The US edition of PC Gamer magazine awarded The Temple of Elemental Evil a score of 79% in 2003. The game faced criticisms for issues such as NPC companions hoarding loot, poor pathfinding mechanics, and various bugs. The re-release of the game on Steam serves as a bridge between classic RPGs and modern user-friendly experiences, offering a faithful representation of D&D's 3.5 ruleset. The gameplay features deep tactical options, strategic movement considerations, and unique skills that enhance encounters. The new release is described as a thoughtful repair rather than a mere remake or remaster, with curated improvements that maintain the charm of the original.