Adventure, Exploration, Stealth Gameplay, Time-based Mechanics, Mystery, Atmospheric Horror (Light)

Feature scans:
- Proton/Linux: score 60; verdict: Tinkering Required; summary: The game experiences significant issues on Linux, including frequent crashes and the need for specific Proton versions to achieve stability. These problems indicate that while the game can run on Linux, it requires considerable tweaking and may still be unreliable.
- Steam Deck: score 50; verdict: Tinkering Required; summary: The analysis of user feedback for the Steam Deck experience reveals several key issues. Stability problems, particularly related to the use of Proton versions, are a significant concern and affect the game's playability. Control issues, including non-rebindable controls and less than intuitive controller layouts, also pose challenges. Despite these issues, users generally enjoyed the game, indicating that while there are technical barriers, the overall experience is still positive.

- Hardware Profile: No data
Feature extractions:
- Community Price:
  - Community fair range: $12.00 - $15.00
  - Reasoning: The evidence suggests that while the game is considered enjoyable and worth the money, many users feel that the full price of $19.99 is steep given the game's length of around 6-9 hours. Several reviews mention that the game is worth the price but recommend waiting for a discount or sale. The general sentiment is that the game provides good value but is slightly overpriced at its current full price. Therefore, a fair price range that aligns with community sentiment would be slightly lower than the current base price.
- Playtime Metrics:
  - Game completion: 7.0h
  - Story completion: 7.0h
  - Session length: 1.5h
  - Endgame: 2.0h
  - Reasoning: The evidence provides multiple accounts of playtime for different aspects of the game. Several reviews mention completing the game in around 7 hours, which can be used to estimate both the game completion and story completion times. The game is described as having a short length, with completion times ranging from 4 to 8 hours depending on the playstyle. The session length is not explicitly mentioned, but given the nature of the game, it can be inferred that sessions might be relatively short, possibly around 1-2 hours. The endgame content is not explicitly detailed, but the overall completion times suggest that additional exploration and collectibles might add a few more hours.
- Time-to-fun:
  - Summary: The game starts with an engaging tutorial and becomes more fun as players uncover secrets and gain new abilities, leading to a rewarding sense of progression.
  - Stance: Fun then drops
  - Anchor: Finding the secret passages and additional powers
  - Time to anchor: 1h 0m
  - Friction: limited initial gameplay; repetitive time-loop mechanic; tedious waiting times
  - Unlock drivers: finding secret passages; gaining additional powers; solving mysteries
  - Conditions: exploration mindset; patience for progression; enjoyment of mystery and detective themes
- Player Archetypes:
  - Narrative-Driven Detective (buy)
    - Motivation: Enjoying the narrative and solving puzzles.
    - Playstyle: Explores thoroughly, enjoys stealth and observation, and engages in casual puzzle-solving.
    - Experience: familiar
    - Purchase stance: buy
    - Labels: detective; puzzle solver
    - Reference games: Last day of June; Life is Strange
  - Adventure Enthusiast (buy)
    - Motivation: Enjoying the adventure and mystery aspects of the game.
    - Playstyle: Actively recommends the game to others, enjoys the setting and details, and appreciates the gameplay and style.
    - Experience: veteran
    - Purchase stance: buy
    - Labels: adventure gamer; mystery lover
    - Reference games: Majora's Mask; Ghost Trick
  - Casual Gamer (sale)
    - Motivation: Enjoying short and fun gaming experiences.
    - Playstyle: Plays for fun and enjoyment, appreciates value for money, and enjoys classic-style games.
    - Experience: mixed
    - Purchase stance: sale
    - Labels: casual player; value seeker
    - Reference games: Gregory Horror Show; Groundhog Day


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:
- Compelling and interesting story (weight 0.88): The story is highlighted as one of the game's strong points, with players finding it interesting, moving, and well-planned. The narrative is engaging and becomes more compelling as it progresses.
- Satisfying and engaging puzzles (weight 0.69): The game features a variety of puzzles that players find satisfying and engaging. These puzzles are described as logical, fun, and well-designed, contributing significantly to the overall enjoyment of the game.
- Excellent gameplay mechanics (weight 0.65): The gameplay mechanics are praised for being fun, enjoyable, and easy to understand. Players appreciate the well-paced and engaging gameplay loop, which adds to the overall solid gaming experience.
- Perfect and fitting soundtrack (weight 0.58): The soundtrack is widely praised for being perfect, rich, and fitting to the game's atmosphere. Players enjoy the music and how it enhances the overall mood and experience of the game.
- Beautiful and unique graphics (weight 0.58): The graphics are noted for being unique, atmospheric, and full of personality. Players appreciate the detailed environments and the overall artistic design.
- Unique time-loop mechanics (weight 0.46): The time-loop mechanics are a standout feature, described as unique, rewarding, and ingenious. These mechanics add depth and interest to the gameplay experience.
- Short but enjoyable experience (weight 0.19): The game is described as a short but fun and beautiful experience. Players find it enjoyable despite its brevity.
- Mansion exploration (weight 0.13): The mansion is a significant feature, described as huge, beautiful, and fun to explore. Players enjoy the detailed and well-constructed environments.
- Collectibles and lore (weight 0.12): The game includes plenty of collectibles and lore that players find convenient and worth discovering, adding depth to the gameplay experience.

Common complaints:
- Puzzles lack complexity and depth (weight 0.96): Many players found the puzzles to be overly simple and straightforward, lacking the complexity and depth expected. The puzzles often rely on finding the right item at the right time rather than requiring clever solutions or logical deduction.
- Game is too short (weight 0.48): The game's length is a common complaint among players, with many stating that it is too short and lacks replayability. The short duration and limited content make it feel incomplete.
- Clunky and frustrating controls (weight 0.41): Players have expressed frustration with the game's controls, describing them as clunky, slow, and not intuitive. The controls can be difficult to get used to and negatively impact the gameplay experience.
- Disappointing and underwhelming ending (weight 0.2): The game's ending has been criticized for being unsatisfactory and falling flat. Many players felt let down by the finale, which did not meet their expectations.
- Game lacks polish (weight 0.09): Players have noted that the game lacks technical polish and has some bugs. The overall experience feels unfinished and could benefit from additional refinement.
- Game underdelivers on potential (weight 0.09): The game had the potential to be incredible but did not fully embrace its own potential for more challenging and engaging gameplay. Players feel that the game could have been much better with more ambitious design choices.
- Difficulty tracking collectibles (weight 0.09): There is no easy way to track which collectibles are missing, making it difficult for players to complete their collections. This lack of tracking can be frustrating for completionists.
- Occasional lag during transitions (weight 0.09): Players have reported occasional lag when moving from room to room or during scene transitions. This lag can disrupt the gameplay experience and immersion.

Gameplay feedback:
- Puzzle-solving and exploration gameplay (weight 0.58): The game primarily involves exploring a mansion, interacting with objects, and solving puzzles to prevent murders and learn about character deaths. It is a story-focused, immersive experience with point-and-click adventure elements.
- Narrative-driven puzzle adventure (weight 0.53): The game combines puzzle-solving with a strong narrative, requiring players to pay attention to sounds, movements, and clues to progress. It is divided into several plot parts, each involving eavesdropping and event tracking.
- Metroidvania elements and abilities (weight 0.29): The game incorporates Metroidvania-style progression, where players unlock new abilities and use masks to gain powers. These abilities are crucial for exploring the mansion and solving puzzles.
- Unique and interesting gameplay mechanics (weight 0.27): The game offers unique and fun gameplay mechanics, including time manipulation and real-time progression. These mechanics contribute to the overall engaging experience.
- Stealth and eavesdropping mechanics (weight 0.22): Players use stealth mechanics to avoid being seen by characters and eavesdrop on conversations to gather information. These mechanics are essential for solving the murder mysteries.
- Collectibles and secrets (weight 0.15): The game features collectibles and secrets that players can hunt for, which reward them with achievements and a secret ending. These elements add an extra layer of exploration and discovery.
- Murder mystery theme (weight 0.09): The game revolves around a classic murder mystery theme, where players must prevent murders and solve a murder case happening in real-time within a mansion.

Performance notes:
- Lag during room transitions (weight 0.28): Multiple reports indicate that the game experiences lag and performance issues when transitioning between rooms or scenes. This includes occasional freezing and minor delays during these transitions.
- Frequent crashes and freezing (weight 0.23): Players have reported various crashing and freezing issues, including problems when launching the game and during gameplay. These issues seem to affect different platforms, including Linux.
- Controller and keybinding issues (weight 0.15): Some players have experienced issues with controller steering and PC keybindings feeling awkward and clunky. There are also reports of potential mouse and keyboard support issues.
- Framerate drops and performance issues (weight 0.13): There are occasional framerate drops and performance issues reported by players. These issues can occur during specific actions or randomly throughout the game.
- Sound and UI problems (weight 0.12): Players have noted unbalanced sound and issues where sound completely stops when talking to certain NPCs. Additionally, there are reports of awkward animations and a wonky UI.
- Steam Deck compatibility and performance (weight 0.12): The game has been reported to have smooth controller layout on Steam Deck, but there are also mentions of potential compatibility issues and the need for better optimization.

Recommendations:
- Puzzle game enthusiasts recommended (weight 0.38): The game is highly recommended for fans of puzzle games, especially those who enjoy unique settings and narrative-driven experiences.
- Worth it on sale (weight 0.37): The game is recommended if found on sale, offering good value for money but may not be worth the full price for everyone.
- Supernatural mystery with unique story (weight 0.26): This game is recommended for those who enjoy supernatural mysteries, murder mystery stories, and unique adventure games with compelling plots.
- Highly recommended unique experience (weight 0.23): The game is highly recommended for its unique and engaging experience, making it a standout choice for many players.
- Time-loop mechanics praised (weight 0.2): Fans of time-loop mechanics and mystery theater will find this game particularly enjoyable due to its unique premise and engaging gameplay.
- Good value for price (weight 0.18): The game is considered worth the price for the unique experience it offers, providing good value for money.
- Niche and unique gameplay (weight 0.15): Recommended for fans of niche, logical indie games, and those who enjoy unique and original gameplay mechanics.
- Stylish and humorous adventure (weight 0.15): The game is recommended for its stylish, whimsical, and darkly humorous elements, appealing to fans of adventure games with a sense of humor.
- Not for combat or non-linear fans (weight 0.12): The game is not recommended for players looking for combat-heavy gameplay or branching story paths, but it is great for those who enjoy short time-loop puzzle games with a good story.
- Worth playing despite issues (weight 0.12): The game is recommended as a beautiful and worthwhile experience despite some issues, making it a good choice for many players.
- Try Ghost Trick instead (weight 0.09): For those looking for a similar experience, it is suggested to check out Ghost Trick instead of this game.
- Light challenge and exploration (weight 0.09): The game is recommended for those who enjoy light challenge puzzles and exploration and discovery gameplay.
- Flawed but unique masterpiece (weight 0.08): Despite its flaws, the game is recommended for its unique and aspiring qualities, making it a flawed masterpiece.
- Wait for sale if uncertain (weight 0.06): It is suggested to wait for a sale if uncertain about purchasing the game at full price.
- Refunds mentioned (weight 0.05): Some players chose to get a refund, indicating dissatisfaction with the game.
- Technical issues noted (weight 0.05): The game is not recommended due to technical issues and shortcomings, which may affect the overall experience.

Other player notes:
- Added Traditional Chinese language (weight 0.05): The game has received a patch that adds support for Traditional Chinese language, catering to a broader audience.
- Received game as gift (weight 0.04): Some players received the game as a gift, which might influence their reviews or experiences.

Emotions:
- Enjoyment (weight 0.23): Players enjoyed the game's interconnected map design, engaging story, and charming characters. The puzzles and secrets were satisfying, and the beautiful art style combined with a great soundtrack enhanced the overall experience.
- Frustration (weight 0.17): Players were frustrated by the game's control issues, lack of customization options, and performance problems. The unclear guidance, tedious puzzles, and repetitive gameplay mechanics also contributed to this frustration.
- Disappointment (weight 0.17): Players felt disappointed by the game's underwhelming ending, simplistic puzzles, and lack of depth in mechanics. The short gameplay length and unfulfilled potential of the story and characters also led to disappointment.
- Excitement (weight 0.17): Players were excited by the game's unique time-loop mechanics, engaging storytelling, and creative gameplay. The excellent music, interesting plot twists, and engaging mystery elements contributed to this excitement.
- Joy (weight 0.14): Players experienced joy from the game's beautifully crafted atmosphere, unique art style, and engaging gameplay mechanics. The enjoyable puzzles, interesting story, and great soundtrack enhanced their overall experience.
- Satisfaction (weight 0.09): Players felt a sense of satisfaction from the game's balanced puzzles, engaging story, and smooth controls. The rewarding time-loop design and the feeling of unraveling the mystery contributed to their satisfaction.
- Appreciation (weight 0.03): Players appreciated the game's high-quality music, unique graphics, and well-written story. The ending that recontextualized the entire game and the good character animation were also highly valued.
- Surprise (weight 0.01): Players were surprised by the game's plot twists, deep ending, and overall quality. The unexpected story impact and level design contributed to their surprise.
- Engagement (weight 0.01): Players were engaged by the game's immersive level design, unique murders, and puzzles. The engaging story kept them invested throughout the gameplay.
- Curiosity (weight 0.01): Players were curious about the game's unfolding mystery and interesting mechanics. The odd storyline with unanswered mysteries piqued their interest.
- Boredom (weight 0.01): Players felt bored due to the repetitive puzzle-solving and lack of location variety. The simplistic and tedious gameplay contributed to their boredom.
- Nostalgia (weight 0.01): Players felt nostalgic as they had watched the gameplay as children and played it as adults. The familiar music from years ago evoked a sense of nostalgia.
- Amusement (weight 0.01): Players were amused by the game's charming and weird characters. The unique and quirky elements of the game brought amusement.
- Sadness (weight 0.01): Players felt sadness due to the game's tragic story and themes of guilt and redemption. The emotional ending and character deaths contributed to their sadness.
- Fun (weight 0.01): Players had fun with the core loop of disrupting schedules and the overall gameplay and exploration. The engaging mechanics and interesting puzzles made the game enjoyable.
- Heartbreak (weight 0.01): Players felt heartbroken by the game's emotional storytelling and ending. The poignant narrative and character arcs contributed to this heartbreak.
- Annoyance (weight 0): Players were annoyed by the inability to skip animations. This lack of control over the gameplay experience led to their annoyance.
- Discomfort (weight 0): Players felt discomfort due to the voyeuristic aspect of watching characters' deaths. This awkward perspective made them uncomfortable.
- Immersion (weight 0): Players felt immersed in the game's engaging story and fun mechanics. The combination of storytelling and gameplay elements created a deeply immersive experience.
- Charm (weight 0): Players were charmed by the lovely and unique puzzle game. The game's quirky and endearing qualities brought a sense of charm.}