Info about NecroVision:

Official game description:
War is Hell. NecroVision is a first-person shooter that takes gamers across the frantic battlegrounds of World War I and into a dark underworld of vampires, demons and dark magic.  
Seeking adventure, young American Simon Bukner joins the British army in war-torn Europe of 1916. During a particularly ferocious battle, Bukner and his battalion are pushed into a series of dark trenches where they encounter mysterious phenomenon. As they move through the labyrinth they discover that there is a greater evil hiding underneath the battle-fields of the Great War — an evil that is forcing its way into our world and threatens to wipe out humanity. In the depths of this newly discovered underworld, Bukner must confront the dark forces and fight for the survival of mankind.  
*   An engrossing storyline blends elements of a traditional war shooter with magic and the supernatural world  
*   Players fight with authentic WWI era weapons, powerful magic artifacts and vampire powers  
*   Hordes of enemies that include humans, demons and vampires  
*   Massive, brutal boss battles  
*   Intense, fast-paced FPS combat stands out from the trend of plodding shooters  
*   Battle online with up to 16 players

Release date: May 20, 2009

Categories: First-Person Shooter, Action Horror, Supernatural Powers, Boss Fights, Character Progression, Weapon Customization, Single-player Story, Linear Progression


- 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:
- Highly enjoyable gameplay experience (weight 0.56): Players consistently praise the game's engaging and varied gameplay, noting its fluid mechanics, nostalgic value, and adaptability despite minor flaws like floaty controls or hitbox challenges. The game holds up well over time and is often described as 'magically compelling.'
- Innovative WW1 supernatural setting (weight 0.46): The game's blend of World War I aesthetics with horror, fantasy, and occult themes is frequently praised as unique and underutilized. Players appreciate the atmospheric trenches, supernatural enemies, and ambitious narrative progression from historical to fantastical elements.
- Optimized for modern hardware (weight 0.39): Despite its age, the game runs smoothly on modern systems with maxed graphics settings. Players report no crashes or bugs, praising its well-preserved visuals and sound design.
- Engaging story and world-building (weight 0.25): While the narrative is simple, players find it creative and immersive, with a gradual descent into horror and multiple endings. The blend of WWI history with supernatural twists, along with strong voice acting, enhances the game's atmosphere.
- Strong old-school shooter vibes (weight 0.2): Fans of classic FPS games celebrate its visceral, frenetic gameplay and mid-2000s nostalgia. The game is often compared favorably to titles like *Painkiller* and *Doom*, offering a playable difficulty curve and cult-classic potential.
- Well-designed levels and pacing (weight 0.1): The game balances linear progression with hidden secrets and introduces new mechanics/enemies frequently. Players note the aesthetic appeal of levels, balanced difficulty (e.g., health drops), and positive surprises in lighting and form.
- Excellent value for money (weight 0.08): Reviewers frequently mention the game's affordability, especially on sale or bundled with its sequel. The 7–11 hours of content, combined with its replayability and unique charm, make it a highly recommended purchase.
- Memorable boss fights (weight 0.08): Boss encounters are highlighted as standout moments, particularly the final bosses, which are described as challenging, well-designed, and visually impressive. Players appreciate the old-school difficulty and skill-based mechanics.

Common complaints:
- Repetitive and tedious gameplay (weight 0.95): Gameplay becomes monotonous, repetitive, and boring, especially in the second half. Linear level design, lack of tactics, and uninspired enemy waves contribute to a stale experience that overstays its welcome.
- Unsatisfying gunplay and weapons (weight 0.72): Shooting mechanics are inconsistent, weak, and lack impact. Weapons feel indistinct, imprecise, and unsatisfying, with issues like excessive recoil, poor hit detection, and cumbersome switching.
- Clunky and janky controls (weight 0.68): Controls are universally criticized as janky, clunky, and unresponsive, with issues in aiming, movement, and weapon switching. Poor controller compatibility and overly sensitive inputs further hinder gameplay.
- Poor audio and voice acting (weight 0.66): Sound design is mediocre, with inconsistent volume levels, glitched music, and poor voice acting (e.g., cringe-worthy Russian/German accents). Cutscenes often lack sound or sync, and the soundtrack is forgettable.
- Severe technical and performance issues (weight 0.65): The game suffers from frequent crashes, frame drops, bugs (e.g., stuck in textures, physics glitches), and poor optimization (e.g., alt-tab issues, long load times). These issues make the game unplayable on modern systems even with community patches.
- Outdated and poor graphics (weight 0.6): Graphics are described as outdated, inconsistent, and poorly designed, even for the game's release date. Visuals are cluttered, lack immersion, and suffer from excessive post-processing effects, making the game feel like a 2009 title.
- Game-breaking bugs and progression issues (weight 0.58): Numerous bugs prevent progression, such as crashes in specific levels, getting stuck in terrain, or game-breaking glitches (e.g., Chapter 4). Some players cannot progress past the first level.
- Frustrating enemy and combat design (weight 0.45): Enemies are poorly designed, with excessive spawning, unfair mechanics (e.g., knockback, stunlocks), and tanky behavior. Combat is described as irritating, overwhelming, and lacking depth, particularly in later levels.
- Poor storytelling and plot (weight 0.27): The story is confusing, illogical, and poorly executed, with disjointed plot elements, weak character motivations, and nonsensical progression (e.g., mech battles, ancient vampire civilizations).
- Motion sickness and visibility issues (weight 0.18): Excessive camera shake, motion blur, and poor lighting cause discomfort, headaches, and nausea. Some areas are too dark or bright, impairing visibility and gameplay readability.
- Chaotic and incoherent gameplay (weight 0.14): Gameplay feels rushed, janky, and inconsistent, with excessive effects, glitches, and frustrating mechanics. The experience is described as a 'masterpiece of annoyance' due to its lack of polish.
- Unpolished melee combat (weight 0.09): Melee combat feels floaty, unresponsive, and ineffective, with poor hit detection and slow combos. It is often overused and out of place in the game's setting.

Gameplay feedback:
- Diverse melee and ranged combat (weight 0.52): The game features a robust combat system combining melee (kung-fu style, dual-wielding) and ranged weapons (rifles, shotguns, pistols) with a combo-based mechanic. Players can chain attacks, use magic, and execute finishers for varied gameplay.
- First-person shooter core gameplay (weight 0.47): The game is a fast-paced FPS with old-school mechanics, emphasizing headshots, spray-shooting, and visceral feedback. It balances arcade-style action with modern combat depth, including boss battles and dynamic enemy spawning.
- Dragon and mech mounts (weight 0.12): The game includes segments with dragon riding and mech suits, breaking from standard FPS gameplay. These mechanics are cinematic and provide variety in combat and traversal.
- Linear levels with secrets (weight 0.11): Level design features claustrophobic corridors, arenas, and open supernatural realms, often with hidden secrets. While linear, the environments vary in size and theme to maintain engagement.
- Enemy variety and AI (weight 0.1): Enemies range from soldiers to supernatural creatures, requiring adaptive strategies. AI is aggressive, with mechanics like sticking to players, ensuring dynamic combat.
- Adrenaline and rage mechanics (weight 0.09): Players can trigger bullet time, slow-motion, or invincibility via an adrenaline/rage system, rewarding aggressive play. The mechanic is impactful but occasionally poorly explained.
- Unlockable challenges and rewards (weight 0.08): Challenge maps and rooms offer permanent unlocks (weapons, abilities) for completing specific tasks. This encourages replayability and mastery of mechanics.
- Vampire weapons and artifacts (weight 0.08): Later stages introduce vampire-themed weapons (e.g., gauntlets with fireballs) and permanent upgrades, adding supernatural abilities to the arsenal. These are less versatile but offer unique combat options.
- Shadow Hand magic abilities (weight 0.07): The Shadow Hand gauntlet enables spellcasting (fireballs, freezing) and melee attacks, blending magic with traditional combat. This adds strategic depth to encounters.
- Storytelling and cinematic moments (weight 0.07): The narrative-driven campaign uses cutscenes, environmental storytelling, and one-liners to build its WWI-meets-hell world. Key moments, like dragon encounters, enhance immersion.
- Multiple endings by difficulty (weight 0.06): The game features three endings tied to difficulty levels, rewarding players for harder playthroughs without alternate paths. This adds replay value for completionists.

Performance notes:
- Physics and graphical glitches (weight 0.14): Physics-related bugs, such as bodies launching players or bouncing out of bounds, disrupt gameplay. Graphical glitches, including shadow distortions and HDR/bloom issues, further degrade the experience.
- Workarounds improve stability (weight 0.11): Players report success using compatibility modes (e.g., Windows XP SP3), DirectX 9, or disabling features like Steam Overlay. The GOG version is noted for running smoothly on maximum settings.
- Stuttering and loading issues (weight 0.07): Heavy stuttering during combat, long loading times (e.g., 2 minutes per chapter), and manual screen-switching requirements create frustrating pauses and interruptions.
- Hardware-specific inconsistencies (weight 0.07): Performance and stability vary widely based on hardware, with issues like Nvidia-related problems, white screens during transitions, and FPS-dependent load times creating unpredictable experiences.
- Enemy AI and collision bugs (weight 0.06): Enemies spawn in inaccessible areas, get stuck, or cause sudden deaths due to terrain glitches. Collision bugs also lead to unintended fall damage, disrupting gameplay flow.
- Audio and input-related problems (weight 0.05): Audio glitches, such as repeated clips or volume inconsistencies, alongside input issues (e.g., aim sensitivity, mouse button limitations) detract from immersion and control.

Recommendations:
- Best for shooter and old-school fans (weight 0.29): The game is particularly recommended for fans of atmospheric, old-school, or action-packed shooters. Players who enjoy imaginative or supernatural FPS experiences may find it appealing, especially if they appreciate janky or retro gameplay.
- Highly recommended despite flaws (weight 0.24): Many players recommend the game for its unique charm, chaotic fun, and value, especially at a discounted price. The game is praised for its distinctiveness and nostalgia, making it worth trying despite its jankiness or bugs.
- Purchase only on sale (weight 0.12): Due to bugs, polarizing design, or performance issues, many reviewers suggest buying the game only during sales or at a deep discount. This mitigates the risk of dissatisfaction with its flaws.
- Unique but flawed execution (weight 0.1): While the game’s ambitious premise and experimental nature are acknowledged, its poor implementation deters many players. It is recommended only for curiosity or as a case study in game design.
- Adjust settings for better experience (weight 0.07): Players recommend tweaking settings like disabling motion blur, adjusting FOV, capping FPS at 60, or enabling DirectX 10 to reduce dizziness, glitches, or performance issues.
- First half superior to second (weight 0.06): The first half of the game is widely praised as a masterpiece or highly enjoyable, while the second half often disappoints. Players are encouraged to experience the first half, even if they don’t finish the game.
- Try before buying (weight 0.06): Players suggest testing the game via cloud playthroughs or within the refund window to gauge personal tolerance for its issues. Forming an independent opinion is encouraged due to mixed reviews.
- Workarounds for bugs and performance (weight 0.03): Specific fixes, such as restoring original game files, adjusting config files, or using DirectX 10, are recommended to address missing content, glitches, or performance problems.
- Uncut version outside Steam (weight 0.03): German players or those seeking the uncut version are advised to purchase the game outside Steam or in specific bundles to avoid censorship.
- Adapt playstyle for success (weight 0.02): Players recommend adjusting tactics, such as holding higher ground or thinking strategically, to overcome the game’s challenges and enjoy it more fully.

Other player notes:
- Compared to Serious Sam 3 and Doom Eternal (weight 0.02): The game was often compared to other well-known FPS titles like Serious Sam 3 and Doom Eternal, suggesting players evaluate its gameplay, mechanics, or quality against these benchmarks.
- Refund requests common (weight 0.02): Multiple players attempted to request refunds, indicating dissatisfaction with the game or its value. This suggests potential issues with expectations or quality.
- Bundle sales highlighted (weight 0.02): Players frequently mentioned the game being part of a bundle sale, implying it may be perceived as better value when discounted or bundled with other titles.
- Disk ownership restores original content (weight 0.02): Players who owned the 2008 disk version reported being able to restore original content, indicating nostalgia or appreciation for the game's legacy features.

Emotions:
- Frustration (weight 0.27): Players frequently cite technical issues such as constant crashing, bugs, and performance problems (e.g., white screens, FOV issues) as major sources of frustration. Additionally, clunky controls, janky combat mechanics, repetitive enemy spawning, and poor level design exacerbate the negative experience, particularly in later stages of the game.
- Disappointment (weight 0.15): The game fails to meet expectations due to poor execution of its premise, including outdated gameplay mechanics, uninspired combat, and a disjointed narrative. Players express disappointment in the shift from a unique setting (e.g., WW1) to generic or unfulfilling later levels, as well as unpolished design choices like repetitive boss fights and technical issues.
- Amusement (weight 0.1): Players find entertainment in the game's absurd and over-the-top elements, such as bizarre plot twists (e.g., wheelchair skeletor, Mephisto), cheesy dialogue, and humorous bugs. The chaotic mix of genres and surreal humor, including funny voice acting and unhinged cutscenes, contributes to its unintentional comedic appeal.
- Excitement (weight 0.09): Despite its flaws, the game excites players with its chaotic and dynamic combat, unique mechanics (e.g., combo systems, rage mechanics), and high-octane action. The introduction of creative gameplay elements, such as varied weapons, supernatural enemies, and epic boss fights, keeps players engaged and eager for more.
- Satisfaction (weight 0.05): Players derive satisfaction from the game's value for money, adrenaline-fueled combat, and well-designed boss fights. Some also appreciate the ability to troubleshoot bugs or discover hidden secrets, as well as the game's juicy gore and replayable final battles.
- Nostalgia (weight 0.05): The game evokes nostalgia for its unique WW1 setting, old-school FPS mechanics, and comparisons to classic shooters like *Painkiller*. Players reminisce about childhood experiences with similar games, appreciating its experimental nature and mid-2000s charm.
- Enjoyment (weight 0.04): Players enjoy the game's immersive setting, chaotic melee combat, and variety of enemies and weapons. Despite its flaws, the first half of the game is often praised for its unique atmosphere, engaging gameplay, and classic FPS feel.
- Confusion (weight 0.03): The game's abrupt tonal shifts (e.g., WW1 to demons), illogical story progression, and poorly explained mechanics leave players confused. Mixed feelings arise from its inconsistent design, such as flip-flopping plots and unclear progression systems.
- Disgust (weight 0.03): Players express strong dissatisfaction with the game's poor visual design, outdated mechanics, and subpar voice acting. Some describe it as 'absolute trash' due to its lack of polish, intrusive launcher, and overall poor quality compared to similar titles.
- Boredom (weight 0.02): Repetitive gameplay, monotonous level design, and endless enemy encounters lead to tedium, particularly in the second half of the game. Players find the experience unengaging due to dark, empty locations and lack of variety in combat.
- Appreciation (weight 0.02): Players appreciate the game's historical accuracy, unique setting, and high-quality level design. Some also value its experimental mechanics, attention to detail, and preference for mute protagonists, which enhance immersion.
- Enthusiasm (weight 0.02): The game's unique setting, action-packed combat, and nostalgic gameplay spark enthusiasm among players. Features like combo mechanics, fatalities, and chaotic combat contribute to a fun and engaging experience despite its flaws.
- Curiosity (weight 0.01): The game's intriguing premise, imaginative story, and mysterious plot twists (e.g., vampires in WW1) pique players' curiosity. The protagonist's unexplained experiences and fabular lore add to its appeal as a unique narrative.
- Relief (weight 0.01): Players feel relief when the game becomes more playable in its second half or when technical issues are resolved. Some note that the game is not overly difficult compared to other old shooters, making it more accessible.
- Surprise (weight 0.01): Players are pleasantly surprised by the game's fun factor, often comparing it to *DOOM* despite its flaws. Unexpected elements like realistic WW1 atmosphere, melee combat, and multiple endings also contribute to this reaction.
- Annoyance (weight 0.01): Endlessly spawning enemies, poorly hidden key items, and game-breaking bugs annoy players. Timed segments, awkward cutscene skipping, and unbalanced difficulty further exacerbate frustration.
- Anger (weight 0.01): Players express anger over the game feeling like a poorly executed copy of other titles, as well as the publisher's removal of content and broken intro. A disappointing or illogical finale can also provoke strong negative reactions.
- Discomfort (weight 0.01): Excessive visual effects, claustrophobic level design, and motion sickness-inducing camera movements cause physical discomfort for some players. The oppressive atmosphere and unnatural controls further contribute to this feeling.
- Approval (weight 0.01): Despite its flaws, some players approve of the game, calling it 'good' or 'great' overall. They often cite its value for money, engaging combat, or unique setting as reasons for their positive assessment.}