Favorite Genre(s):Adventure, Hidden Object, Strategy, Time Management
Fun Factor
4/ 5
Visual/Sound Quality
4/ 5
Level of Challenge
5/ 5
Storyline
3/ 5
I really did enjoy my attempts to beat each level and get 3 stars and all the achievements. However, the story left me confused. I have to be honest, it is rarely that I read all the conversations as I really just want to play the game.
I was intrigued as to what was going on here. So, I struggled through the conversations, that at times took FOREVER!! In the end, I was more confused than I was about half way through. I really thought I would get what was going on, but by the end of the game, I had no idea what the heck was going on in this crazy town.
That said, I did enjoy playing the game. It's not my favorite TM type of game, but it kept me busy on an otherwise boring day.
I absolutely love Incredible Dracula games. I remember when I played the very first of the series. I was, at first, confused as it was very different than other TM games being offered at that time. Once I played a little longer, I found I really liked how different it was. The series continues to be my favorite TM genre.
The newest offering follows previous games with the same cast of characters and a few new faces. The only thing I really miss from the last few releases is having to look for "hidden objects" on each level. There was the "princess" and "gift boxes". But, alas, those days are gone. Knowing how much work goes into the development of the games, I understand in order to keep costs down, some things had to go. Too bad.
All that said, I still love this series and look forward to the next release! Would love to see a Christmas theme Incredible Dracula :)
Favorite Genre(s):Hidden Object, Strategy, Time Management
Fun Factor
5/ 5
Visual/Sound Quality
4/ 5
Level of Challenge
5/ 5
Storyline
4/ 5
I have to admit, when I first started playing this game, I wasn't too impressed. However, after playing several layers, I saw promise. I wasn't disappointed! As you move further into the game, the challenge is definitely there. Quite a number of levels were very difficult to achieve.
One of the tricky aspects of the game is that you don't need to use all the resources to achieve 3 stars. One's first assumption is that all available resources will be necessary to complete the level with 3 stars. Not so in this game. Seeing a bunch of juicy resources just hanging out behind a fallen tree, a rock or hole to be filled is very tempting, but wasting time with them will not get the desired 3 stars.
As mentioned, the higher levels required a great deal of thought and strategy. Have to admit, if not for that site that shows videos, there are some levels I couldn't determine the strategy. Only after watching did I slap myself on the head and ask, "Why didn't I see that??"
I strongly suggest that you give this TM game a try. No, it's not Incredible Dracula, but it is a fun and challenging game.
Favorite Genre(s):Hidden Object, Strategy, Time Management
Fun Factor
5/ 5
Visual/Sound Quality
5/ 5
Level of Challenge
5/ 5
Storyline
4/ 5
At first glance, I didn't think I would enjoy this game. However, after playing, it become more enjoyable and challenging. Some of my favorite TM games are Incredible Dracula, and this one has become another favorite. Some levels, I had to play 3-4 times in order to develop the strategy to get 3 stars. Although not as challenging as earlier Incredible Draculas, this still kept me guessing. Wish there were more TM games such as this.
I thought there would be no more Virtual Villagers as it has been quite some time since the last version for PC was released (there is a Virtual Villagers Origin, but it is just for phone apps; don't know why it not was developed for the PC).
In any event, I was very surprised and delighted to see this version available for the PC user. I can tell you right up front that this game is not for anyone who lacks patience. This game will require tons of patience and time, but as each goal is achieved it is well worth the wait.
As in most of my reviews, I give kudos to the developers for this type of games. The hours and hours, days and months it takes to ensure that every action is captured and added to other actions to achieve the goals. From choosing skills for each worker, to having them reach master level for the skill, to ensuring only master skills can achieve certain goals, to ensuring young workers can't have children too early, to gathering resources and making sure using certain resource with other resources provide necessary items to move on.
I could go on and on, but this is a minute list of the what the developers put in place to bring this game to fruition. It doesn't include the number of hours that the game must be tested before release. All this just amazes me when I play this type of game.
In any event, I highly recommend this game to those who have the patience and who enjoy reaching hard to obtain goals.
Hope there will be another Virtual Villagers, but I know it won't be anytime soon ;)
Favorite Genre(s):Hidden Object, Strategy, Time Management
Fun Factor
5/ 5
Visual/Sound Quality
5/ 5
Level of Challenge
5/ 5
Storyline
5/ 5
I posted previously that I found this game made it impossible to reach 3 stars, especially around level 15. I was so frustrated after playing level 15 like 20 times barely beating the black out screen, I didn't recommend the game. Well, I am not known as a quitter, so I persevered.
As in some of my previous posts, I have indicated that it is the challenge that determines a really good TM/strategy game (seriously, is it really fun to just beat level after level with no thought in doing so?). Well, this game definitely raises the bar as far as challenge. While I found myself at times almost pulling my hair out with frustration as I played a level for the 10th time, I refused to give in to that frustration. After what seemed like endless attempts, I was able to conquer the challenge and obtain 3 stars all the way through level 20!
Now, the bonus level is another story. I have now spent countless hours in an attempt to get 3 stars on this level. I have been able to complete it before time runs out, but have not been able to obtain the elusive 3 stars. This level has me stumped. But, I will continue to fight forward and believe that at some point, I WILL beat this level!
One might ask why I would put myself through this much frustration and stress. Simply because I love a challenge, and when I beat the challenge, it is a satisfying accomplishment (followed by "HA!!! Beat ya!!!!).
So, I humbly hang my head and admit I was wrong for not recommending this game. If you love a challenge, this is the game for you. If not, then it is definitely not the one to purchase. Now, if you'll excuse me, I need to get back to the bonus level … again!
Favorite Genre(s):Hidden Object, Strategy, Time Management
Fun Factor
5/ 5
Visual/Sound Quality
5/ 5
Level of Challenge
4/ 5
Storyline
4/ 5
I absolutely love Incredible Dracula games, and this one is a good addition. If I could have given 4 1/2 stars, I would. The reason I didn't give 5 stars is they removed the hidden gift boxes, the princesses and the strategy guide. I guess CEs don't do well, and development is too costly/time consuming to justify adding those perks.
I agree with previous posters that it is sometimes difficult to determine what to do next because of small items, but to me, that is part of the challenge. There were times that I wondered what else I had to do, but after closely looking at the game level, I noticed an item that was almost camouflaged in the scenery. Yes, I had to start level again to get 3 stars, but once I realized what I needed, I was able to get the 3 stars. Sometimes, I had to replay the level 2-3 times, but it is possible.
I am confused by previous posters' claims that there is only one mode of play. Every time I open the game, it gives me the options of Normal (most difficult), Casual (ability to click multiple actions), and Free (no time limits).
I also agree with previous posters about the change in looks of the wife. Almost every time I open the game, it kind of gets to me that they changed her looks as if the way she looked before would prevent her from achieving her goals. Sends a bad message to young girls that you have to be gorgeous before being able to tackle life's challenges.
That said, the challenge is still there, the fun characters still entertain, and there are even some new potions, tools, and other items to create to meet the challenge. I still love this game and recommend that you give it a try.
While I totally understand why some may find this game frustrating and boring, I find it totally the opposite. This game is not for everyone, especially those who want to just click and build. I love the challenge!
Yes, Maoi games get more complicated with each release, but in my humble opinion, that is the fun/challenge. Most TM games I can finish w/in hours; this game takes days. That, again IMHO, makes this game an outstanding TM game..
As a previous poster indicated, finding the artifacts help create potions/equipment, and the runes help in meeting the 3 star objective (hovering over each will advise how these items work). And, the strategy guide is very helpful to complete the levels. I did find on some levels, that the guide left out a step, but in replaying the level, I was able to determine what was needed to achieve the 3 stars.
It is important to open every cache/chest on each level to obtain all of the artifacts/potions/runes. Sometimes, I will complete the level even though I know I won't make the 3 stars the first time just to be able to open all the caches/chests to get the items. I then go back and replay the level to get 3 stars. Yes, sometimes it will take me 3-4 tries, but as I said, I love the challenge!
What's the point of playing a game that is supposed to be a strategy (or TM) game if it's a no-brainer? Moai (and Incredible Dracula) are the best TM games created because they give you your money's worth and make you think. The level of development for this type of game always blows my mind when I think of all the things that have to work together to make each step lead to the next.
Again, this is not a game that will be a breeze to get through. It takes thought, and achieving the 3 stars is difficult but satisfying once accomplished. Too bad the forum is no longer available as it was a great place to get guidance.
I am looking forward to Moai VII. I totally recommend this game!
I thoroughly enjoyed the previous two Tribloos games, and this third installment did not disappoint! While the graphics seem childish, trust me, this is not a child's game.
A couple of the earlier levels do appear not to take too much thought, as one progresses through the game, the challenges become quite evident. Some levels had me ready to pull our my hair, but I persevered and was able to get 3 stars on every level.
With 100 levels, this was well worth the cost. If you can get past the simple graphics and story line, I can't believe you wouldn't enjoy this game. That is, if you love a challenge. If you have little patience, then move on, because this game will try your patience.
Bottom line: I love this game and will play it over and over!
Favorite Genre(s):Hidden Object, Strategy, Time Management
Fun Factor
5/ 5
Visual/Sound Quality
4/ 5
Level of Challenge
5/ 5
Storyline
5/ 5
Have to admit when I first started playing this game, I was a bit disappointed. The graphics are not nearly as crisp or interesting as previous Incredible Dracula (ID) games. I sort of had an attitude as I played through the first few levels, even thought "what a cop out"!! This isn't ID! This is a cheap copy.
However, I decided to give it a chance and see what was in store. As I moved on, predictably, the levels became more difficult and challenging. There are different ways to get resources in this game than previous games. The levels became more interesting and fun. I'm glad I didn't give up on this game.
Is it as fun or graphically appealing as previous ID games? No, but it is a fun, challenging TMG.
As I've posted previously on other TMGs, the amount of work to develop a TMG is intimidating (if this, then this; go here and this happens; don't do this and that won't happen). My hat is off to the developers of not only this game but most other TMG.
I honestly believe if you work past the first few levels, you will find this is a decent, enjoyable, fun game. I don't understand why people make a decision after playing 10 minutes. Give it a chance, then if you still don't like it, then the opinion is more worthy of posting. Just sayin' ;)