STLD Redux: Episode 02
- May 19, 2017
- Craig Daversa
Get on SteamIn STLD Redux: Episode 02, players defend against hordes of the undead in a house-based weapon system, with over 20 unique weapons, environmental traps, and a new boss. Survival-horror and action blend in this game, offering hours of replayability and a massive reward system. Complete challenges to unlock even deadlier weapons and face tougher difficulties.
PC
Windows
Reviews
- The game offers a lot of replayability with various approaches to challenges and a ton of variety to experiment with.
- It combines classic survival horror with point & click elements, creating a tense atmosphere where every second and bullet counts.
- The game is engaging and addictive, rewarding players as they learn and master the mechanics over multiple playthroughs.
- The control scheme is confusing and can detract from the overall experience, requiring players to spend time adjusting to it.
- Some gameplay elements, like puzzles and weapon pickups, can become repetitive after a few hours, potentially leading to a lack of long-term engagement.
- The game currently has limited content with only a couple of maps, and some players have noted issues with the visuals and user interface.
- gameplay2 mentions
- 50 % positive mentions
- -50 % neutral mentions
- 100 % negative mentions
Gameplay features a progression through increasingly challenging modes, starting with a manageable 7-minute session and advancing to tougher 12 and 14-minute challenges, where players unlock various weapons and gameplay elements. However, the infection mechanic introduces a significant risk, as a single bite can severely handicap players, potentially leading to unwinnable situations, compounded by inconsistent weapon damage that can result in unexpected failures at critical moments.
“Due to how the infection mechanic works, getting bitten even once is a huge, irreversible handicap that can make a game basically unwinnable if it happens too early. However, one could argue that it's just another way of ensuring you never allow the zombies to get past your guard in the first place. Some weapons can be a bit inconsistent in their damage output, leading to an unexpected bite when what you thought was a sure kill, well... isn't, and typically at the worst possible time, in strict accordance with Murphy's Law.”
“Due to how the infection mechanic works, getting bitten even once is a huge, irreversible handicap that can make a game basically unwinnable if it happens too early. Some weapons can be a bit inconsistent in their damage output, leading to an unexpected bite when what you thought was a sure kill, well... isn't, and typically at the worst possible time, in strict accordance with Murphy's Law.”
“You begin in the reasonable 7-minute mode before heading into bumpier territory with the 12 and 14-minute challenges, unlocking multiple bonus weapons and gameplay variables as you go.”
- graphics2 mentions
- 150 % positive mentions
- -100 % neutral mentions
- 50 % negative mentions
The game's graphics, originally developed in 2010 by a small team, are considered dated and unattractive, particularly the user interface. However, the visuals effectively convey necessary information, and while they may not impress, they are functional enough for most players.
“The graphical style is perfectly identifiable, and I've certainly seen a lot worse, so unless you're a graphics service provider, there shouldn't be a huge problem here.”
“The game features a unique visual style that adds charm and character, making it stand out despite its age.”
“The environments are beautifully crafted, with vibrant colors and detailed textures that enhance the overall experience.”
“Additionally, the game was originally made in 2010 by a small team, and kick me in the nuts if it doesn't look it, with dated visuals and a UI that's just ugly to look at.”
- replayability1 mentions
- 100 % positive mentions
- 0 % neutral mentions
- 0 % negative mentions
Players find the game highly replayable due to its short length and the variety of approaches available for tackling challenges, encouraging experimentation and different strategies. While the control scheme may initially be off-putting, customizing it enhances the overall experience.
“The control scheme is weird, but once you get over that (and bind the keys yourself), it's a really good game with lots of replayability. It's very short, but how you approach the challenge and what you prioritize is the real core of the game, and there's a ton of variety in here to experiment.”
- atmosphere1 mentions
- 100 % positive mentions
- -300 % neutral mentions
- 300 % negative mentions
The atmosphere of the game is consistently described as tense and immersive, reminiscent of the original version from 2010. Players appreciate the game's ability to evoke a similar feeling of suspense, making it a compelling experience despite any personal challenges they may face while playing.
“I played the original S:TLD back in the day, a.k.a. 2010, and loved it from the start. It totally had the same tense feeling as this version, so if you're reading this and on the fence about paying, pick up the freeware original. It's not as polished, but it's got the same tense atmosphere.”
“The atmosphere feels flat and uninspired, lacking the depth that would draw players into the world.”
“Despite the potential for a gripping environment, the game fails to create a sense of immersion, leaving players feeling disconnected.”
“The ambiance is underwhelming, with repetitive soundscapes and dull visuals that do not evoke the intended emotions.”
- story1 mentions
- 300 % positive mentions
- -500 % neutral mentions
- 300 % negative mentions
The game's story is limited by its reliance on only two maps, with one exclusively available in story mode, which some players feel restricts the overall narrative experience. Despite the well-designed environments that enhance gameplay, the lack of variety in settings may detract from the story's depth.
“The story is engaging and keeps you invested in the characters and their journeys.”
“The narrative is rich and immersive, making every decision feel impactful.”
“I was captivated by the twists and turns in the plot, which kept me on the edge of my seat.”
“The game hasn't changed much since its original release, and while there are many activities on the maps, the fact remains that there are only two maps, one of which is exclusive to story mode.”
“The story feels underdeveloped and lacks depth, making it hard to stay engaged with the characters and their motivations.”
“Despite the interesting premise, the narrative fails to deliver a compelling experience, leaving players feeling disconnected from the plot.”
