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:
Olivia has been kidnapped by the mysterious Lonely Hearts Killer who murders those suffering from a shattered love. Save her!
Overall rating
5
/
5
1 of 1 found this review helpful
Beautifully Crafted Game
PostedJune 14, 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
4
/
5
Storyline
5
/
5
I love every aspect of this game. I played it all in one sitting as the storyline really drew me in. With the bonus chapter and playing on the hardest setting, the game took me roughly 7 hours or so to complete, so there is plenty to do. The graphics are stunning on my widescreen, the voice-overs are incredibly well done: some of the best voice-acting I've heard in a game. The characters are unique and each character has quite a bit of dialogue scripted in. I clicked on each character multiple times and each time I received a clue, a witty comment, or a story they had to tell. This kept me interested in the detective story element of the game and because I had utilized each character's dialogue to their fullest extent, I was able to solve the mystery before the game beat me to it.
This is, hands-down, one of the best games I've played this year. I've had it sitting in my Game Manager for awhile and finally got around to playing it, then kicked myself for having waited so long. There is plenty to do in this game. It's heavy on the adventure side; however, there are some fun interactive Hidden Object Scenes. I especially appreciated having to 'catch' some of the objects within the list. For example, I had to 'catch' a pigeon that flew by the window every so often and it took me a few tries to actually accomplish. This type of interactive play within the hidden object scenes made them come alive and feel less stale and stationary. There are puzzles and the difficulty level for each one is just right (at least for me). I was able to logically solve all of them without getting frustrated or having to skip any.
All in all this is a winner of a game and I cannot wait to see what comes to us next from this Developer. Very well done and enjoyable and although I rarely say this, it is worthy of the CE price tag.
P.S. One of my favorite characters is the young police officer that never seems to be able to get anything right. He added the perfect amount of comedic relief for such a tragic mystery. This is definitely a keeper. Enjoy!
I recommend this game!
A late-night subway ride takes a bizarre turn into a mystical cemetery. You have been summoned by a strange entity to free the cemetery’s lost souls. Will you succeed, or is this the end of the line?
Overall rating
2
/
5
19 of 26 found this review helpful
Deja-Vu Would Be an Understatement
PostedApril 23, 2013
mycatluna
fromWaukesha, WI
Skill Level:Expert
Favorite Genre(s):Word, Adventure, Hidden Object, Large File, Puzzle
Fun Factor
2
/
5
Visual/Sound Quality
3
/
5
Level of Challenge
2
/
5
Storyline
2
/
5
Every time ERS releases yet another game, I give it a try, hoping that maybe, just maybe, they will slow down on the cookie-cutter games and release a quality game like they used to. I had hopes for this one; however, it's a no-go for me.
All of their games play the same, look the same, sound the same. It's gotten to the point where I am having trouble telling their games apart, wondering "Haven't I played this before? It feels so familiar." It feels that way, because it is.
Their graphic style is in dire need of an upgrade. The washed-out looking graphics are beginning to pale in comparison to other game release's crisp, realistic-looking graphics. Because other games now have more realistic looking graphics, ERS graphics are looking grainy and old fashioned.
Their music needs a change. It's always the same music, slightly changed for each game. I can hum it in my sleep. I would like to see some new upbeat music-anything new would do at this point.
And I really wish they would find different objects to place in their hidden object scenes. I have tired of clicking on the same objects I've clicked on for their last dozen game releases.
And please think of a new story! Something with some level of imagination would do.
I pushed through the demo and felt relieved when it ended. It's too easy, nothing original about it at all (again) and I was bored, bored, bored.
How these games get rave reviews anymore I have no idea, although I can tell that more negative reviews are beginning to pop up with the same complaints I have. We would like something new and updated. Wipe everything and start over. Updated graphics, music, objects, storyline and I promise, the crowd will go absolutely wild.
Until that happens, I cannot recommend this game. It's dull, and the worst in the series so far. I recommend replaying the first few and bypassing this one. Perhaps worth a daily deal.
I don't recommend this game.
The residents of Bitterford, Maine have fallen prey to a terrible curse. It’s up to you to unravel the series of mysterious events that led to the town’s downfall and uncover the evil that was responsible.
Overall rating
5
/
5
13 of 18 found this review helpful
Amazed at all the Negative Reviews! This Game is Brilliant!
PostedApril 17, 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
5
/
5
Storyline
5
/
5
After sorting through all of the negative reviews, I really was expecting something absolutely terrible. Imagine my surprise when I discovered that this game is actually 110% fantastic. It's obvious from the start that A LOT of hard work went into producing this game and it shows. Down to the tiniest detail, the developers did a superb job from start to finish. I find myself with not one single complaint, which is a miracle in itself. I always find at least one thing I dislike, but with this latest release of MCF, I have nothing but rave reviews.
I'm not sure what the fish in the pond were expecting, but this game exceeded my expectations. After all of the cookie-cutter I-HOGS that we've been subjected to, where I have trouble telling many of these games apart anymore, I would think we would all be jumping up and down about this game. This game is an absolutely refreshing change of pace.
It is mostly an Adventure game; and perhaps it was the expectations of many within the pond that this latest Case Files release would be yet another IHOG with morphing objects. And perhaps when those initial expectations were not met, many found themselves disappointed, which is unfortunate because as far as games go, this is exactly what Dr. Felix ordered.
Big Fish Studios is always pushing the boundaries of the current trends to open us up to something new, and every new release of the Mystery Case Files series has done just that: set the bar of excellence high so that we get bigger and better offers all around to keep the gaming community happy. This game does just that-sets the bar higher.
As I said, it's heavy on the Adventure aspect, which for those players that enjoy Adventure games will find themselves immediately comfortable in the genre. There are also creative hidden object scenes that require the player explore a bit. It's beyond an interactive hidden object scene; it's an entire area or building that you search for these objects, physically moving around from room to room to find them. I enjoyed this far more than searching around one 'still-scene'.
In addition to that, you have 'psychic' drawings of certain areas/objects that you need to look around for and place on top of the area depicted in order to 'charge' them with spiritual energy. I enjoy these, as it makes for a more comprehensive and varied gaming experience. I have to be observant while playing, which creates additional challenges.
The graphics are WELL above par; they are the most realistic looking graphics so far that rival the high-quality graphics found in console gaming. I am blown away by the clarity.
All of the audio (environment, effects, ambient, music) are very well done and also add to the realism this game presents. The live actors are very professional and do a fantastic job. Cut-scenes are movie quality; beautiful on my wide-screen laptop. I also enjoyed the unique concept of having to piece together a moving scene-(like a puzzle)-in order to trigger the actual cut-scene or 'vision'. This is a puzzle that I have never come across before in any other game and I've played most all of the Adventure and IHOG games offered. Each time, the challenge and complexity of these 'moving scene puzzles' increases, but never to the point of being frustrating.
As far as game mechanics-no complaints. Easy to navigate with a transporter map, easy controls, and I experienced absolutely ZERO lag-time, or long lapses between scenes. Everything flowed nicely without interruption.
As far as the story itself-it's unique, intriguing, and in many places, downright scary. Many areas were like watching a supernatural horror movie. I admit to jumping out of my seat more than a few times when I encountered a 'ghostly entity', mainly due to the high-quality graphics as well as it happening when you least expect it.
The length is fantastic. I lost count of how many hours I invested in this game because I was so engaged I completely lost track of time. Let's just say the sun came up before I knew it and it was only then that I realized I hadn't yet slept.
Even though I purchased the SE version, as for achievements or morphing objects and any other 'extras' typically offered with a CE version that many complained were lacking-I did not miss them one bit. There is plenty of enjoyment to be had with the game itself that the idea of any extras did not seem remotely necessary, so I must disagree with the many reviewers who were frustrated because these were not offered. Again, Mystery Case Files is cutting-edge gaming, and frankly, we've been there, done that. I wanted new, and that's exactly what this game offers.
We wanted new, Big Fish gave us new. We wanted something different, Big Fish gave us something different. We wanted cutting-edge gaming, Big Fish delivered. We wanted better graphics, we got them. We wanted more adventure, and there's plenty in this game to go around. Most of all, we wanted a different and unique STORY, and Big Fish Studios gave us that too. Honestly, what's NOT to love?
Big Fish Studios-I'm not sure why the negative reviews. I really am stumped, aghast, befuddled and an assortment of other adjectives. But I wanted to let you know that your latest MCF release IS the best yet and is a game that I will play more than once. It's one of the absolute best games I've played in a LONG time and I hope you continue to bring us new and unique gaming experiences that set the bar high for others looking to produce quality games.
I urge everyone to at least give it a try. You may find yourself extremely surprised, like I was, at what a great game it really is. I'm glad I ignored the negative reviews and went for it anyway, or I would have missed out on what is quite possibly, the best game of the year. Congrats Big Fish Studios-you've done it again-another home run.
I recommend this game!
The Secrets of Arcelia Island
Unravel The Secrets of Arcelia Island as you, your father, and a small crew set off on this dangerous expedition!
Overall rating
4
/
5
7 of 7 found this review helpful
Hidden Gem: Worth 4.5 stars (add in the extra half star for my review)
PostedApril 17, 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
3
/
5
Storyline
4
/
5
I somehow missed this game and while looking to spend a game coupon, recently came upon it. This game is a bit older so I am going to rate it as if it is a new release, to be as fair as possible considering I'm the one late to the party.
I am truly impressed with this game. It has regular hidden object scenes, not interactive ones; however, I am not docking any stars for this because again, it's release date was some time ago. I actually found it a refreshing change of pace from all of the newer games with interactive HOS.
I liked the challenge of finding the journal pieces scattered around the island. Some were quite difficult to spot so it added to the overall game challenge.
The game stayed fresh, as each 'portal' you enter takes you to a new environment to explore, and all of them are very unique. The graphics, especially for their time, are very well done, and while there are no voice-overs, I found that I didn't really miss them. The cut-scenes are great and the ambient sounds easily transport you into the game-the crashing of the surf, the sounds of birds and monkeys; it's all very well put-together.
The storyline itself is unique which is a refreshing change of pace. One of the most important elements in a game for me is the storyline, so I am impressed with how well the story is told and I really liked the detail and depth of the journal entries. While some may not like that much reading, I loved it-it really added to the story and gave many details that may otherwise have been lost. It was a nice break to pause and read the long journal entries as game-play progressed.
The characters you meet along the way are all incredibly interesting; each have their own quirky style. The dialogue with each character is amusing and adds even more to the enjoyment of the story.
I actually sat down and played this game in one sitting. As it is by no means a short game (an impressive 6-8 venture depending upon experience and speed) the length speaks to how involved in the game I was to play all the way through. Not many games have what it takes to hold my interest for that many hours at one time.
I really do hope that there is a sequel of some sort for this game; although I cannot imagine what sort of sequel that would be. The game does not end on a cliff-hanger; everything comes together at the end. But if the developers can think of a way to make a sequel for this, I would definitely buy it. I wish more developers put this much attention to detail and care into their games. With this gem of a game, the work that was put into this really shows, and as a gamer, it is MUCH appreciated.
I recommend this game!
There's a dark force at work in Pilgrim's Hook. Return to your childhood home and save your twin brother from the evil that lives beneath the sea.
Overall rating
5
/
5
4 of 4 found this review helpful
Finally-an original and unique masterpiece
PostedApril 16, 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
I'm stingy with my five star reviews, especially when it comes to CE's. If I'm going to shell out money, it better exceed all expectations, and this game did.
I won't go into details about graphics, sound quality, cut-scenes, ambient sound, puzzle variety and difficulty (just right, IMO), etc., because other reviewers have already covered these topics in length. In my opinion, this game excels in all the above categories.
I am impressed with the amount of bonus content offered with this game. The bonus content is what CE's really push to their consumers, and in this case, enough was offered to make me glad I spent the extra money, without jilting the customers that may only purchase the SE, because the ending ties up everything nicely in the main game. The bonus game gives us a "back-story." So for those that find they have to or want to wait until the SE is released, you will be pleased with this game, I'm quite certain.
But even that is not the main point of this review. I want to congratulate the developers for giving us an original and unique STORY with exceptional voice-acting (minus the brother-but he hardly has any lines, so I'm okay with this). The story is what kept me intrigued and made it hard to set the game aside. It has been a long time since we have had a unique story to keep us amused and engaged and I cannot thank developers enough for finally providing that.
This game is by no means a "cookie-cutter" game; a trend becoming all too popular I fear. It is obvious from the beginning that great care went into every facet of this game, and the end result is a game worthy of 5 stars. Well done indeed and am looking forward to future games that hopefully deliver a game with the same amount of attention to detail.
I recommend this game!
Follow the trail of the mysterious woman in white and discover the secret behind her terrible task!
Overall rating
5
/
5
4 of 4 found this review helpful
Exceeds Expectations: Unique, & Worth the Upgrade to CE
PostedApril 13, 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
Elephant Games, one of my favorite developers, hit it out of the park again with their latest game, Hallowed Legends: Ship of Bones. I normally shy away from purchasing the CE's and wait for the SE; however, in this case I'm glad I purchased the CE and recommend that those that purchase the SE consider upgrading to the CE version.
The reasons I opted for the CE over the SE are the following. First, I want to support this developer in every way possible. They make stellar games, NOT substituting 'quality' for 'quantity'. Second, there are well-hidden collectibles to find and achievements to earn. But what really increased my respect for this CE release is the length and detail of the bonus adventure. Far too often, bonus games feel rushed and unimaginative; adding nothing to the story and acting more as 'filler' than real bonus game-play. Not the case here. The attention to detail in the bonus game is as good as the attention and creativity given to the main game. The length is impressive as well, adding a good 2 hours to overall game-play.
For those that have the SE, no need to worry. The story-line for the bonus game is not necessary to complete the main game (the ending wraps us nicely) but does provide an additional story which is every bit as unique and enjoyable.
I won't go into detail about the music, atmosphere, etc., as many other reviewers have already covered those areas in great detail. I will say that I am extremely impressed with ALL elements of this game, from the ambient sounds to the game mechanics. The right amount of challenge is provided, based on your skill-set and preference as there are 3 modes of game-play. The SG is helpful should you need assistance from time to time. The map is a transporter, so the game is not overrun with a lot of back-tracking. The puzzles and HOS are nicely spaced with no repeat hidden object scenes which keeps the game fresh and moving forward. Your 'assistant' and other characters you meet throughout the game are incredibly well-done and fun to interact with.
The length of the main game is above par. As an expert player, the main game easily took me 6-8 hours to complete, plus the additional 2 hour bonus adventure for the CE version (I did take my time, earned all the achievements, found the collectibles and did not use skips or hints which I'm sure added time). Yet despite the length, I never once felt bored. This has to do with the unique premise of the game itself. The story-line includes elements of real myths and legends, adding to the intrigue. It is obvious from the start that the developers at Elephant Games put a lot of time, effort, and care into creating a beautiful, lengthy and enjoyable game for a wide-ranging audience.
The voice-overs are extremely well done and the cut-scenes, which provide the back-story, is split up through-out the game, giving you just enough information to keep you moving forward, tying everything up nicely by the game's conclusion. The ending does not feel rushed or lacking any detail.
I am extremely impressed and look forward to future games from this developer. I have not once been disappointed, but this game is definitely the best so far. The use of the 'magic book' is very fun and added yet another unique element to an already imaginative game.
Enjoy this beautiful and fantastic release. I'm sure it will become a favorite for many players. It is definitely a favorite of mine. And if you can spare the extra money, I highly recommend upgrading to the CE. The bonus adventure alone is worth the investment.
Happy Gaming and thank you Elephant Games for another extraordinary release!
I recommend this game!
Follow the trail of the mysterious woman in white and discover the secret behind her terrible task!
Overall rating
5
/
5
4 of 5 found this review helpful
Exceeds Expectations: Unique, Enjoyable, Worth the Money
PostedApril 13, 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
Elephant Games, one of my favorite developers, hit it out of the park again with their latest game, Hallowed Legends: Ship of Bones. I normally shy away from purchasing the CE's and wait for the SE; however, in this case I'm glad I purchased the CE for several reasons.
First, I want to support this developer in every way possible. They make stellar games, NOT substituting 'quality' for 'quantity'. Second, there are well-hidden collectibles to find and achievements to earn. But what really increased my respect for this CE release is the length and detail of the bonus adventure. Far too often, bonus games feel rushed and unimaginative; adding nothing to the story and acting more as 'filler' than real bonus game-play. Not the case here. The attention to detail in the bonus game is as good as the attention and creativity given to the main game. The length is impressive as well, adding a good 2 hours to overall game-play. The story-line for the bonus game is not necessary to complete the main game (the ending wraps us nicely) but does provide an additional story which is every bit as unique and enjoyable.
I won't go into detail about the music, atmosphere, etc., as many other reviewers have already covered those areas in great detail. I will say that I am extremely impressed with ALL elements of this game, from the ambient sounds to the game mechanics. The right amount of challenge is provided, based on your skill-set and preference as there are 3 modes of game-play. The SG is helpful should you need assistance from time to time. The map is a transporter, so the game is not overrun with a lot of back-tracking. The puzzles and HOS are nicely spaced with no repeat hidden object scenes which keeps the game fresh and moving forward. Your 'assistant' and other characters you meet throughout the game are incredibly well-done and fun to interact with.
The length of the main game is above par. As an expert player, the main game easily took me 6-8 hours to complete, plus the additional 2 hour bonus adventure (I did take my time, earned all the achievements, found the collectibles and did not use skips or hints which I'm sure added time). Yet despite the length, I never once felt bored. This has to do with the unique premise of the game itself. The story-line includes elements of real myths and legends, adding to the intrigue. It is obvious from the start that the developers at Elephant Games put a lot of time, effort, and care into creating a beautiful, lengthy and enjoyable game for a wide-ranging audience.
The voice-overs are extremely well done and the cut-scenes, which provide the back-story, is split up through-out the game, giving you just enough information to keep you moving forward, tying everything up nicely by the game's conclusion.
I am extremely impressed and look forward to future games from this developer. I have not once been disappointed, but this game is definitely the best so far. The use of the 'magic book' is very fun and added yet another unique element to an already imaginative game.
Enjoy this beautiful and fantastic release. I'm sure it will become a favorite for many players. It is definitely a favorite of mine.
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
3
/
5
17 of 35 found this review helpful
Unsure About This One-Aside From Collectables Fever
PostedApril 5, 2013
mycatluna
fromWaukesha, WI
Skill Level:Expert
Favorite Genre(s):Word, Adventure, Hidden Object, Large File, Puzzle
Fun Factor
4
/
5
Visual/Sound Quality
2
/
5
Level of Challenge
3
/
5
Storyline
3
/
5
This is one of those games where I will check back on the reviews later on to see how people liked it once they finished it.
Most all of the wonderful 5 star reviews seem solely based on all of the extras to collect. That doesn't seem like a good way to review a game. I've yet to hear much on length, storyline, game mechanics, etc.
For me, the graphics in this game appear dated and a bit fuzzy on my PC. Yes, there are extras to collect, but that shouldn't be the main factor in purchasing a game. I want to know about the game itself-not just the collectables.
Others that have given the game 4-5 star reviews have briefly touched upon the fact that the graphics are dated...BUT, there are a lot of collectables so this is okay...?
During the demo, I had a pretty good time playing it, I am happy to see that there are collectables and a handful of achievements; however, as I mentioned, the graphics are well under par, and the game is a bit on the easy side, so I feel expert players may be disappointed. Nothing very original about this game-storyline is the same type we're very used to.
So all in all, I'm on the fence on this one. I'll check back on other reviews once the "WOW" factor about all of the 'extras' simmers down a bit, so I can find out more about how game-play progresses after the initial demo. Hopefully some more thorough reviews about the actual game-play itself will be available.
Happy gaming!
Enter the abandoned hotel and find your missing twin!
Overall rating
5
/
5
22 of 22 found this review helpful
The Most Phenomenal Game I've Played in Years
PostedMarch 30, 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
Rarely do I ever believe that CE's are worth the money-but in this case, yes!
I may be a bit biased as I am an H.P. Lovecraft fan and have read all of his writings, but that also gives me a unique perspective about the game itself. The developers did a fantastic job with the story of Charles Dexter Ward. If I were to base my review on the storyline alone, it would be 5 stars. The way in which the story is told is masterfully done. The journal entries that you locate along the way really help tell the story as do the well-placed cut-scenes along the way. Along with the 'diary entries', you will also come across letters, books, and correspondence which also contribute to the story. I found myself immediately taken in, and it was difficult to stop playing.
This is a VERY long game so you get your money's worth. I consider myself an expert player and it took me about 8-9 hours to play, NOT including bonus content. Granted, I took my time exploring and read ALL of the journal entries, etc., but even taking that into account, the fastest of players will get several hours worth of game-play.
As for the game play itself, it is heavy on the Adventure and lite on the HOS, which I prefer. There are only a few hidden object scenes scattered throughout the game, perhaps 6-8 total (rough estimate). There are some puzzles to solve-none overly difficult and with time and patience, can easily be completed without the need for a walk-through. Most of the game consists of exploring numerous locations and picking up and utilizing various inventory objects along the way.
The atmosphere is spooky. This game was designed with a more mature audience in mind, so be sure to take note of that before handing off to your kiddies. The subject matter deals with some pretty dark and sinister topics, but then, it wouldn't be H.P. Lovecraft if it didn't.
The graphics are very well done and capture the mood of the story very well as does the environment sounds and the accompanying musical score, which is not constant, unobtrusive, and quite beautifully rendered.
From every way I look at it, I cannot think of a single complaint about this game, which honestly NEVER happens. There is usually always something that bothers me, but not with this game. The time and effort put into developing this game is evident in all possible areas and I can only hope that other developers take note, and are up to the challenge of creating games as perfect and enjoyable as this one. Happy gaming!
I recommend this game!
Enter the abandoned hotel and find your missing twin!
Overall rating
5
/
5
6 of 6 found this review helpful
Phenomenal-Best game I've played in well over a year
PostedMarch 30, 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
This review is based on the CE version which I highly recommend purchasing. If you already have the SE, I recommend upgrading to the CE, if only for the bonus game play alone. There are also achievements in the CE version. Rarely do I ever believe that CE's are worth the money-but in this case, yes!
I may be a bit biased as I am an H.P. Lovecraft fan and have read all of his writings, but that also gives me a unique perspective about the game itself. The developers did a fantastic job with the story of Charles Dexter Ward. If I were to base my review on the storyline alone, it would be 5 stars. The way in which the story is told is masterfully done. The journal entries that you locate along the way really help tell the story as do the well-placed cut-scenes along the way. Along with the 'diary entries', you will also come across letters, books, and correspondence which also contribute to the story. I found myself immediately taken in, and it was difficult to stop playing.
This is a VERY long game so you get your money's worth. I consider myself an expert player and it took me about 8-9 hours to play, NOT including bonus content (if you decide to upgrade to the CE). Granted, I took my time exploring and read ALL of the journal entries, etc., but even taking that into account, the fastest of players will get several hours worth of game-play.
As for the game play itself, it is heavy on the Adventure and lite on the HOS, which I prefer. There are only a few hidden object scenes scattered throughout the game, perhaps 6-8 total (rough estimate). There are some puzzles to solve-none overly difficult and with time and patience, can easily be completed without the need for a walk-through. Most of the game consists of exploring numerous locations and picking up and utilizing various inventory objects along the way.
The atmosphere is spooky. This game was designed with a more mature audience in mind, so be sure to take note of that before handing off to your kiddies. The subject matter deals with some pretty dark and sinister topics, but then, it wouldn't be H.P. Lovecraft if it didn't.
The graphics are very well done and capture the mood of the story very well as does the environment sounds and the accompanying musical score, which is not constant, unobtrusive, and quite beautifully rendered.
From every way I look at it, I cannot think of a single complaint about this game, which honestly NEVER happens. There is usually always something that bothers me, but not with this game. The time and effort put into developing this game is evident in all possible areas and I can only hope that other developers take note, and are up to the challenge of creating games as perfect and enjoyable as this one. Happy gaming!
I recommend this game!