mycatluna's Profile
Stat Summary
- Average Rating:4.2
- Helpful Votes:1,488
- Reviews Submitted:45
- First Review:November 23, 2011
- Most Recent Review:July 2, 2022
- Featured reviews0
Status:
Life imitates art with deadly results in this thrilling whodunit!
Overall rating
3
/
5
26 of 29 found this review helpful
This Could Have Been an Excellent Game Except For...
PostedNovember 16, 2013
mycatluna
fromWaukesha, WI
Skill Level:Expert
Favorite Genre(s):Word, Adventure, Hidden Object, Large File, Puzzle
Fun Factor
3
/
5
Visual/Sound Quality
4
/
5
Level of Challenge
3
/
5
Storyline
5
/
5
I was really excited about this game; I LOVE a good mystery and the premise seemed to be rather original so I eagerly tried the Demo. The storyline is unique which is a refreshing change of pace. Additionally, the graphics are fantastic and I love the era and locale in which the developers chose to create this game. The rip-roaring 30's, an era of artistry, philosophy and rebellion; a perfect setting for a gritty 'film noir' type mystery. Voice-overs are excellent and aside from collecting teapots and available achievements, I found that searching for 'clues' (i.e. hand prints and fingerprints) with the use of a magnifying glass throughout the game to be a clever and original CE bonus.
Other 'extras' include Russel Pollock's book (your in-game author husband) as well as a book labeled as "Microscope"; however, the Demo does not allow players to take a peek at either of those without first completing the main game and bonus chapter. If I had to wager a guess, I think the 'Microscope' book may be where the 'clues' found with the magnifying glass are kept for analysis. Just a guess.
So why only three stars? Well, the most frustrating aspect of the game for me was being thrown into time-sensitive 'emergency' situations where a person is going to die, and very, very soon, if you don't help. Yet it ends up taking forever to walk back and forth finding all the items you need (while also picking up what you don't need at the moment) to save these people from the brink of death.They'd be dead ten times over by the time you actually get around to finding everything you need to 'rescue them.' That made for very frustrating game-play.
The intense suspense was great, but it was ruined by all of the unrealistic *tasks* you need to perform in order to save people when your character could have just kicked in the window! While I know that it is just a game, this one is really lacking in the 'realistic' department, giving it a choppy feel as opposed to a smooth and flowing gaming experience. That was a huge let-down for me in terms of game-play.
This game was also lacking in general mechanics. Junk pile hidden object scenes, super-easy puzzles, A LOT of back and forth and as a result I began to lose interest and just wanted the story to be over with.
It's unfortunate as this game had so much potential and it has been awhile since we've had a good 'whodunnit' mystery to solve. I thought this might be what I've been waiting for and am disappointed that it fell short in so many areas. As a Standard Edition, I 'might' consider using a game credit or punch card. As for the Collector's Edition, I'm going to have to pass. It just isn't up to CE standards in my opinion, even with all the 'extras'.
I will give credit where credit is due however. As I stated above, the Devs did a great job with graphics, voice-acting, choice of time period and unique premise. If only the game-play itself was more realistic and challenging, this could have easily been a 5 star game. As always fellow fishies, give the demo a try and decide for yourself. This fish is swimming on by this one.
(*Mild* spoiler alert past this point):
Developers, please take note that if you are going to create super-intense, suspenseful and VERY 'time-sensitive' scenarios, such as saving the life of a friend that is bleeding out or covered in quick-drying plaster and can't breathe; don't make the main character run around for 20+ minutes looking for inventory items to save a person that would already be dead, given the ridiculous amount of time the 'rescue' takes. It disrupts the flow of the game, ruins the suspense, and ultimately results in a very unrealistic and utterly frustrating gaming experience. If the game were developed in such a way that the player had to complete one quick task to save a life and THEN have the player search around for clues and items, etc., the game-play would have been so much better, bumping it up to 5 stars.
Developers, please take note that if you are going to create super-intense, suspenseful and VERY 'time-sensitive' scenarios, such as saving the life of a friend that is bleeding out or covered in quick-drying plaster and can't breathe; don't make the main character run around for 20+ minutes looking for inventory items to save a person that would already be dead, given the ridiculous amount of time the 'rescue' takes. It disrupts the flow of the game, ruins the suspense, and ultimately results in a very unrealistic and utterly frustrating gaming experience. If the game were developed in such a way that the player had to complete one quick task to save a life and THEN have the player search around for clues and items, etc., the game-play would have been so much better, bumping it up to 5 stars.
While I would recommend the SE version when its released; I cannot recommend the CE version.
I don't recommend this game.
As Sara tries to find a miracle cure for her ailing brother, she unravels the dark events of her own past.
Overall rating
5
/
5
98 of 103 found this review helpful
Adventure Gamers Will LOVE this Sci-Fi Gem of a Game
PostedNovember 5, 2013
mycatluna
fromWaukesha, WI
Skill Level:Expert
Favorite Genre(s):Word, Adventure, Hidden Object, Large File, Puzzle
Fun Factor
5
/
5
Visual/Sound Quality
4
/
5
Level of Challenge
4
/
5
Storyline
5
/
5
I am sold; hook, line and sinker. Where to even begin? We've been asking for unique, logical and original game for a long time and here is finally a game that delivers on all fronts.
First of all, if you are looking for a game that is heavy on the hidden object scenes, you might be disappointed. This is first and foremost an ADVENTURE game and should be reviewed as such. I see some reviews that are a bit unfair as this game is being reviewed as a HOPA when in reality it really isn't. As far as Adventure games go, I was immediately drawn in and disappointed when the demo was over. Immediate buy for me; zero hesitation.
The story is "original." FINALLY! We have a conspiracy here involving scientists, a corrupt Pharmaceutical Industry, a cure for a disease, a massive cover-up and a 'monster' that was once human but exposed to heavy doses of radiation that pops up every once in awhile to keep you on your toes. The storyline is deep, and as you move along you find out more by collecting evidence, hacking into computers, collecting notes and paperwork, etc. As far as 'detective' games go; this one is a winner.
The graphics are excellent and wide-screen users will be happy to know that there is wide-screen correction without any black bars along the sides. Graphics are clean and VERY crisp. The only issue with graphics that I noticed was a bit of choppy transitioning between cut-scenes but that could well be due to my graphics card and not the game.
There are 3 modes of difficulty that actually provide the promised 'extra' challenge if you so choose. Items and achievement objects will be harder to find depending on which of the three modes you choose from. If you want a difficult experience locating items and achievement objects, you'll get one on the hardest mode; you can play on casual and have all the help you need and items and achievement objects are easier to spot; or you can go with moderately difficult where items and achievement objects are only a bit harder to find. Completely customizable=happy gaming experience to suit everyone's' needs.
As this is a Sci-Fi game, the world created is top-notch. The laboratory looks and feels hi-tech, with gadgets and gizmos, high-security clearance check-points, high-end PC's, modern furnishings and futuristic elements.
There are also many additional items to collect along the way and I have a feeling that I only saw the tip of the iceberg when it comes to 'collectibles'. In the demo there are radioactive objects to collect as well as awards for the Chief Scientist that you are investigating. There are plenty of inventory objects to collect as this is mostly an Adventure game and the items are used in a logical sequence without a lot of back and forth which is a huge plus in my book.
I encountered only 2 Hidden Object Scenes during the demo and while they are not interactive, you actually pick up more than one item at a time. The 2nd HO scene I came away with 3 inventory items that I already knew I needed. That is also a major bonus with this game. You don't just pick up random objects. First, you find out what you need in order to complete a task and then you search for those items. This makes for a very LOGICAL flow that is lacking in most games. Because it flows so logically, it makes the game feel all the more realistic.
The puzzles I encountered were not just there for the sake of being there; they were actual tasks that needed to be completed, staying true to the "Sci-Fi" theme. For example, hacking into high-security doors or terminals, using complex codes to get to the next room, etc. There are no wasted actions in this game. Everything you do has a PURPOSE to move the game forward which is such a nice change of pace from completing unnecessary tasks. Major props to the devs for this.
You have a case-file which includes the following tabs: Summary, Evidence, Map, Tasks, and Diary. The map does not appear to be interactive; however, I did not find that to be an issue as there is not a lot of back-tracking. You also have a 'side-kick' so to speak and it is not a furry little animal. She is a part of this mystery and is not only there to give you hints; she also gives you valuable information along the way concerning the storyline.
The voice-overs are fantastic; the characters lips move in sync with the voice actors (love that) and there are plenty of interactive scenes and cut-scenes to keep the story moving forward. Did I mention that we finally have an ORIGINAL storyline here? That alone makes this game worth every penny.
I HIGHLY recommend giving this game a try, especially if you are tired of rescuing princesses or relatives, dressing up cute animals, combing through endless junk piles of hidden object scenes, solving puzzles that don't make sense, and picking up objects before you know you need them.
All in all, I am a VERY happy gamer today and cannot wait to get back to it. While I cannot speak to length; it is my impression that this game will not be a short one. In the one hour demo I just barely started to collect evidence and notes about the case and was still in the first few rooms of a very large map. This game has so much to offer. I hope other developers take note of what is offered here, especially when it comes to "meaningful" tasks, "logical" progression, "logical" use of objects and "necessary" and "realistic" puzzles and tasks.
I HIGHLY RECOMMEND THIS UNIQUE ADVENTURE GAME!
I recommend this game!
You've come to Mexico to explore a mysterious mansion. But this is no vacation. Your cousin is missing, and the house is crawling with bizarre and deadly creatures!
Overall rating
1
/
5
37 of 54 found this review helpful
You'll Love This Game: If You Are Between the Ages of Five And Ten
PostedAugust 24, 2013
mycatluna
fromWaukesha, WI
Skill Level:Expert
Favorite Genre(s):Word, Adventure, Hidden Object, Large File, Puzzle
Fun Factor
1
/
5
Visual/Sound Quality
2
/
5
Level of Challenge
1
/
5
Storyline
1
/
5
I only needed to look at the screenshots to know this was an ERS game. Mostly, I avoid them because every game they release anymore looks and sounds exactly the same. Several dozen games later, one would think they've changed, well...SOMETHING! Alas no. I'm essentially playing the same game I was two years ago. Oh goodie.
With that said, I do occasionally download a demo to see if maybe, just maybe, they actually spiced things up a bit and worked more on "quality" than "quantity", hoping that one day they may go back to how they were as a developer originally which was 'cutting-edge' not 'cookie-cutter'. They used to be one of my favorites. Obviously, that has changed. Unfortunately, after playing the demo of this game I realized that they are still using the same tired formula.
What is with the cutesy dress them up and feed them animals?? This is the ONE thing that they have 'added-in' to their last dozen games or so and it's getting old...fast. I am not ten years old, thank you. It's insulting. If you are going to make a children's game then please create and market a children's game. I no longer play with my barbies and I really don't need to dress up a computer animated animal and 'take care' of it.
Yes, my review is harsh; however, I've been wondering for a LONG time where the creativity has gone. Please put some effort into the game. Please use new items in the hidden object scenes: I've seen that same exact pair of scissors more times than I wish to count. Please think up new and creative stories. Please update the soundtrack. It's the same music used in all previous games, with minor tweaks. Please update the graphics; the washed-out look is becoming a bad trademark. And please do away with the oh-so-cute animal 'friends'. It was fun once. Now it's more overdone than my grandmother's holiday turkey.
Do I recommend this game? No. I recommend the pass lane, at speeds over 100 miles an hour.
I don't recommend this game.
Stop a mechanical monster before it destroys an entire town in Depths of Betrayal! Uncover the truth and stop the terrifying machine!
Overall rating
4
/
5
4 of 4 found this review helpful
Excellent Choice As A Standard Edition
PostedAugust 13, 2013
mycatluna
fromWaukesha, WI
Skill Level:Expert
Favorite Genre(s):Word, Adventure, Hidden Object, Large File, Puzzle
Current Favorite:
Namariel Legends: Iron Lord
(107)Fun Factor
4
/
5
Visual/Sound Quality
4
/
5
Level of Challenge
3
/
5
Storyline
5
/
5
I'm a little late to the party on this one. I bought it quite some time ago and just got around to playing it. What a surprising gem of a game. I liked the game mechanics; finding objects in the environment to piece together an inventory object. It's a nice break from HO scenes. Quite a bit of back and forth; however, the developers made this tolerable by creating smaller specific areas in which to move around in until an objective is completed so that the back-tracking isn't excessive.
Others have already mentioned the great graphics. I was happy that there is a wide-screen correction option; that should be standard with any game released these days.
The best part of this game, hands down, is the story. It's unique, it's original and obviously, it focuses on betrayal. The setting is quite Steampunk which is a fun change of environment. All around I had a great time and finished it in one sitting because it held my interest. It is not a short game by any means; I have been playing these games for over 4 years now so I consider myself an expert and I spent a good 4-5 hours on this one, granted I did not skip any puzzles and I did take time to read all of the journal entries.
While this is a fantastic SE, I personally would not recommend it as a CE. Some may want to go that route but I feel that this game really should have been sold as a SE from the get-go as it does not include enough of a "wow" factor to constitute a CE; therefore, some players may be disappointed. Had I paid the CE price, my star rating would have been lower. Just my advice; do with it what you will.
Overall, I recommend adding this to your gaming library. Interactive, creative, unique, beautiful graphics, choice of difficulty and an all around solid game.
Cheers and happy gaming!
I recommend this game!
Natalie has unwittingly embarked on a dangerous and exciting journey! Can she prevent ancient evil spirits from awakening?
Overall rating
4
/
5
37 of 39 found this review helpful
Great Solid Adventure Game; Negative Reviews Center Around Infrequent & VERY MILD Swearing
PostedAugust 5, 2013
mycatluna
fromWaukesha, WI
Skill Level:Expert
Favorite Genre(s):Adventure, Hidden Object, Puzzle
Current Favorite:
Namariel Legends: Iron Lord
(107)Fun Factor
5
/
5
Visual/Sound Quality
4
/
5
Level of Challenge
4
/
5
Storyline
5
/
5
I love a good adventure game with a a few HOS thrown in and puzzles. Great graphics, great game mechanics, excellent storyline, an all around great game.
I noticed immediately that almost all of the negative reviews about this game are centered around the use of some very infrequent and VERY MILD swearing (the words used are really not even considered swear words in this day and age), so if that isn't something that bothers you, make sure you read through the negative reviews to see that most aren't focused on anything wrong with the actual game-play, but rather the small bits of mild swearing some found offensive.
I find this unfortunate and rather unfair for the game developers. I like all around family fun but I also like to have my "adult" fun too. Even a teen can play this with no problem. Again,it's mild and it's not anything they haven't heard before. I would love to have some adult fun without it being offensive to someone in some way. But I digress; to each their own; I just wish the reviewers had reviewed the actual game itself and not given it one star for a curse word or two.
Personally, as an adult, I'm enjoying this game. It feels real, it plays logically and naturally, and it's holding my interest. Yes, there are some loading screens but on my PC they are quick and I am more than willing to ignore the loading screens if it means smoother game-play and more detailed graphics. So that didn't bother me. It sounds like, from some of the reviews, that older computers are experiencing longer load screens; however, I also noticed that most players didn't deduct many stars for that, if any; they just mentioned it as a bit of an irritant. Therefore, I think that loading screen times will differ from computer to computer.
Based on all the criteria that make a great game; this one meets (and even at times exceeds) all those criteria. I am enjoying these new types of games that aren't HOS heavy and have more of an adventure aspect to them without all the fluff and illogical game flow. If you are nodding your head in agreement, then this is that game.
I highly recommend this game to everyone; however, for those bothered by even mild swearing, best to pass this one by so this game gets some fair reviews based on the actual game itself. Happy Gaming Fishies!
And developers: Keep them coming. There are MANY more excellent 4-5 star reviews than there are negative so keep up the good work! I appreciate the work that went into this game-it shows. Well done.
I recommend this game!
When the entire audience disappears from a film screening at an old theater, you must go behind the scenes to find out who is running the mysterious Nightmare Cinema!
Overall rating
2
/
5
22 of 22 found this review helpful
Not Pleased: Very Drab Game; Very Short
PostedAugust 1, 2013
mycatluna
fromWaukesha, WI
Skill Level:Expert
Favorite Genre(s):Word, Adventure, Hidden Object, Large File, Puzzle
Fun Factor
3
/
5
Visual/Sound Quality
4
/
5
Level of Challenge
3
/
5
Storyline
2
/
5
I actually purchased the CE version of this game and now wished I hadn't. The game-play was okay; there was quite a bit of buzz about this game when it was first released as a CE due to all of the 'collectibles' and the scattered 'achievements'. To be honest, it didn't add that much to what is a formulaic and rather drab game.
The storyline is really weak. I have played the previous games in the series (which I enjoyed) and this one is just terrible. Perhaps it's time for this series to be laid to rest. The graphics are of rather poor quality and the story is just interesting enough that I plodded along to the finish line; however, I played most of this game on auto-pilot and actually felt relieved when I was finished. Very little challenge; very little excitement. Bland storyline.
For those that purchased the SE; smart move. I do not recommend the CE version. I completed the main storyline in 4 hours and this includes me taking my time, not skipping anything, reading the journal, hunting down all the collectibles and taking breaks here and there. It is not a long game by any means, with the bonus chapter in the CE version only adding 'maybe' an additional 30-45 minutes. As I spent much time looking for the added collectibles; without those to look for I could have easily finished this game in 2.5 hours tops. I'm assuming the SE version does not include the collectibles so yes, a very short game not up to CE standards and short even for a SE offering.
What really made me downgrade this game from 3 stars to 2 stars is the ending of the main story. *This does NOT contain a spoiler*. Those that purchased the SE version are left without much of an ending. The CE bonus game is really an extended ending to the main game; without it, the game doesn't make much sense. In the SE version, it just...ends. No real conclusion to anything. In fact, I was certain I must have skipped a step in the main story because it ended so quickly. It was only when I began the 'Bonus Chapter' that I realized that the CE bonus chapter IS the ending.
Despite the fact that I was able to get a decent ending having played the CE version, I do not appreciate developers leaving SE players without an appropriate ending. Every SE version of what was once a CE should include a decent ending for ALL players to enjoy.
So be forewarned before you play; you most likely will be disappointed in the very abrupt conclusion.
Other than that; the game is sub-par and due to that, the lack of ending, and the shortness of the game, I can only recommend this as a DD or if you have a game coupon about to expire. Otherwise, I recommend a pass. Nothing special here.
I don't recommend this game.
Travel from the deepest trenches of the Atlantic Ocean to the awe-inspiring wonders of Mars as you solve the greatest archeological puzzle known to man: the origin of Atlantis.
Overall rating
5
/
5
1 of 1 found this review helpful
A superb gaming experience
PostedAugust 1, 2013
mycatluna
fromWaukesha, WI
Skill Level:Expert
Favorite Genre(s):Word, Adventure, Hidden Object, Large File, Puzzle
Fun Factor
5
/
5
Visual/Sound Quality
5
/
5
Level of Challenge
4
/
5
Storyline
5
/
5
As there are so many reviews that go over the specifics; all I really wanted to add here is my opinion that this game exceeds all expectations in every facet of game development. The unique storyline is refreshing; the mix of adventure, HOS, and puzzles are just right and the game length is quite long. I did not purchase the CE version; however, as I am so pleased with the SE, I don't see any reason for others not to spring for the CE version if you are able to. This game is one of those rare gems that is actually worthy of the CE price tag. Bravo developers and I am looking forward to what I hope is the beginning of an epic space saga. We need some variety in our games. WELL DONE. *applause*
I recommend this game!
Something's driven everyone away from Linden Shades.
Overall rating
5
/
5
45 of 46 found this review helpful
A Game That Exceeds All Expectations
PostedJuly 10, 2013
mycatluna
fromWaukesha, WI
Skill Level:Expert
Favorite Genre(s):Word, Adventure, Hidden Object, Large File, Puzzle
Fun Factor
5
/
5
Visual/Sound Quality
5
/
5
Level of Challenge
4
/
5
Storyline
5
/
5
This game comes from game developer Eipix and I am incredibly impressed with their games; most recently, this wonderful HOPA that I can foresee being a contender for one of the best HOPA games of 2013.
Compared against the same old and tired cookie-cutter games that the casual gaming market seems to be flooded with as of late; this game from Eipix stands apart from the rest. I won't go into much detail about the game mechanics as others have already covered that area thoroughly. What I will say is that everything from the opening cut-scene to the final credits (which are hilarious by the way and I recommend reading through them) were done exceptionally well. 5 stars all across the board as far as the game mechanics, voice-overs, storyline, atmosphere and ambiance. The game is bright and colorful while still maintaining a chilling experience and can be enjoyed by a variety of players as it does not delve into the occult; it is a mystery to solve and is extremely well-polished. It is obvious from the start that the developers put a lot of hard work into this game, which, as a player, I really appreciate.
There is a perfect balance of adventure, HOS, mini-games and mystery to keep the player entertained and invested. The puzzles were just difficult enough to provide a challenge but not so difficult that players will get frustrated and hit the 'skip' button. All skill levels will most likely find the mini-games and puzzles both fun and solvable.
CE versus SE:
The CE does include 3 different types of collectibles that are very well hidden. I liked the extra challenge of trying to locate all of the collectibles due to the difficulty level of trying to locate some of them. The fact that their locations were not blatantly obvious really increased the fun factor. There are also achievements, an enjoyable bonus game, the usual wallpaper and concept art, a rather enjoyable 'making-of' video and a few other extras that aren't often seen packaged with CE's.
The CE does include 3 different types of collectibles that are very well hidden. I liked the extra challenge of trying to locate all of the collectibles due to the difficulty level of trying to locate some of them. The fact that their locations were not blatantly obvious really increased the fun factor. There are also achievements, an enjoyable bonus game, the usual wallpaper and concept art, a rather enjoyable 'making-of' video and a few other extras that aren't often seen packaged with CE's.
Even without the bonus chapter or all of the extras, this game would still be well worth the CE price tag if you are able to afford it. Otherwise, the SE will be just as enjoyable as the game wraps everything up nicely at the end so all players, regardless of game version purchased, can enjoy it which I find admirable on the part of the developers.The length of the game is just right. It's not a short game by any means, nor is it too long to the point where a player may begin to get bored. You will get your money's worth of playing time with this one. I spent at least a solid 6-7 hours on this (roughly 5 hours on just the main game) and consider myself an expert player. I did read the journal, watch all cut-scenes, find all the collectibles, attempted to earn as many achievements as possible, did not skip any dialog, puzzles or HOS, or use the hints or the map. The interactive map that let's you jump from location to location is nice to have, but not really necessary as there is not a lot of backtracking in this game, which means less filler and fluff and more actual game-play, which is also appreciated.
I look forward to more games by this developer as they have definitely set the bar high in the HOPA genre. Very well done game. Bravo to those that worked very hard on this enjoyable game; your efforts paid off.
I highly recommend this game to players of all skill levels.
I recommend this game!
Something’s driven everyone away from Linden Shades.
Overall rating
5
/
5
15 of 16 found this review helpful
A Game That Exceeds All Expectations
PostedJuly 10, 2013
mycatluna
fromWaukesha, WI
Skill Level:Expert
Favorite Genre(s):Word, Adventure, Hidden Object, Large File, Puzzle
Fun Factor
5
/
5
Visual/Sound Quality
5
/
5
Level of Challenge
4
/
5
Storyline
5
/
5
This game comes from game developer Eipix and I am incredibly impressed with their games; most recently, this wonderful HOPA that I can foresee being a contender for one of the best HOPA games of 2013.
Compared against the same old and tired cookie-cutter games that the casual gaming market seems to be flooded with as of late; this game from Eipix stands apart from the rest. I won't go into much detail about the game mechanics as others have already covered that area thoroughly. What I will say is that everything from the opening cut-scene to the final credits (which are hilarious by the way and I recommend reading through them) were done exceptionally well. 5 stars all across the board as far as the game mechanics, voice-overs, storyline, atmosphere and ambiance. The game is bright and colorful while still maintaining a chilling experience and can be enjoyed by a variety of players as it does not delve into the occult; it is a mystery to solve and is extremely well-polished. It is obvious from the start that the developers put a lot of hard work into this game, which, as a player, I really appreciate.
There is a perfect balance of adventure, HOS, mini-games and mystery to keep the player entertained and invested. The puzzles were just difficult enough to provide a challenge but not so difficult that players will get frustrated and hit the 'skip' button. All skill levels will most likely find the mini-games and puzzles both fun and solvable.
The CE does include 3 different types of collectibles that are very well hidden. I liked the extra challenge of trying to locate all of the collectibles due to the difficulty level of trying to locate some of them. The fact that their locations were not blatantly obvious really increased the fun factor. There are also achievements, an enjoyable bonus game, the usual wallpaper and concept art, a rather enjoyable 'making-of' video and a few other extras that aren't often seen packaged with CE's.
Even without the bonus chapter or all of the extras, this game would still be well worth the CE price tag if you are able to afford it. Otherwise, the SE will be just as enjoyable as the game wraps everything up nicely at the end so all players, regardless of game version purchased, can enjoy it which I find admirable on the part of the developers.The length of the game is just right. It's not a short game by any means, nor is it too long to the point where a player may begin to get bored. You will get your money's worth of playing time with this one. I spent at least a solid 6-7 hours on this (roughly 5 hours on just the main game) and consider myself an expert player. I did read the journal, watch all cut-scenes, find all the collectibles, attempted to earn as many achievements as possible, did not skip any dialog, puzzles or HOS, or use the hints or the map. The interactive map that let's you jump from location to location is nice to have, but not really necessary as there is not a lot of backtracking in this game, which means less filler and fluff and more actual game-play, which is also appreciated.
I look forward to more games by this developer as they have definitely set the bar high in the HOPA genre. Very well done game. Bravo to those that worked very hard on this enjoyable game; your efforts paid off.
I highly recommend this game to players of all skill levels.
I recommend this game!
Expose a secret brotherhood called The Seekers and save the performers of the theatre who became the brotherhood’s victims.
Overall rating
5
/
5
2 of 3 found this review helpful
Perfection
PostedJune 29, 2013
mycatluna
fromWaukesha, WI
Skill Level:Expert
Favorite Genre(s):Adventure, Hidden Object, Large File, Puzzle
Fun Factor
5
/
5
Visual/Sound Quality
5
/
5
Level of Challenge
5
/
5
Storyline
5
/
5
The developers really set the bar high with this one. It has everything a person wants in a game: unique storyline, fantastic graphics, excellent music and ambient sounds, incredible voice-acting and character development, clever mini-games whose difficulty level is perfectly balanced, interactive and ever-changing hidden object scenes (silhouette, list, and place an item back into the scene), and an all around exciting gaming experience. We even get to collect some 'special powers' that allow the player to have a little extra fun. This game is also perfectly balanced between the adventure aspect, HOS, and puzzles, which keeps the game flowing along smoothly. I was hooked from the beginning and not once did I get bored. The game length is very impressive; as an expert player I easily put roughly 7-8 hours into this game NOT counting the bonus chapter which took me an additional 1.5-2 hours. Bonus content includes bonus game-play (which the developers worked hard on-not just thrown in to add time), achievements to earn, and collectibles to find along the way. If you are able to, I recommend the CE version (which I rarely ever buy-but it's worth it here); however, if you can only get the SE, you are still in for a long and entertaining game. As long as these developers continue releasing top-quality games that do not have that cookie-cutter feel, I will continue to be a huge fan. Excellent job developers. A lot of work went into this game and it shows.
I recommend this game!