The Hero Project: Open Season
- April 5, 2018
- Choice of Games
Get on Steam"The Hero Project: Open Season" is a simulation game where players take on the role of a superhero team manager. Assemble and train your team, manage resources, and make important decisions that will affect the outcome of missions and the future of your team. Engage in fast-paced strategic battles and choose your hero's abilities and equipment to save the day. Can you lead your team to victory and become the ultimate hero project manager?
Reviews
- The game features interesting dynamics and character interactions, especially for fans of the original trilogy.
- It maintains a strong superhero comic feel, with high stakes and a sense of player agency in earlier parts of the story.
- Returning characters from the original trilogy provide nostalgic moments and connections for long-time fans.
- The narrative is heavily focused on political agendas, often feeling preachy and detracting from the immersive experience.
- Players experience a lack of genuine choice, as many decisions feel railroaded and predetermined by the author's ideologies.
- The story suffers from pacing issues and info-dumping, making it difficult to engage with the plot and characters meaningfully.
- story46 mentions
- 15 % positive mentions
- 78 % neutral mentions
- 7 % negative mentions
The story has received mixed reviews, with some players feeling it is overly preachy and driven by the author's political agenda, undermining player choice and engagement. Critics point out significant narrative flaws, such as forced plot developments and a lack of meaningful consequences for player decisions, leading to a sense that the story follows a predetermined path. However, others appreciate the exploration of complex themes and character dynamics, suggesting that while the story has its shortcomings, it also offers moments of depth and connection to the broader universe.
“It's a technique they've been using very well that promotes personal creativity, replayability, and connecting the reader with the story in a way that can change from playthrough to playthrough.”
“This story includes body dysmorphia, heavier politics, and the full scope of tension between powered individuals.”
“The characters and the story were just brilliant.”
“I did everything in my power to not make a certain choice, but was forced to make a choice anyway because of the author's clear ideologies making their way into the story and constantly trying to force their political agenda on my character.”
“Ultimately, there are a number of holes in the story regarding character reactions, public opinion, and the weight of your actual thoughts and actions that can create the impression that nothing really matters--the story follows its own course, despite what you do.”
“The biggest problem in this story, narratively, comes from it trying to do two things at once.”
- replayability2 mentions
- 50 % positive mentions
- -100 % neutral mentions
- 150 % negative mentions
Overall, the game offers strong replayability through its promotion of personal creativity and varied story connections, allowing for different experiences in each playthrough. However, some users express disappointment due to a lack of significant variations, with replay value primarily hinging on different motivations rather than substantial gameplay changes.
“It's a technique they've been using very well that promotes personal creativity, replayability, and connecting the player with the story in a way that can change from playthrough to playthrough.”
“Lack of variations with replay value only down to different types of motivations is disappointing.”
“The game offers little incentive to replay, as the core experience remains largely unchanged.”
“Once you've completed the game, there's not much that encourages you to dive back in.”
- monetization2 mentions
- 0 % positive mentions
- 0 % neutral mentions
- 100 % negative mentions
The monetization strategy is heavily criticized for overwhelming players with frequent advertisements promoting other games and unnecessary upgrades, detracting from the overall experience. While some promotion is acceptable, the aggressive approach is seen as intrusive and excessive.
“You are also constantly bombarded with advertisements that encourage you to buy every other game from the developer and unnecessary upgrades like the mech pilot warning system.”
“I am not against some promotion of your works, but keep it subtle; don't throw an advertisement in my face after almost every chapter.”
- emotional1 mentions
- 300 % positive mentions
- -200 % neutral mentions
- 0 % negative mentions
Reviews indicate that the emotional aspect of the game is perceived as heavy-handed, with a focus on serious topics that resonate deeply with players who are passionate about these issues. This emotional engagement reflects the care and commitment of those advocating for these themes.
“The game tackles heavy themes with a level of sensitivity that truly resonates, making players feel deeply connected to the characters and their struggles.”
“I was genuinely moved by the story; it evoked a range of emotions that lingered long after I finished playing.”
“The emotional depth of the characters is remarkable, allowing players to experience their joys and sorrows in a profoundly impactful way.”
- music1 mentions
- 300 % positive mentions
- -200 % neutral mentions
- 0 % negative mentions
The music serves as a fitting swan song for the series, effectively maintaining the emotional momentum and reinforcing the significance of player decisions throughout the game.
“The soundtrack is a perfect blend of nostalgia and innovation, enhancing every moment of the game.”
“Each track is meticulously crafted, immersing players in the atmosphere and elevating the overall experience.”
“The music dynamically shifts with the gameplay, making every encounter feel unique and engaging.”
- graphics1 mentions
- 0 % positive mentions
- 100 % neutral mentions
- 0 % negative mentions
The graphics have been noted for their lack of relatability, as players may struggle to connect with the character designs, which seem tailored to a specific demographic that doesn't resonate with everyone.
- grinding1 mentions
- 0 % positive mentions
- -200 % neutral mentions
- 300 % negative mentions
Players find the grinding aspect tedious due to the frequent rebranding and changing of character groups, which requires constant monitoring of character stats to keep up with the changes.
“The constant need to grind for resources feels more like a chore than an enjoyable part of the game.”
“I find myself spending hours on repetitive tasks just to progress, which takes away from the fun.”
“The grinding mechanics are overly tedious and make the game feel like a never-ending slog.”
