Info about YUMENIKKI -DREAM DIARY-:

Official game description:
  
As long as I have dreams in my heart, I can never escape.  
I can never awaken from my dreams.  
Maybe if I follow the dream just past this doorway, then someday I can wake up again...
Game Features
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*   Wander through the elaborate and terrifyingly beautiful world expanding before your eyes as you pass through the door to your own dreams.  
*   Experience a unique and alluring realm that stretches the bounds of imagination.  
*   Utilize an eclectic variety of items and effects to venture deeper and deeper into the world of dreams.
\*This game was created under the direct supervision of and with full cooperation from the original creator, Kikiyama, in hopes of spreading the magic of Yume Nikki to new fans and further expanding the potential of both the RPG Maker series itself and indie games in general.

Release date: 22 Feb, 2018

Categories: Exploration, Puzzle Solving, Platformer, Psychological Horror, Environmental Storytelling, Linear Progression, Collectibles


- Hardware Profile: No data
Feature extractions:
- Community Price: No data
- Playtime Metrics: No data
- Time-to-fun: No data
- Player Archetypes: No data


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:
- Successful Reimagining & Remake (weight 0.57): The game is widely appreciated as a thoughtful and well-executed re-imagining or remake of the original Yume Nikki. It successfully translates the core essence, characters, and atmosphere into a modern 3D format, offering a fresh yet nostalgic experience for both new players and long-time fans.
- Captivating Atmosphere & Visuals (weight 0.45): Players highly praise the game's atmosphere, describing it as mysterious, melancholic, bizarre, and eerie. The 3D graphics, surreal landscapes, and unique art style effectively enhance the dreamlike and horror elements, creating a visually striking experience that often surpasses the original.
- Engaging Gameplay & Exploration (weight 0.4): The shift to a more 'gamified' approach with puzzle-platforming and exploration elements is generally well-received. Players find the new gameplay mechanics, puzzles, and objectives interesting and enjoyable, making the game more accessible and providing a sense of progression.
- Excellent Soundtrack & Sound Design (weight 0.36): The game's music and sound design are consistently highlighted as outstanding. The soundtrack, a mix of re-done original tracks and new compositions, effectively builds tension, enhances the bizarre atmosphere, and is considered a significant improvement over the original.
- Good Value & Accessibility (weight 0.07): The game is considered a good entry point for horror games and is well-priced for the experience it offers. Its easier gameplay and more linear structure make it accessible to newcomers who might have found the original too vast or demanding.
- Madotsuki's Enhanced Narrative (weight 0.06): The game provides a more polished narrative for Madotsuki, offering insights into her personality through cutscenes and a diary that illustrates her adventures. This makes her feel more like a character and less just a player's vehicle, with an emotional payoff for her story.
- Satisfying Endings & Replayability (weight 0.05): Players appreciate the more concrete and satisfying endings, with multiple conclusions available. The game's overall experience is positive enough that some players express a desire to replay it in the future.
- Improved Player Experience Post-Updates (weight 0.05): Significant quality-of-life improvements and additional content released in updates have greatly enhanced the game. These updates addressed initial criticisms, polished early-game areas, and made the overall experience more enjoyable and almost flawless for players.
- Appreciated Collectibles & Art (weight 0.03): The inclusion of collectibles and concept art, particularly within Madotsuki's diary, is a nice touch that adds to the game's appeal. Character designs are also noted as being great.

Common complaints:
- Generic Horror Elements (weight 0.9): The game's incorporation of generic, cliché horror elements like jump scares, mannequins, and shadow monsters is criticized for being forced and missing the subtle, atmospheric horror of the original. This often results in a less impactful and more conventional horror experience.
- Linear & Restrictive Gameplay (weight 0.82): The shift from the original's open-ended exploration to a more linear, objective-driven, and restrictive gameplay style is a major point of contention. This change removes the sense of freedom and discovery that defined the predecessor.
- Deviates from Original's Essence (weight 0.69): Players widely criticize the game for straying too far from the original Yume Nikki's core essence, atmosphere, and gameplay. This includes changes to exploration, narrative ambiguity, and overall artistic intent, leading to a loss of the original's unique charm and surrealism.
- Technical Issues & Bugs (weight 0.51): The game is plagued by numerous technical issues, including inconsistent collisions, awkward ledge detection, and frequent bugs that can lead to getting stuck, crashes, or unplayable experiences. Optimization issues also contribute to a generally unpolished feel.
- Clunky Controls & Platforming (weight 0.5): The game's controls are frequently described as clunky, stiff, and lacking precision, especially during platforming sections. This is exacerbated by a fixed camera, leading to frustrating gameplay, difficult navigation, and accidental falls.
- Short & Lacking Content (weight 0.49): Players feel the game is too short for its price, with limited content, fewer effects than the original, and a lack of replayability. This contributes to a sense of wasted potential and an incomplete experience.
- Poor Animations & Visuals (weight 0.47): Animations are frequently described as slow, stiff, jerky, and unskippable, detracting from the gameplay experience. The overall graphical presentation is often perceived as low-budget, unappealing, and failing to capture the original's charm.
- Poor Puzzle Design (weight 0.1): Many players found the puzzles to be cryptic, unintuitive, and poorly hinted, often requiring random solutions or excessive backtracking. This design choice is seen as forced and detracts from the game's flow and the original's natural interaction.
- Frustrating Block World (weight 0.05): The 'Block World' section is specifically highlighted as a source of frustration due to its terrible controls, janky platforming, long respawn times, and tedious objectives, making it one of the worst areas in the game.
- Monoko's Annoying Portrayal (weight 0.03): Monoko's character is criticized for her 'stupid' and unatmospheric walk animation, and her role is reduced to an annoying child who aggressively chases the player, losing the original's subtle presence.

Gameplay feedback:
- Shift to Puzzle-Platformer Gameplay (weight 0.48): The game significantly departs from the original's open-ended exploration, adopting a more linear puzzle-platformer style. It incorporates elements like precision platforming, stealth, chase sequences, and inventory puzzles, drawing comparisons to games like Limbo and Little Nightmares.
- Modernized Visuals and Perspective (weight 0.24): The game transitions from the original's 2D pixel art to 3D models and modern maps. It features a dynamic camera, alternating between 2.5D side-scrolling, fixed camera puzzles, and occasional 3D exploration, creating a varied visual experience.
- Narrative and Lore Expansion (weight 0.24): Unlike the original's minimalist approach, the game attempts to provide a more explicit narrative and lore for Madotsuki's story. It uses minimal dialogue, achievements, and environmental storytelling to explain her dreams and character, even confirming certain fan theories.
- Streamlined Progression and Collectibles (weight 0.1): The game offers a more structured and linear progression with clear objectives, contrasting the original's aimless wandering. It includes more collectibles, such as glowing items that record content in a diary and unlock concept art, adding replay value through completionism.
- Limited and Functional Effects (weight 0.1): The game features a significantly reduced number of 'effects' compared to the original, with only 5-6 available. These effects are primarily functional, serving as tools for puzzle-solving and progression rather than offering broad exploratory freedom or cosmetic changes.
- New Mini-Games and References (weight 0.07): The game introduces new mini-games, including a revamped 'Super NASU' and an 'Ao Oni' inspired game. It also includes various easter eggs and references to the original Yume Nikki and other horror titles, adding extra content and fan service.
- Lenient Death Mechanics (weight 0.02): Unlike some horror games, dying in this game is a minor setback. Getting caught by creatures results in a soft game-over, respawning the player at the start of the current segment or last checkpoint, rather than a harsh penalty.
- Controller Support Recommended (weight 0.02): Players have noted that while both keyboard and Xbox pad controls are functional, using a gamepad is generally recommended for a smoother experience, especially during precision platforming sections.

Performance notes:
- Inconsistent Performance & Optimization (weight 0.09): Players report unstable frame rates across various hardware, from Steam Deck to high-end PCs, indicating general optimization issues. While some found performance improved with specific settings or patches, many still experience drops and erratic behavior.
- Graphics Settings Impact Performance (weight 0.03): Adjusting graphics settings, such as lowering quality or screen size, can significantly improve frame rates for some players. There's also a mention that performance stabilizes on high settings for some, and that highest settings no longer cause drops after an update.
- Minor Bugs Present (weight 0.03): Some players encountered minor bugs, such as clipping through walls or seeing untextured models. However, there's also positive feedback that many bugs are being quickly addressed through patches.

Recommendations:
- Manage expectations for Yume Nikki fans (weight 0.45): Many players, especially fans of the original Yume Nikki, express mixed feelings. They recommend playing the original first and approaching this game as a distinct experience rather than a direct sequel, remake, or faithful remaster. Expectations of similar gameplay or atmosphere to the original often lead to disappointment.
- Support for Kikiyama and franchise (weight 0.25): Some players recommend buying the game primarily to support Kikiyama, the creator of the original Yume Nikki, and to show interest in the franchise's future. This sentiment often overrides personal enjoyment of the game itself.
- Consider purchasing on sale (weight 0.18): A significant number of reviews suggest that the game is best purchased at a discounted price. While some die-hard fans might consider full price, many feel the game's content and quality do not justify its full cost, especially given its perceived flaws and differences from the original.
- Appeals to specific niches (weight 0.03): The game might appeal to fans of puzzle platformers, indie horror, or those who enjoyed specific aspects like redesigns, soundtrack, or global scenery. It's also suggested for those who wanted a different take on Madotsuki's story or a 'Night Watch 0.5' experience.
- Watch gameplay before buying (weight 0.02): Several reviewers advise potential players to watch a playthrough or gameplay videos before purchasing. This helps set realistic expectations and allows players to gauge if the game's different style and mechanics align with their preferences.
- Alternative Yume Nikki experiences (weight 0.01): Reviewers frequently suggest playing other Yume Nikki fan games like Yume 2kki or Yume Nikki 3D, or even the original Yume Nikki, as alternatives for those seeking a different or more traditional experience.

Other player notes:
- Original Yume Nikki's Legacy (weight 0.28): The original Yume Nikki is frequently referenced as a beloved, free, and unique experience that fostered a strong community. Reviewers often compare the new game to the original, emphasizing its distinct qualities and the impact it had on them.
- New Direction and Audience (weight 0.21): The game attempts to create a more structured experience with horror elements and references to fan theories, aiming to appeal to a wider, potentially overseas audience unfamiliar with the original's niche appeal. This shift in focus is noted as a deliberate design choice.
- Resemblance to Other Indie Horror (weight 0.17): Some reviewers note that the game's style and gameplay mechanics resemble other indie horror titles like Limbo and Inside, suggesting it adopts a more conventional approach to the genre.
- Mixed Reception and Overhated (weight 0.11): Despite its differences, some players feel the game is unfairly criticized and 'overhated.' They acknowledge its flaws but believe it offers its own merits, suggesting that blind idolization of the original might overshadow its potential enjoyment.
- Reviewer Context and Version (weight 0.06): Several reviews mention the specific game version they are playing (e.g., v2.0) and their personal approach to reviewing, including completionist tendencies or evolving opinions. This provides context for their feedback.
- Technical and Content Status (weight 0.03): Players report no game-breaking bugs and acknowledge the game offers a decent amount of content. There's also hope for future updates to add more effects and content.
- Limited Text and Guidance (weight 0.02): The game features minimal text and offers little guidance, requiring players to explore without explicit instructions. This design choice aligns with the cryptic nature of the original but can be challenging for new players.

Emotions:
- Disappointment (weight 0.26): Players felt let down by the game's significant deviation from the original Yume Nikki's essence, atmosphere, and core mechanics, particularly the shift from free exploration to a more linear, objective-driven experience. Common complaints included poor controls, technical issues like optimization problems and bugs, unsatisfactory art design, and a general feeling of the game being unpolished or a 'cash grab' that failed to live up to expectations or its potential.
- Frustration (weight 0.2): This emotion stemmed primarily from the game's clunky controls, imprecise camera, and technical issues such as bugs, poor optimization, and jerky animations. Players also found the linear design, tedious puzzle platforming, slow unskippable animations, and difficult enemies to be sources of significant frustration, often leading to a loss of progress or an inability to enjoy the gameplay.
- Satisfaction (weight 0.17): Players expressed satisfaction when the game successfully captured the essential feeling of the source material, offered a thoughtful re-imagining, or provided an enjoyable atmosphere and exploration experience. Achieving hidden items, completing the game, or appreciating the visuals, soundtrack, and lore despite initial difficulties also contributed to a sense of satisfaction, especially for those who found a way to enjoy the game on its own merits.
- Enjoyment (weight 0.07): Enjoyment was found by players who appreciated seeing the dream world and characters in 3D, or who managed their expectations and accepted the game as a standalone title rather than a direct remake. The game's visuals, music, puzzle-like loop, and nods to the original also contributed to a fun and entertaining experience for some, despite acknowledged flaws.
- Appreciation (weight 0.05): Players appreciated the developers' dedication, effort, and commitment to the community, including updates and the addition of more gameplay and restored scenes. The game was also valued for its unique spin on the Yume Nikki universe, its ability to spur interest in the original, and its replication of atmosphere and sounds, along with its art, soundtrack, and interesting mechanics.
- Anger (weight 0.04): Anger arose from the perception that the game 'destroyed' or was a 'disservice' to the original Yume Nikki, particularly due to its canonization of controversial theories and stripping of nuance. Poor design choices, perceived low quality, and the feeling that the developers misunderstood the original's essence or were exploiting the IP for profit also fueled this emotion.
- Excitement (weight 0.02): Excitement was generated by the anticipation of seeing familiar landscapes and characters recreated in 3D, especially for long-time fans who had waited for a new Yume Nikki experience. The game's unique identity, new content, and improved experience also contributed to initial enthusiasm.
- Admiration (weight 0.02): Admiration was expressed for the game's ability to convey a mysterious, melancholic, and beautiful world, as well as for its visual and atmospheric enhancements. The surprisingly good music and the overall pleasantness of the game also garnered admiration from players.
- Nostalgia (weight 0.01): This emotion was triggered by the classic game receiving a remake and the opportunity to revisit the original Yume Nikki's atmosphere, exploration, and memorable experience. The unique charm and exploration of the original were key elements evoking nostalgia.
- Mixed feelings (weight 0.01): Players experienced mixed feelings due to the game's significant changes from the original, balancing moments of enjoyment with numerous flaws, problematic gameplay, and a lack of content. This often led to acknowledging that while they might enjoy aspects, it wasn't what others expected.
- Love (weight 0.01): Some players eventually grew to love the game, finding it to be a beautiful remake or simply developing a strong affection for the experience it offered, often after overcoming initial reservations or adjusting expectations.
- Curiosity (weight 0.01): Curiosity was sparked by the opportunity to see the original's locales in 3D and to explore the game's unique direction and atmosphere. Players were also curious about future updates, collecting achievements, and the unique experience each player would have in the dream world.
- Criticism (weight 0.01): Criticism focused on the game's perceived low-budget appearance, generic level design, and visuals. Players also criticized the reimagining of characters in incorrect locations and the belief that 3D did not suit the original's abstract nature.
- Guidance (weight 0.01): Players offered guidance by providing advice on how to approach the game, recommending alternatives, or advising new players and fans of the original on which game to play to manage expectations or find a better experience.
- Acceptance (weight 0.01): Acceptance came from players who acknowledged and embraced the game's differences from the original, recognizing its separate identity. They also accepted manageable deaths and the possibility of future performance improvements.
- Confusion (weight 0.01): Confusion arose from a lack of information or clues for progression, unclear mechanics in specific game areas, and the difficulty in recommending a game that, despite some positives, was fundamentally flawed.
- Hope (weight 0.01): Hope was expressed for future content, improvements, and the possibility that the game could lead to more Yume Nikki content in the future, indicating a desire for the game to evolve and succeed.
- Joy (weight 0.01): Joy was a straightforward emotion experienced by players who simply found pleasure in playing the game, indicating a positive and enjoyable overall experience.
- Defensiveness (weight 0.01): Defensiveness emerged in response to the game's negative reputation, with some players feeling the need to defend the game against widespread criticism or misinterpretations.
- Skepticism (weight 0.01): Skepticism was directed towards developer claims regarding Kikiyama's involvement, suggesting a distrust or doubt about the authenticity or extent of the original creator's input.}