Serious Sam: The First Encounter

The main pros of the game

• Fast-Paced Action: The game is known for its high-adrenaline gameplay, characterized by endless waves of enemies and chaotic battles, which many players find exhilarating.
• Simple and Fun Mechanics: Players appreciate the straightforward shooting mechanics, allowing them to "turn off their brains" and enjoy the action without complex strategies.
• Cooperative Multiplayer Mode: The game supports 16-player co-op, enhancing the fun and camaraderie when battling hordes of enemies together.
• Variety of Weapons and Enemies: The diverse arsenal of weapons and the unique enemy types contribute to the dynamic gameplay, keeping encounters fresh and engaging.
• Nostalgic Appeal: Many players have fond memories of the game from their childhood, and it captures the essence of classic FPS games from the late '90s and early 2000s.
• Decent Graphics for Its Time: Despite being an older game, players find the graphics visually appealing and well-designed for the era.

The main cons of the game

• Repetitive Gameplay: Some players feel that the gameplay can become monotonous over time, especially when facing similar enemy types in large, open arenas.
• Difficulty Spikes: The game can be unforgiving, particularly on higher difficulty levels, leading to frustration for some players who may struggle with enemy placements and traps.
• Clunky Controls: Compared to modern shooters, the controls may feel less responsive or outdated, impacting the overall experience.
• Limited Environmental Diversity: While the game features varied levels, some players noted that the overall landscape lacks diversity, primarily set in desert environments.

The features or elements that are missing from the game according to users

• Modern Quality-of-Life Features: Players noted the absence of contemporary features such as aim assist, comprehensive tutorials, and improved checkpoint systems, which could enhance the experience for newcomers.
• More Enemy Types and Weapons: Compared to later entries in the series, users mentioned that this installment has fewer enemy types and weapons, which could limit gameplay variety.
• Improved Sound Design: Some users experienced issues with sound cues, particularly regarding enemy locations, which detracted from the gameplay experience.
• More Narrative Depth: While the game is not heavily story-driven, some players expressed a desire for a more engaging narrative or character development.

Summary

• Overall, Serious Sam Classic: The First Encounter remains a beloved title for its chaotic fun and nostalgic value, despite some drawbacks related to its age and gameplay design.

Summary generated on: October 29, 2025