User Score
8.5

Generally favorable reviews- based on 1873 Ratings

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  1. Nov 11, 2012
    8
    Hotline Miami is a good game, and a great game for the price. 10 bucks is about on average 2 dvd movie rentals, and it provides far more entertainment than that. While the game is simple in it's execution and style, it delivers with it's sheer madness and fun of solving the best way to beat a level. It is re-playable as well once you learn the intricacies of the game and how hard or howHotline Miami is a good game, and a great game for the price. 10 bucks is about on average 2 dvd movie rentals, and it provides far more entertainment than that. While the game is simple in it's execution and style, it delivers with it's sheer madness and fun of solving the best way to beat a level. It is re-playable as well once you learn the intricacies of the game and how hard or how easy it is to do things a certain way. I found myself at one point trying to use only melee weapons. It's a bit harder but very satisfying. Plus as you progress you unlock different weapons an masks. Different masks can tailor the experience for your play style. One makes executions swift, another lets dogs ignore you, a fast walk mask. There are many and I still have more to unlock. The varied weapons you have and how unforgiving mistakes are make this game a true gem. It's nice when a game can infuriate you one minute then give you sheer delight the next. It truly is an experience. If you are looking to kill some time, this is a great way to do it. This is very much worth the asking price. Expand
  2. Nov 12, 2012
    8
    This game is awesome.!
    Every level has some kind of new situation where you have to think about your strategy, its pretty brutal in fact both in difficulty levels and in gameplay style. The best soundtrack I heard for a really long time, and art-style is amazing! The story makes you think about your actions in the game, and it ever reaches the point where you're getting uncomfortable with
    This game is awesome.!
    Every level has some kind of new situation where you have to think about your strategy, its pretty brutal in fact both in difficulty levels and in gameplay style. The best soundtrack I heard for a really long time, and art-style is amazing! The story makes you think about your actions in the game, and it ever reaches the point where you're getting uncomfortable with killing pixels. Also there`s a lot of blood. It's not perfect though, the boss battles seem to be more trial and error than anything else, and the dialog scenes at the last boss were a pain since they started over when you died there.
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  3. Nov 14, 2012
    10
    Excellent old-school game with atmosphere of GTA1 and SVGA vintage style. Best for hardcore gamers who get tired from modern games. Market is full of retro-platformers but this is something different and will please virtually anyone.
  4. Dec 3, 2012
    9
    I got far more out of this than I was expecting.

    I respect this game for being retro not just for the sake of being retro. The retro graphics suit the overall feel of the 1980's setting and the amazing soundtrack (also retro) hits the sweet spot. At first I thought there was no real story to the game, but as I pressed harder, I got a hold of what the developers were trying to achieve
    I got far more out of this than I was expecting.

    I respect this game for being retro not just for the sake of being retro. The retro graphics suit the overall feel of the 1980's setting and the amazing soundtrack (also retro) hits the sweet spot. At first I thought there was no real story to the game, but as I pressed harder, I got a hold of what the developers were trying to achieve and jumped down the bunny hole in no time flat. I don't want to spoil anything for you, so I'll let you figure out what's going on. I can tell you one thing: once you finish a chapter, the music cuts out as you're forced to walk back to your car through hordes of dead bodies. You really start to ponder your character's motives and his reasons for answering all of these random calls, even after he throws up out of sheer disgust at what he did during the first chapter. By far the most interesting aspect of the game though is the gameplay. You have to use everything you can find to your advantage, especially since both you and your enemies have a one-hit kill lifespan. The stealth isn't great, but you do have to time your moves and predict when enemies will rush out (and I mean RUSH OUT) or shoot you. Like you can do to your enemies, your enemies can kill you in the blink of an eye. You. Will. Die. Countless. Times. You can take out other baddies with guns at ease, but since guns are so loud, they attract the attention of people surrounding you. You'd want to use melee weapons as much as you can, but only they can get you so far. Enough of me rambling, here's my bottom line: If retro fast-paced action strategy games with a compelling and fantastically thought-out plot and narration suit you, then this game comes highly recommended.
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  5. Dec 18, 2012
    9
    Hotline Miami is my GOTY. I was a late adopter, and originally pretty skeptical of the high reviews; the gameplay clips didn't really sell it for me. I had a number of friends who encouraged me to purchase the game, telling me I'd love the story and style. I gambled my $10 and it paid off, bigtime!

    It's a slick game, wonderful controls, fast-paced and really a rewarding experience when
    Hotline Miami is my GOTY. I was a late adopter, and originally pretty skeptical of the high reviews; the gameplay clips didn't really sell it for me. I had a number of friends who encouraged me to purchase the game, telling me I'd love the story and style. I gambled my $10 and it paid off, bigtime!

    It's a slick game, wonderful controls, fast-paced and really a rewarding experience when you beat a difficult level or stage. I am usually not into these types of face-paced trial-and-error arcade games, but this is the exception for me. At times it plays like a puzzle game (timing and approach is key, and can make or break a good run), other times it feels like Grand Theft Auto, running and gunning and spewing carnage.

    The story is a mix of Kafka, Refn, and Kubrick and really appeals to me. It's not everybody's favourite flavour, but if you even think this kind of surrealist hyper-violence would appeal, then it absolutely will. Not to mention the glorious soundtrack that just reinforces every design decision in the game.

    This game has made me take serious notice of the developers, Dennaton Games. I will absolutely buy the sequel/DLC to Hotline Miami, I will likely purchase their previous works, and will be paying close attention to their future endeavours. The only reason it gets 9/10 and not 10/10 is... I need to leave them SOME room to impress me more!

    Don't Miss this game!
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  6. Dec 23, 2012
    9
    As well as being an incredibly exciting game which very smoothly brings puzzle elements into the top-down combat model it adopts, this is an arty and fascinating exploration of the psychopath. Don't let anyone tell you it's wrong to enjoy this game, it's intelligently designed and I had a great time.
  7. Dec 28, 2012
    9
    Okay, the game is just AMAZING. 10/10. BUT you should be aware that there are problems with steam achievements right now, sometimes AI seems really stupid and there is no in-game support of steam overlay. Devs are working on these issues. Other than that, awesome game.
  8. Dec 26, 2012
    10
    You can feel the true essence of hard boiled through all the game, it's like a good old game with a great and mysterious story. By the way, the music it's just perfect. Nothing bad, so for me it's a ten.
  9. Dec 27, 2012
    9
    First of all, I haven't completed the game, but I am close, and I fell that I have played enough to review it.

    Hotline Miami is a simple, yet gorgeous game! This game is a shooter, and a hard one. The average enemy needs one or two shots, or a single hit from a meele weapon, and so do you, so be careful! The gameplay is seen from above, and the game consists of 15 chapters, or
    First of all, I haven't completed the game, but I am close, and I fell that I have played enough to review it.

    Hotline Miami is a simple, yet gorgeous game! This game is a shooter, and a hard one. The average enemy needs one or two shots, or a single hit from a meele weapon, and so do you, so be careful!
    The gameplay is seen from above, and the game consists of 15 chapters, or levels, wich mostly concludes several maps.

    If you get a good score in a chapter, you will unlock new masks, with special abilities, and you'll also unlock weapons, wich can be found later on.

    The game also has a story, a twisted one, but I am not gonna spoil anything, play it for yourselves.

    The graphics of the game is pixelated, wich I think is fine personally; the game would've been badder if it was 'realistic' graphics in my opinion.

    The soundtrack is good, and fitting for the most situations. It's mostly electronic music.

    There is a few minor bugs here and there, like enemies going through walls, wich only happend once.

    Other than that, I can't say much more about the game; it's good, heart pumping, and difficult. I like that kind of games.
    9/10
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  10. Jan 18, 2013
    10
    The best game i've played since a whole ages. Soundtrack is making me play harder and harder. Violence, violence and violence makes it even better. Can play again and again just to make better scores. Masterpiece! The story is simple and straight forward, also makes You to play and finish game. Ending like in an old school games. Totally back to the past. I want more games like this one, please !
  11. Jan 21, 2013
    9
    Fast paced and gory action make Hotline Miami a blast to play. The style and music add to the experience and the odd character story line keeps things moving. The pace for this game is perfect. Each level gets gradually more difficult and the enemies you face grow. Even though it is a top down 2d shooter, it is as twitched based as a FPS can get with enemies using almost instant reflexes.Fast paced and gory action make Hotline Miami a blast to play. The style and music add to the experience and the odd character story line keeps things moving. The pace for this game is perfect. Each level gets gradually more difficult and the enemies you face grow. Even though it is a top down 2d shooter, it is as twitched based as a FPS can get with enemies using almost instant reflexes. Just a fun game. Expand
  12. Feb 4, 2013
    10
    Laughing at all the people who say this is for hipsters... Retro graphics are a legitimate stylistic choice, and one that fits the brutal, straight-up tone of this masterpiece perfectly. There are a (very) few low points such as the no-combat stealth mission, but the vast majority of the levels are perfectly tuned carnage machines. The consistent enemy layout and extreme speed of deathLaughing at all the people who say this is for hipsters... Retro graphics are a legitimate stylistic choice, and one that fits the brutal, straight-up tone of this masterpiece perfectly. There are a (very) few low points such as the no-combat stealth mission, but the vast majority of the levels are perfectly tuned carnage machines. The consistent enemy layout and extreme speed of death and restarting make Hotline Miami play almost like a high-octane puzzle game, though orders of magnitude more violent than most, while randomizing weapons and imperfectly predictable AI keep things interesting. This last point is annoying to some, who want to be able to memorize the entire level a la Super Meat Boy, but I think totally static levels would have robbed the game of its spirit and replayability. Expand
  13. Mar 22, 2013
    10
    This game has one of the most captivating story-lines of any game that I've played in a while, it has an amazing soundtrack and it's very re-playable.
  14. Jun 25, 2013
    9
    Bizarre, fast paced, and gory in the best way possible. A little annoyingly difficult at moments but that's not neccessarily a bad thing. A very good game, not the best ever, but very good.
  15. Jun 25, 2013
    8
    Great fun to play
    Great Music
    Lots of replay value
    Lots to explore in the "liner" levels
    Retro Graphics Fit straight in

    Story very confusing
    Can easily frustrate people
  16. Jul 1, 2013
    9
    Ignore any reviewer who complains about the graphics, or mentions the word 'hipster' they will have nothing meaningful to say.

    Sorry, but had to start with that. Yes, you're not buying a graphical pushing game, there are plenty of flash games with 'better' graphics, but this was the style they wanted and it fits the music and whole theme...It won't win awards, but as has been said
    Ignore any reviewer who complains about the graphics, or mentions the word 'hipster' they will have nothing meaningful to say.

    Sorry, but had to start with that. Yes, you're not buying a graphical pushing game, there are plenty of flash games with 'better' graphics, but this was the style they wanted and it fits the music and whole theme...It won't win awards, but as has been said playing a game for it's graphics is like watching porn for the plot.

    It can be tough, but I guarantee 75% of the deaths you suffer will be your fault...and you'll learn from them. You'll plan your run, then panic lob a shotgun at someone and sprint round a corner into a dog or forget the glass for the 100th time. You could probably complete all the levels in an afternoon but if you can pick it up for around $5 that's cheaper then a lot of evenings entertainment. And you will be entertained.

    It's a good game, and the 'plot' that is there and unfolds is just enough and just little enough to make you question things...you'll WANT to play more, to finish that level to see the next one....and the soundtrack to it is perfectly matched.

    Only a few gripes it's a little short, and to some extent limited replay value. I doubt I'd replay it for a while but I can see myself coming back in a year or 2. Some of the boss fights are just a little annoying, the biker has been mentioned by others, but really you'll get it in the end just the dialog every-time was needless

    I'd say it's more 8.5 but having to go one way or the other on the simple fact that it's a fun solid cheap game with a well played story and a great soundtrack it more then deserves the 9
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  17. Jul 4, 2013
    9
    Este juego me ha encantado. Me lo pasé en casa de un amigo y luego me lo compré para tenerlo siempre. Es increíble que un juego tan "simple" me haya gustado tantisimo. La música es un 10. Y no le pongo un 10 porque el juego no es infinito. Algun pequeño bug en la inteligencia de los enemigos, pero nada importante para mi. Ha llegado a acelerarme el corazón hasya casi salirse por la boca.Este juego me ha encantado. Me lo pasé en casa de un amigo y luego me lo compré para tenerlo siempre. Es increíble que un juego tan "simple" me haya gustado tantisimo. La música es un 10. Y no le pongo un 10 porque el juego no es infinito. Algun pequeño bug en la inteligencia de los enemigos, pero nada importante para mi. Ha llegado a acelerarme el corazón hasya casi salirse por la boca. Gracias! Os lo habéis currado mucho! Expand
  18. Jul 12, 2013
    8
    Although this would be considered a niche title by many, you should still at least take a look at Hotline Miami. It's a top down tactical action game with emphasis on quick, well thought out moves and precise timing. The game does encourage a trial-and-error style of play, however, as death results in you simply restarting the floor you are on, instead of a mission failed screen or aAlthough this would be considered a niche title by many, you should still at least take a look at Hotline Miami. It's a top down tactical action game with emphasis on quick, well thought out moves and precise timing. The game does encourage a trial-and-error style of play, however, as death results in you simply restarting the floor you are on, instead of a mission failed screen or a repeat of the entire chapter. If you enjoy brutal, fast paced action, then you should definitely check this one out.

    If you're a fan of the 80's or retro gaming, you may be able to appreciate this game's art style as well. Thumping bass beats coupled with a "modern" take on the pixellated graphics of yore make for a very unique experience. The dark atmosphere of the game world and its characters emphasize a focus on the killing and the wonderful, sadistic rush you get from destroying a floor full of people with a crowbar.

    Hotline Miami isn't for everyone, that much is true. Not everyone will like the style of gameplay or its art style. However, don't let other people influence you right away. Hotline Miami is definitely something you need to judge for yourself. You may be surprised about how much fun you have.
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  19. Aug 4, 2013
    10
    Imagine the neon saturated visual stylings of the film "Enter the Void" with the violence of the film "Drive" with one of the best heavy, synth-driven soundtracks ever you have Hotline Miami. Seriously, how could you not like this game??? Even the most die hard black metal or folk listeners should be able to get into this!!! And if you don't like video games then you damn well shouldImagine the neon saturated visual stylings of the film "Enter the Void" with the violence of the film "Drive" with one of the best heavy, synth-driven soundtracks ever you have Hotline Miami. Seriously, how could you not like this game??? Even the most die hard black metal or folk listeners should be able to get into this!!! And if you don't like video games then you damn well should (for this game)! Expand
  20. Feb 24, 2014
    10
    For a rich game company the graphics was so bad i thought it was pong. The gameplay sucks as bricks bounce about 4 times and nail people in the ass. Such a bad gamee, 10/10. Im going to go now because this game made me want to chop my big hairy willy off and eat my ball sacks.
  21. Jan 27, 2014
    4
    This game is so frustrating and empty. It's beyond me that it got such a high score.

    - To begin with, Hotline Miami has no customization beyond ''masks'' that give special abilities, no cinematics and no story whatsoever. I know it's not a 60$ game but it looks cooler than it is. - Devoid of a godmode, the game requires to start over a zillion times. It sucks. There is no
    This game is so frustrating and empty. It's beyond me that it got such a high score.

    - To begin with, Hotline Miami has no customization beyond ''masks'' that give special abilities, no cinematics and no story whatsoever. I know it's not a 60$ game but it looks cooler than it is.

    - Devoid of a godmode, the game requires to start over a zillion times. It sucks. There is no justification to this.

    - Excluding the restart annoyance, the game is very short.

    Really beyond cool sounds and soundtrack, you will not find much in this one.
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  22. Dec 28, 2013
    10
    Don't listen to the idiots around here saying b*llsh*t about hotline miami..IT IS A GEM!!!Story and mood wise!U need an Xbox360 controller for sure,but it is worth your time...Violent,psycho,atmospheric plus a SUPER soundtrack!What else u want from an indie game 18+?It's on sale now!GO 'N' GET IT!!!
  23. Dec 22, 2012
    10
    this kind of games are the only ones that I really enjoy. Difficult, different to the rest of games and with adult content. The graphics and animations are awesome so as the faces (love the beard dude). I have no doubt that this is the goty of 2012, not those **** unlimited franchises that are all years the same game.
  24. Dec 24, 2012
    10
    Super fun. Not too long, but I got a good 6 hours out of it. I love the art style. Everyone agrees the music is great.

    The game is a trip. Surreal story, immersing style and setting, addictive gameplay. I paid $5 for it, and I would have paid more.
  25. Jun 10, 2013
    9
    Yes it's indie, yes the grains suck, and yes it's a great game. It seems most people are bashing it solely on its graphics and indieness, but that's shallow. This is a very good game with a little bit of stealth, action, and tactics.
  26. Jan 7, 2015
    4
    The game looks like a bad acid trip, sounds like a bad acid trip and aims to appeal to the hipster crowd.

    Horrible mouse/keyboard controls which kill any good dynamics because the enemies can see you from way off-screen, so you have to carefully look and target before moving, because, obviously, you can see through walls. This does NOT add to immersion. And one more thing... You
    The game looks like a bad acid trip, sounds like a bad acid trip and aims to appeal to the hipster crowd.

    Horrible mouse/keyboard controls which kill any good dynamics because the enemies can see you from way off-screen, so you have to carefully look and target before moving, because, obviously, you can see through walls. This does NOT add to immersion.

    And one more thing...

    You can not shoot knocked down enemies. If you shoot the door, it swings open, stunning anyone on the other side, but not killing. From there you have to either wait for the enemy to come to their senses or engage in bwutaw mewee finishews, which get you killed by a dude with a shotgun conveniently placed outside your vision range.
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  27. Aug 24, 2013
    5
    A really silly game. Which also has bad graphics. Which also has really warped humor. Which is also kind of mediocre and very much 1987 in terms of design. Give this a miss probably unless you really like this style.

    THE GROT REVIEW CRITERIA: After a long time writing reviews like an anus, think its time to set a few bad habits straight: Stop insulting designers. Show some respect for
    A really silly game. Which also has bad graphics. Which also has really warped humor. Which is also kind of mediocre and very much 1987 in terms of design. Give this a miss probably unless you really like this style.

    THE GROT REVIEW CRITERIA: After a long time writing reviews like an anus, think its time to set a few bad habits straight: Stop insulting designers. Show some respect for the design process and getting games in circulation. Hence (1) No Red scores. (2) Game scores as follows: Bad Game 5/10. Poor Game 6/10. Mediocre Game: 7/10. Good Game 8/10. Great game 9/10. Stella Game 10/10. To get 10/10 it must be a game that can be (theoretically) play-able for 1000+ hours. Not only great but near endless fun. Games may be bad or poor but making them should earn respect. Thus even the worst POS will still be a 5/10. 0/10 no longer exists in my vocabulary. Yellow is the new red. For the sake of accountability: you can reply if needed: Orctowngrot: Tim Rawlins: timtimjp@yahoo.com
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  28. Nov 6, 2012
    9
    Not everyone is going to "get" Hotline Miami - it's difficult, the graphics are purposefully out-dated, and the story is just bizarre (imagine if Drive were directed by David Lynch). Just like Lynch's films, Hotline Miami isn't a game for the mainstream hordes, it's most likely going to attract a niche market - and like most independent films and games it offers a solitary experience likeNot everyone is going to "get" Hotline Miami - it's difficult, the graphics are purposefully out-dated, and the story is just bizarre (imagine if Drive were directed by David Lynch). Just like Lynch's films, Hotline Miami isn't a game for the mainstream hordes, it's most likely going to attract a niche market - and like most independent films and games it offers a solitary experience like no other game. If you become accustomed to the difficulty, and get drawn into the mystery behind the story, then this game is incredibly addictive and is well worth your time, patience and effort. Expand
  29. Oct 27, 2012
    1
    This belongs on Newgrounds, not Steam. This would've been average at best 10 years ago, now it's just sort of pointless, nostalgia will only take a game so far. There's a ton of free game websites full of this stuff.
  30. Jan 4, 2013
    0
    This game is not retro, although it tries very hard to be so. The controls do not feel like an 8-bit or 16-bit console. The music is something out of Pink Floyd and sounds nothing like the chip tunes of the era. Overall it feels like a retro game from someone that has only heard about them second hand. I only paid $4.99 yet I feel cheated.
  31. Apr 9, 2014
    0
    Hotline Miami is a poor game that suffers from a long drag of trial and error approach. This game presents itself as a gritty, top down, action arcade game, but the game forces players to play exactly the way the game was supposed to be designed and leaves no room for spontaneity, experimentation or replay value.

    It's only a matter of minutes before you understand the A.I. pathways and
    Hotline Miami is a poor game that suffers from a long drag of trial and error approach. This game presents itself as a gritty, top down, action arcade game, but the game forces players to play exactly the way the game was supposed to be designed and leaves no room for spontaneity, experimentation or replay value.

    It's only a matter of minutes before you understand the A.I. pathways and exploit it to reach the objective. Every level is exactly the same with no variation.

    The story is juvenile at best. The music is mundane. And the trippy art style that constantly flashes colors at you and swerves the screen is literally sickening.

    So much for a game made using 'Game Maker'... *sigh*
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  32. Feb 17, 2014
    0
    I had this game gifted to me on Steam and I thought it would keep me amused for a while, it didn't though it's the most overrated game I have played in a while.

    The graphics style and music are good but it stops there. At first glance looking at the steam page you might think this is an action game like Smash TV or Zombie Shooter, it's nowhere near as good as those and nowhere near
    I had this game gifted to me on Steam and I thought it would keep me amused for a while, it didn't though it's the most overrated game I have played in a while.

    The graphics style and music are good but it stops there.

    At first glance looking at the steam page you might think this is an action game like Smash TV or Zombie Shooter, it's nowhere near as good as those and nowhere near as much fun, you basically have limited ways to kill the enemy who rush and one hit kill you all the time.

    The aim of the game is to die non stop and keep trying until you win and feel rewarded - just a shame the devs and all the fanboys forgot that games are supposed to be fun to play.

    In short - an overhyped game with a high difficulty to hide a shallow game underneath.
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  33. Oct 24, 2012
    1
    I can handle top-down shooters. I can handle terrible eye-straining graphics, I can even handle trial and error gameplay, but one thing I will never understand is when everyone in the game has a life meter but you. For the life of me you will die, no less then 300 times, in ONE-SINGLE-HIT with anything even a door. Yet enemies take two, three, sometimes five hits to die. The screen rotatesI can handle top-down shooters. I can handle terrible eye-straining graphics, I can even handle trial and error gameplay, but one thing I will never understand is when everyone in the game has a life meter but you. For the life of me you will die, no less then 300 times, in ONE-SINGLE-HIT with anything even a door. Yet enemies take two, three, sometimes five hits to die. The screen rotates as you move, it shakes constantly and the controls are completely broken. It would have been a hit in the year it's taking place in (1989) but for 2012, the eye strain, the aggravation and the urge to drive to the developers and beat them within two inches of their lives is not worth it, and $9.99 is defiantly not worth it. Again yet another pile of trash that will go straight to the top of the charts. Expand
  34. Feb 26, 2013
    0
    This game is absolutely god awful. I played 5 minutes of it, rage quit, and broke my keyboard. I hate this game and I hate the people who made it. I was so enraged by this game I felt the need to create a metacritic account just to express to everyone just how bad of a game this is. DON'T PLAY IT
  35. Nov 20, 2012
    10
    Loud, violent, pulpy and bizarre, Hotline Miami submerges you in a sublime audio/visual state of trance that will make your head spin and leaves you craving for more!
  36. Jan 17, 2013
    9
    Great game for satisfying the blood lust that my soul, blackened from violent videogames and Arnold Schwarzenegger movies, so desperately craves. Great as a birthday present.
  37. Aug 9, 2013
    8
    Addictive, bloody and fast-paced action. Cool retro design. A clever and engaging story. And a great soundtrack on top of it all. An awesome gaming experience that doesn't require a top-notch PC to play it. My only complaint is that it felt a bit short.
  38. Jul 28, 2013
    9
    Amazing indie game, the people who are giving it 0s and 1s out of spite are hipsters and angsty teens who are trying to be relevant for once in their lives. Don't let idiots cloud your vision, this is a must-get!
  39. Feb 14, 2013
    10
    This has got to be one of the best games I have played in quite a while. There are many games that offer great gameplay but the stories are usually the very simple, easy to understand nonsense that is also present in all blockbuster movies. And with Hotline Miami, one doesn't just get a pathetic, half-assed attempt at something more complex and meaningful but actually a complete one. ForThis has got to be one of the best games I have played in quite a while. There are many games that offer great gameplay but the stories are usually the very simple, easy to understand nonsense that is also present in all blockbuster movies. And with Hotline Miami, one doesn't just get a pathetic, half-assed attempt at something more complex and meaningful but actually a complete one. For the movie lovers: think Inception vs. Memento.
    As for the awesome music and art style and everything else... that's covered in so many reviews already...
    There are only two minor gripes I have with the game: Enemies often can't be hit when they stand very close to you (although that may be because one's weapon reaches through them.... there usually isn't enough time to analyze this...). And there are no online leaderboards. Which is really a damn shame for a game with a score system as this one. Then again... making people hunt high scores just for the fun of it may not even be what the developers had in mind?
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  40. May 29, 2013
    10
    An excellent little indie game with an astonishingly good soundtrack, interesting plot, and great game play. I couldn't stop playing until I completed it, which took me about 3 hours, but for only a few dollars this is entirely worth the short play time.
  41. May 13, 2013
    9
    This is not a game for everybody. If you're really into story, this is not your game. If you don't like your reflexes to be challenged, this is not your game. If you need a game a $10 game to have tons of content, this is not your game. However, if you don't need a game to have a real story, if you love to be challenged to beat and even complete games, and if you love fast, twitchyThis is not a game for everybody. If you're really into story, this is not your game. If you don't like your reflexes to be challenged, this is not your game. If you need a game a $10 game to have tons of content, this is not your game. However, if you don't need a game to have a real story, if you love to be challenged to beat and even complete games, and if you love fast, twitchy gameplay, then this is most definitely your game. I'm one of those people, and this is one of my favorite games in years. This game knows it's intended audience, and if you're part of that group then you'll have a blast with this treat of a game. Expand
  42. Dec 25, 2012
    8
    A lot better then I expected!!! I have so far only played a bit but I have enjoyed it all so far. The retro style is done well. 8 bit graphics aside I would have liked them to be a bit crisper. The pixels themselves actually looked grainy as well. The game play is tough. This is a game of trail and error and could induce someone to rage quit (depending on their sensibilities).A lot better then I expected!!! I have so far only played a bit but I have enjoyed it all so far. The retro style is done well. 8 bit graphics aside I would have liked them to be a bit crisper. The pixels themselves actually looked grainy as well. The game play is tough. This is a game of trail and error and could induce someone to rage quit (depending on their sensibilities). MUSIC. The music is probably the best part of the game. It really does set the mood by either pumping you up for a lot violence or regretting the horrible crimes you just committed. All in all it is worth the $10... but if you find it sale (umm ... Steam) just buy it, you won't regret it. Expand
  43. Jun 21, 2013
    10
    I felt like I was playing NeoGeo... controls were perfect... it just had this real arcade feel to it. I dig it. There are a lot of negative reviews that piss me off... learn how to play the game before you diss it. There's some serious strategy here and the fun factor and replay value is high. The colors, the music, the way it feels, can't be ufcked with.

    Three top games in the last
    I felt like I was playing NeoGeo... controls were perfect... it just had this real arcade feel to it. I dig it. There are a lot of negative reviews that piss me off... learn how to play the game before you diss it. There's some serious strategy here and the fun factor and replay value is high. The colors, the music, the way it feels, can't be ufcked with.

    Three top games in the last however many years: Shadow Complex, Super Meat Boy, Binding of Isaac, and Hotline Miami.

    Werd to your moms.
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  44. Jan 21, 2014
    9
    Let me break it all to you guys, this game is for those who enjoy: 1) GTA I & II, 2) Psychodelic/Progressive Music, 3) Arcade rush, 4) Arcade Graphics

    Pure 80's/90's awesome.
  45. Nov 18, 2013
    10
    I think this game made it to my top 10 its fast paced action old school graphics and has nice music. The theme of the game is also very good along with the 80s setting
  46. Nov 11, 2013
    10
    Fenomenal experience. it is such an incredible game which you will need to play in order to see how incredible it really is. The soundtracks and the storyline completely mesmerize me into a virtual reality.
  47. Aug 21, 2013
    10
    A Subversive, disturbing, addictive game and packaged with an unrivaled soundtrack that produces a not-entirely-stable altered state in my brain. It's 180 proof distillation of 80's Miami Vice nostalgia, pseudo 12bit gaming, gore-a-fied violence, and corset tight gameplay combined with neurosis inducing difficulty.

    It also digs into the narrative and psychology of wearing masks (do you
    A Subversive, disturbing, addictive game and packaged with an unrivaled soundtrack that produces a not-entirely-stable altered state in my brain. It's 180 proof distillation of 80's Miami Vice nostalgia, pseudo 12bit gaming, gore-a-fied violence, and corset tight gameplay combined with neurosis inducing difficulty.

    It also digs into the narrative and psychology of wearing masks (do you wear the mask, or does it wear you?) and on whether questions need to be answered to provide a compelling story.

    And the music? My god. From wild spaced out country-influenced-dub, to psychotic driving electro and exposed-nerve disco. The music will be slithering around in your brain long after your eyes lose their bloodshot state you gained from playing the game.

    Even in a year with some incredible releases like Mass Effect 3 and Walking Dead, this is my Game of the Year for 2012.

    ...It makes me want to buy a mask.
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  48. Aug 14, 2013
    9
    This is probably the bloodiest and violent games I've ever played. You wouldn't think that working your way through a stage and getting it all wiped because of one bullet would be so fun. You're forced to play fast-paced and almost thoughtlessly if you want to get a good score at the end of the chapter.

    You'll find yourself pressing 'R' to restart more than any other button and you'll
    This is probably the bloodiest and violent games I've ever played. You wouldn't think that working your way through a stage and getting it all wiped because of one bullet would be so fun. You're forced to play fast-paced and almost thoughtlessly if you want to get a good score at the end of the chapter.

    You'll find yourself pressing 'R' to restart more than any other button and you'll find yourself doing the same thing on a chapter over and over again until you eventually do it. But somehow whether it be the psychadelic soundtrack or the flashing background this game is still amazingly fun and replayable.
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  49. Dec 8, 2013
    9
    Pros:
    -Simple and challenging gameplay
    -The challenge isn't frustrating as much as it is motivating -Good soundtrack -Lot of sprite on sprite violence. Cons: -Gameplay is rather repetitive -Story kind of fizzles out and the end is just thrown in last minute. -7 hours long...or less if youre better at video games than me Conclusion: While gameplay is repetitive it never really
    Pros:
    -Simple and challenging gameplay
    -The challenge isn't frustrating as much as it is motivating
    -Good soundtrack
    -Lot of sprite on sprite violence.

    Cons:
    -Gameplay is rather repetitive
    -Story kind of fizzles out and the end is just thrown in last minute.
    -7 hours long...or less if youre better at video games than me
    Conclusion: While gameplay is repetitive it never really feels repetitive. The challenge always keeps it interesting even though you're basically doing the same thing (killing everybody in the room) every level. If you enjoy older style of games like asteroid, pacman, and space invaders where it's the same thing every level but just on a different map or with slight tweaks then you'll love this. For some reason it reminds me of the movie "Drive" with Ryan Gosling.
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  50. Aug 24, 2013
    8
    A strange title, but definitely worth checking out. The gameplay is intense, involving a lot of trial and error. The graphics really are from the 80's, just like the setting of the game, though. But what surprised me the most is the story. There is a surprisingly deep story, considering we're talking about Hotline Miami. A lot of things change over the chapters, all driven by the story.A strange title, but definitely worth checking out. The gameplay is intense, involving a lot of trial and error. The graphics really are from the 80's, just like the setting of the game, though. But what surprised me the most is the story. There is a surprisingly deep story, considering we're talking about Hotline Miami. A lot of things change over the chapters, all driven by the story. But I think that the addictive gameplay is what hooks people the most.
    The game doesn't know the definition of the word 'mercy', and you will be driven to play. But it's so goddamn hard sometimes! Congratulations to the developers for creating such a game.
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  51. Feb 7, 2013
    9
    Fantastic question asker that brings you into the mind of a serial killer with a massive rewarding ending that doesn't leave you questioning with enjoyable combat and massive replay ability that makes you want to just improve on everything you do in the game
  52. Feb 13, 2013
    9
    Pros:
    Unique in the best way
    Fantastic music
    Tactile controls and combat
    Fantastic Music

    Cons:
    Over too soon
    Story kinda goes no where

    Overall:
    A top down, 16 bit, murder spree? Heavy Techno beats? Tense, trial and error gameplay? A strange but addicting combination that hypnotizes without frustrating.
  53. Feb 19, 2013
    8
    It's unique. You have to try to kill everyone on the floor without taking a single hit, otherwise you die and have to start that floor all over. So it's not exactly a top-down shooter/hack an slash game since you have to try to perfect each section without even getting hit, it's almost more of a puzzle game, but it's hard to place this down in a genre. The presentation is very ugly, butIt's unique. You have to try to kill everyone on the floor without taking a single hit, otherwise you die and have to start that floor all over. So it's not exactly a top-down shooter/hack an slash game since you have to try to perfect each section without even getting hit, it's almost more of a puzzle game, but it's hard to place this down in a genre. The presentation is very ugly, but that's intentional, it adds to the style. The music is notable as well. If you're interested, it's worth checking out. Expand
  54. Feb 21, 2013
    8
    „Hotline Miami“ is a great ultrabrutal arcade shooter with fast pace action. With some unlockables and a heavy difficulty you simply cannot make something wrong. If you're not a moralizer, get this game!
  55. Nov 7, 2013
    9
    Hotline gives you a different game-play style. I wish there was a CO-OP mode also, but it is still perfect game in Singleplayer. You can not compare Hotline Miami with any other game. It is unique in these days i think. It brings some good memories from "old days". And you never get bored, but sometimes, you just feel that, missions repeat themselves. Still a good game.
  56. Oct 7, 2013
    10
    This game is perfect, a flashback to the old times of gaming. Excellent controls, a certain need for strategy while playing, lovely graphics and catchy tunes. The plot is crazy but intriguing, and once you finish it you feel like playing again to get all the unlockables and secrets.
    If you like old school games this is a must.
  57. Jul 19, 2013
    9
    Awesome Indie game!
    I loved the theme and story of this game, they were really well done. They could not have done any better at creating an old school/retro feel to the game.
    The gameplay/combat is basically "trial and error." It can be challenging at first, because it is extremely unique, but it grows on you. This has become my go-to game when I don't have a lot of time but need to be
    Awesome Indie game!
    I loved the theme and story of this game, they were really well done. They could not have done any better at creating an old school/retro feel to the game.
    The gameplay/combat is basically "trial and error." It can be challenging at first, because it is extremely unique, but it grows on you.
    This has become my go-to game when I don't have a lot of time but need to be violent for a few minutes.
    I want so badly to give this game a 10/10. But at a base price of 10 bucks, I have to chop a point off for lack of content vs. price.
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  58. May 29, 2013
    9
    Hotline Miami is a top-down fast paced action shooter with an excellent story and alternative 80's artstyle. I won't spoil too much but as you progress the story you unlock masks, which give you special abilities. You start out with a rooster mask that does nothing, but eventually you work your way up to masks that let you move faster or start with a knife. I can understand why someHotline Miami is a top-down fast paced action shooter with an excellent story and alternative 80's artstyle. I won't spoil too much but as you progress the story you unlock masks, which give you special abilities. You start out with a rooster mask that does nothing, but eventually you work your way up to masks that let you move faster or start with a knife. I can understand why some people call it repetitive but it's only repetitive if you make it. There are tons of masks, weapons and different tactics to try out.

    Overall, an utterly amazing game. The screenshots and previews simply don't do it justice, I implore you to buy it.
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  59. Dec 21, 2013
    9
    not sure whats wrong with the negative opinions, the game is responsive and fast peaced, if you pllayed for about 5 minutes and broke your keyboard out of frustration you're doing it wrong. Yes the game might seem 'hard' at first since you can die easily but once you play a bit and figure that you can actually take out 2 guys with guns with a mele weapon just by being quick and when younot sure whats wrong with the negative opinions, the game is responsive and fast peaced, if you pllayed for about 5 minutes and broke your keyboard out of frustration you're doing it wrong. Yes the game might seem 'hard' at first since you can die easily but once you play a bit and figure that you can actually take out 2 guys with guns with a mele weapon just by being quick and when you score your 4+ combo for the first time I think that you will enjoy it much better.

    About the repetitiveness if you measure it by the fact that you're doing the same thing than yeah 90% of the games are repetitive. Enemies doesnt always spawn the same way, sometimes they open doors and check other areas sometime they dont.

    The graphics are as they are, like 90s games were, you can clearly tell that by the screenshots so you're aware of what you're buying. You might like it or not, its relative thing. If you played better 'flash games' list them I'm curious about that.
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  60. May 13, 2013
    10
    This game is a 10 out of 10, because it´s giving you goosebumps with its soundtrack, gameplay, gore, design and story. It´s polished, it´s the personification of the 80´s. Ever wanted a real Miami game, a cold gory fascinating, rewarding game? Something perfect like this is rare. This is an important game of this generation. Watch Drive play Hotline Miami and maybe some GTA Vice City.This game is a 10 out of 10, because it´s giving you goosebumps with its soundtrack, gameplay, gore, design and story. It´s polished, it´s the personification of the 80´s. Ever wanted a real Miami game, a cold gory fascinating, rewarding game? Something perfect like this is rare. This is an important game of this generation. Watch Drive play Hotline Miami and maybe some GTA Vice City. There was a time people felt great, the 80´s. Best Movies, best music, beaches, it gives you such a nostalgic feeling even if you are not from the 80´s. It´s incredible. No bugs, perfect, challenging gameplay, addiction to the soundtrack, Awesome and fair Level Design. This game is like Metro or Stalker. The atmosphere will grab you and you will never forget this game! BUY IT! BUY IT NOW! Expand
  61. Feb 11, 2014
    8
    Worth playing. Very entertaining. Amaaazing music. For an indie game is a big ten, no doubt. The gameplay it's very addictive. It also has a catchy storyline I would say. Hoping for more games of these guys!!
  62. May 7, 2013
    8
    Hotline Miami is definitely one of the most unique and fascinatingly brutal games to come out in a while. It lures you in under the guise of a retro experience, but once it has you in its long, greasy, blood-stained hands it will keep you there until the credits roll. Its nonstop, run-and-gun game play keeps the player invested and open to trying new ways to complete each of the game'sHotline Miami is definitely one of the most unique and fascinatingly brutal games to come out in a while. It lures you in under the guise of a retro experience, but once it has you in its long, greasy, blood-stained hands it will keep you there until the credits roll. Its nonstop, run-and-gun game play keeps the player invested and open to trying new ways to complete each of the game's extremely challenging levels. The visual style is fantastic, presenting itself in a dirty VHS tape, late 80s vibe that is equal parts Scarface and Vice City. Also, the game is better played with a controller, as touchy mouse controls make aiming and fighting significantly harder in my opinion. Expand
  63. May 17, 2013
    10
    Game is awesome soundtrack is awesome price is awesome graphics are correct. This game is just awesome.
    Runs on Windows, Mac and Linux (Linux port is planned for may, so in max 10 days we have it). 10/10 nothing more to say.
  64. Nov 19, 2013
    9
    this is isnt about the damn grapichs story or characters....
    one of the best things in this game is the soundtrack...but i really loved this cause of the fact that you die as easly as your enemies...
    all the 8-16 kids are about the "ugly" grapichs..this is a retro game..it isnt for "hipsters" its a game for "veteran" games..who worent born with fancy grapichs...i have ppl who only like
    this is isnt about the damn grapichs story or characters....
    one of the best things in this game is the soundtrack...but i really loved this cause of the fact that you die as easly as your enemies...
    all the 8-16 kids are about the "ugly" grapichs..this is a retro game..it isnt for "hipsters" its a game for "veteran" games..who worent born with fancy grapichs...i have ppl who only like games for theyr grapichs..
    im 14..but i accept and like many many games..i started playing game from when i was 6 and at the age or 10-11 i finally discovered that games arent about grapichs...
    of couse if the grapichs are really bad (for that year) and it isnt an indie or an retro game as this is it usualy means that the hole game wont be the best..
    i loved this game..some ppl just nead to realize that games arent only about grapichs
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  65. Jul 30, 2013
    8
    Smash people with various tools to create a mighty retro violent rampage and sing along with the lovely tunes of this game. Available now for Sega Dreamcast.
  66. Jul 6, 2013
    10
    Rarely has a game completely captivated me only once or twice is a gamer captivated and blown away by what is in essence an awesome game that makes you realize why you play video games at all. The first ever video game to captivate me and instantly make me smile was outrun on the master system then grand theft auto on the ps one baldurs gate on the pc and now hotline miami is ranked amongRarely has a game completely captivated me only once or twice is a gamer captivated and blown away by what is in essence an awesome game that makes you realize why you play video games at all. The first ever video game to captivate me and instantly make me smile was outrun on the master system then grand theft auto on the ps one baldurs gate on the pc and now hotline miami is ranked among them. I believe a 10 out of 10 game is original and instantly captivating and hotline miami does this graphically its fun and retro and makes sense to why it is done in this way, the story strange weird and surreal and edgy artistically done, the music simply best music ever in a video game quite possibly. Hotline miami is a game if you were born in the 80s and can remember robocop vs terminator for its sheer awesomeness this game has that is abundance. Hotline miami exhumes aura soul and personality in a simple way its all about quality outrun has it gta has it and hotline miami has it without doubt the best game iv played in the past couple of years and thats saying alot rarely can you call a game timeless a game where in 10 years time i know i will still play and have that strange complete satisfaction. Expand
  67. Dec 27, 2013
    8
    Excellent indie game with unforgiving yet still satisfyingly fun game mechanics and a surprisingly good soundtrack. A friend of mine compared it to a Tarantino film, which is a worthy assessment.
  68. Jul 13, 2013
    8
    It was an enjoyable experience. It mixes together your quick reactions and your strategic thinking to complete a level. It punishes you on a single mistake however and I truly liked that aspect of this game. Overall, I think it was a great game but I found it to be quite short but definitely worth the price of 10 bucks.
  69. Aug 6, 2013
    8
    With a really good story and a dark environment, Hotline Miami is a very fast pace, top down shooter. With old school 16-bit graphics it looks awesome, the music is very unique and different for each level. There is not much I can say about this game because there are so many spoilers so I will leave you with some advice, PLAY THIS GAME!!!!!!!!
  70. Dec 24, 2018
    9
    Best muuuuurder game of this decade! I even have a tattoo as proof!

    Psychopathic atmosphere with one of the best game soundtracks out there.
  71. Nov 2, 2013
    10
    An amazing game, if you like grand theft auto or man hunt you will like this game, if you dont like gta or manhunt YOU WILL STILL LIKE THIS GAME. ultra violent and retro.
  72. Oct 18, 2013
    8
    Surprisingly, it's a very good game. It's really tense and difficult sometimes, but I can appreciate that. Controls are nice and responsive for a game like that. Violence is off the cart, so if you're against that, you should stay away. But who can be against that?))
    I didn't finish it so I don't understand the storyline that good, it was really cryptic for the first half of the game. But
    Surprisingly, it's a very good game. It's really tense and difficult sometimes, but I can appreciate that. Controls are nice and responsive for a game like that. Violence is off the cart, so if you're against that, you should stay away. But who can be against that?))
    I didn't finish it so I don't understand the storyline that good, it was really cryptic for the first half of the game. But the art style and overall experience was great. I highly recommend that game.
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  73. Oct 19, 2013
    9
    Definitely one of the best games I have ever played. Once you get into it you will be hooked. Even if you are playing the same level over and over trying to complete it whilst swearing and smashing your desk at every failure, the thrill of beating the hardest levels will keep you playing. The soundtrack is also fantastic, you will spend hours in a pumped up Hot Line Miami trance. A must have game!
  74. Jan 22, 2014
    10
    This harsh gritty top down arcade style shoot'em up, is one of the greatest indie games ever made. Everything in this game is flawless, the art, the music, the controls, and the story. Let's start with the art style, the game has an interesting mix of retro pixel art mixed with some bright colors and trippy visuals later on in the game. The its hard not to keep looking at the screenThis harsh gritty top down arcade style shoot'em up, is one of the greatest indie games ever made. Everything in this game is flawless, the art, the music, the controls, and the story. Let's start with the art style, the game has an interesting mix of retro pixel art mixed with some bright colors and trippy visuals later on in the game. The its hard not to keep looking at the screen because the art just has you so mystified. Next is the music. The music is so wonderful, its a mix of 8-bit old school video game style music, with techno and its so dark and catchy. The music matches the game perfectly. Third the controls. Not much to say, easy, simple , fluid. But most importantly fun, they get really fun really fast. The fast pace of the game perfectly match the fast controls, and easy learning curve but longer mastery curve. Last the story. The plot is given in bits and pieces, and very cryptic. But when its all over all the pieces come together and you loose your mind. You really feel like YOU the player just witnessed some one loose their mind. Everything about this game adds not only great replayability value its so much fun for under ten dollars (even cheaper if you wait for a sale on steam). All in all this is a great game. Expand
  75. Nov 5, 2013
    8
    Finally, we have an indie game that gets it. I can't say I'm surprised some people hate this game, and I thought I was going to hate it too, but I actually like it. It's got a methodical pace that you wouldn't expect from a "top-down shooter" as some "remarkably gifted" reviewer claimed it was. Also, awesome soundtrack.
  76. Nov 7, 2013
    9
    Hotline Miami is an excellent game, up there in the best games I've played this year. Challenging, lightning-paced action abound as you make your way through apartments, nightclubs and other mobster hideouts, brutally murdering every living thing in your path.

    The controls, gameplay and frame rate are incredibly fluid, lending you total control and further enhancing the furiously fast
    Hotline Miami is an excellent game, up there in the best games I've played this year. Challenging, lightning-paced action abound as you make your way through apartments, nightclubs and other mobster hideouts, brutally murdering every living thing in your path.

    The controls, gameplay and frame rate are incredibly fluid, lending you total control and further enhancing the furiously fast action. You play from a bird's eye angle so you always have an idea of what's going on and how to quickly deal with any problems, yet also allows you to witness the full glory of your rampage.

    There's a great scoring system in place too which encourages players to be creative in their bloody massacres, and there's plenty of A+ grades, weapons and unique, ability-boosting masks to go after.

    The game oozes style, with a truly phenomenal soundtrack (if you don't get this game, listen to the soundtrack alone!), and it perfectly captures that idiosyncratic atmosphere of 80s Miami, drenched in neon and blood. It certainly doesn't hold back, either; you'll be regularly blowing limbs off with shotguns, bashing skulls to a pulp with baseball bats and iron bars, hacking people to bits with machetes, and a lot worse, so make sure you have a strong stomach.

    The only real flaw I can mention is the very out-of-place stealth section; it greatly damages the momentum and is poorly designed.

    Otherwise, the game is superb, totally worth its price, and I strongly recommend it to anyone who loves their action.
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  77. Nov 10, 2013
    9
    This game is one of the best games I have ever picked up on Steam! It is extremely addictive and the soundtrack is brilliant! The only bad thing about this game is that the storyline is very weak.
  78. Dec 1, 2013
    9
    Old-school game mechanics. Engrossing, well-written storyline. Awesome soundtrack and 80s ambientation. The greatest surprise of 2012, there's nothing to dislike in this game.
  79. Jul 5, 2015
    10
    Hotline Miami is an incredible game. It's graphics is good-lookingand soundtrack is amazing. I am looking forward for Hotline Miami 2, I hope it will not disapoint me.
  80. Dec 25, 2013
    9
    Atmosphere, gameplay mechanics, difficulty, artistic concept, psychedelic experience, awesome music etc. makes Hotline Miami a really good game. Totally worth playing, but beware of some bugs and a lot of unreasonable things happening.
  81. May 8, 2016
    8
    Great graphics and soundtrack, small levels make for incredible bite-sized over-the-top action. Lots and lots and lots of gore. Not much story but I wasn't expecting one.
  82. Mar 23, 2015
    4
    A good game crippled by game breaking bugs. I know this isn't as massive an issue with most, but I have to go from my personal experience. There was probably 10+ crashes in this short game, and a similar number of graphical bugs which made the game unplayable and forced me to quit. The graphical bugs also appear to be a fairly frequent problem among users as well, with it never beingA good game crippled by game breaking bugs. I know this isn't as massive an issue with most, but I have to go from my personal experience. There was probably 10+ crashes in this short game, and a similar number of graphical bugs which made the game unplayable and forced me to quit. The graphical bugs also appear to be a fairly frequent problem among users as well, with it never being fixed. The problem with this is that the game is separated into chapters, with multiple stages each chapter and the game only saves after a chapter is finished. So, if your game crashes or the graphics bug out, you have to redo the entire chapter even if you're on the last stage, and this is a tough game, so it often takes a LOT to get to the end of some chapters.

    In terms of the gameplay, it's very entertaining if a little trial and error-ish. Your enemies die in one hit and so do you. So you have to find the perfect path in each stage to take out the enemies without getting hit, essentially making it a puzzle top-down shooter. It's very punishing but for the most part fair and requires multiple split-second decision making to pass a stage.

    The story is intriguing at the start but goes nowhere and no questions are actually answered until the sequel, so don't expect much there. However, not much emphasis is put on the story anyway so it doesn't really affect the game that much, the sequel focuses on it much more. The soundtrack is also stellar and arguably the best part of the game. However, the gameplay is so intense and adrenaline inducing that I often didn't particularly notice the soundtrack despite it being so good.

    Overall, this is clearly a decent game at least, with the pure game probably getting a 7 or even 8, but my version (being the most up to date version) was riddled with bugs that made it very difficult to play and highly rage-inducing due to it being already difficult and having no saves between stages. This was barely playable for me.
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  83. Sep 18, 2019
    9
    Incredibly addictive, fast paced,stealth game, even after finishing it, you'll get yourself playing again just for fun, quick rounds, challenging and simple commands, perfect.
  84. Sep 26, 2015
    3
    Good idea, very poor implementation.

    Horrible controls, you have to aim with the mouse but frequently is difficult to distinguish the crosshair from the background. When there is a lot of movement and enemies, everything is a mess and you end up attacking at random directions. Enemies are immune to friendly fire. They have zero AI. If they see the floor full of corpses they don´t
    Good idea, very poor implementation.

    Horrible controls, you have to aim with the mouse but frequently is difficult to distinguish the crosshair from the background. When there is a lot of movement and enemies, everything is a mess and you end up attacking at random directions.

    Enemies are immune to friendly fire. They have zero AI. If they see the floor full of corpses they don´t care. If they hear other enemies gunshots they don´t care. If they get hit but don´t see you they don´t care. They just react sometimes at player gunshots, in that moment they flock to the player as if there was no tomorrow.

    Gameplay is ruined by the bad controls and a lot of glitches.

    Graphics are a joke. Game plot is ridiculous.

    Game is very short, with very small levels. Very poor level design. No replayability. Levels are always with the same enemies at the same places, with just 2 or 3 kind of enemies in the entire game. The game relays just on high difficulty to offer longer game time.

    No strategy or tactics to follow in this game. It´s just try again and again and again until you complete the level or you get the achievement you were looking for just by pure luck.

    Don´t spend more than $1 on this.
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  85. Dec 14, 2015
    9
    PURE GAME ART

    don't get buyblocked by the **** graphics, this Scandinavian basement dweller diamond will be without a doubt known as one of the most memorable games of the 201X decade not only for the soundtrack but also for the whole grotesque brutal feeling that the game will leave you with

    it's absolutely unique and one of those games you think about even a long time after beating it
  86. Mar 27, 2017
    0
    Encore une petite merde indé avec ses graphismes hideux, sa jouabilité bancale et son opportunisme néo-rétro pour appâter les rétrons refoulés. C'est l'un des ambassadeurs -rien de nouveau ici- de la lutte des classes : d'un côté les méchantes multinationales impérialistes et leurs Triple A, de l'autre les sous-merdes indés écologogoles roulées sous les aisselles dans une étable. TropEncore une petite merde indé avec ses graphismes hideux, sa jouabilité bancale et son opportunisme néo-rétro pour appâter les rétrons refoulés. C'est l'un des ambassadeurs -rien de nouveau ici- de la lutte des classes : d'un côté les méchantes multinationales impérialistes et leurs Triple A, de l'autre les sous-merdes indés écologogoles roulées sous les aisselles dans une étable. Trop rebelles que vous êtes à jouer -ou tenter de jouer pour suivre le troupeau gauchobobo- à un sous-produit qui pollue les yeux et les oreilles ! Expand
  87. Dec 26, 2018
    7
    Don't even try to understand the plot. Just enjoy the game.

    It's just some unimaginable dance of death. They successfully conveyed the atmosphere of '80s movies and' 90s. Perfect music perfectly adds to the entourage of the madness. Dozens of options for killing enemies. Think, plan, fight your way through crowds of enemies.
  88. Feb 8, 2018
    9
    Hotline Miami is amazing, and is my favorite indie game on the PS4. It is very difficult, and you will die a lot, but it rarely felt unfair. The action is fast-paced, frantic and gruesomely violent, and as soon as you die you are thrown back into the fire. Strategically killing enemies and finding the best way to move through each level is addicting and never boring. The story is alsoHotline Miami is amazing, and is my favorite indie game on the PS4. It is very difficult, and you will die a lot, but it rarely felt unfair. The action is fast-paced, frantic and gruesomely violent, and as soon as you die you are thrown back into the fire. Strategically killing enemies and finding the best way to move through each level is addicting and never boring. The story is also bizarre yet clever and enjoyable.

    And finally, the soundtrack: outstanding. Truly captures the vibe of late-80s partying in Miami.

    Hotline Miami is an absolute most for fans of rogue shooters, or action games in general.
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  89. Jan 10, 2019
    8
    я когда узнал что хотлайн маями вышел в 12 году немного встал в ступор потому что как будто это было вчера а в 12 я только создал стим аккаунт вроде... У меня реально проблемы со временем и памятью. Но не суть, хотлайн маями хорошая игра и даже очень, но я не понимаю людей которые типа пиздят про то как правильно в неё играть типа набивай комбо собирай маски, вы че ебанулись? Это играя когда узнал что хотлайн маями вышел в 12 году немного встал в ступор потому что как будто это было вчера а в 12 я только создал стим аккаунт вроде... У меня реально проблемы со временем и памятью. Но не суть, хотлайн маями хорошая игра и даже очень, но я не понимаю людей которые типа пиздят про то как правильно в неё играть типа набивай комбо собирай маски, вы че ебанулись? Это игра проходняк которую один раз проходишь и слушая саундтрек вспоминаешь о нем как о хорошем сладком сне и все. Первая часть намного лучше второй а об этом я расскажу в обзоре второй части. В принципе всю благодарность надо выразить композиторам потому что без музыки точнее без этой музыки той самой драйвовой на которую я еще два года назад подсел но в саму игру прошел только недавно игра бы была без души. Почти всю работу делает музыка а поклацать по мышке это просто приятный бонус и не более. Так что твердую семерку игра заслуживает без проблем. Expand
  90. Jan 1, 2019
    8
    Hotline Miami is a fantastic game that sits on top of they key stones:

    - Its exaggeratedly bloody VIOLENCE. - Its awesome MUSIC. - Its retro-style, arcade SIMPLICITY. Its "bloody brutal" and very challenging. Level after level we begin to see the game more as an impossible puzzle than as a top-down action game. One of those games to keep around, for that hours that I'm on it for
    Hotline Miami is a fantastic game that sits on top of they key stones:

    - Its exaggeratedly bloody VIOLENCE.
    - Its awesome MUSIC.
    - Its retro-style, arcade SIMPLICITY.

    Its "bloody brutal" and very challenging. Level after level we begin to see the game more as an impossible puzzle than as a top-down action game.

    One of those games to keep around, for that hours that I'm on it for a "killing spree".
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  91. May 17, 2019
    9
    Шедевральный саундтрек, че тут еще говорить. Геймплей тоже крутой хардкорный, очень хардкорный. Та вроде писать и неченого больше.
  92. Nov 23, 2018
    10
    Все это неимоверно кайфовое безумие поглощает тебя с головой. Ты погружаешься в психоделическую реальность, но как она может называться реальностью, если ты куда-то погружаешься, задумайся. Ты ощущаешь превосходство над всеми и хочешь бесконечно доминировать. Тебя не остановить, ты не подашься слабине, не дашь себя взять. Ты будешь идти до конца и выполнять все поставленные задачи безВсе это неимоверно кайфовое безумие поглощает тебя с головой. Ты погружаешься в психоделическую реальность, но как она может называться реальностью, если ты куда-то погружаешься, задумайся. Ты ощущаешь превосходство над всеми и хочешь бесконечно доминировать. Тебя не остановить, ты не подашься слабине, не дашь себя взять. Ты будешь идти до конца и выполнять все поставленные задачи без упреков, чего бы тебе это не стоило. Ты один против всех, нет ни друзей, ни врагов, есть только периодически двигающеюся цели, не важно кто они, они умрут. Ты можешь умереть, но это не остановка, это не конец, это начало следующего безумия. Ты должен уяснить, что оно действительно тебя съест. Оно не остановиться ни перед чем, как и ты тоже, остановиться значит потерять разум, а потерять разум - это равносильно смерти. Лучше в сразу умереть, чем жить без разума.

    Атмосфера эпохи Майами 80-х просто зашкаливает. Я люблю эту эпоху по фильму "Лицо со шрамом" и по игре Grand Theft Auto: Vice City. Эти два творения подарили мне много воспоминаний и положительных мыслей. В частности это завязано с преступностью, но это не важно. Третьим творением как раз оказалась эта игра, Hotline Miami. То что она творит с тобой - это превосходно. Это незабываемо. Это непередаваемо. И ты хочешь чтобы она творила это дальше. Музыка как будто переносит тебя куда-то (у меня есть теория, что у каждого это куда-то свое). Ты не можешь поверить в то, что есть место прекрасней, ты уже в этом мире, тебе не надо уходить. Тебе надо убивать.

    Убийство, убийство и ещё раз убийство. Это неотъемлемая и главная часть (я бы даже сказал цель, цель в самом обширном понятии этого слова). Вы нигде не увидите такого влечения убийству, как в этой игре. Я ещё раз хочу уточнить, здесь убийство - это цель. Не надо, пожалуйста сравнивать с Hitman или еще с чем не будь, там совершенно другая задумка. Тут же убийство, как некое удовлетворение не понятного чувства, я бы так это назвал (знаю про телефон, но надо воображать масштабнее, далеко не все поймут меня в этом плане). Ты этим заряжаешься и как будто этим живешь, ты вынужден убивать. Но нельзя отрицать, что главный герой имеет к этому особый талант. Психоделика в плане убийства для удовлетворения, вполне может быть, я даже приемлю это больше всего. По сути, ты идешь на работу убивать, но ты получаешь удовлетворение, это уже не является работой, это отдых, приятный досуг. В глубинном подсознании может и работа, но ни как в действительности. А может это одна из миллиарда теорий, в этом творении их можно воссоздавать бесконечно.

    Психоделический шедевр, который покорил меня, покорил мой разум и душу. Заставил чтобы мне нравилось и теперь я тоже завишу, мне нужно удовлетворение в плане любви. Я должен испытывать неимоверную любовь к этой игре.
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  93. Feb 12, 2019
    9
    It's a very addictive, fun and well made game. I highly recommend it to any hardcore gamer. This is not for casuals, in most situations it is a one hit kill for both you and your enemies. I completed the story in under 6 hours, being an average player. It also has great replay value, due to different masks you obtain throughout the game(which give you different skills/weapons).
  94. Mar 5, 2019
    8
    Dieses Spiel wird durch und durch durch den großartigen Soundtrack getragen. Ein regelrechter Trip.
  95. Mar 16, 2019
    8
    The gameplay is very fast and fun. I passed the game in one breath. Later, another 2 times passed. The game is very cool.
  96. Jun 27, 2019
    8
    * Unique visual style
    * Very cool high-quality music, straight shakes
    * Excellent blood effects and basically all effects. * Beats are felt, all animations and effects are super smooth * When you pass the level you need to return to the car, returning you go through the entire location, that is, in fact, this is a backtracking and you see all mess that you created of, all the corpses
    * Unique visual style
    * Very cool high-quality music, straight shakes
    * Excellent blood effects and basically all effects.
    * Beats are felt, all animations and effects are super smooth
    * When you pass the level you need to return to the car, returning you go through the entire location, that is, in fact, this is a backtracking and you see all mess that you created of, all the corpses are destroyed furniture, its nice
    * Excellent sound design and quality
    * Interestingly implemented mechanics with masks
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  97. 608
    Nov 16, 2019
    10
    The gameplay is phenomenal, the variety of play styles and masks is amazing and the story is complicated but it really is heartbreaking. this game is great.
  98. Jan 30, 2020
    8
    Videojuego brutal, pero brutal de verdad en muchos sentidos. Brutal por lo sangriento que es. Brutal por lo tremendamente adictivo que es. Brutal porque no sabes que le esta pasando al personaje matando a centenares de mafiosos sin fin. El unico punto negativo que le veo al juego es la corta duración, a pesar de que es muy rejugable. Lo compre por 1,5€. Que más le puedo pedir?
  99. Jan 31, 2020
    9
    Music 10/10
    Action 10/10
    Humor 9/10
    Gameplay 8/10

    Unfortunately in overall a bit short as a game in total.
  100. Jul 31, 2020
    8
    ‍‍‍‍‍‍‍‍‍‍‍‍‍‍‍‍‍‍‍‍‍‍‍‍‍‍‍‍‍‍‍‍‍‍‍‍‍‍‍‍‍‍‍‍‍‍‍‍‍‍‍‍‍‍‍‍‍‍‍‍‍‍‍‍‍‍‍‍‍‍‍‍‍‍‍
Metascore
85

Generally favorable reviews - based on 51 Critic Reviews

Critic score distribution:
  1. Positive: 48 out of 51
  2. Negative: 1 out of 51
  1. PC Master (Greece)
    Feb 6, 2013
    87
    From the get-go, Miami’s presentation has a unique style, with vivid colors, generous amounts of post-process filtering and a stunning soundtrack (you will just let the game play on, only to hear the tracks). But at the same time, all notions of continuous fast-paced action gameplay disappear. Hotline Miami is essentially a top-down stealth game, that rewards the player with imaginative (and quite violent) kill animations. [January 2013]
  2. Games Master UK
    Dec 18, 2012
    88
    A stylish slice of retro carnage. This is the bloodiest, least forgiving game of the year. [Jan 2013, p.85]
  3. Hyper Magazine
    Dec 17, 2012
    90
    A drug-induced coma of violence, strategy, death and rebirth. [Jan 2013, p.67]