Info about Bum Simulator:

Official game description:
Bum Simulator is a sandbox game bursting with inappropriate humor and memorable characters. Apart from day-to-day survival, you can enjoy many unique features:  
You can throw pigeons at people and watch as the panic ensues. Not fun enough? Upgrade your birds with explosives and let chaos reign. Still not satisfied? Wait until you see the fully upgraded pigeonado skill…  
Mix alcohol with stuff you found on the ground to create powerful mixtures. Drink them (if you dare) to get a boost, or throw them at your enemies for a devastating effect.  
Every bum needs a shopping cart of their own. Yours is named Carl and he’s your trusty mobile inventory. Also, he’s your best friend (no, really). You’ll learn to love him - we promise!  
Mutant sewer rat people from the ’80s? Mentally unstable clown with a hook for a hand? A bored rich man telling you to punch random people on the street? We have them all, and then some! You’ll meet them all while following the insane storyline (yes, this game has an actual story!)  
Day-to-day survival can be exhausting, so why not take a break and get some shut-eye in a cozy shelter? Conquer, construct, and customize your cardboard bases to your heart’s content. However, remember to build some defenses as the rival bum gang raids are inevitable!  
Crafting makes your life easier. Collect materials and process them to get upgrades and expansions to your base. Tired of searching for food? Construct pots and plant some vegetables. Need stronger pigeons? Better upgrade that coop. Scavenging for scrap got boring? Recruit other bums to do the dirty work for you. With enough work, you can build a truly self-sustainable bum base!  
Hear ye, hear ye! Every character in the game is fully voiced. Each line of dialogue oozes emotion and personality, which makes the game's storyline and atmosphere even gross… er… more engrossing!  
Embrace the inner Bum. The streets of Bumsville await.

Release date: 12 May, 2023

Categories: Life Simulation, Action Sandbox, Base Building, Crafting, Single-player Story, Open-World Exploration, Resource Management


- 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 and great value (weight 0.99): Players consistently praise the game for its overall enjoyment, value for money, and engaging qualities. Many found it surprisingly good, offering hours of fun and a relaxing, stress-free experience.
- Absurd and hilarious humor (weight 0.44): The game's humor, often described as absurd, quirky, and unconventional, is a major highlight. Players appreciate the constant gags, random encounters, and the game's willingness to be silly and crude, providing consistent laughs.
- Unique hobo simulation premise (weight 0.21): The unique premise of simulating a 'hobo' or 'bum' life, often compared to a humorous, unconventional GTA, is a significant draw. Players enjoy the absurdity and fresh take on the theme, finding it a compelling and distinct experience.
- Engaging and well-written story (weight 0.2): The game's story is frequently lauded for being surprisingly rich, interesting, and well-written, especially for a 'simulator' title. Players enjoyed its twists, humor, and captivating plot.
- Unique and fun mechanics (weight 0.15): Specific gameplay mechanics, such as throwing pigeons, creating pigeon tornadoes, and the ability to urinate on people, are frequently highlighted as unique, enjoyable, and comically satisfying elements.
- Rich open world with quests (weight 0.14): The open-world design, filled with numerous side quests, mini-games, and hidden secrets, encourages exploration and provides many hours of content. Players found the side quests particularly fun and well-integrated.
- Excellent voice acting and characters (weight 0.1): The voice acting is consistently praised for being incredible, fitting, and contributing to memorable and charismatic characters. The quality of the voice work enhances immersion and character appeal.
- Engaging crafting and building (weight 0.08): The game features an enjoyable and engaging crafting and base-building system. Players appreciate the ingenuity required for resource gathering and the satisfying upgrades provided by the simple crafting mechanics.
- Fun achievement hunting (weight 0.07): Achievement hunting is noted as a fun and humorous aspect of the game, often encouraging further exploration and providing satisfying challenges without being overly tedious.
- Great and atmospheric music (weight 0.07): The game's music and soundtrack are highly praised for being crazy, energetic, and enhancing the overall chaotic and humorous atmosphere of the game.
- Similar to Postal and GTA (weight 0.06): Many players compare the game favorably to the 'Postal' series and 'GTA', noting its similar irreverent humor, open-world chaos, and general sense of freedom and absurdity.
- Charming talking shopping cart (weight 0.06): The talking shopping cart companion, Carl, is a beloved character. Players appreciate his utility, personality, and how he lightens the game's themes with a humorous tone.
- Unexpectedly realistic/relatable (weight 0.04): Some players found the game surprisingly realistic in its portrayal of certain aspects of survival, or humorously relatable to their own lives, offering a unique perspective on the theme.

Common complaints:
- Repetitive and shallow gameplay (weight 0.53): Many players found the game's core gameplay loop to be repetitive and tedious, especially after the initial hours. This leads to a lack of engagement and a feeling that the game becomes boring quickly, with insufficient content to justify its price or length.
- Frustrating mission design (weight 0.15): A significant number of players expressed frustration with the mission design, particularly the prevalence of time-limited, repetitive, and often nonsensical quests. The inability to restart failed missions and the artificial time-gating further detract from the experience.
- Numerous bugs and performance issues (weight 0.12): Players frequently encountered bugs, glitches, and performance issues, including soft locks, crashes, and long loading times. These technical shortcomings significantly detract from the overall playability and enjoyment.
- Poor crafting and inventory (weight 0.12): The crafting and inventory systems are widely criticized for being clunky, unpolished, and tedious. Players found the one-by-one crafting process and inconvenient inventory management to be major annoyances.
- Weak and short story (weight 0.11): The game's story is frequently described as short, confusing, and lacking depth, with few interesting characters. This contributes to a feeling of limited content and a less engaging narrative experience.
- Unfinished and unpolished state (weight 0.1): Concerns were raised about the game's unfinished state, lack of polish, and perceived abandonment by developers. Players noted a lack of updates and communication, suggesting the game feels incomplete despite its development time.
- Underdeveloped open world (weight 0.09): The open world and map design are criticized for being underdeveloped, empty, and difficult to navigate. Players found the lack of descriptive points, repetitive textures, and limited exploration opportunities made the world feel unengaging.
- Clunky shopping cart mechanics (weight 0.08): The shopping cart mechanic, which serves as the player's inventory, is a major source of frustration. Players report clunky controls, difficulty in positioning the cart, and accidental interactions that disrupt gameplay flow.
- Lacks hobo simulator realism (weight 0.06): Many players felt the game failed to deliver on the promise of a realistic 'hobo simulator,' quickly devolving into a generic survival-building game. Expectations for a more authentic homeless experience were largely unmet.
- Low replayability and buggy achievements (weight 0.05): The game offers limited replay value after completing the main story, with little incentive beyond collecting achievements. Some achievements are also reported to be buggy or difficult to obtain.
- Simple and unchallenging combat (weight 0.04): The combat system is described as simple, unchallenging, and lacking complexity. Players found enemy types monotonous and the overall combat experience to be 'soft' and unengaging.
- Missing specific interactions (weight 0.03): Some players expressed disappointment over the lack of certain 'realistic' or humorous interactions, such as the ability to defecate on people or mug NPCs. This suggests a desire for more freedom or darker humor not present in the game.

Gameplay feedback:
- Hobo Survival & Base Building (weight 0.38): The core gameplay revolves around a hobo survival simulator, where players manage basic needs, scavenge for resources, and engage in crafting and base building. The game emphasizes the unique perspective of a homeless character with unusual abilities.
- Vulgar Player Actions (weight 0.24): A significant and frequently mentioned aspect of the game is the ability to perform vulgar and offensive actions, such as urinating on NPCs and engaging in physical altercations, often as a means of interaction or earning money.
- GTA/Postal-like Open World (weight 0.23): The game is frequently compared to open-world titles like GTA and Postal, featuring sandbox elements, gang fights, and a wanted system. It blends the chaotic humor of Postal with the open-world structure of GTA.
- Mixed Gameplay Reception (weight 0.15): Player feedback on general gameplay, graphics, and difficulty is mixed. Some find the gameplay clunky but addictive, while others note simple graphics and an easy difficulty level.
- Absurd & Dark Humor (weight 0.12): The game features a strong emphasis on absurd, dark, and comedic humor, with a crazy plot and eccentric characters. The story is often described as nonsensical and parody-driven.
- Short Story, Average Length (weight 0.12): The game offers a relatively short main story, estimated between 8-15 hours, with an average overall game length. It is considered suitable for casual play and has some replayability.
- Talking Shopping Cart Companion (weight 0.11): A unique and prominent feature is the talking shopping cart companion, Carl. Carl serves multiple roles, including inventory, transportation, and a guide, adding a distinct comedic and functional element to the gameplay.
- Weaponized Pigeons (weight 0.11): Players can utilize pigeons as weapons and companions, with abilities that can be upgraded. This mechanic allows for unique combat strategies and adds to the game's absurd humor.
- Begging for Money (weight 0.08): Begging is a primary and highly effective method for earning money in the game. Players can also obtain money through other means, but begging is highlighted as a very profitable activity.
- Varied Side Quests (weight 0.07): The game includes a variety of side quests with different objectives and time limits. These quests contribute to the overall gameplay experience and provide additional content.
- Optional Crafting System (weight 0.06): While crafting is present, it is not strictly essential for completing the main story, allowing for a more casual playthrough. However, materials are important for story progression and base defense.
- Trash Scavenging (weight 0.05): Scavenging for materials and food by rummaging through trash cans and garbage bags is a core mechanic. These activities are crucial for obtaining resources and progressing.

Performance notes:
- Stable with minor bugs (weight 0.09): Most players report that the game is stable and that any bugs encountered are minor and not game-breaking. Some specific minor bugs, like getting stuck with a trolley, have been noted, but overall stability has improved with updates.
- Mixed optimization feedback (weight 0.07): Player feedback on optimization is mixed. While some report smooth performance even on lower-end systems, others experience poor performance on high-end PCs, suggesting inconsistent optimization across different hardware configurations.
- Linux compatibility details (weight 0.01): One review provided specific technical details about testing the game on a Linux distribution with particular hardware. This detailed feedback is valuable for understanding compatibility and performance on non-standard setups.
- Manageable game size (weight 0.01): The game's overall file size is considered manageable by players, indicating that it does not pose a significant barrier in terms of storage requirements.

Recommendations:
- Game is generally recommended (weight 0.46): The majority of players recommend the game, often highlighting its unique, bizarre, or silly humor. Many suggest it's a good time passer or offers a fun, unconventional experience, especially for those who enjoy sandbox games with crude humor.
- Buy game on sale (weight 0.45): A significant number of players recommend purchasing the game, but strongly advise waiting for a sale or a substantial discount. They feel the game offers good value at a reduced price, but may not be worth the full price.
- Not a serious survival game (weight 0.08): Players warn that the game is not a serious survival simulator and should not be approached with expectations of deep mechanics or realistic hobo life. It's better suited for those seeking a silly, less serious experience.
- Short game length (weight 0.03): The game's playtime is noted as relatively short, ranging from 2 to 15 hours. However, some find it suitable for killing time, suggesting it's a good casual experience.
- Players want a sequel (weight 0.03): Several players express a strong desire for a sequel or the full version of the game, indicating enjoyment and a wish for more content.
- Recommended for family viewing (weight 0.01): A single, somewhat sarcastic comment suggests the game is recommended for family viewing, which is likely a humorous take given the game's theme.
- Enjoyed unique premise (weight 0.01): A player humorously states they would 'get drunk in a dumpster again,' indicating enjoyment of the game's unique and perhaps absurd premise.
- Suitable for medium PCs (weight 0.01): One reviewer recommends the game specifically for medium-tier PCs, suggesting potential performance issues on lower-end systems.
- High completion intent (weight 0.01): A player expresses intent to achieve 100% completion in the game, indicating high engagement and enjoyment.
- Humorous and entertaining (weight 0.01): A humorous comment suggests the game can help players through a recession with a smile, highlighting its lighthearted and entertaining nature.
- Not Steam Deck Verified (weight 0.01): A player states they would not claim the game is 'Deck Verified,' implying potential issues or lack of official optimization for the Steam Deck.
- Post-story base building (weight 0.01): Players can invest significant time after the main story to build a proper base with all tools, suggesting a post-game crafting or building element.

Other player notes:
- Unique, humorous, experimental game (weight 0.12): The game is perceived as a unique, over-the-top, and humorous experience, often compared to titles like Postal or Untitled Goose Game. Its cartoonish and ridiculous nature, along with its experimental approach, is noted, with some finding its controversial elements overblown.
- Multiplayer highly requested (weight 0.08): Many players expressed a strong desire for multiplayer functionality, suggesting it would significantly enhance the game's liveliness and overall appeal, potentially transforming it into a truly amazing experience. Some even suggested network battles for territory in an open-world setting.
- Simple presentation, casual play (weight 0.06): The game is generally considered simple in its presentation, with medium graphics and unexceptional music. It's seen as suitable for a light, short pastime across various age groups.
- Suggests content and QoL improvements (weight 0.06): Players suggested various quality-of-life improvements and content additions, such as more crafting options, a 'move' feature for in-game items instead of demolition, and a more structured progression system starting from humble beginnings.
- Early Access development concerns (weight 0.04): As an Early Access title, there is uncertainty about the game's future development and the speed of updates. Players are hopeful for continued improvements but acknowledge the experimental nature of the project.
- Specific, dark humor suggestions (weight 0.04): Players offered specific, often humorous, suggestions for new gameplay mechanics and items, such as adding a syringe weapon for the hobo character or the ability to dismantle people for organs, reflecting the game's dark humor.
- Ideal price point (weight 0.02): The game's price point was mentioned as ideal by one reviewer, specifically noting its cost in Brazilian Reais.
- Release during 2020 lockdowns (weight 0.01): One reviewer noted that the game's release coincided with the 2020 lockdowns, implying a potential impact on its reception or context.
- New content additions noted (weight 0.01): A reviewer noted the addition of new effects, sounds, voices, and mini-items, indicating recent updates or content additions.
- Game completion time noted (weight 0.01): One reviewer explicitly stated their completion time for the game, providing a reference for game length.
- Trash can rummaging gameplay (weight 0.01): A core gameplay loop involves players rummaging through trash cans, which is a fundamental activity in the game.
- Requires fast PC (weight 0.01): One reviewer noted that the game requires a fast PC to run, indicating potential system requirements.
- Steam platform features (weight 0.01): The game supports Steam features such as Trading Cards, Achievements, and Content for the Steam Points Shop.
- Built most useful items (weight 0.01): A reviewer mentioned having built practically everything useful in the game, suggesting a point of progression or completion.
- Provided for review (weight 0): One reviewer explicitly stated that the game was provided to them for review purposes.

Emotions:
- Satisfaction (weight 0.26): Players felt satisfied due to the game's overall high quality, value for money, and engaging content, including its story, characters, and humor. The ease of completion, smooth performance, and unique gameplay mechanics also contributed to a positive and enjoyable experience.
- Amusement (weight 0.19): Amusement stemmed from the game's pervasive humor, absurd premise, and chaotic gameplay. Specific humorous quests, character interactions, and unique, often crude, in-game actions like 'peeing on people' or using pigeons as weapons were frequently cited as sources of laughter.
- Disappointment (weight 0.12): Disappointment was primarily caused by the game's technical issues, such as bugs and poor optimization, as well as a perceived lack of content, depth, and replayability. Players also expressed frustration with unfulfilled potential, misleading genre expectations, and slow or absent updates from developers.
- Frustration (weight 0.09): Frustration arose from game-breaking bugs, clunky controls, and repetitive or tedious missions, particularly those involving grinding for resources or base defense. Long loading times, poor optimization, and a lack of developer communication regarding updates also contributed to player annoyance.
- Excitement (weight 0.07): Excitement was generated by the game's overall high quality, unique concept, and engaging gameplay. Players were thrilled by the game's atmosphere, story, and the anticipation of future content and updates, often comparing it favorably to other well-known titles.
- Joy (weight 0.07): Joy was a result of the game's fun and addictive nature, particularly its silly humor and engaging characters. Players found unexpected enjoyment in the overall experience, including the freedom to engage in unconventional activities and the game's ability to provide a 'laugh riot'.
- Enjoyment (weight 0.05): Players enjoyed the game's crazy adventure, novel setting, and overall fun aspects, including its comedy, characters, and story. The sandbox mode, base building, and various gameplay activities also contributed to a positive and entertaining experience.
- Boredom (weight 0.02): Boredom was caused by the game's repetitive nature, limited gameplay, and lack of engaging content. Players found themselves doing the same things repeatedly, leading to a feeling of monotony and a short entertainment value.
- Surprise (weight 0.01): Surprise occurred when the game exceeded low expectations, delivering unexpected quality in its story, quests, and overall enjoyment. Players were pleasantly surprised by the game's depth and its ability to handle heavy themes successfully.
- Anticipation (weight 0.01): Anticipation was driven by the desire for future story content, full game releases, and ongoing updates. Players looked forward to the game's continued development and potential improvements.
- Concern (weight 0.01): Concern stemmed from worries about potential repetition in gameplay, performance issues on lower-end PCs, and the possibility of the developers abandoning the game without further updates or support.
- Confusion (weight 0.01): Confusion arose from the game's plot, particularly in later missions, and a nonsensical story. Players also questioned the existence of inefficient or poorly explained features within the game.
- Anger (weight 0): Anger was primarily caused by the game's perceived poor quality, especially when it contradicted positive ratings. Outrageous delays in development or release also contributed to player frustration and anger.
- Appreciation (weight 0): Appreciation was expressed for the game's unique spirit, its blend of humor and depth, and specific memorable characters like Carl. Players valued the distinctiveness and charm the game offered.
- Neutrality (weight 0): Neutrality reflected a balanced assessment of the game, acknowledging its experimental nature or finding it too simple for some players. This perspective often involved a factual description or comparison without strong positive or negative sentiment.
- Nostalgia (weight 0): Nostalgia was triggered by the game reminding players of PS2-era games, evoking childhood gaming memories, or resonating with real-life experiences, creating a sense of familiarity and fondness.
- Hope (weight 0): Hope was centered on the desire for future updates, the potential for new features, and the aspiration for more balanced content and improved reward systems within the game.
- Desire (weight 0): Desire was expressed for the inclusion of a multiplayer feature and additional downloadable content (DLC), indicating a wish for expanded gameplay options and continued engagement with the game.
- Neutral (weight 0): This emotion was associated with factual descriptions and descriptive comparisons of the game, indicating a lack of strong emotional response and a focus on objective observations.
- Engagement (weight 0): Engagement was driven by the game's routine activities, its compelling themes, and its mechanics, particularly challenging gameplay and territory control elements that kept players invested.}