Info about DARK SOULS™: REMASTERED:

Official game description:
Then, there was fire. Re-experience the critically acclaimed, genre-defining game that started it all. Beautifully remastered, return to Lordran in stunning high-definition detail running at 60fps.  
Dark Souls Remastered includes the main game plus the Artorias of the Abyss DLC.  
Key features:  
• Deep and Dark Universe  
• Each End is a New Beginning  
• Gameplay Richness and Possibilities  
• Sense of Learning, Mastering and Accomplishment  
• The Way of the Multiplayer (up to 6 players with dedicated servers)

Release date: May 23, 2018

Categories: Soulslike Combat, Action RPG, Exploration, Multiple Endings, Character Progression, Cooperative Multiplayer, Competitive Multiplayer, Boss Fights

Feature scans:
- MTX: score 40; verdict: Mixed Monetization; summary: The reviews indicate significant dissatisfaction with the monetization of the remastered version, with multiple users describing it as a 'cash grab.' There are also mentions of perceived pay-to-win elements and frustrations with game design and DLC integration. However, the evidence of predatory monetization is not strong enough to push the score beyond the medium range.
- Wiki: score 50; verdict: High Dependency on External Guides; summary: The primary user complaints revolve around the necessity of using external guides or wikis to progress through the game. The intricate map design and the complexity of understanding game mechanics without external resources are significant barriers. Additionally, while boss battles are considered simpler, the overall difficulty and lack of in-game guidance make it a challenging experience for new players.
- Proton/Linux: score 10; verdict: Works Well; summary: The game generally works well on Linux with Proton, with some users reporting minor performance issues that can be resolved with specific tweaks. Overall, the compatibility and performance on Linux are positive.
- Steam Deck: score 50; verdict: Tinkering Required; summary: The analysis of user feedback for the Steam Deck experience of the game reveals several key themes. Performance and compatibility are generally positive, with many users reporting that the game runs well on the Steam Deck and works fine with Proton. However, there are significant issues with controls, which are described as clunky, rigid, and difficult to get used to. Online play is also problematic, with multiple users recommending offline mode to avoid hackers. Graphics are noted to be outdated and not up to the standards of newer games. Overall, while the game has strengths in performance and compatibility, the negative aspects of controls and online play are notable barriers to a seamless experience.

- Hardware Profile:
  - Summary: The game generally performs well on higher-end hardware with 8GB or more VRAM, while lower-end systems experience more frequent issues such as crashes and performance drops.
  - Sample size: 197 (1% coverage)
  - Audience skew: Review sample is mostly Windows-based.
  - Windows <8GB VRAM / <16GB RAM (mixed, 54 reports): Performance is reported as decent on some lower-end systems, but crashes and technical issues are also noted.
  - Windows 8-11GB VRAM (positive, 43 reports): The game runs well, maintaining 60 FPS even on modest hardware.
  - Windows 12-15GB VRAM (positive, 42 reports): Mostly positive performance with solid 60 FPS, though some users report crashes.
  - Caveats: 197 of 24959 reviews expose hardware metadata.; Review sample is mostly Windows-based.
Feature extractions:
- Community Price:
  - Community fair range: $10.00 - $20.00
  - Reasoning: The evidence consistently points to the community finding the game worth purchasing, but primarily when it is on sale. The general sentiment is that the original price is considered too high, and the value is seen when the game is discounted. This suggests that the community considers a fair price range to be lower than the current base game price.
- Playtime Metrics:
  - Game completion: 42.0h
  - Story completion: 40.0h
  - Session length: N/A
  - Endgame: N/A
  - Reasoning: The evidence provided includes several mentions of completing the game, which helps estimate the typical playtime for game completion and story completion. The reviews indicate that players have spent significant time playing the game, with some mentioning specific hours or multiple playthroughs. However, there is limited direct evidence regarding session length and endgame content. The confidence level is moderate due to the consistency of the completion times mentioned.
- Time-to-fun:
  - Summary: The game has a steep initial learning curve and early frustrations with controls and mechanics, but it becomes significantly more enjoyable and rewarding once players overcome these challenges and gain proficiency in key skills.
  - Stance: Fun then drops
  - Anchor: Mastering critical skills like rolling and parrying
  - Time to anchor: 1h 0m
  - Friction: Steep learning curve; Initial frustration with controls, camera, and hitboxes; Lack of explanation for mechanics; Hidden progression items and areas; Slow movement speed at the start
  - Unlock drivers: Gaining knowledge and skills; Mastering rolling and parrying; Using guides and community knowledge; Unlocking shortcuts and secret paths
  - Conditions: Playing with friends or community; Using guides for hidden content; Patience and persistence in learning mechanics; Exploring and unlocking shortcuts
- Player Archetypes:
  - Nostalgic Veteran (buy)
    - Motivation: Nostalgia and appreciation for the game's legacy
    - Playstyle: Patient and reflective, focusing on the game's historical impact and personal memories
    - Experience: veteran
    - Purchase stance: buy
    - Labels: 魂游老ass; Souls veteran
    - Reference games: Elden Ring; Dark Souls series
  - Critical Mechanic (sale)
    - Motivation: Improvement and modernization of game mechanics
    - Playstyle: Analytical and critical, focusing on the game's mechanics and controls
    - Experience: familiar
    - Purchase stance: sale
    - Labels: Souls critic; Mechanics-focused player
    - Reference games: Dark Souls III; Elden Ring
  - Story-Driven Explorer (buy)
    - Motivation: Emotional engagement and narrative depth
    - Playstyle: Explorative and immersive, focusing on the game's story and atmosphere
    - Experience: mixed
    - Purchase stance: buy
    - Labels: Souls story lover; Atmosphere enthusiast
    - Reference games: Dark Souls series; Elden Ring
  - Accessibility Advocate (buy)
    - Motivation: Accessibility and sense of accomplishment
    - Playstyle: Supportive and encouraging, focusing on the game's accessibility and learning curve
    - Experience: mixed
    - Purchase stance: buy
    - Labels: Souls mentor; Accessibility advocate
    - Reference games: Dark Souls III; Elden Ring


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:
- Masterful map and level design (weight 0.31): The game's map and level design are highly praised for being intricate, interconnected, and well-crafted. Players appreciate the seamless and detailed design that encourages exploration and offers a sense of discovery.
- Unique and immersive experience (weight 0.24): Players highlight the game's unique charm and immersive experience. The game offers a sense of discovery and a challenging yet rewarding experience that stands out.
- Rich lore and atmosphere (weight 0.23): The game features a rich and engaging lore, complemented by a compelling atmosphere. The story and world design are praised for their depth and immersion.
- Memorable boss fights (weight 0.18): Boss fights are a highlight, with players appreciating the unique designs, challenging nature, and the tension they create. The bosses are well-balanced and enjoyable.
- Enjoyable exploration (weight 0.16): Exploration is a key aspect of the game, with players finding it enjoyable and rewarding. The game encourages exploration without the need for guides, making discovery a fun and integral part of the experience.
- Rewarding combat system (weight 0.14): The combat system is described as rewarding and satisfying. It punishes haste but rewards attention and strategy, providing a deeply engaging experience.
- Variety of weapons and builds (weight 0.11): The game offers a large variety of weapons, armor sets, and build options. This variety adds depth to the gameplay and allows for different playstyles.
- Interesting gameplay mechanics (weight 0.1): The game features unique and well-designed gameplay mechanics. These mechanics are balanced and add to the overall enjoyment and challenge of the game.
- Sense of accomplishment (weight 0.09): The game provides a strong sense of achievement and progress. Players feel accomplished upon completing challenges and overcoming difficulties.
- High replayability (weight 0.08): The game offers high replay value, with challenging and addictive gameplay that encourages multiple playthroughs.
- Beautiful environments (weight 0.08): The game features beautiful and atmospheric locations. The architecture and environments are praised for their detail and immersive qualities.
- Considered a masterpiece (weight 0.08): The game is often regarded as a masterpiece and a cult classic. It is praised for its timeless qualities and its impact on the gaming genre.
- Unique online features (weight 0.07): The online features of the game add a unique dimension. These features are robust and contribute to the game's uniqueness and enjoyment.

Common complaints:
- Poor boss design (weight 0.16): Many players find the boss design in the game to be poorly executed, with some bosses being frustrating, clunky, and disappointing. Specific mentions include bosses being troublesome, irritating, and even described as a 'sin against game design itself.'
- Long distances between bonfires (weight 0.14): Players often have to travel long distances between bonfires and bosses, which can be frustrating and time-consuming. This design choice is criticized for adding unnecessary difficulty.
- Confusing and janky gameplay (weight 0.13): The gameplay is often described as confusing, with strange design decisions and clunky mechanics. Players find the map design and world layout confusing, leading to an unpredictable and unintuitive experience.
- High difficulty and frustration (weight 0.11): The game is noted for its challenging and punishing nature, especially for beginners. Certain areas and bosses, particularly in the DLC and New Game Plus (NG+), are found to be frustrating and difficult.
- Inconsistent boss difficulty (weight 0.11): Boss fights are criticized for being either too easy or too challenging, leading to a lack of consistent difficulty. Some players find boss fights disappointing due to this inconsistency.
- Unfinished second half (weight 0.11): The second half of the game is criticized for being unfinished and not as good as the first half. Players find it less impressive and poorly executed.
- Frustrating game areas (weight 0.1): Certain parts of the game, including specific areas and mechanics, are described as frustrating. Players often encounter rough and frustrating gameplay mechanics.
- Repetitive boss patterns (weight 0.08): Bosses are often criticized for their repetitive moves and patterns, making boss fights boring and recycled. Many bosses are seen as easy due to this repetitiveness.
- Frustrating enemy encounters (weight 0.08): Players find enemy behavior and placement to be frustrating. The game is noted for having difficult and unreasonable enemy encounters.
- Frustrating level design (weight 0.07): The level design is often described as frustrating and repetitive. Players find certain locations and level designs to be poorly executed.
- Difficult progression and navigation (weight 0.07): Players find the game's progression and navigation to be difficult and tiring. The unreasonable difficulty in navigating through zones is a common complaint.
- Outdated graphics (weight 0.06): Even in the Remastered version, the graphics are considered outdated. Players find the visual quality to be poor for a remastered game.
- Hackers ruin gameplay (weight 0.06): The presence of hackers who invade and ruin the gameplay experience is a significant issue. Players find this to be a major drawback.
- Bed of Chaos boss fight issues (weight 0.05): The Bed of Chaos boss fight is specifically mentioned as frustrating and a complete mess. Players find this boss fight to be poorly designed.
- Game causes suffering (weight 0.05): The game is described as causing suffering and being cruelly tiring. Players express disappointment with the overall experience.
- Lack of guidance (weight 0.05): Players criticize the game for its lack of information and guidance. The absence of hand-holding is seen as a negative aspect.
- Uncomfortable controls (weight 0.05): The controls are described as uncomfortable and outdated. Players find them to be unresponsive and poorly executed.
- Frustrating exploration (weight 0.04): The exploration in the game is described as frustrating and insufficient. Players find it to be a negative aspect of the gameplay.
- Hitbox issues (weight 0.04): Players encounter problematic hitboxes, which can be shoddy and poorly executed. This issue is noted as a source of frustration.
- Regular frustration (weight 0.04): The game is noted for causing regular frustration at various points. Players find it to be a consistently frustrating experience.
- No fast travel initially (weight 0.04): The lack of fast travel from the start is criticized. Players find the absence of fast travel between bonfires until mid-game to be a negative aspect.
- Unbalanced weapons (weight 0.04): Players note issues with weapon balance. The game is criticized for having balancing problems with its weapons.

Gameplay feedback:
- Interconnected level design (weight 0.19): The game features a highly interconnected level design with shortcuts, hidden paths, and intricate layouts that reward exploration. The seamless and masterful design of the maps enhances the overall gameplay experience.
- Challenging but rewarding gameplay (weight 0.19): The game is known for its challenging and punishing gameplay, which requires players to learn and adapt. Despite the difficulty, players find the experience rewarding and enjoyable.
- Deep and complex combat (weight 0.15): The combat system is deep, complex, and tactical, offering a variety of strategies and challenges. Players find the combat rewarding and engaging, with a high level of variety and tactical depth.
- Co-op and multiplayer experience (weight 0.14): The game offers a robust multiplayer experience, including cooperative multiplayer modes with up to six players and competitive multiplayer options. The co-op modification and single-player mode provide additional variety.
- Complex enemies and traps (weight 0.14): The game features complex enemies with unique movesets and strategic placement. Traps and enemies add to the challenge and require players to be observant and persistent.
- Atmospheric and immersive gameplay (weight 0.12): The game offers an atmospheric and immersive experience with rich storytelling and detailed locations. The atmosphere and story-driven gameplay enhance the overall immersion.
- Exploration-based gameplay (weight 0.11): The game emphasizes exploration and discovery, with players encouraged to explore various locations and uncover secrets. This exploration-based gameplay adds to the adventure and challenge.
- Variety of build options (weight 0.1): Players have a wide range of build options, including various equipment and playstyles. This variety allows for diverse and customized gameplay experiences.
- Diverse boss fights (weight 0.06): The game features a variety of boss fights that require skill and strategy. The design of enemies and bosses adds to the challenge and complexity of the gameplay.
- Variety of game mechanics (weight 0.06): The game includes a variety of complex and adaptive gameplay mechanics, including progression systems and multiplayer mechanics. These mechanics add depth and variety to the gameplay experience.
- Hidden secrets and bonfires (weight 0.06): The game includes hidden bonfires and secrets, which serve as checkpoints and add to the exploration and discovery aspects. Traps and hidden elements enhance the gameplay experience.
- Class-based and balanced gameplay (weight 0.06): The game features class-based gameplay with different character classes, offering balanced and varied gameplay experiences. This adds depth and replayability to the game.
- Unique gameplay mechanics (weight 0.05): The game includes unique and satisfying combat mechanics that challenge players. These mechanics add to the overall depth and enjoyment of the gameplay.

Performance notes:
- Frame rate improvements noted (weight 0.11): Many reviews highlight improvements in frame rate and stable performance, though some mention issues with frame rate and a 60 FPS limit.
- Mixed graphics feedback (weight 0.09): Players have varying opinions on the graphics, with some praising the remastered graphics and improvements while others criticize low graphics and minor graphical oddities.
- Performance on different platforms (weight 0.09): The game runs well on various platforms, including Nintendo Switch and Steam Deck, with reports of smooth gameplay and optimized performance.
- Technical bugs and issues (weight 0.07): Players have encountered various technical issues, including physics bugs, hitbox issues, weird animations, and network latency.
- Camera and control issues (weight 0.06): Several players report problems with camera movement and controls, including poor lock-on performance and bad controls.
- Resolution and display support (weight 0.06): The game supports various resolutions, including 4K and ultrawide, and runs well at 1080p and 1440p.
- Combat and responsiveness concerns (weight 0.05): Some reviews mention slow combat with input latency, outdated responsiveness, and sluggish gameplay.
- Low system requirements (weight 0.03): The game has low system requirements, making it accessible to players with less powerful hardware.
- Historical performance issues (weight 0.03): The original version of the game had performance issues, which have been addressed in the remaster.

Recommendations:
- Challenging and rewarding gameplay (weight 0.18): The game is praised for its challenging gameplay, which is rewarding and engaging. It is recommended for those who enjoy a challenge and deep lore.
- Recommended for new Souls players (weight 0.17): This game is frequently recommended for those new to the Souls series or Souls-like games. It is seen as a good starting point for beginners.
- Consider other Souls games (weight 0.12): Some reviewers suggest starting with other games in the series, such as Dark Souls 3, Elden Ring, or Sekiro, especially for newer fans.
- Play with friends or offline (weight 0.11): Suggestions include playing with friends or playing offline to avoid hackers and cheaters, enhancing the overall experience.
- Worth the price on sale (weight 0.07): The game is considered worth buying, especially on sale, despite its flaws and challenges.
- High replay value (weight 0.06): The game is noted for its high replay value and excellent value for money, making it a worthwhile purchase.
- Play blind and explore (weight 0.06): Suggestions to play without guides or spoilers, explore different paths, and avoid killing NPCs to enhance the experience.
- Use mods and guides (weight 0.04): Recommendations include using graphical mods for enhanced visuals and guides for better understanding and strategies.

Other player notes:
- Controller support available (weight 0.02): The game offers controller support, enhancing the gaming experience for players who prefer using controllers over other input devices.
- Pricing concerns for older game (weight 0.02): Some players have expressed concerns about the pricing of the game, particularly noting that it might be overpriced considering its age.

Emotions:
- Frustration (weight 0.26): Players are frustrated with various aspects of the game, including its high difficulty, outdated mechanics, and specific design flaws. Issues such as hidden bonfires, limited warping, tough start, and uncomfortable controls contribute to this frustration. Additionally, technical issues like FPS caps, camera problems, and frequent bugs exacerbate the experience.
- Joy (weight 0.11): Players experience joy from the overall positive gaming experience, including the sense of discovery, enjoyable gameplay, and playing with friends. The game's atmosphere, memorable moments, and the variety of weapons, classes, and builds also contribute to this joy.
- Satisfaction (weight 0.09): Players feel satisfaction from overcoming challenges, completing the game, and achieving 100% completion. The rewarding combat system, character progression, and exploration of the game's world and lore also contribute to this sense of accomplishment.
- Nostalgia (weight 0.07): Players feel nostalgic due to the game's memorable characters, story, and the personal journey associated with playing it. Comparisons to other games in the series and fond memories of specific moments also evoke this emotion.
- Enjoyment (weight 0.06): Players enjoy the game's level design, beautiful landscapes, and interconnected world. The complex and adaptive gameplay mechanics, atmosphere, and story contribute to a positive and engaging experience.
- Excitement (weight 0.05): Players are excited by the game's boss fights, combat, and the thrill of discovering secrets in the interconnected world. The challenging gameplay and the abundance of content also contribute to this excitement.
- Admiration (weight 0.05): Players admire the game's aesthetic beauty, map design, and overall quality. The challenging combat, level design, and the game's influence and achievements are also sources of admiration.
- Disappointment (weight 0.05): Players are disappointed with the game's lack of meaningful updates, poor visual execution, and unfixed issues in the remastered version. Comparisons to other games and unmet expectations also contribute to this disappointment.
- Positive (weight 0.02): Players have an overall positive experience with the game, appreciating its map design, level design, and overall quality. The enjoyable gameplay and humorous suggestions add to this positivity.
- Appreciation (weight 0.02): Players appreciate the game's level design, combat mechanics, atmosphere, and rich narrative. The foundation it sets for future games and its overall experience are also highly valued.
- Awe (weight 0.02): Players are in awe of the game's beautiful art, immersive world, and lore. The atmospheric music and world design contribute to this sense of wonder.
- Enthusiasm (weight 0.01): Players are enthusiastic about the game's design, mechanics, and positive comparisons with other games. The excitement for the game's map, bosses, and lore fuels this enthusiasm.
- Gratitude (weight 0.01): Players feel gratitude for the game's impact on their lives, the support received from others, and specific localizations. The game's influence and the help from the community are deeply appreciated.
- Amusement (weight 0.01): Players find amusement in humorous gameplay experiences and specific combat scenarios. The initial difficulty and respectful PvP encounters add to the amusement.
- Reflection (weight 0.01): Players reflect on the game's personal emotional journey, philosophical themes, and deep atmosphere. The thought-provoking themes and personal growth associated with the game evoke this reflection.
- Love (weight 0.01): Players express a deep love for the game due to its unique details, zones, and the emotional connection it fosters. The franchise and the game's unique aspects are deeply cherished.
- Frustration (weight 0.01): Players express frustration due to the lack of explanations for beginners, slow bosses, and frustrating design decisions. The game's torturous nature without a guide also contributes to this frustration.
- Satisfaction (weight 0.01): Players are satisfied with the game's quality, unique atmosphere, map design, and intelligent details. The overall experience and the game's DLC contribute to this satisfaction.
- Sadness (weight 0.01): Players feel sadness due to the character's sad ending, dramatic storytelling, and the thought of completing the game. The emotional impact of the game's story and endings evoke this sadness.}