Borderless Gaming
- July 23, 2015
- AndrewMD5
- 10h median play time
Get on Steam"Borderless Gaming" is a utility software that allows gamers to run their games in borderless windowed mode, providing smooth multitasking and easy access to other applications. It works by forcing games to run in windowed mode, even if they don't support it natively. The software is easy to use, with a simple interface that allows users to add and manage their games. It also includes customization options, such as adjusting the frame rate limit and transparency.
Reviews
- Essential for multi-monitor setups, allowing seamless alt-tabbing without minimizing games.
- Works effectively for older games that lack native borderless window options, enhancing gameplay experience.
- User-friendly interface that simplifies the process of making games borderless windowed.
- Recent updates introduced ads in the paid version, which many users find unacceptable.
- Charging for dark mode as a DLC is viewed as unethical, especially since it is considered an accessibility feature.
- Inconsistent performance with certain games, leading to crashes or graphical issues.
- monetization85 mentions
- 5 % positive mentions
- 4 % neutral mentions
- 92 % negative mentions
The monetization strategy of the software has drawn significant criticism from users, primarily due to the inclusion of ads in a paid version that many feel should be ad-free. Users express frustration over the developer's decision to charge for features like dark mode while simultaneously introducing pop-up ads, which they view as a cash grab and a breach of trust. Despite some users reporting no ads, the overall sentiment is that the presence of advertising in a paid product is unacceptable and has negatively impacted the software's reputation.
“This software itself is great, but charging more than double the original software's cost for the new 'dark mode' feature is kind of scummy monetization - as many would consider dark mode to be classified as an accessibility feature.”
“I have had no ads at all, never even once.”
“There are no ads.”
“App was great until it turned into a cash grab.”
“Ads in a program I paid for is disgusting and not acceptable at all.”
“The dev is a scumbag that charges $10 for accessibility features like dark mode, includes ads in software people already paid for, and then complains that people aren't talking about it rationally enough.”
- graphics33 mentions
- 21 % positive mentions
- 70 % neutral mentions
- 9 % negative mentions
The graphics of the game have received mixed feedback, with some users appreciating the stunning visuals and artistic brilliance that enhance the overall narrative, while others express disappointment over dated graphics and technical issues, particularly when using borderless window modes. Many users value the ability to run high-graphic games on lower-spec systems, highlighting the software's utility in resolving graphical issues and improving performance. Overall, while the graphics may not be cutting-edge for all, they contribute significantly to the gaming experience for many players.
“Such beautiful graphics on 32:9!”
“From the moment you launch the game, you are greeted with breathtaking visuals that seamlessly blend cutting-edge graphics with artistic brilliance.”
“The stunning graphics are not just eye candy; they contribute to the overall narrative and make every moment in the game visually captivating.”
“No matter how many times I tell this app to not maximize or full screen the game, it does and screws up the graphics and throws off my mouse alignment.”
“I've found that games that run on Unreal Engine either have some problems when borderless gaming is toggled on the game, or just refuse to listen to the app at all.”
“In some cases, the games you run on your desktop (or laptop) won't work properly due to limitations in graphic cards and screen resolution.”
- optimization33 mentions
- 12 % positive mentions
- 64 % neutral mentions
- 24 % negative mentions
Overall, users report mixed experiences with optimization in games, particularly in multiplayer settings and older titles. Many find that using borderless windowed mode can enhance performance and reduce stuttering, especially in poorly optimized games, while some tools are praised for their ability to run games smoothly without significant resource impact. However, there are still instances where performance issues persist, often attributed to the games themselves rather than the optimization methods employed.
“It also doesn't interfere with your game's performance or frame rates, which is crucial for competitive gaming.”
“Allows me to run with full screen performance but tab to other programs quickly.”
“And that's where this little tool shines: it lets you run windowed games fullscreen with no drawbacks, literally eliminating the need for v-sync and thus saving a lot on performance.”
“Multiplayer is unoptimized, and there's effectively no music at all.”
“Extremely helpful for games that are poorly optimized for smaller screens or lack a borderless windowed mode.”
“I tried it again with different steps and it looked fine but the performance drop was extremely severe and the cursor was off from what it was actually selecting by about four inches.”
- gameplay25 mentions
- 44 % positive mentions
- 44 % neutral mentions
- 12 % negative mentions
The gameplay of the game has received mixed reviews, with some praising its immersive and engaging mechanics that blend exploration, combat, and puzzles, while others criticize it as bland and straightforward despite having solid mechanics. Many players find the gameplay addictive and capable of keeping them engaged for extensive hours, although some express frustration with technical issues and a lack of support for older games. Overall, the gameplay is highlighted as a standout feature, contributing significantly to the game's appeal despite its narrative shortcomings.
“Super challenging and engaging gameplay 10/10”
“No more alt-tabbing, no more taskbar distractions - just pure, immersive gameplay that extends across all your screens.”
“Whether it's the seamless transition between open-world exploration and intense combat sequences or the mind-bending puzzles that challenge your intellect, every aspect of the gameplay feels fresh and exhilarating.”
“The gameplay is abysmal.”
“Gameplay: the gameplay itself is pretty bland and straightforward, but the mechanics are splendid.”
“It literally did not work for any of the games I would have liked it to work with, and since I left it running in the background, it stacked up to 12 hours of 'gameplay' ('gameplay' clearly is not the right word for it) and Steam would not refund the product.”
- story23 mentions
- 61 % positive mentions
- 26 % neutral mentions
- 13 % negative mentions
The reviews reflect a wide range of opinions on the story aspect, with some players praising it as one of the best and emotionally impactful, while others find it lacking or forgettable. Many highlight the strong integration of storytelling with gameplay, noting that engaging characters and plot twists enhance the overall experience. However, there are also mentions of linearity and a lack of depth in certain narratives, suggesting a mixed reception overall.
“Such a great story, one of the best!”
“The characters, story, themes, and gameplay all perfectly blend together to create one of the greatest pieces of fiction ever conceived by humans.”
“Amazing gameplay and a wonderful story really make this game stand out as one of the best of all times.”
“The story is bad, but I keep coming back for the gameplay.”
“The story was a little bit like a Fallout game.”
“No story.”
- stability16 mentions
- 19 % positive mentions
- -12 % neutral mentions
- 94 % negative mentions
The stability of the game is generally criticized, with many users reporting frequent bugs, crashes, and freezes, particularly when using fullscreen mode or the auto borderless feature. While some players acknowledge that the developer is actively working on updates, the overall sentiment suggests that the game is not yet reliable enough for purchase, as many have experienced significant issues that hinder gameplay.
“The developers work hard to keep updating the game and ensure it remains bug-free.”
“I appreciate how stable the game is; I rarely encounter any crashes or glitches.”
“The consistent updates and attention to stability make this game a pleasure to play.”
“Don't bother spending your money on this (yet), it's very buggy and the developer is completely unresponsive, you can see the bug list here (some of which I've reported):”
“Yea, everyone knows that fullscreen gives you better framerates, but if you're not playing on a potato or tab out often then fullscreen can be a hassle, even causing freezes or crashes upon tabbing back in.”
“The app freezes in a 'loading' phase every time it is run.”
- music15 mentions
- 20 % positive mentions
- 60 % neutral mentions
- 20 % negative mentions
The music aspect of the game receives mixed feedback; while some players appreciate the immersive and adaptive soundtrack that enhances the gaming experience, others express frustration over the lack of in-game music and the need to frequently alt-tab to manage their own playlists. Overall, the soundtrack is highlighted as a significant strength, contributing to the game's atmosphere and emotional depth.
“The game's soundtrack deserves special mention, as it not only complements the atmosphere but elevates the entire experience.”
“The music seamlessly adapts to the unfolding events, enhancing emotional moments and intensifying action sequences.”
“Its combination of stunning visuals, gripping storytelling, innovative gameplay, and a memorable soundtrack creates an unparalleled gaming experience.”
“Multiplayer is unoptimized, and there's effectively no music at all.”
“I could troubleshoot it, but it is a waste of my time to do so; I just wanted to listen to music while I game.”
“I hate tabbing in and out with tons of lag, and I tab a lot for checking messages or changing what music I'm listening to.”
- humor7 mentions
- 100 % positive mentions
- 0 % neutral mentions
- 0 % negative mentions
The humor in the game is generally well-received, with users finding it enjoyable and entertaining, even those who typically do not favor visual novels. However, some reviews touch on serious issues, contrasting the lightheartedness of the humor with personal struggles, indicating that while the humor is appreciated, it can also be perceived as insensitive in certain contexts.
“Actually, I don't like visual novels, but this one is fun; I like the humor.”
“Reviews for this are funny.”
“Ha, you made a funny.”
- emotional5 mentions
- 100 % positive mentions
- 0 % neutral mentions
- 0 % negative mentions
The game delivers a powerful emotional experience through its expertly crafted narrative and adaptive music, which heighten both poignant moments and intense action. Many players report being deeply moved, with some even expressing that the story left them in tears, while others criticize past decisions by the developers.
“The narrative is expertly woven, taking players on an emotional rollercoaster filled with unexpected twists and turns.”
“The music seamlessly adapts to the unfolding events, enhancing emotional moments and intensifying action sequences.”
“Truly a heart-wrenching masterpiece.”
- grinding1 mentions
- 0 % positive mentions
- -200 % neutral mentions
- 300 % negative mentions
Players express that the grinding in the game is excessively time-consuming, often requiring a significant investment of time akin to having a second life to fully engage with it.
“You'll need a second life for grinding.”
“The grinding feels endless and tedious.”
“Grinding takes away from the enjoyment of the game.”
- atmosphere1 mentions
- 300 % positive mentions
- -200 % neutral mentions
- 0 % negative mentions
The game's soundtrack significantly enhances the atmosphere, elevating the overall experience and creating an immersive environment for players.
“The game's soundtrack deserves special mention, as it not only complements the atmosphere but elevates the entire experience.”
“The immersive world design creates a hauntingly beautiful atmosphere that draws you in and keeps you engaged.”
“Every detail, from the lighting to the ambient sounds, contributes to an atmosphere that feels both alive and unsettling.”
