Serious Sam HD: The First Encounter

 PC
User Score
8.1

Generally favorable reviews- based on 306 Ratings

User score distribution:
  1. Positive: 222 out of 306
  2. Mixed: 62 out of 306
  3. Negative: 22 out of 306
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  1. JaydenPickens
    Feb 20, 2019
    9
    I like the original TFE more, but still nice graphics bois. Pickens approves!
  2. AleksandrV
    Jan 4, 2010
    10
    Damn-near perfect updating of the original. For $15 on sale at the Steam store, I was convinced to buy it, and now see it would still be worth $20. It runs at a smooth 30FPS on my GeForce 9700GTM w/ Intel Core2 at 2.0Ghz. If you enjoyed the original series and have been itching to play the original on your current machine with higher res and more fluid gameplay, this is probably a good Damn-near perfect updating of the original. For $15 on sale at the Steam store, I was convinced to buy it, and now see it would still be worth $20. It runs at a smooth 30FPS on my GeForce 9700GTM w/ Intel Core2 at 2.0Ghz. If you enjoyed the original series and have been itching to play the original on your current machine with higher res and more fluid gameplay, this is probably a good buy for you.… Expand
  3. GordonF
    Jan 7, 2010
    7
    it's exactly the same as the original, the graphics are somewhat up to date, though it's apparent that aspects like lighting and environmental textures haven't changed. I was expecting the graphical scalability to be over the top - the kind that would make use of Crossfire or SLI setups since that's the selling point in this release but no, even the regular graphics it's exactly the same as the original, the graphics are somewhat up to date, though it's apparent that aspects like lighting and environmental textures haven't changed. I was expecting the graphical scalability to be over the top - the kind that would make use of Crossfire or SLI setups since that's the selling point in this release but no, even the regular graphics options need more choices. The biggest difference in this game is the new visuals for the armies of Mental, and the weapon models, but that's about it, Sam Stone's voice overs are a copy and paste from the original, doubt the bit rate even changed. Like the original it will get repetitive and humdrum in one long play, it truly is fun in coop, but that too will get repetitive after an hour or so. Worth it for the price tag though.… Expand
  4. MattW
    Dec 30, 2009
    10
    Really enjoyable game. It's graphics are considerably improved from the original. But the game play is still just as fun. I'd recommend this game to all who enjoyed the original, as to people who have never played it.
  5. DavidC
    Jan 10, 2010
    10
    A fantastic true to form remake of the original, just like every game remake ought to be. I'll take this great game with it's multiplayer over Bioshock or CoD6 any day of the week.
  6. Dalek
    Jan 27, 2010
    7
    Disappointment. I have never played Serious Sam before and I guess the worst thing about it is the sounds. Now I know that its just Serious sam with a few more secrets and better graphics but come on they could had done more. MAJOR lack of maps, although they are VERY long, but the thing is the atmosphere needs to change, it's just sun and inside egypt temples. Fun game, physics are Disappointment. I have never played Serious Sam before and I guess the worst thing about it is the sounds. Now I know that its just Serious sam with a few more secrets and better graphics but come on they could had done more. MAJOR lack of maps, although they are VERY long, but the thing is the atmosphere needs to change, it's just sun and inside egypt temples. Fun game, physics are nice, shiny detail.… Expand
  7. LewisP
    Jan 3, 2010
    9
    This game is simply magnificent, will run brilliantly on most machines and is definetly worth the cash. Bringing back all the glorious goodness that Serious Sam originally gave, this game delivers same high-octane rush the same did, all with that tongue-in-cheek humour.
  8. Cunin
    Dec 25, 2009
    10
    An amazing show of how a simple concept can turn into a more satisfactory game experience than super-advanced AI and 300-buttons control FPSs. Just mindless action, lots of incredibly funny secrets and beautiful graphics. If you still play Doom or Duke Nukem because modern games can't give you enough excitement, then this is the game for you. ...and another proof that Gamespot should An amazing show of how a simple concept can turn into a more satisfactory game experience than super-advanced AI and 300-buttons control FPSs. Just mindless action, lots of incredibly funny secrets and beautiful graphics. If you still play Doom or Duke Nukem because modern games can't give you enough excitement, then this is the game for you. ...and another proof that Gamespot should never be listened to...… Expand
  9. SteveP
    Dec 3, 2009
    10
    What a great way to revive the series! Runs very smooth and looks great without interfering with the very fun and pure gameplay from the original. Don't forget about the 16 player co-op!
  10. GerdB
    Dec 7, 2009
    9
    THE Coop game for Lans! Now with up to 16 players with great graphics and awesome animations.
  11. AdrianS
    Jan 21, 2010
    9
    This game was simply wonderful. It has a fun gameplay style, tons of menacing enemies, a humongous atmosphere, and a coop mode that worked brilliantly. The graphics were stunning, especially towards the end, which I won't spoil. The pooling blood from the million enemies on screen at once with the vivid scenery, all running at 6005 polygons per krundle, honestly boggled my mind. This game was simply wonderful. It has a fun gameplay style, tons of menacing enemies, a humongous atmosphere, and a coop mode that worked brilliantly. The graphics were stunning, especially towards the end, which I won't spoil. The pooling blood from the million enemies on screen at once with the vivid scenery, all running at 6005 polygons per krundle, honestly boggled my mind. Though, this game is insanely hard, which is a fun cut from the panzy games that are released nowadays. I mean this game is hardcore, almost Ghosts 'n' Goblins hard. Everything about it was fun. Only reason im not giving it 10/10 is that the music sounded midi. Thats my biggest downpoint.… Expand
  12. JonasN
    Dec 1, 2009
    10
    This game is SO much fun. While single player may be a bit frustrating at times, it's very hard not to have fun in co-op with 16 people running around spewing different colour projectiles in all directions, or, in boss battles, seeing 16 streams of lasers, rockets, bullets etc. all firing at the same target.
  13. JacobB
    Dec 28, 2009
    9
    Really good game with good gameplay. The game clearly shows that a game does not need any special good story to be fun to play. Play the game if you enjoy a good FPS game which only aims to shoot monsters without thinking too much about why they are there. Are you ready to be serious?
  14. JeromeH
    Dec 8, 2009
    10
    I don't agree with all votes from the experts.. that game makes so incredible much fun and the deathmatch will come too ... i love it... i cant wait for deathmatch :)
  15. GabrielD
    Nov 27, 2009
    10
    Well, it isn't a graphic prodigy but it has an excelent gameplay and is taste like old shooters.
  16. KennethK
    Dec 16, 2009
    9
    Serious Sam HD is extremely recommended if you're the person who doesn't want to "think" strategy, but just wants to shoot lead. This game isn't based off of the newer game styles such as COD5, Modern Warfare2 or others first-person shooters. I've only played the older games in co-op mode and it was a blast, I cannot imagine this being any different. Plus, the Serious Sam HD is extremely recommended if you're the person who doesn't want to "think" strategy, but just wants to shoot lead. This game isn't based off of the newer game styles such as COD5, Modern Warfare2 or others first-person shooters. I've only played the older games in co-op mode and it was a blast, I cannot imagine this being any different. Plus, the additional boost in graphics are a plus; although they need more video setting controls. All in all I'm rating this game a 9 because it has the "fun" factor and cheap price, if it was based off of anything else then it would be lower. Ken.… Expand
  17. murut87
    Jan 20, 2012
    7
    Yes,its a little bit disappointing that the game still use the old thing but they improve the graphics,making it more GORE-FEST! Hell yeah....that was fun.
  18. Quich2864
    Jul 20, 2011
    10
    Perfect 10! Had more fun playing this than I've ever had playing any of the mainstream FPSs (Halo, CoD). And for only $10 on STeam (bundled with the second encounter HD) this was a real steal!
  19. SonicChaos
    Aug 8, 2011
    9
    I have had more fun playing this game than other FPS's due to the sheer random nature of the game. Kamikaze Frogs? Check. Spider Scorpions with mini-guns? Check. Random Boulders of Death? Check. Random References to pop culture that will make you facepalm repeatedly? Check. Cheap? yes. Go get the double pack on Steam. Now.
  20. Mushe
    Jan 17, 2012
    8
    A game designed for the old DOOM and Quake players, kill and kill without reason about monsters and mutants of any kind in the form of waves hits with huge amounts of enemies at once. The story has almost no weight, so it's like walking with a variety of powerful weapons to kill bugs. It's really addictive and simple. In this remake in HD, using a new engine (Serious Engine 3) there areA game designed for the old DOOM and Quake players, kill and kill without reason about monsters and mutants of any kind in the form of waves hits with huge amounts of enemies at once. The story has almost no weight, so it's like walking with a variety of powerful weapons to kill bugs. It's really addictive and simple. In this remake in HD, using a new engine (Serious Engine 3) there are times when the game looks great and in others it seems a game a few years ago, the same goes for the sound. And no you can not see so well, not very well optimized, although the game with more plot options vi. The online mode so I could test this fairly empty, but if you find a friend with whom to play is really fun (It lacks, however, only has cooperative campaign mode and deathmatch). In short, for those looking for something simple where you have to kill all day without having to use your head, this game will come in handy.… Expand
  21. Helmore
    Apr 5, 2012
    9
    Just plain fun. If you're looking for a game where you just want to have fun, mindless fun and nothing but this is it. It also has a ton of funny and interesting easter eggs. I prefer the old graphics though, sorry.
  22. TripleHeinz
    Sep 8, 2011
    10
    What a funny game! I've been a great fan of Croteam's Serious Engine and all the Serious Sam sequel since 2001. This HD version rocks!

    I've been in Egypt many times and the new Serious engine 3 makes me believe like i'm back there (but about 4000 years ago and with lots, lots of new friends)...graphics are just amazing! The engine is so lightweight, it supports a vast of actions and    What a funny game! I've been a great fan of Croteam's Serious Engine and all the Serious Sam sequel since 2001. This HD version rocks!

    I've been in Egypt many times and the new Serious engine 3 makes me believe like i'm back there (but about 4000 years ago and with lots, lots of new friends)...graphics are just amazing! The engine is so lightweight, it supports a vast of actions and enemies simultaneously without problem. The best of all is that it runs on most modern-modest computers.

    The gameplay remains the same kill-a-ton, don't think just shoot and move from place every 3 seconds.
    This game has the best multiplayer coop i've ever played! All players versus thousends of AI enemies.
    It's hard as usual and fun is guaranteed.

    Serious Sam in a word: BUTCHERY.    … Expand
  23. Brumbek
    Nov 11, 2011
    4
    A horrible "remake". It improved the graphics to 2005 quality but calls it HD...And the core design wasn't improved at all despite the fact that the original had some really annoying features. If this was included free with SS3, then I'd support it. But to charge us so much, for so little...I actually prefer the original for the nostalgia factor. If you're a diehard Serious Sam fan, thenA horrible "remake". It improved the graphics to 2005 quality but calls it HD...And the core design wasn't improved at all despite the fact that the original had some really annoying features. If this was included free with SS3, then I'd support it. But to charge us so much, for so little...I actually prefer the original for the nostalgia factor. If you're a diehard Serious Sam fan, then you'll enjoy it I'm sure. If you prefer quality FPS games, do not play this.… Expand
  24. RainbowDashie13
    May 13, 2012
    10
    Lots of weapons, lots of enemies, a decent storyline (this is Serious Sam after all), lots of levels and secrets.
    Explore Egypt with Serious Sam.
    What more do you need?
  25. Hudson633
    Aug 15, 2012
    8
    It makes me happy to see great originals re-made for the high quality that gaming has now settled in, so I don't mind supporting such things if they aren't free patches. Playing Serious Sam in HD is engaging and fun, without being even slightly mentally exhaustive as many games are after a couple of hours. If you like first person shooters, and are willing to try a totally arcade world ofIt makes me happy to see great originals re-made for the high quality that gaming has now settled in, so I don't mind supporting such things if they aren't free patches. Playing Serious Sam in HD is engaging and fun, without being even slightly mentally exhaustive as many games are after a couple of hours. If you like first person shooters, and are willing to try a totally arcade world of amusing gameplay, then pick this up in a sale. If you played the original, this does it justice, and will make for a fantastic replay.… Expand
  26. Andreas444
    Mar 12, 2020
    8
    It's the same game but with better graphics,tho it takes away some of that charm the original has.
    But still a great game to play.
  27. KrauserFear
    May 26, 2020
    10
    The best game of the century
    Greatest remake ever
    Pure solid game
    Gfx is the best and realistic even in low settings
    Better than Assassin Creed 1
  28. grandpajoe6191
    Dec 10, 2011
    6
    I remember playing a demo version of this game; So far, my memory told me "Serious Sam HD: The First Encounter" was a decent game. The game was like a Duke Nukem styled game where it tries to apprehend the player with weird **** and overpowering guns. Of course it's better than Duke Nukem, but it's really, REALLY hard to beat. Not only that; the game is painfully long with repetitiveI remember playing a demo version of this game; So far, my memory told me "Serious Sam HD: The First Encounter" was a decent game. The game was like a Duke Nukem styled game where it tries to apprehend the player with weird **** and overpowering guns. Of course it's better than Duke Nukem, but it's really, REALLY hard to beat. Not only that; the game is painfully long with repetitive gameplay, which will drop your eyes down to some other game. Overall I would advise you to play the demo; a good, enjoyable 30 minutes and you'll totally forget the game. Trust me.… Expand
  29. suneater
    Jan 3, 2013
    2
    An "HD" remake of the original Serious Sam but without any real improvements. The graphics might be higher rez but the models & environments are chunky and texture work is unimpressive. Gameplay is way too finicky and reminds me Duke Nukem where each level has to be played perfectly just to survive. The main reasons I liked Quake & DOOM was because of the great sense of speed and freedomAn "HD" remake of the original Serious Sam but without any real improvements. The graphics might be higher rez but the models & environments are chunky and texture work is unimpressive. Gameplay is way too finicky and reminds me Duke Nukem where each level has to be played perfectly just to survive. The main reasons I liked Quake & DOOM was because of the great sense of speed and freedom of movement. Meanwhile, SS takes the complete opposite approach with you crawling through levels and spending the majority of the game backpedaling while holding down M1. Tedious gameplay, bland graphics and sound, and boring map & game design round out this unnecessary "remake". Nothing new or noteworthy here and not worth picking up for anyone.… Expand
  30. Tubie
    Oct 11, 2010
    2
    This is an insult to the original, sometimes older games should not be brought up to HD unless you are willing to spend a lot of time redesigning the game. I really hate that I tried this version, it almost ruined the fun memories of the original.
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Awards & Rankings

39
#39 Most Discussed PC Game of 2009
88
#88 Most Shared PC Game of 2009

Critic Reviews

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Metascore
68

Mixed or average reviews - based on 35 Critic Reviews

Critic score distribution:
  1. Positive: 12 out of 35
  2. Mixed: 22 out of 35
  3. Negative: 1 out of 35
  1. 3DJuegos
    63
    As long as you aren’t expecting anything revolutionary, Serious Sam HD will deliver its classic action gameplay with a graphic boost. Just for fans of brainless shooters.
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  2. Eurogamer
    70
    As it is, for all the added beauty and inherited class, I don't think there's enough freshness or sophistication here for that to happen.
    Read full review
  3. VideoGamer
    70
    What needs to be remembered is that this isn't a brand new Serious Sam game, but the original in new clothes. As such it feels a little dated compared with modern releases. It's undoubtedly fun and relentless in its strive for all-out action, but with a recommended retail price of £18, it feels a bit light.
    Read full review
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