Info about Splitgate:

Official game description:
Splitgate is a free-to-play, fast-paced multiplayer shooter that features player-controlled portals. This sci-fi shooter takes the FPS genre to a new dimension with its portal mechanics, delivering high-flying, multi-dimensional combat. Evoking memories of the most revered shooters of the past two decades, Splitgate embraces the classic and familiar feel of close-quarters combat while adding a unique twist.
Portal Combat: a New Kind of Shooter
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Keep your head on a swivel and experience intense, traversal action as you fly, flank, and frag through the air using portal combat to constantly out-smart and out-maneuver your enemies. There’s nothing quite like landing a no-scope headshot from behind after portalling circles around a confused enemy, who still thinks you are standing in front of him!
Comprehensive, Feature-Filled Multiplayer Experience for FREE
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Along with grindable challenges, dozens of customizable characters, a competitive leaderboard and ranking system, and over 15 casual and competitive game modes, Splitgate offers more than 20 maps, each with its own unique setting and play style. The maps include a research facility inside an active volcano, an underwater luxury hotel, an alien crash site, and much more. Each map has its own look and feel and plays differently, rewarding players for adapting their tactics in the fast-paced, portal combat that only Splitgate offers. And it’s FREE.
Party Up with Your Friends Across Multiple Platforms
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Cross-play functionality lets you play with or against your friends across multiple consoles and PCs. Standard FPS controls and intuitive portal mechanics mean beginners are up and running right off the bat, and with competitive and casual modes, you can party up with friends of any skill level. You can even create a custom lobby with modifiers to play any way you like. We highly recommend Big-Head Mode with low gravity and unlimited ammo!

Release date: May 24, 2019

Categories: First-Person Shooter, Multiplayer, Portal-based Gameplay, Arena Shooter, Competitive, Cross-platform Multiplayer, Fast-paced Combat, Tactical Gameplay

Feature scans:
- MTX: score 30; verdict: Standard; summary: The game features a mix of positive and negative aspects regarding its monetization. On the positive side, it offers free updates, a free battle pass, and microtransactions limited to cosmetics. However, there are concerns about the battle pass cost and value, aggressive advertising of paid content, and seasonal item rotations that may induce FOMO. Overall, the monetization is not seen as predatory but could be improved in certain areas.
- Proton/Linux: score 10; verdict: Works Well; summary: The game has a mixed history with Linux support, with some users reporting that support was dropped without warning. However, recent reviews indicate that Linux support has returned and that the game works well on Linux, providing a fun and enjoyable experience. Some users have had positive experiences playing the game on Linux, finding it unique and entertaining.
- Steam Deck: score 50; verdict: Tinkering Required; summary: The analysis of user feedback reveals significant concerns regarding Linux support, with reports of sudden drops and reinstatements of compatibility. Stability on the Steam Deck is also a noted issue, with users experiencing unexpected stops in functionality. Additionally, the disabling of anti-cheat measures suggests past problems that may have impacted the user experience. Overall, while there are positive aspects mentioned, such as the game being fun and enjoyable, the technical barriers and instability are notable detractors.

- Hardware Profile: No data
Feature extractions:
- Community Price:
  - Community fair range: $10.00 - $20.00
  - Reasoning: The evidence suggests that while the game has some enjoyment value, it is not considered a premium experience. Phrases like 'discount halo' and 'not worth really going deep into' indicate that the game is seen as a budget option. Additionally, statements such as 'at its price point I really have no complaints' and 'it's worth it' suggest that the current price is considered fair for the value provided, implying a lower price range.
- Playtime Metrics:
  - Game completion: N/A
  - Story completion: N/A
  - Session length: 5.0h
  - Endgame: N/A
  - Reasoning: The evidence provides several direct references to playtime. One user mentions a 5+ hour waiting time during the beta, indicating long sessions. Another user explicitly states they played for 12+ hours, which suggests a significant session length or total playtime. A third user mentions being invested for 65 hours, which likely refers to total playtime. Finally, another user mentions playing for not quite 40 hours, which also refers to total playtime. These quotes help to derive typical session lengths and total playtime metrics.
- Time-to-fun:
  - Summary: Splitgate is a fun and engaging game from the start, especially when played with friends, but may become repetitive over time.
  - Stance: Fun immediately
  - Anchor: N/A
  - Time to anchor: 0h 0m
  - Friction: High learning curve; Can become repetitive over time
  - Unlock drivers: Playing with friends; Enjoying the unique portal mechanics
  - Conditions: Playing with friends; Enjoying fast-paced action; Appreciating unique game mechanics
- Player Archetypes:
  - Competitive Arena Enthusiast (buy)
    - Motivation: Challenge and skill development
    - Playstyle: Competitive, skill-focused
    - Experience: veteran
    - Purchase stance: buy
    - Labels: old-school player; competitive player
    - Reference games: Halo; Portal
  - Social Casual Gamer (sale)
    - Motivation: Social interaction and fun
    - Playstyle: Casual, social
    - Experience: mixed
    - Purchase stance: sale
    - Labels: casual player; social gamer
    - Reference games: Halo; Portal
  - Hybrid FPS Fan (buy)
    - Motivation: Novelty and unique gameplay mechanics
    - Playstyle: Fast-paced, innovative
    - Experience: familiar
    - Purchase stance: buy
    - Labels: FPS fan; innovative gamer
    - Reference games: Halo; Portal


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:
- Unique portal mechanics (weight 0.72): The game combines elements of popular shooters like Halo and Call of Duty with portal mechanics, creating a unique and innovative gameplay experience.
- Fun and enjoyable gameplay (weight 0.56): The game is widely regarded as fun and enjoyable, with players appreciating the mechanics and the ability to play with friends. Many find it addictive and worth their time.
- Smooth movement and performance (weight 0.34): The movement in the game is described as smooth and satisfying. Players also appreciate the clean and fast-paced gameplay.
- Beautiful graphics (weight 0.28): The game is praised for its beautiful and visually appealing graphics. Players appreciate the stylish and pleasant visuals.
- Comparison to Splitgate (weight 0.27): Players frequently compare the game to Splitgate, with opinions varying on which version is better. Some prefer the original, while others believe the sequel is an improvement.
- Highly regarded FPS (weight 0.25): The game is praised as one of the best FPS games, with many players considering it their favorite shooter. It is also noted for being free to play.
- Peer-to-peer matchmaking (weight 0.18): The game features peer-to-peer matchmaking, which is noted by players. This includes support for bots and peer-to-peer networking.
- Great for playing with friends (weight 0.17): The game is highlighted as a great experience to play with friends, making it a fun party game. Players enjoy the social aspect and the ability to play with random people as well.
- Variety of weapons and maps (weight 0.17): The game offers a variety of good guns and maps, contributing to its appeal as a shooter. Players enjoy the selection of weapons and game modes.
- Well-designed levels (weight 0.16): The levels in the game are well-structured, challenging, and balanced. Players appreciate the good level design and leveling system.

Common complaints:
- Splitgate 2 Criticism (weight 0.46): Players express strong dissatisfaction with Splitgate 2, describing it as a significant step back from the original game. It is criticized for being poorly executed, dumbed down, and failing to capture the essence of its predecessor.
- Bots Issues (weight 0.37): The game is reported to be filled with bots, which can be problematic. Players express frustration with playing against bots that are not clearly indicated as such.
- Focus on Sequel (weight 0.32): The developers' focus has shifted to the sequel, leaving the original game feeling abandoned. Players feel that the sequel is not an improvement and was released prematurely.
- Game is Dead (weight 0.31): Many reviews mention that the game is considered dead or shut down. Players feel that the game ended poorly and suffered a similar fate to other games that have lost their player base.
- Server Shutdown (weight 0.3): Players report that the servers are expected to shut down or have already been shut down by the developers. This has led to frustration and a sense of abandonment among the player community.
- Low Player Base (weight 0.24): There is a notable concern about the extremely low player base. Reviews indicate that there are very few players online, making it difficult to find matches and enjoy the game.
- Matchmaking Issues (weight 0.23): Matchmaking is described as a nightmare with poor net code and unbalanced gameplay. Players struggle to find matches, and the system is seen as flawed and frustrating.
- Lack of Unique Identity (weight 0.17): The game is criticized for lacking a unique personality or style. Players feel that it does not stand out and lacks a distinct identity, making it less appealing.
- Forced Advertisements (weight 0.14): Players are unhappy with the forced advertisements through Steam achievements. This is seen as an intrusive way to promote updates or new games.
- Achievement Issues (weight 0.14): Players report being unable to unlock achievements, which adds to the frustration. This issue is seen as a significant drawback.
- Game Gets Boring (weight 0.14): The game is criticized for losing its charm and becoming boring after a while. Players feel that it lacks depth and can become repetitive.
- Steep Learning Curve (weight 0.11): New players find the game hard to learn due to its steep learning curve. This can be a barrier for those trying to get into the game.
- Poor Art Style (weight 0.11): The art style is criticized as being awful and uninspired. Players find the graphics and overall art style to be unattractive.
- Forced Transition to Sequel (weight 0.09): Players feel that the developers are forcing them to transition to the sequel by shutting down the original game. This is seen as a betrayal of the player base.
- Lack of Updates (weight 0.08): The game is criticized for lacking updates and no longer being maintained. Players feel that the game is stagnant and not evolving.
- Confusing Maps (weight 0.08): Some maps are described as confusing, with angles that can be difficult to navigate. This can lead to frustration and a poor gaming experience.
- Generic Weapons (weight 0.08): The weapons in the game are described as feeling generic. Players feel that the weapons lack uniqueness and are not interesting.
- No Grenade Variety (weight 0.08): Players express frustration with the lack of grenade variety. This is seen as a limitation in gameplay and strategy.
- Kicked for Suspicious Activity (weight 0.08): Players report being kicked from matches for suspected hacking. This can be frustrating and disruptive to the gaming experience.
- Only Hardcore Players Remain (weight 0.08): The game is reported to have only hardcore players remaining, which can be intimidating for new or casual players.
- Presence of Cheaters (weight 0.08): There are reports of potential hackers and cheaters in the game. This can lead to an unfair and frustrating gaming experience.
- Lack of Progression System (weight 0.08): The game is criticized for lacking a deep progression loop. Players feel that there is not enough incentive to keep playing.
- Poor Execution (weight 0.08): The game is criticized for its horrible execution. Players feel that the game needs better execution to be enjoyable.
- Bugs Affect Gameplay (weight 0.08): There are reports of bugs that affect gameplay, including freezes. This can lead to a poor gaming experience.
- Settings Button Issues (weight 0.07): Players report that the apply button for settings is not showing up. This can be frustrating and disruptive to the gaming experience.
- Game Copied Other Games (weight 0.07): The game is criticized for copying other games, such as Murder Miners. Players feel that it lacks originality.
- Few Game Modes (weight 0.07): The game is criticized for having few game modes. Players feel that the game lacks variety in gameplay.

Gameplay feedback:
- Diverse game modes available (weight 0.43): The game offers a variety of game modes, including 4v4, 3v3, Battle Royale, Team Deathmatch, and custom modes like Zombie VIP and Flying Splitball.
- Arena-style FPS gameplay (weight 0.36): The game is an arena-style first-person shooter with fast-paced and intense firefights.
- Portal mechanics enhance strategy (weight 0.34): Portals add a new layer of strategy and movement, allowing for strategic maneuvering, flanking, and quick escapes.
- Unique combination of game elements (weight 0.26): The game combines elements from various popular shooters like Halo, Portal, Unreal Tournament, and Quake.
- Custom games and maps (weight 0.18): Players can create custom games, private matches, and community maps, enhancing replayability.
- Puzzle-solving mechanics (weight 0.17): The game includes puzzle-solving elements, such as splitting the hero into fragments for different challenges.
- Peer-to-peer and matchmaking system (weight 0.14): The game uses a peer-to-peer server hosting and matchmaking system for multiplayer matches.
- Satisfying gunplay and movement (weight 0.12): The game features satisfying gunplay and movement mechanics, with a variety of guns and simple mechanics.
- High skill ceiling (weight 0.09): The game offers competitive play with a high skill ceiling, appealing to players looking for a challenge.
- Cross-platform play (weight 0.09): The game supports cross-platform play, allowing players on different platforms to play together.
- Vertical map design (weight 0.08): Maps are designed with verticality in mind, enhancing the strategic use of portals and movement.
- Weapon balance issues (weight 0.08): Some players have noted issues with weapon balance, leading to unbalanced gameplay experiences.

Performance notes:
- Good optimization and performance (weight 0.34): The game is well optimized for PC, running smoothly on various configurations, including older PCs and laptops. It has low system requirements and performs well even on low-end hardware.
- Technical problems and crashes (weight 0.28): Several players have encountered technical problems, including crashes, freezes, and errors. Some issues require restarting the game or verifying files.
- Network and performance issues (weight 0.22): Players report poor net code, lag spikes, and constant lag issues. These problems significantly affect the gameplay experience and need attention.
- Launch options and settings (weight 0.12): The game offers launch options for language and performance optimization, allowing players to tweak settings for better performance.
- Graphics and animation issues (weight 0.08): Some players have reported graphics issues, particularly with portals, and animation issues that affect the visual experience.
- Device limitations and performance impact (weight 0.07): Some players have noted device limitations and issues with game files affecting laptop performance.
- Long load times (weight 0.05): The game takes a long time to load, which can be frustrating for players.
- Compatibility with Linux (weight 0.04): The game works fine on Linux systems, specifically mentioned is Fedora Linux 42.
- Tips for reducing crashes (weight 0.04): There are tips available for reducing crashes on lower-end machines, helping players with less powerful hardware.

Recommendations:
- General recommendation to try (weight 0.25): Many players recommend giving the game a shot, highlighting its overall appeal and enjoyment.
- Community servers needed (weight 0.16): Players are requesting the release of hostable community servers, including self-host and P2P options, to improve the gaming experience.
- Gameplay adjustments needed (weight 0.15): Suggestions include toning down aim assist, adding a crossplay toggle option in ranked, removing instagib shot delay, and fixing battle pass notification issues.
- Recommended for fast-paced shooter fans (weight 0.13): The game is highly recommended for players who enjoy fast-paced shooters and those seeking speed and strategy in their gameplay.
- Multiplayer with friends enhances experience (weight 0.09): The game is worth downloading and playing if you have friends to join you, as it enhances the overall experience.
- Improve bot identification (weight 0.09): There is a suggestion to better identify bots and provide options to queue for bot matches or human opponents.
- Community engagement for tips (weight 0.08): New players are encouraged to join community groups and watch tutorials for tips and support.
- Avoid ranked, try casual (weight 0.07): Players suggest avoiding ranked mode and instead selecting the Research & Survive playlist for a more casual play experience.
- Potential for future success (weight 0.05): The game is seen as great and could potentially be the next big thing in gaming.
- Single-player maps needed (weight 0.05): Players are requesting special maps designed specifically for single-player mode.
- Nostalgia and series origins (weight 0.05): Recommended for players interested in nostalgia or seeing where the series started.
- Ads attract COD players (weight 0.04): Advertisements are seen as important for attracting players from the Call of Duty franchise.
- Free to play (weight 0.04): The game is noted for being free, which adds to its appeal.
- Wait for new release (weight 0.04): Some players recommend waiting for the new Splitgate to be fully released before diving in.

Other player notes:
- Detailed game analysis (weight 0.05): Provides a comprehensive analysis of various aspects of the game, likely covering mechanics, story, and other elements.
- Launch instructions with settings (weight 0.05): Offers detailed instructions on how to launch the game with specific settings for optimal performance or experience.
- Community group numbers provided (weight 0.05): This cluster provides specific community group numbers that players can join for additional support or interaction.
- Referral code for rewards (weight 0.05): Includes a referral code that players can use to gain in-game rewards or benefits.

Emotions:
- Disappointment (weight 0.18): Players are disappointed primarily due to the shutdown of servers for the original game and the perceived decline in quality and vision in Splitgate 2. The shift in focus to the sequel, along with the inability to unlock achievements and the lack of meaningful improvements, has left many feeling let down.
- Frustration (weight 0.15): Frustration stems from several technical and gameplay issues, including poor matchmaking, server problems, and game crashes. Players are also frustrated with the high AI ratio in teams, hit registration issues, and the inability to obtain achievements due to server shutdowns.
- Excitement (weight 0.1): Players are excited about the unique and innovative gameplay mechanics, such as the character splitting and portal mechanics. The fast-paced and tactical gameplay, along with the variety of game modes and the potential of Splitgate 2, contribute to this excitement.
- Nostalgia (weight 0.08): Nostalgia is driven by memories of the original game and its unique aspects, such as iconic maps and the Halo-like experience. Players reminisce about the fun times they had with friends and the game's prime, which holds a special place in their gaming history.
- Satisfaction (weight 0.07): Satisfaction comes from the solid gameplay mechanics, including the portal mechanics and gunplay, as well as the game's performance and variety of game modes. Players appreciate the high skill ceiling and the overall enjoyable gameplay experience.
- Anger (weight 0.07): Anger is primarily directed towards the developers for shutting down the original game and forcing players to move to Splitgate 2. The perceived betrayal of the fanbase and the aggressive advertising tactics have also contributed to this emotion.
- Enjoyment (weight 0.05): Enjoyment is derived from the fun and unique mechanics of the game, such as the portal mechanics and the fast-paced gameplay. Players appreciate the variety of game modes and the overall positive gameplay experience.
- Sadness (weight 0.05): Sadness is mainly due to the shutdown of servers and the end of the original game. Players are saddened by the loss of a game they enjoyed and the inability to continue playing it as they once did.
- Positive (weight 0.04): Positive feelings are generated by the unique combination of portal mechanics and shooting, as well as the enjoyment of playing with friends. The game's performance and the variety of custom modes also contribute to this positivity.
- Joy (weight 0.04): Joy comes from the fun gameplay and the unique mix of game elements, such as the portal system and strategic gameplay. Players enjoy the game's concept and the suitability for playing with friends, which brings them happiness.
- Appreciation (weight 0.03): Appreciation is felt towards the developers for their efforts to keep the game alive and accessible, such as providing peer-to-peer servers and free cosmetics. Players also appreciate the game's concept, gunplay, movement, and map design.
- Approval (weight 0.02): Approval is given due to the positive recommendation of the game despite minor drawbacks. Players approve of the game's unique combination of elements from Portal and Halo, making it a worthwhile experience.
- Hope (weight 0.02): Hope is expressed for the future of the game and the potential of Splitgate 2. Players wish the developers well and hope that the game's legacy will continue through the sequel.
- Amusement (weight 0.01): Amusement is derived from unexpected and humorous moments in the gameplay, such as shooting people through portals. These unique and funny experiences bring a sense of joy and entertainment to the players.
- Happiness (weight 0.01): Happiness comes from the game living on through peer-to-peer servers and the developers' decisions to keep the game accessible. Players are also happy about achieving difficult milestones in the game.
- Excited (weight 0.01): Excitement is generated by the anticipation of Splitgate 2 and the recommendation to install the game. Players are looking forward to the new experiences and improvements that the sequel might bring.
- Gratitude (weight 0.01): Gratitude is felt towards the developers for their efforts to keep the game alive and the community well. Players appreciate the dedication and hard work put into maintaining the game.
- Love (weight 0.01): Love for the game is expressed through positive experiences with the game and its community. Players appreciate the game's pacing, art style, and the overall enjoyable experience it provides.}