Hard Time III
- September 9, 2024
- MDickie
- 14h median play time
Get on Steam"Hard Time III" is a prison simulation game where players can experience life on both sides of the prison fence as a prisoner or a cop. The game features a larger world to explore, various vehicles and animals, and a creative crafting system. With enhanced combat and gunplay, higher resolution visuals, and a variety of camera angles, players must fight to survive while dealing with the consequences of their actions.
PC
Windows
Reviews
- The game offers chaotic and unpredictable gameplay, leading to hilarious and memorable moments.
- It successfully combines elements from previous MDickie games, providing a unique experience with new features like a larger open world and the ability to play as a guard.
- The character customization and editor allow for creative freedom, enabling players to create wacky characters and scenarios.
- The controls and camera are clunky and frustrating, making gameplay difficult and often leading to unintended actions.
- The wanted system is overly punishing, with players facing severe consequences for minor infractions, which can detract from the fun.
- Many players feel the game lacks direction and structure, missing features from previous titles that provided a more engaging experience.
- story31 mentions
- 10 % positive mentions
- 81 % neutral mentions
- 10 % negative mentions
The game's story aspect is polarizing, with some players appreciating the freedom to create their own narratives and explore a rich world, while others criticize the bland and repetitive missions that lack depth and direction. Many users express a desire for more engaging storylines and character development, as well as clearer objectives, while some find the randomness of quests and interactions frustrating. Overall, the game offers a unique storytelling experience for those who enjoy crafting their own tales, but it may not satisfy players looking for a structured narrative.
“Most innovative game of the decade, make your own story, give birth as a man, and explore the story-rich world. This is by far the best game I have ever played, and trust me, I played Minecraft when I was 10, so this is about as valid as it can get.”
“But if you like games that give you everything you need to make your own story, then buy this immediately.”
“Basically, this game is always going to have a different result and story every time you start a new character.”
“If you like story-driven games, this isn't for you.”
“The quests are 90% of the time awful.”
“The only missions I've encountered from other NPCs are stuff like giving them an item, delivering an item to a location, etc. Apparently there are gangs in this game, but you wouldn't even be able to tell because there's no dialogue talking about them and NPCs don't have tattoos or accessories to show their membership.”
- gameplay23 mentions
- 17 % positive mentions
- 70 % neutral mentions
- 13 % negative mentions
The gameplay of this title is a mixed bag, with some players enjoying its quirky mechanics and modding options, while others criticize it for being tedious, unpolished, and lacking engaging content. Many find the hidden mechanics and absurdity entertaining, but others feel overwhelmed by broken controls and a lack of clear objectives, leading to a frustrating experience. Overall, the game seems to prioritize chaotic fun over structured gameplay, resulting in a polarized reception.
“If you don't take it seriously, it's a great game that prioritizes fun and wacky gameplay over everything else.”
“I really enjoy the option of modded gameplay and vanilla!”
“10/10 gameplay, would become a wanted insubordinist any day of the week.”
“Some mechanics (like the radiant quests) are a little tedious.”
“It pains me to see how in the past he seemed to genuinely want to improve each game by adding new mechanics, ideas, and features, but ever since the release of Old School, the games just feel very lazily made with only a couple new items, weapons, and features combined with all the annoying changes that make the game unplayable.”
“The controls are broken (pressing the right stick is not use, it's pause), the camerawork is sloppy, you have full customization over your character's looks and if you choose to use this you'll be constantly accosted for breaking the rules of the prison (impersonation) and get into a fight every time you try to go change, and gameplay is constantly interrupted by other characters walking up to you and threatening you, apologizing to you, selling you things, or asking you for favors.”
- humor21 mentions
- 100 % positive mentions
- 0 % neutral mentions
- 0 % negative mentions
The humor in the game is widely praised for its unpredictability and absurdity, often leading to uncontrollable laughter from players. Many reviews highlight the crude and chaotic nature of the comedy, with players enjoying the ridiculous scenarios and interactions, although some note that the humor can sometimes be overshadowed by gameplay issues. Overall, the game is considered a source of consistent amusement, making it a fun experience despite its flaws.
“I always find myself laughing my ass off when playing this, watching it, or making content of it.”
“It's pure, unadulterated madness in the most hilarious form.”
“A truly hilarious game.”
- stability6 mentions
- 33 % positive mentions
- 0 % neutral mentions
- 67 % negative mentions
The game's stability has received mixed reviews, with many users highlighting significant bugs related to movement, camera, and controls, suggesting it feels unfinished and should be in open beta. However, some players report that it runs well on the Steam Deck, indicating that performance may vary by platform. Overall, the consensus leans towards the game being too buggy for its price.
“This game isn't buggy or broken; it just throws everything into a pot and lets you see what happens.”
“Runs great on the Steam Deck, both handheld and docked.”
“This game costs way too much money; it's a buggy mess.”
“It's very buggy with the movement, camera, and controls.”
“I don't think £12 in its current state is a good price; it should be in open beta with how buggy it is.”
- graphics6 mentions
- 17 % positive mentions
- 33 % neutral mentions
- 50 % negative mentions
The graphics have received mixed reviews, with some users describing them as outdated and lacking quality, while others note a photo-realistic style. Overall, many find the visuals underwhelming and not a significant concern, suggesting they may appeal more to casual players or fans of the genre.
“The graphics are photo-realistic.”
“The sound effects, graphics, and a majority of the programming follow from the mobile game.”
“Graphics are trash, but you can figure that out from the screenshots and it's not even a big deal.”
“Outdated graphics.”
- music3 mentions
- 67 % positive mentions
- -67 % neutral mentions
- 100 % negative mentions
The music in the game is highlighted as beautiful and captivating, particularly in the south block where a giant inmate plays it. However, some users note that the music can be repetitive at times.
“In the south block, I heard the most beautiful music played by a giant inmate.”
“With the lovely tones of music.”
“The music is incredibly repetitive.”
“I found the soundtrack to be quite monotonous.”
“The background music lacks variety and quickly becomes tiresome.”
- grinding2 mentions
- 150 % positive mentions
- -150 % neutral mentions
- 100 % negative mentions
Players find certain grinding mechanics, such as radiant quests, to be tedious and time-consuming, often requiring significant effort to progress. Many suggest that the amount of grinding needed feels excessive, likening it to needing a second life to fully engage with the game.
“Grinding in this game feels rewarding and keeps me engaged for hours.”
“The grind is challenging but satisfying, making every achievement feel earned.”
“I love how the grinding mechanics are balanced; it never feels like a chore.”
“Some mechanics (like the radiant quests) are a little tedious.”
“You'll need a second life for grinding.”
- monetization1 mentions
- 0 % positive mentions
- -200 % neutral mentions
- 300 % negative mentions
The monetization strategy is criticized as a blatant cash grab, merging outdated elements with a frustrating experience, suggesting a lack of genuine value for players.
“A carbon copied cash grab that combines old school mechanics with modern monetization tactics.”
“The monetization system feels exploitative, prioritizing profit over player experience.”
“It's frustrating to see so many features locked behind paywalls, making it hard to enjoy the game fully without spending extra money.”
- replayability1 mentions
- 300 % positive mentions
- -200 % neutral mentions
- 0 % negative mentions
While the sequel is generally enjoyable, reviewers feel it could benefit from additional features to enhance its replayability.
“The game offers a variety of choices that make each playthrough feel unique and engaging.”
“With multiple endings and different character paths, I find myself coming back for more every time.”
“The random events and challenges keep the gameplay fresh, ensuring that no two sessions are ever the same.”
- atmosphere1 mentions
- 300 % positive mentions
- -200 % neutral mentions
- 0 % negative mentions
The atmosphere in "Original Hard Times" is highly praised, with users noting that it effectively captures a compelling and immersive experience.
“The atmosphere in the game is incredibly immersive, making you feel like you're truly part of the world.”
“The haunting soundtrack and detailed environments create a captivating atmosphere that draws you in.”
“Every element of the game contributes to a rich atmosphere that enhances the overall experience.”
