Recent reviews by 0ver_flow

To preface this review, I'd like to make it abundantly clear - this is one of my favorite indie games as of late, and I am very happy with the Early Access release. I've already put in a couple hours and intend to put in many more, regardless of where the game is at in its current state.

Half Sword has always had optimization issues, even in the demo. This was something many players were wary of, and rightfully so. The current state of the game is very unstable in regards to optimization. Many players will tell you that this game is unplayable in its current state, and I cannot tell them they are wrong by any means. In a moment the framerate will dip below 30 even on higher end cards/setups (I have a 9060XT - most games perform very well regardless of optimization).

In regards to content, the presentation and the world of this game could be more on display, however I constantly find myself immersed within the style and music. Progression has included more match types, addressed many player complaints and is a very coherent game mode.

This game will likely improve with time, as many Early Access games do. However, I cannot rightfully recommend this game in its current state. If you are interested, use your discretion. I suggest following the game's updates in the Discord, as every update is posted with notifications.

As someone who really enjoys this game, I cannot, in good conscience, recommend it to anyone. nProtect GameGuard and its implementation has had well documented issues, with many users reporting high rates of crashes as well as CPU usage. Many of these users are AMD users, but the possibility remains for all users. What's worse is the devs have actively removed community rewards from the OP of the following post, which you should check out if you'd like to purchase this game.

https://v1.steam.hlxgame.cc/app/553850/discussions/2/4206994023681304166/

So, a couple of weeks ago my friend told me I NEEDED to play Outer Wilds. He was convinced the game was right up my alley.

Today, after putting in ~28 hours into the game, I beat it. When I started playing I had multiple people message me asking me to keep them posted about my journey.

This game is an incredible, sublime experience. Each players' route is bound to be different, as there are tons of possible paths. The game does not restrict your actions based on your progress. From any point in the game (after the initial area) you are able to go straight to the intended ending.

If you want an unforgettable experience, please, I implore you, give this game a try.

If you hate having a social life and like Hotline Miami, this game is a must have.

Definitely short and lacks replayability, but it was an experience that kept me going throughout the whole thing. It felt so immersive (even though you have to break from gameplay sometimes).

PROS:

• Graphics are great and also unnerving
  
• The scares are good
  
• Very few down moments
  
• Interesting use of files
  
• Fun puzzles
  
• FPS method executed well

CONS:

• Breaking from gameplay is required
  
• Story is more than confusing, more like cryptic
  
• Crouch controls are weird
  
• Relies a LOT on jumpscares

Oh boy, this game.

No matter what you do you are the enemy. Unless you want to be villainized by a manipulative and victimizing character, don't play this.

Basically, if you want a game that's fun to ♥♥♥♥ around in rather than play, get it. The updates will make it better, but is the actual game more fun than the ♥♥♥♥♥♥♥ around that comes with it? No.

This game is extremely challenging, but it's so fun to play. I played for hours with my friends, even though the CAVALRY ♥♥♥♥♥♥♥ MURDRED ME.