Info about Maximum Action:

Official game description:
**_MAXIMUM Action_** is the stress ball of first-person shooters. If you are looking for a quick dose of highly replayable sandbox slow-motion heroic bloodshed with homages to classic ’80s and '90s action flicks then MAXIMUM Action might just be the FPS you’ve been dreaming of.  
No complicated skill trees, leveling up, or drawn-out cutscenes, just pure fun that gets straight to the point.
Where **_MAXIMUM Action_** shines is in its emphasis on creativity and replayability. The entire game has been designed as a sandbox for the player to experiment in. From simply approaching levels with different combinations of dives, slides, and kicks, to a fully-fledged level editor allowing players to create action in any way they see fit. Further, use the sandbox menu to replay levels with different combinations of weapons or add more enemies to up the challenge.
And with full workshop and mod support, experiment with hundreds of custom levels and weapons to spice up the action!  
Getting the best experience out of MAXIMUM Action requires a bit of creativity and imagination from the player, and I understand not everyone is up to the challenge! But if you’ve always wanted to play a role in your own balls to the wall action movie then I’d say give _**MAXIMUM Action**_ a try!
\-George Mandell
_ACTION TO THE MAX!_

Release date: Sep 19, 2018

Categories: First-Person Shooter, Bullet Time Gameplay, Slow Motion Mechanics, Level Editor, Sandbox, Steam Workshop Support, Physics-based Gameplay

Feature scans:
- MTX: score 5; verdict: Fair / No MTX Evidence; summary: The reviews focus on upfront price, early-access content value, and general quality complaints. No review describes real-money purchases, paid power, loot boxes, gacha pulls, battle passes, or a cash shop. The only shop-related mention is negated, and the remaining issues are base-price or content complaints that do not meet the evidence threshold for predatory monetization.
- Proton/Linux: score 35; verdict: Mostly Linux-Friendly With Isolated Failure; summary: Linux/Proton feedback is sparse and contradictory. One review praises Linux friendliness and smooth gameplay, while another states the game does not work on Linux without providing technical details. There is no repeated evidence of Proton Experimental/GE requirements, launch-option tweaks, anti-cheat blockers, or widespread crashes, so the overall friction cannot be judged as broadly broken; it is best treated as mostly positive with an unresolved isolated failure report.
- Steam Deck: score 75; verdict: Broken on Steam Deck; summary: The Steam Deck audit finds high friction. Native controller support is repeatedly reported as missing, one user states the game does not work on Linux, another requests adequate Steam Deck support, and a review cites crashes and unplayable maps. Positive docked-controller and Linux-friendly reports exist, but they do not offset the launch and compatibility barriers that dominate the handheld experience.

- Hardware Profile: No data
Feature extractions:
- Community Price:
  - Community fair range: $8.00 - $12.00
  - Reasoning: The review set clusters around a $10-$11 fair value: multiple reviewers explicitly reject the $15 asking price because the early-access content is too short, and some say they would not pay above $10. A smaller group accepts $15 because of mods, potential, or replay value, so the community fair range is best represented as slightly below full price but above a deep sale, around $8-$12.
- Playtime Metrics:
  - Game completion: 1.4h
  - Story completion: 1.0h
  - Session length: 0.3h
  - Endgame: 7.0h
  - Reasoning: Game completion is supported by the direct report of beating all available content in 1.4 hours, with another review saying all levels took about an hour, so the main content is roughly 1-1.4 hours. Story/campaign completion is treated as about 1 hour because the campaign is described as an all-levels run taking around an hour and there is no separate substantial narrative. Session length is supported by the translated statement that typical play sessions last about 10-20 minutes, giving about 0.25 hours. Endgame/replay time is supported by the reviewer who played about 9 hours total and spent the last 7 hours practising stylish kills, indicating roughly 7 hours of post-completion/replay activity.
- Time-to-fun:
  - Summary: Players often enjoy the shooting and action-movie style immediately, but the short, repetitive levels and thin progression make the thrill wear off for many. Workshop content and updated levels can extend enjoyment, but the base experience often follows an initial-fun-then-drop pattern.
  - Stance: Fun then drops
  - Anchor: N/A
  - Time to anchor: N/A
  - Friction: Short, repetitive levels; Thin or missing progression; Low difficulty and weak enemy AI; Endless mode repetition and dead time between waves; Frustrating platforming; Base content depends on Workshop for longevity
  - Unlock drivers: Workshop levels and mods; Level editor and custom weapons; Tutorial teaching sandbox mechanics; Newer updated levels with better flow and pacing
  - Conditions: Interest in 80s action-movie slow-motion shooting; Tolerance for repetition and jank; Willingness to use Workshop or the level editor for more content; Desire to replay levels for fluid runs and personal scores; Casual play, such as with a few beers; Players seeking metagame progression may enjoy it less
- Player Archetypes:
  - Old-School Action Veteran (buy)
    - Motivation: Relive and celebrate 80s/90s action cinema and old-school FPS combat with bullet time and fast movement.
    - Playstyle: Fast run-and-gun movement, dual-wielding, bullet-time dodging, and using varied retro weapons.
    - Experience: veteran
    - Purchase stance: buy
    - Labels: old school
    - Reference games: Doom; Quake; Max Payne; F.E.A.R; GoldenEye
  - Cathartic Gore Sandbox Player (buy)
    - Motivation: Release stress through over-the-top gore, slow-motion gunplay, and sandbox violence.
    - Playstyle: Mess around in levels, dismember enemies, experiment with weapons, and play for quick cathartic sessions.
    - Experience: mixed
    - Purchase stance: buy
    - Labels: N/A
    - Reference games: Hotline Miami
  - Workshop Modder Tinkerer (buy)
    - Motivation: Customize and extend the game through workshop weapons, custom maps, and mods.
    - Playstyle: Installs workshop content, edits or builds levels, spawns custom weapons, and experiments with assets.
    - Experience: familiar
    - Purchase stance: buy
    - Labels: N/A
    - Reference games: N/A
  - Cautious Early-Access Value Buyer (sale)
    - Motivation: Avoid paying full price for an unfinished game while monitoring its development or supporting the developer.
    - Playstyle: Follows updates, waits for 1.0 or discounts, and tests the current build cautiously.
    - Experience: mixed
    - Purchase stance: sale
    - Labels: N/A
    - Reference games: Dusk; AMIDEVIL


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:
- Fun and action-packed (weight 0.38): The game is repeatedly described as fun, hilarious, and full of action. It delivers an exhilarating experience that keeps players entertained.
- Satisfying gunplay (weight 0.34): Players consistently praise the shooting mechanics, describing weapons as impactful and satisfying to use. The gunplay is often highlighted as better than many AAA shooters.
- Overall positive reception (weight 0.26): Many reviewers describe the game as great, phenomenal, or highly enjoyable overall. The general sentiment is overwhelmingly positive.
- Dual wielding feature (weight 0.23): The ability to dual wield any combination of weapons, including rocket launchers and katanas, is frequently mentioned as a standout feature. It adds to the chaotic fun.
- Bullet time mechanic (weight 0.23): The bullet time feature is highly praised for making shooting satisfying and adding a stylish slow-motion element. It is a key appealing aspect of the game.
- Action movie fantasy (weight 0.2): Players feel like they are in an action movie, particularly evoking 80s and 90s action films. The gameplay makes them feel like action heroes.
- Level design and editor (weight 0.17): Levels are well-designed with variety, and the inclusion of a level editor and workshop support adds significant value. Players appreciate the creative tools.
- Good concept (weight 0.12): The core concept of the game is frequently described as good, interesting, or brilliant. It sets a strong foundation for the experience.
- Weapon variety (weight 0.11): The game offers a large arsenal of varied weapons, including many modded options. This variety enhances the gameplay experience.
- Satisfying combat (weight 0.1): Combat is described as extremely satisfying, brutal, and fun, especially against large groups of enemies. The combat loop feels rewarding.
- Favorable comparisons (weight 0.09): Reviewers compare the game to classics like GoldenEye and Max Payne, suggesting it will appeal to fans of those titles. It captures the charm of those games.
- Replayability (weight 0.09): The game offers high replay value, with reasons like higher scores, quicker times, and endless mode. Players find it worth revisiting.
- Easy to pick up (weight 0.09): The game is easy to learn and play casually, making it accessible to a wide audience. Players appreciate its simplicity.
- High potential (weight 0.08): Many players see a lot of potential in the game and find it promising. They believe it can become even better with updates.

Common complaints:
- Insufficient content overall (weight 0.37): Many players report that the game lacks substantial content, feeling barebones and offering little to do. The amount of content is repeatedly described as very small or insufficient.
- Levels too short and few (weight 0.25): Levels are described as very short, often beatable in 2-3 minutes, and there are too few of them. Players can finish the available levels quickly, leading to a lack of engagement.
- Replay system broken (weight 0.22): The replay feature is widely criticized as broken, underdeveloped, and stuck in alpha for years. Players note it barely works and has not been fixed despite long-standing complaints.
- Janky and buggy gameplay (weight 0.21): The game is frequently described as janky, buggy, and unfinished. Bugs and glitches are common, affecting the overall experience.
- Prolonged early access (weight 0.11): The game has been in early access for many years (6-8 years) without drastic changes, leading to frustration. Players feel the development has stagnated.
- Slow updates (weight 0.11): Updates are painstakingly slow, with long gaps between patches. Players feel the update cycle is too slow and has stagnated.
- Developer abandoned project (weight 0.11): Many players believe the developer has moved on to other games, leaving this project unfinished. The game feels abandoned despite being in early access.
- Very short playtime (weight 0.09): The game offers only about an hour of entertainment before players crave more. It is not worth more than a few hours of playtime.
- Dumb enemy AI (weight 0.09): Enemy AI is very basic, clumsy, and often stands still without reacting. It needs significant improvement to provide a challenge.
- Short campaign (weight 0.09): The campaign is very short, taking only 1.5 to 3 hours to complete. Some players finish it in under 2 hours.
- Clunky game feel (weight 0.09): The game feels clunky, unwieldy, and worse than before. Players dislike the current feel and movement.
- Unjustified price (weight 0.07): The price is considered too high for the amount of content offered. Players feel it is not worth the money.
- Janky physics (weight 0.07): Physics are extremely janky, with buggy movement and interactions. This adds to the overall unpolished feel.
- Awful animations (weight 0.07): Animations are wonky, awful, and extremely buggy. They detract from the game's visual quality.
- Enemies shoot through walls (weight 0.07): Enemies can see and shoot through walls and solid objects, breaking immersion and fairness. This is a common complaint.
- Confusing weapon swap (weight 0.07): The weapon swap system is counter-intuitive, confusing, and slow during firefights. Players find the controls inconsistent.
- Janky vehicles (weight 0.07): Vehicles, especially the tank, are janky and difficult to control. The tank often gets stuck in tight roads and debris.

Gameplay feedback:
- Steam Workshop Support (weight 0.33): The game supports Steam Workshop for user-created maps, mods, and custom content, including additional guns and levels.
- Slow Motion and Bullet Time (weight 0.32): The game features slow-motion and bullet-time mechanics, often triggered by shooting or available on-demand, with speed varying based on player actions.
- First-Person Shooter Gameplay (weight 0.26): The game is consistently described as a first-person shooter focused on extreme action and gunplay, with a large arsenal and no story or cutscenes.
- Max Payne Style Action (weight 0.17): Gameplay and gunplay are similar to Max Payne, featuring bullet time, diving, and slow-motion shooting.
- Fast-Paced Chaotic Action (weight 0.17): The gameplay is frenetic, fast, and chaotic, with bullet hell elements and a PS1-style ultra-violent aesthetic.
- Slow-Motion Akimbo Gunplay (weight 0.16): Players can dive around in slow motion while dual-wielding weapons like an AK and a shotgun, combining jumping, sliding, and shooting.
- Physics-Driven Gunplay (weight 0.16): Gunplay and physics are central mechanics, with ragdoll physics and dismemberment settings enhancing the action.
- Level Editor and Modding (weight 0.14): The game includes a level editor and modding support, allowing players to create and share custom content.
- Level-Based Structure (weight 0.14): The game is divided into individual levels, including custom levels, cheats, and endless levels.
- Replay Recording System (weight 0.12): A replay system is available for recording and viewing gameplay footage, though it is currently in an alpha state.
- Endless Mode (weight 0.11): The game includes an endless mode, which is wave-based, alongside a regular mode.
- Short, Speedrun-Friendly Levels (weight 0.09): Levels are short, typically lasting 2-3 minutes, and are designed to be speedrun-friendly.
- Character Customization (weight 0.09): Character customization includes outfits, face models, hats, pants, jackets, and t-shirts.
- Interactive Environmental Kills (weight 0.07): Players can kick enemies out of windows, drop-kick them into exploding cars, and interact with environmental hazards.
- Early Access Alpha State (weight 0.07): The game is currently in an alpha state, early access, and early in development.
- Jungle Level with Vehicles (weight 0.07): A jungle level features multiple passages and vehicles, including a motorcycle and a tank.

Performance notes:
- Poor optimization cited frequently (weight 0.16): Multiple reviews explicitly criticize the game's optimization, with complaints about low GPU utilization, stuttering, and frame drops despite capable hardware. This is a recurring theme across many clusters.
- Mixed performance reports (weight 0.13): Some players report smooth performance, while others experience severe issues, indicating inconsistent optimization across hardware configurations. The feedback ranges from running well on low-end PCs to terrible performance on high-end systems.
- Frame rate drops and stuttering (weight 0.13): Reviews mention random FPS drops down to 13 FPS, frame rate dipping to 30 fps on high-end GPUs, and stuttering even on systems capable of running AAA titles. These issues occur across various levels and modes.
- Crashes and freezes reported (weight 0.09): Players experience frequent crashes, game freezes requiring alt-f4, and black screens that force restarts. These stability issues severely impact playability for some users.
- Performance improved after updates (weight 0.09): Several players note that recent patches, including a September 21st update, have significantly improved performance and fixed irregular issues. This suggests ongoing optimization efforts are paying off.
- Runs well on low-end PCs (weight 0.09): Some players report the game runs smoothly on low-end computers, even during heavy firefights or on potato PCs. This contrasts with high-end performance complaints, indicating variable optimization.
- Long loading times (weight 0.05): Loading screens take 1-5 minutes and grow longer as players progress, with some levels taking 20-30 seconds on cheap PCs. These delays disrupt gameplay flow.
- Specific level performance problems (weight 0.05): Certain levels, such as the Jungle level and the newest level, have lower FPS or bad performance compared to others. This indicates map-specific optimization inconsistencies.
- Animation and interaction bugs (weight 0.05): Some players suspect animation bugs may be due to 144Hz monitors and interaction inconsistencies due to high framerate, pointing to potential framerate-dependent issues. These are niche but notable for affected users.
- Crashes and frame dips expected (weight 0.04): Some players consider crashes and frame rate dips as expected, suggesting a level of tolerance or resignation to these issues. This reflects normalization of poor performance among some users.
- Low GPU utilization (weight 0.03): The game reportedly uses only 15-20% of an RTX 4070, leading to poor performance relative to hardware capability. This points to inefficient rendering or bottlenecking issues.
- High hardware temperatures (weight 0.03): One player reported GPU reaching 83°C and CPU 90°C while idling in the main menu for 10 minutes, indicating potential thermal management problems. This suggests the game may be unnecessarily resource-intensive even in menus.
- Endless mode performance issues (weight 0.03): Inexplicable lag and performance problems occur in Endless mode even on high-end hardware, suggesting mode-specific optimization flaws. This is a notable issue for players of that mode.
- Works well on Steam Deck (weight 0.03): The game functions well on Steam Deck, especially with mouse and keyboard, providing a positive experience on that platform. This is a specific highlight among performance feedback.
- Resolution bug cuts screen (weight 0.03): A resolution status bug causes the screen to be cut out, impacting visibility and gameplay. This is a specific technical issue reported by a player.
- Workshop levels poorly optimized (weight 0.03): Some workshop levels suffer from bad optimization, detracting from user-generated content experiences. This highlights that performance issues extend beyond official content.
- Lag causes teleport-like movement (weight 0.03): Weird lag or slowdown results in teleport-like movement, severely affecting gameplay smoothness. This is a specific and disruptive symptom of performance issues.
- VRAM requirement seems high (weight 0.03): One player notes that the low-poly game requires 1GB of VRAM to run smoothly at Full HD on a decent PC, which they consider poor optimization. This points to inefficient resource usage relative to visual simplicity.
- Average PC requirements (weight 0.03): One player describes the PC requirements as average, suggesting the game is not overly demanding for its visual style. This is a neutral point amid more polarized performance feedback.
- GUI issues possibly Unity-related (weight 0.03): GUI problems are speculated to stem from the Unity engine, indicating potential engine-specific challenges. This is a lower-frequency but specific technical observation.

Recommendations:
- Highly recommended overall (weight 0.24): Many reviewers give the game high praise, with some rating it 10/10 and strongly recommending it. This shows a strong positive reception from a portion of the player base.
- Worth it on sale (weight 0.24): Several reviewers state the game is worth buying on sale, often mentioning specific price points like $5. This suggests good value when discounted.
- Wait for a sale (weight 0.22): A significant number of reviewers advise waiting for a sale, with some specifying discounts of 50% or more, or a price around $5. This suggests the game is considered overpriced at full price.
- Not worth full price (weight 0.2): Many players feel the game is not worth its full price in its current state, especially considering its early access status. This sentiment is common across multiple reviews.
- Wait for full release (weight 0.17): Some reviewers suggest waiting until the game is fully released before purchasing, as it is still in early access and may need improvements.
- Recommended for action movie fans (weight 0.16): The game appeals to fans of 80s and 90s action movies, John Woo style action, and cheesy action flicks. Its style and gameplay resonate with this audience.
- Recommended for Max Payne fans (weight 0.14): Fans of Max Payne and similar action games are likely to enjoy this game, as it offers a comparable bullet-time action experience. This is a common recommendation among reviewers.
- Recommended for FPS and fast-paced action (weight 0.14): Players who enjoy fast-paced FPS games and high-octane action shooters highly recommend this game. Comparisons to Ultrakill are also made.
- Good but needs improvement (weight 0.12): Some players think the game is good but needs a lot of work, indicating potential but current flaws. This aligns with its early access status.
- Not recommended by some (weight 0.11): A few reviewers do not recommend the game at all, citing various issues with the game itself. This indicates mixed opinions.
- Worth full price for some (weight 0.1): A few reviewers believe the game is worth the full price, contradicting the more common sentiment. This shows a divide in perceived value.
- Recommend buying it now (weight 0.09): Some reviewers strongly encourage purchasing the game immediately, especially if you like fast-paced shooters like Ultrakill.

Other player notes:
- Steam Workshop support (weight 0.31): The game features Steam Workshop integration, allowing community maps and mods, with some decent user-made maps adding replayability.
- Frequent Max Payne comparisons (weight 0.31): The game is repeatedly compared to Max Payne for its gunplay, bullet time, and action style, often described as a first-person or low-budget alternative that scratches the same itch.
- Prolonged Early Access status (weight 0.31): Reviewers highlight that the game has been in Early Access for around eight years, with many expressing disappointment that it remains unfinished and not yet at version 1.0.
- Short and limited content (weight 0.21): The game is described as relatively short with few levels, little content, and only a few hours of gameplay, making it a small-scale title.
- Ongoing updates and improvements (weight 0.17): The game continues to receive updates that add content and improve it, with developers releasing patches and years of polish, indicating it is still a work in progress.
- Hong Kong cinema inspiration (weight 0.14): The game is heavily inspired by Hong Kong action cinema and John Woo films, with references to classics like A Better Tomorrow and Hard Boiled.
- Mod support and level editor (weight 0.12): The game supports modding through Steam Workshop and includes a level editor, with a great mod scene and player-made custom maps available.
- Comparisons to Hotline Miami (weight 0.12): The game is frequently compared to Hotline Miami, often described as a 3D or first-person version, though some reviewers note it is not a direct clone.
- John Woo style comparisons (weight 0.11): The game is compared to John Woo's action films and related media like Hardcore Henry and spaghetti Westerns, with run-and-gun aesthetics reminiscent of The Killer and Face Off.
- Graphics reminiscent of GoldenEye (weight 0.09): The graphics are often compared to GoldenEye 007 on the N64 and Half-Life 1, evoking nostalgia with its retro visual style and charm.
- Developer abandoned for other projects (weight 0.07): Reviewers mention that the developer has moved on to other projects before finishing this game, leaving it unfinished while focusing on a new game.
- Early access with low content (weight 0.07): The game is in early stages with low content and is extremely short in its current state, aligning with its early access status.
- Nostalgic shooter comparisons (weight 0.07): The game is compared to classic shooters like GoldenEye, Timesplitters, and Quake for nostalgia, as well as Max Payne and GoldenEye for its action style.
- Promising but unrealized potential (weight 0.06): Reviewers state the game has a lot of potential and is a promising start, though it may not fully deliver on its promise.
- John Wick and Hotline Miami vibe (weight 0.06): The game feels similar to John Wick and Deadpool, blending Hotline Miami-style action with John Wick-like gun-fu.

Emotions:
- Disappointment (weight 0.16): Users are let down by a lack of meaningful content, short and repetitive levels, and an unfinished state after many years of development. They also cite persistent bugs, poor optimization, and a failure to reach the game's potential.
- Frustration (weight 0.14): Frustration stems from numerous bugs, janky physics, and broken features like the replay system after years of development. Slow updates, poor performance, and confusing controls further aggravate players.
- Excitement (weight 0.11): Players are thrilled by the over-the-top action, slow-motion mechanics, and the feeling of being an action movie star. The game's stylish combat, weapon variety, and potential for future updates generate excitement.
- Enjoyment (weight 0.07): Enjoyment comes from the fun, fast-paced gameplay, creative levels, and satisfying gunplay. The retro aesthetic, soundtrack, and replayability contribute to a highly entertaining experience.
- Satisfaction (weight 0.07): Satisfaction is derived from the visceral gunplay, gory ragdoll physics, and smooth movement. Features like bullet time, dual-wielding, and workshop support provide a fulfilling action experience.
- Enthusiasm (weight 0.05): Enthusiasm is driven by the game's focus on maximum action, Hong Kong cinema references, and fluid controls. Players appreciate the workshop support and continuous improvements, making it a standout shooter.
- Hope (weight 0.04): Users hope the game will improve with further updates and reach its full potential. They see promise in the core gameplay and believe the developers can fix issues and add content.
- Amusement (weight 0.03): Amusement arises from the absurd violence, ragdoll physics, and over-the-top action sequences. Kicking enemies through windows and the comical enemy reactions provide hilarious moments.
- Love (weight 0.03): Players love the game's Hong Kong action movie style, level design, and combat. The developer's support and the game's continuous growth foster a strong affection for the experience.
- Appreciation (weight 0.03): Appreciation is shown for the John Woo-inspired theme, level editor, and workshop support. The developers' responsiveness and the game's continuous improvement are highly valued.
- Fun (weight 0.02): Fun is the core emotion, driven by responsive controls, satisfying shooting, and chaotic slow-motion action. Dual-wielding and physics-based combat make the game consistently enjoyable.
- Admiration (weight 0.02): Admiration is felt for the stylish shooting, fluid movement, and well-crafted maps. The game's tribute to action cinema and its retro aesthetic are particularly praised.
- Dissatisfaction (weight 0.01): Dissatisfaction stems from the game feeling inferior to its past version, with bad controller customization and unfixed bugs. The short length and lack of mod tools also contribute.
- Annoyance (weight 0.01): Annoyance is caused by dumb enemy AI, poor vehicle controls, and grating aesthetics. Collision detection issues and inconsistent interactions further irritate players.
- Sadness (weight 0.01): Sadness arises from the lack of an interesting story and memorable music compared to similar games. The game's unpolished state and limited content disappoint those who wanted to love it.
- Boredom (weight 0.01): Boredom sets in quickly due to repetitive gameplay, lack of enemy variety, and weak bosses. The short campaign and stale endless mode fail to maintain engagement.
- Nostalgia (weight 0.01): Nostalgia is evoked by the polygonal art style, 80s action soundtrack, and VHS aesthetic. The game reminds players of old Half-Life mods and classic shooters like Goldeneye and Quake.
- Impressed (weight 0.01): Players are impressed by the smooth controls, amazing shooting, and how well different level types work. The fact that the game is made by one person adds to the admiration.
- Anticipation (weight 0.01): Anticipation is high for version 1.0 and future expansions with more levels and details. Players look forward to the final finished product.
- Desire (weight 0.01): Desire is expressed for more content, level variety, and features to enrich the game. Players want more to explore and enjoy.}