Info about Lost Planet™: Extreme Condition:

Official game description:
Driven to the brink of extinction on ice-covered wastelands, humankind fights to survive. Battle to survive against gargantuan alien Akrid and treacherous Snow Pirates on the vast and frozen landscape of EDN III. With no allies at your side, the only thing you can trust is your instincts.  
Combining a gripping single player campaign and intense multiplayer modes with support for up to 16 players online, Lost Planet is an epic gaming masterpiece. Enormous world maps unfold as players battle across vast snow fields and deserted cities either on foot or in armed, robotic Vital Suits.
**Key Features:**
-----------------
*   **Intense action** - A fast-paced third-person shooter with all the depth, intrigue, and intensity of a science fiction classic.  
*   **Foot and vehicle based gameplay** - Command highly powered armed vehicles and weapons, including transformable snow vessels.  
*   **Vast environments** - Snowstorms, arctic winds, towering buildings and mountains of ice are all stunningly realized as battles occur above and below ground, creating a truly immersive and cinematic event of epic proportions.  
*   **Battle hordes of colossal Akrid.**  
*   **Command heavily armored Vital Suits.**  
*   **Intense 16 multiplayer action.**  
*   **Enhanced DirectX 10 graphics.**

Release date: Jun 26, 2007

Categories: Third-Person Shooter, Vehicular Combat, Boss Fights, Grappling Hook Gameplay, Survival, Science Fiction, Multiplayer

Feature scans:
- Proton/Linux: score 15; verdict: Works Well; summary: The game generally runs very well on Steam Deck and Linux via standard Proton, with multiple users praising its performance and stability. However, a single review reports that a recent DRM update has broken Steam Deck support and caused crashes. Overall, the consensus favors good compatibility, though the DRM issue warrants attention.
- Steam Deck: score 85; verdict: Broken - DRM Crashes; summary: The game receives highly positive feedback for performance on Steam Deck under ideal conditions (low power, solid framerate) but is critically undermined by a DRM update that introduces crashes and breaks Deck support. Additionally, users must tinker with a 30 FPS cap and expect controller-centric controls. The presence of crashes and broken support places the experience in the 'Broken' category despite the strong baseline performance.

- Hardware Profile: No data
Feature extractions:
- Community Price:
  - Community fair range: $5.00 - $10.00
  - Reasoning: Multiple reviews explicitly state that the full price of $15 is not justified, while a sale price of $3 is considered a fantastic bargain. One review even calls $3 'borderline thievery,' implying the game is worth more than that. Another review recommends the game but not at full price. Taken together, the community sentiment suggests a fair base price between the extremely low sale price and the current full price, likely in the $5 to $10 range where players would feel the game is worth purchasing without needing a deep discount.
- Playtime Metrics:
  - Game completion: N/A
  - Story completion: 7.0h
  - Session length: 0.3h
  - Endgame: N/A
  - Reasoning: Story/campaign completion: multiple reviews indicate 4-10 hours for main story; typical medium difficulty completion is 7 hours (supported by two direct statements). Game completion: no distinct post-story content; the only extra is collectible hunting but no reliable time given, so null. Session length: one review specifies each mission takes ~20 minutes, and another mentions fun in short bursts, suggesting a typical session of about 20 minutes (0.33 hours). Endgame: reviews state 'no single player replayability' and 'when you finish the game, that is it', so endgame hours are null.
- Time-to-fun:
  - Summary: Lost Planet: Extreme Conditions delivers immediate fun through its grappling hook and mech gameplay in short bursts, but repetitive combat, clunky controls, and a weak story cause interest to decline over time.
  - Stance: Fun then drops
  - Anchor: Using the vital suits (mechs)
  - Time to anchor: N/A
  - Friction: clunky grappling hook controls; repetitive combat missions; poor human enemy AI; Windows Live requirement for multiplayer; unrewarding collectibles; uninteresting story
  - Unlock drivers: using Vital Suits (mechs); engaging with grappling hook mechanics; playing in short bursts; using varied enemy strategies
  - Conditions: solo singleplayer mode; playing on a more difficult setting to actively engage enemies; choosing to engage bugs instead of walking around them; using keyboard and mouse may require adaptation
- Player Archetypes:
  - Old-School Sci-Fi Enthusiast (buy)
    - Motivation: To experience a retro sci-fi third-person shooter with unique mechanics and atmosphere.
    - Playstyle: Plays carefully, explores environments, appreciates design and difficulty.
    - Experience: mixed
    - Purchase stance: buy
    - Labels: old-school player; retro gamer; sci-fi fan
    - Reference games: Gears of War; Monster Hunter; Earth Defense Force
  - Mech & Monster Slayer (buy)
    - Motivation: Piloting mechs and defeating giant bosses with big guns.
    - Playstyle: Aggressive, engages enemies directly, experiments with weapons and mechs.
    - Experience: familiar
    - Purchase stance: buy
    - Labels: mech fan; monster hunter player; action gamer
    - Reference games: Monster Hunter; Earth Defense Force
  - Nostalgic Multiplayer Veteran (sale)
    - Motivation: Reliving past memories and experiencing the game's original charm.
    - Playstyle: Replays the campaign, reminisces about multiplayer, may use mods or LAN.
    - Experience: veteran
    - Purchase stance: sale
    - Labels: original player; multiplayer veteran; nostalgic fan
    - Reference games: Lost Planet 2


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:
- Enjoyable mech gameplay (weight 0.54): The Vital Suit mechs are a highlight, described as varied, fun to pilot, and slow but powerful. Players enjoy switching between on-foot combat and mech control, noting good feel and customization options.
- Excellent graphics for its era (weight 0.44): Multiple players note the graphics are impressive for the game's age, with beautiful settings, explosions, and snow effects still holding up well today. The visuals and aesthetics remain a strong point even by modern standards.
- Impressive enemy design and variety (weight 0.25): The alien Akrid and other enemies are noted for their high-quality design and intimidation factor. There is good variety in enemy types, from flying creatures to large bosses.
- Challenging and engaging boss fights (weight 0.24): Boss battles are repeatedly praised as challenging yet fair, with well-crafted designs and epic scale. They are considered a standout feature of the game.
- Satisfying weapon variety and feedback (weight 0.22): Players appreciate the wide array of weapons, all of which are viable and have satisfying feedback. Visual effects and impact contribute to the enjoyment of combat.
- Engaging story and cutscenes (weight 0.21): The story, while sometimes described as orthodox, is considered exciting and well-told through excellent cinematography in cutscenes. The sci-fi world is intriguing.
- Fun campaign mode (weight 0.17): The single-player campaign is described as still great and very fun, offering a tight, enjoyable experience that doesn't overstay its welcome. It's considered worth playing through.
- Great Steam Deck performance (weight 0.13): Players report the game runs flawlessly on Steam Deck, achieving a consistent 60 fps with very low power consumption. This makes it an excellent portable gaming choice.
- Excellent sound and voice acting (weight 0.12): Sound effects, music, and voice acting are highly praised, adding to the immersion and atmosphere of the game. These elements have aged well.
- Fun grappling hook mechanic (weight 0.11): The anchor grapple hook is highlighted as having cool functions, adding mobility and fun to both on-foot and mech gameplay. It's a straightforward but satisfying tool.
- Great controller support and performance (weight 0.07): The game plays perfectly on PC with a controller, offering smooth performance and responsive controls. This enhances the gameplay experience on modern systems.
- Customizable vehicle armaments (weight 0.07): Players enjoy the ability to remove weapons from vehicles and experiment with different configurations. This adds depth and replayability to the mech combat.
- Atmospheric winter setting (weight 0.07): The winter environment is praised for its atmosphere and aesthetic appeal, contributing to the game's immersive world. Snow effects in particular are noted as impressive.
- Polished design (weight 0.06): The overall design of the game is described as polished, with good visuals, controls, and gameplay. It feels well-crafted despite its age.

Common complaints:
- Weak story and characters (weight 0.52): The story is called forgettable, boring, confusing, rushed, and poorly written. Characters are not engaging and the plot is weak.
- Frustrating final boss (weight 0.49): The final boss is widely criticized as a damage sponge, extremely difficult, unfair, and disappointing. Some find it cheap or cheesable.
- Clunky controls (weight 0.32): Controls are described as clunky, rough, janky, and cumbersome, especially on keyboard. This affects overall gameplay feel.
- Poor enemy AI (weight 0.21): Enemy AI is inconsistent, either too weak or too strong. Human enemies have particularly bad aim and movement.
- Poor cutscenes and voice acting (weight 0.17): Cutscenes are described as dry, uninspired, forgettable, and unnecessary. Voice acting ranges from mediocre to bad or overdone.
- Stun locking issues (weight 0.17): Players experience infuriating stun locks that last too long, especially when hit repeatedly by enemies. This makes combat frustrating.
- No replayability or cloud save (weight 0.14): Single player has no replayability except for worthless collectibles, and there is no Steam Cloud or progress backup.
- Dead multiplayer (weight 0.13): Multiplayer modes are considered dead or pointless due to lack of players online, and the game feels abandoned.
- HDR and technical issues (weight 0.13): HDR support has problems and is recommended to be turned off. There are also audio and video desync issues in cutscenes.
- Not worth the price (weight 0.12): The game is considered not worth its full price, even at $15, due to its short length and various issues.
- Weapon switching and movement issues (weight 0.11): Weapon switching and dodging are very slow. Players cannot run or evade effectively, leading to cramped controls.
- Visual effects obscure view (weight 0.11): Explosions, smoke, and snow effects block vision during combat, making it hard to see what is happening.
- Bad ending (weight 0.1): The ending is criticized as bad, stupid, or could have been better, adding to overall disappointment.
- Grappling hook is clunky (weight 0.06): The grappling hook and jump feel sluggish, random, and clunky, adding to the overall poor control feel.
- Outdated and dated feel (weight 0.06): The game is seen as very dated by modern standards, with visuals and mechanics that feel noticeably outdated.
- DRM breaking modding (weight 0.06): Retroactively added DRM prevents modding in older titles, which frustrates players.

Gameplay feedback:
- Mech piloting is core (weight 0.37): The ability to pilot Vital Suits (mechs) is a frequently mentioned feature, with players highlighting how mechs are central to combat and traversal.
- Third-person shooter hybrid (weight 0.34): The game is consistently described as a third-person shooter that blends on-foot combat with mecha piloting, sometimes including vehicle sections.
- Akrid enemies with weak points (weight 0.26): The Akrid enemies are a major focus, noted for their glowing weakpoints that encourage strategic targeting during combat.
- Boss fights against Akrid (weight 0.22): Players repeatedly mention boss fights, especially against giant Akrid monsters, as a significant part of the gameplay experience.
- Diverse weapons and exosuits (weight 0.17): Players appreciate the variety of weapons and exosuits available, allowing different combat approaches on foot or in mechs.
- Grappling hook traversal (weight 0.13): A grappling hook mechanic enables vertical movement and exploration, adding mobility options beyond standard navigation.
- Sci-fi alien setting (weight 0.12): The game's futuristic sci-fi theme, featuring an alien planet and advanced technology, is a highlighted atmosphere element.
- Frozen planetary environment (weight 0.12): The setting is a frozen alien planet, with all levels featuring snow environments that contribute to the survival theme.
- Linear mission-based levels (weight 0.12): Levels are linear with mission-based objectives, typically progressing from start to a boss encounter.
- Thermal energy survival mechanic (weight 0.12): A thermal energy timer forces players to manage heat to avoid freezing, adding a survival layer to exploration and combat.
- Movement-based combat (weight 0.12): Combat emphasizes movement, often involving slaying Akrid while dealing with the One Mecha, reminiscent of Monster Hunter style with guns.
- Multi-enemy factions (weight 0.1): Combat involves both alien Akrid and human enemies, providing a mix of adversary types.
- Mech transformation abilities (weight 0.07): Mechs are noted for having different movement types and the ability to transform, adding depth to their usage.
- Online multiplayer mode (weight 0.07): The inclusion of an online multiplayer mode is noted, though it is mentioned less frequently than core single-player features.
- Short campaign length (weight 0.07): The campaign is relatively short, with normal difficulty taking about 8 hours and easy mode around 5 hours to complete.

Performance notes:
- Steam Deck runs excellently (weight 0.21): Multiple users report that the game handles and runs well on Steam Deck, achieving consistent 60 FPS without any tweaks. No issues were encountered on this platform.
- DirectX 10 version broken (weight 0.12): The DirectX 10 mode is broken, does not work, or causes graphical bugs. Users are advised to avoid DX10 and use other rendering modes.
- Cutscene audio desync issues (weight 0.11): Audio and video desynchronization occurs during cutscenes, which can break immersion. Some users suggest enabling V-sync specifically for cutscenes to fix sync problems.
- Windows and modern system performance (weight 0.09): On Windows and modern systems, the game runs very smoothly out of the box with no crashes or performance issues. This suggests the game is well-optimized for current hardware.
- High system requirements and heat (weight 0.09): The game pushes computers to their limits and runs hot even on newer systems. Users may need to limit to 30 FPS or use 720p resolution to achieve stable performance.
- Frame rate and visual stutters (weight 0.09): Light stutters and skips occur when a lot happens suddenly, and visuals can be choppy or laggy on some PC setups. Occasional stutters also occur in DX9 mode.
- DRM causes performance problems (weight 0.08): The DRM implementation causes performance tanking and crashes during gameplay. Removing or bypassing DRM could improve stability and framerate.
- PC crash and freeze issues (weight 0.07): Some users experience random crashes including complete power shutdowns or freezes. These may be related to specific hardware or software configurations and require troubleshooting.
- Controller required for gameplay (weight 0.07): The game is hard to get working without a controller, and using a controller is recommended for the intended experience. Some users find the game unplayable with keyboard and mouse.
- Windows 10 compatibility issues (weight 0.07): Several users report that the game does not work at all on Windows 10 due to missing steam.dll or compatibility issues with the operating system. Workarounds like installing specific updates or using compatibility mode may help.
- FPS drops during mech combat (weight 0.07): Frame rate drops significantly when piloting a mech, especially during boss fights with explosions and debris, which can drop to as low as 11 FPS.
- HDR support problematic (weight 0.07): HDR support is broken or causes blinding visuals, with users recommending disabling HDR for a better experience. The visuals are otherwise good when HDR is turned off.
- ROG Ally performance good (weight 0.07): On ROG Ally, the game runs at 900p with high settings achieving 100 FPS with low power consumption of 6 watts.
- AMD GPU options missing (weight 0.07): Some options are broken or missing on AMD GPUs, and sound issues also occur in the port, affecting the overall experience.
- Built-in benchmark available (weight 0.06): The game includes a built-in performance benchmark which is helpful for testing and optimizing settings. Stable framerate is achievable with proper setup.
- Proton on Linux works well (weight 0.04): The game works well under Proton 9-04 on Linux, providing a good experience for users on that platform.
- Windows 7 freezing and crashing (weight 0.04): On Windows 7, the game suffers from constant freezing and crashing, likely due to outdated system support.
- Windows update causes hang (weight 0.04): A specific Windows update (KB2670838) causes the game to hang; uninstalling it resolves the issue.
- Setup needed on PC (weight 0.04): PC users may need to configure settings for good performance, and compatibility issues with new operating systems may require troubleshooting.

Recommendations:
- Generally recommended despite flaws (weight 0.42): The game is widely recommended, but players should be aware of issues like a difficult final boss, clunky controls, and bugs. Many suggest playing on console or with a controller.
- Best purchased on sale (weight 0.42): A significant number of reviews advise waiting for a sale before buying, as the game is considered worth the lower price but not the full price. Frequent sales make this easy.
- Recommended for mecha/kaiju fans (weight 0.29): The game is particularly recommended for fans of mech combat, kaiju, and third-person shooters. It appeals to those who enjoy anime and mecha genres.
- Not recommended without nostalgia (weight 0.26): A subset of reviews state the game is not worth buying unless you have nostalgia for it, finding it dated and clunky otherwise. Some even advise avoiding it entirely.
- Great for nostalgic/retro experience (weight 0.25): Many recommend the game for those seeking an Xbox 360/PS3 era or mid-2000s arcade action shooter experience. It is best suited for players who appreciate older games and can overlook jank.
- Controller required or recommended (weight 0.15): Several players strongly recommend using a controller instead of a mouse and keyboard due to poor mouse support and aiming issues. High mouse sensitivity or specific controllers like PS5 are suggested.
- Enjoyable mindless shooter (weight 0.14): The game is described as a fun, mindless shooter with satisfying action, explosions, and mechs. It is recommended for players seeking simple, arcade-like gameplay without complexity.
- Best for a single playthrough (weight 0.12): The game is described as good for a weekend or a single playthrough, offering fun but limited replay value. It is considered a worthwhile short experience.
- Poor mouse support and controls (weight 0.12): Mouse and keyboard controls are criticized, with issues like low sensitivity and clunky aiming. Players advise using a controller or high DPI settings to play comfortably.
- Winter atmosphere enhances experience (weight 0.11): Playing in winter or cold weather is recommended to maximize immersion, as the game's snowy setting and atmosphere are praised. It is described as perfect for winter gaming.
- Final boss is frustrating (weight 0.11): The final boss is repeatedly cited as a frustrating and difficult encounter, detracting from an otherwise recommended experience. Players should be prepared for this challenge.
- Bugs and performance issues (weight 0.1): Several players mention bugs and performance problems, recommending playing on console over PC or waiting for patches. Issues include crashes and glitches.
- Good for fans of Lost Planet series (weight 0.09): Fans of the Lost Planet series, especially those who haven't played it, are encouraged to try this game. It is recommended as an alternative to Lost Planet 2 or for collection purposes.
- Play on higher difficulty (weight 0.09): Some players recommend playing on Extreme difficulty to fully enjoy the challenge and gameplay, while others advise against the hardest setting due to frustration.
- Not for deep story seekers (weight 0.07): The game is not recommended for players seeking a deep story or modern complex mechanics. It is best for those who enjoy action and sci-fi spectacle without narrative depth.
- Multiplayer is dead but campaign good (weight 0.06): The game's multiplayer is noted as dead, but the campaign is still recommended as a worthwhile experience. A remaster or new title is suggested to revive online play.
- Avoid until bugs are fixed (weight 0.06): Some reviews strongly advise against playing until bugs and issues are patched, describing the game as not recommended in its current state.
- Great on Steam Deck (weight 0.04): The game is recommended for Steam Deck owners who want a nostalgic experience, and it is considered a good fit for handheld play.

Other player notes:
- Settings guide for authenticity (weight 0.03): A player provides a detailed guide on adjusting graphics and audio settings to recreate the original experience, addressing concerns about changes in remasters.

Emotions:
- Frustration (weight 0.29): Players frequently cite clunky controls, glitches, and unfair difficulty spikes, particularly in boss fights. Issues like stunlocks, slow animations, and the inability to evade or run lead to repeated deaths and a sense of helplessness.
- Satisfaction (weight 0.16): Many players find satisfaction in the weapon variety, mech/monster designs, and smooth performance on modern platforms like Steam Deck. Completing the game after overcoming early challenges or discovering efficient boss strategies also brings a sense of accomplishment.
- Excitement (weight 0.12): The core gameplay of shooting bugs and piloting mechs, along with intense boss fights and explosive visuals, generates genuine excitement. Features like thermal control, grappling hooks, and chaotic multiplayer battles are frequently highlighted as thrilling.
- Enjoyment (weight 0.11): Despite some flaws, the game is widely enjoyed for its mech customization, combat depth, and fun boss fights. The overall arcade-y feel and balanced mechanics keep players engaged and coming back.
- Nostalgia (weight 0.1): Many players fondly recall the game from their childhood or college days, often mentioning their first play on Xbox 360 and the rush of revisiting it on PC. The art style and core memories create a strong nostalgic pull.
- Boredom (weight 0.03): The game's repetitive snow environments, slow first few levels, and monotonous mission design lead to boredom. Some players find the pacing and lack of variety tedious.
- Surprise (weight 0.03): Players express surprise at the game still being fun and unique after many years, or at the unexpected inclusion of mecha elements instead of pure alien shooting. The activation code still working is also a pleasant shock.
- Admiration (weight 0.03): The mecha design, difficulty scale comparable to Dark Souls, and unique setting earn admiration. Some consider it one of the best games of all time for its innovative mechanics and spectacular visuals.
- Anger (weight 0.02): Anger is directed at Capcom's anti-consumer DRM practices added retroactively, which degrade performance and hinder modding. The cheap final boss and lost save files also provoke strong negative reactions.
- Appreciation (weight 0.02): Players appreciate the atmospheric design, underrated graphics for its era, and the love put into the story and world. The ambient sound design without music is also noted as a strong point.
- Hope (weight 0.01): Fans express hope for an online community, a remaster, or a sequel that is true to the original's spirit. There is a desire to see Capcom revive the franchise with proper localization.
- Approval (weight 0.01): The game is approved for being excellent for solo players and worth the purchase, especially compared to later entries in the series.
- Annoyance (weight 0.01): Annoyance stems from needing to adjust mouse sensitivity and the confusing control prompts due to Xbox button labeling. These small but persistent issues disrupt the experience.
- Love (weight 0.01): Despite clunky gameplay, the unique experience, cool mechanics, and stunning sound design make the game genuinely loved by its fans.
- Confusion (weight 0.01): Some players are confused by the story's complexity or find the gameplay unengaging, failing to see what others enjoy about it.
- Dissatisfaction (weight 0.01): Dissatisfaction centers on unreliable controls, the lack of a run or dodge button, and a frustrating grappling hook mechanic.
- Irritation (weight 0.01): Irritation arises from enemy explosive attacks that cause stunlocks and screen clutter, as well as minor annoyances like unskippable cutscenes.
- Slight disappointment (weight 0.01): Some players wished for more challenging creatures or a better final boss, finding the overall difficulty curve unsatisfying.
- Appreciation (weight 0.02): Players appreciate the game's underrated status, its solid graphics for the era, and the meaningful story elements that were executed with care.}