Deathmatch Classic

83%
Game Brain Score Based on 1,177 reviews
  • gameplay
  • graphics
  • story
Deathmatch Classic Game Cover
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Deathmatch Classic is a fast-paced, multiplayer-focused game that pays homage to id software's work. It offers players a collection of arenas to test their reflexes and engage in combat using weapons like rocket launchers. With its futuristic settings and emphasis on quick matches, DMC provides an exciting and challenging experience.

  • Mac OS
  • PC
  • Windows
  • Linux
Genres & TagsPlay Modes

Reviews

83%
Audience ScoreBased on 1,177 reviews
gameplay24 positive mentions
story7 negative mentions
  • Fast-paced, chaotic gameplay reminiscent of classic arena shooters like Quake.
  • Offers a nostalgic experience for fans of retro FPS games, combining elements of Half-Life and Quake.
  • Supports modding and custom content, allowing for a variety of gameplay experiences.
  • Severely limited player base, making it difficult to find matches with real players.
  • Outdated graphics and mechanics that may not appeal to modern gamers.
  • Many servers are populated only by bots, leading to a less engaging experience.
  • gameplay72 mentions

    The gameplay of "Deathmatch Classic" is a nostalgic homage to late '90s arena shooters, particularly reminiscent of Quake and early Counter-Strike, featuring fast-paced, straightforward deathmatch mechanics that emphasize quick reflexes and strategic weapon choices. While it lacks modern features and a storyline, the game offers a purist experience with smooth mechanics and well-designed maps, making it enjoyable for fans of classic FPS titles. Despite a dwindling player base, the gameplay remains engaging and fun, appealing to those seeking a competitive and dynamic shooting experience.

    • “The game features fast-paced, adrenaline-fueled action, focusing on traditional deathmatch mechanics in a variety of maps.”
    • “Classic arena shooter mechanics: Deathmatch Classic epitomizes the core elements of arena shooters, where players compete in free-for-all matches to score points by eliminating opponents.”
    • “The gameplay is straightforward, emphasizing quick reflexes, strategic weapon choices, and map knowledge.”
    • “The absence of advanced mechanics or modern features allows for a purist experience reminiscent of classic shooters.”
    • “Gameplay is basically run around, collect things like armor, weapons, ammo and health, and kill enemies.”
  • graphics47 mentions

    The graphics of Deathmatch Classic, built on the Goldsrc engine, are widely regarded as outdated, reflecting the early 2000s aesthetic typical of that era's shooters. While some players appreciate the nostalgic charm and simplicity that allows for focused gameplay, others find the visuals less appealing by modern standards, with mentions of glitches and a general mediocrity in graphical quality. Overall, the game is seen as a classic that prioritizes gameplay over graphics, appealing primarily to those who enjoy retro aesthetics.

    • “Visual style: using the Goldsrc engine, Deathmatch Classic features graphics that, while dated by today’s standards, capture the aesthetic of early 2000s shooters.”
    • “The simplicity of the graphics does not detract from gameplay, allowing players to focus on the action.”
    • “The maps are cool, it's got a unique art style despite its age, and it makes for a great arena FPS.”
    • “Outdated graphics, typical of productions from years ago, may be less appealing to modern players.”
    • “Deathmatch Classic offers a pleasant journey into the past, but its outdated graphics and limited online community may deter some players.”
    • “Graphics are horrible, but it's made in 2001, so that isn't so strange.”
  • story17 mentions

    The reviews indicate that the game lacks a traditional storyline, focusing primarily on multiplayer gameplay and deathmatch modes. While some users appreciate the absence of a narrative, suggesting it allows for a more open-ended experience, others reference the importance of story in similar games like Half-Life. Overall, the consensus is that the game does not prioritize storytelling, which may be a drawback for players seeking a narrative-driven experience.

    • “Deathmatch Classic has an amazing story and really makes you sympathize with those living under the base shotgun rule.”
    • “Half-Life 1 has this built into it, and people actually play it, allowing you to experience the Half-Life story mode (the main game) alongside it.”
    • “During primetime in the US, there are usually just enough people online to fill a single server, but other than that, you're pretty much left on your own to experience a brilliant open-ended walking simulator that serves as an artsy exploration of how we abandon our virtual worlds whenever the newest, shiniest game comes out, told through the most innovative environmental storytelling of the time period.”
    • “No storyline - the game focuses solely on multiplayer gameplay.”
    • “As the name suggests, it has no story or campaign, but for a game like this, it's not needed; there is just one game mode known as deathmatch.”
    • “No story here, so we're jumping straight into graphics.”
  • humor13 mentions

    The humor in the game is consistently highlighted by players, with many finding it particularly enjoyable when playing with friends, despite technical limitations. Reviews mention amusing moments, such as funny kills and quirky voice chat experiences, contributing to a lighthearted atmosphere. Overall, while some players acknowledge the game's shortcomings, they still appreciate its comedic elements, making it a fun experience, especially in multiplayer settings.

    • “It is very fun and not as rage-inducing, especially with the funny kills and bodies on the floor.”
    • “My chest hurt from laughing because of the dog water mic quality.”
    • “The game is funny as hell if you can find servers with low ping; I still remember playing it in my childhood with friends in a LAN gaming center.”
  • stability8 mentions

    The game is generally enjoyable but suffers from numerous bugs and glitches, which can detract from the experience. While some players note minor issues, others describe it as a "big terrarium for bugs," indicating a significant presence of stability problems. Overall, the stability of the game is a notable concern among users.

    • “Surprisingly, it's fun, but it is buggy.”
    • “The game offers some nice graphics; although there are some ugly glitches here and there, it is pleasant all the same.”
    • “The game itself is a big terrarium for bugs and glitches.”
  • grinding7 mentions

    Reviews indicate that grinding is a significant aspect of gameplay, often requiring excessive time investment, with some players feeling it detracts from the overall experience. Many express frustration over the necessity of grinding, suggesting it feels excessive and artificially inflates playtime.

    • “Remember when games were released without garbage DLC and copious amounts of grinding designed to over-inflate playtime?”
    • “You'll need a second life for grinding.”
    • “A bit grindy sometimes.”
  • optimization3 mentions

    The game is well-optimized, delivering stable frame rates and minimal loading times across various systems, ensuring a smooth gameplay experience. Players appreciate the diverse maps and the variety of weapons available.

    • “The game performs well on a range of systems, with stable frame rates and minimal loading times.”
    • “It runs smoothly, the maps are diverse, and there's a cool selection of weapons.”
    • “Graphics and performance are optimized, providing an enjoyable experience across various hardware.”
    • “The game struggles with optimization, leading to frequent frame drops and stuttering during gameplay.”
    • “Despite the appealing graphics, the optimization is lacking, causing long loading times and inconsistent performance.”
    • “I experienced significant lag and performance issues, which detracted from the overall gaming experience.”
  • music3 mentions

    The music in the game is minimal yet effectively complements the intense gameplay, creating a calming atmosphere that players find enjoyable. Many users appreciate the soundtrack, noting its ability to provide a sense of reassurance during gameplay. Overall, the music enhances the gaming experience, particularly for fans of the genre.

    • “And it's very good when you listen to the music of doom.”
    • “While the soundtrack is minimal, it fits the intensity of the gameplay.”
    • “I relaxed for 5 minutes to this music long enough to realize that I was going to be okay.”
  • atmosphere2 mentions

    The atmosphere is characterized by impactful sound design, including gunfire and explosions, which enhances the intensity of player engagements. It evokes a nostalgic feel reminiscent of classic games like Quake, while achieving a peak experience within the Goldsource engine.

    • “The sounds of gunfire, explosions, and player movements contribute to the atmosphere, making engagements feel impactful.”
    • “Goldsource peak, but the same atmosphere as Quake.”
  • replayability1 mentions

    Players appreciate the high replayability of the game, citing the diverse arsenal of weapons that enhances excitement and the classic maps that provide a lasting appeal for repeated playthroughs.

    • “The diverse arsenal of weapons adds layers of excitement, while the timeless maps ensure endless replay value.”
    • “Each playthrough feels unique thanks to the dynamic events and choices that keep the experience fresh.”
    • “With multiple character builds and story paths, I find myself coming back for more every time.”
Positive mentions (%)Positive
Neutral mentions (%)Neutral
Negative mentions (%)Negative

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Play time

7hMedian play time
7hAverage play time
7-7hSpent by most gamers
*Based on 1 analyzed playthroughs

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