LunaNik's Profile
Stat Summary
- Average Rating:2.8
- Helpful Votes:12,435
- Reviews Submitted:670
- First Review:November 2, 2012
- Most Recent Review:August 19, 2020
- Featured reviews0
Status:
Become a Firewielder and prevent the Dark Lord’s rise!
Overall rating
4
/
5
18 of 18 found this review helpful
Not the shining star of the series, especially since there’s no Earth to go with Wind and Fire. Wait for the SE.
PostedJuly 10, 2017
LunaNik
fromSo...when is the next Maze and the sequel to Dawn of Hope: Skyline Adventure? :-)
Skill Level:Expert
Fun Factor
4
/
5
Visual/Sound Quality
5
/
5
Level of Challenge
4
/
5
Storyline
3
/
5
Review based on: full demo
SHORT & SWEET SUMMARY REVIEW
Madhead’s Dark Realm series began with Valera discovering her true identity and powers in Queen of Flames, being put to the test in Princess of Ice, ending a generational war in Lord of the Winds, and…wait a minute. That’s it? Fire, ice, and wind? No Empress of Earth? No Sultan of the Seas? Seems rather pre-emptive. And for a finale, this episode leaves a lot to be desired, especially when compared to the rest of the series.
Madhead’s Dark Realm series began with Valera discovering her true identity and powers in Queen of Flames, being put to the test in Princess of Ice, ending a generational war in Lord of the Winds, and…wait a minute. That’s it? Fire, ice, and wind? No Empress of Earth? No Sultan of the Seas? Seems rather pre-emptive. And for a finale, this episode leaves a lot to be desired, especially when compared to the rest of the series.
More details on the specific elements of the game below the fold…
————————————————————
STORYLINE
Well, the serious bad guy is finally going to make his appearance. Apparently, he’s the only one. There’s no sign of Nathaniel, Valera’s “childhood friend,” or Myrina the wise counselor. After struggling to save Nypha (the Ice Kingdom) and the Sky Kingdom, there’s no sign of help from either the Ice Princess or King Harlan. I thought the whole point of this series was to unite the kingdoms against the “great evil.” Yet Valera goes off quite alone to tackle the Dark Lord. Good thing she’s tough and resourceful.
————————————————————
STORYLINE
Well, the serious bad guy is finally going to make his appearance. Apparently, he’s the only one. There’s no sign of Nathaniel, Valera’s “childhood friend,” or Myrina the wise counselor. After struggling to save Nypha (the Ice Kingdom) and the Sky Kingdom, there’s no sign of help from either the Ice Princess or King Harlan. I thought the whole point of this series was to unite the kingdoms against the “great evil.” Yet Valera goes off quite alone to tackle the Dark Lord. Good thing she’s tough and resourceful.
EXPLORATION
As is typical of Madhead’s style, there’s lot of back and forth within limited areas, quite a bit of crafting, fixing things that are inexplicably broken, and split-screen conversations (which you can click through as fast as you can read, thankfully). The shaped keys were minimal.
As is typical of Madhead’s style, there’s lot of back and forth within limited areas, quite a bit of crafting, fixing things that are inexplicably broken, and split-screen conversations (which you can click through as fast as you can read, thankfully). The shaped keys were minimal.
HIDDEN OBJECT SCENES
Quite creative presentation and, in most cases, the objects were hidden in some way, either blended into the scene, secreted behind other items, hidden among similar items, or depicted in ways you might not expect. My favorite scene was a box with three “drawers” that was a find-and-replace in the scene. Another favorite was an extremely interactive scene with lots of moving parts to slide aside. There was also a narrated find-four-of-each-symbol, an interactive list where each object hid part of the final item, a zoom box find-the-differences, and a silhouette list of valves to find in a scene filled with valves. HO scenes included a morphing object.
Quite creative presentation and, in most cases, the objects were hidden in some way, either blended into the scene, secreted behind other items, hidden among similar items, or depicted in ways you might not expect. My favorite scene was a box with three “drawers” that was a find-and-replace in the scene. Another favorite was an extremely interactive scene with lots of moving parts to slide aside. There was also a narrated find-four-of-each-symbol, an interactive list where each object hid part of the final item, a zoom box find-the-differences, and a silhouette list of valves to find in a scene filled with valves. HO scenes included a morphing object.
PUZZLES
There weren’t many puzzles, which disappointed me, but they were about equal between “way too easy” and “decently challenging.”
• Copy the three constellations from the clue by moving the lighted dots to new spots so that lines between them light up. Sounds easy, but there are multiple places on the design where each constellation could be depicted…but only one is correct.
• Forge the tile pieces, following the given clue, and slide them into place. The pieces will only slide in the directions the arrows point, so plan ahead.
• Simon Says…repeat the sequence of five symbols. Simple Simon Says.
• Pick the lock by moving the upper pin until the lower pin wiggles, then moving the lower pin. Easy.
There weren’t many puzzles, which disappointed me, but they were about equal between “way too easy” and “decently challenging.”
• Copy the three constellations from the clue by moving the lighted dots to new spots so that lines between them light up. Sounds easy, but there are multiple places on the design where each constellation could be depicted…but only one is correct.
• Forge the tile pieces, following the given clue, and slide them into place. The pieces will only slide in the directions the arrows point, so plan ahead.
• Simon Says…repeat the sequence of five symbols. Simple Simon Says.
• Pick the lock by moving the upper pin until the lower pin wiggles, then moving the lower pin. Easy.
PRODUCTION
Beautiful graphics and animation with a lovely palette, although the characters could have used more facial expressions. Professional voiceovers and a wide variety of music from soft and ethereal to orchestral and dramatic round out the production.
Beautiful graphics and animation with a lovely palette, although the characters could have used more facial expressions. Professional voiceovers and a wide variety of music from soft and ethereal to orchestral and dramatic round out the production.
EXTRAS
The prior episodes, appropriately, had us collecting flames, crowns, and feathers. This episode has us collecting…puzzle pieces? They’re easy to see, being all the same shape and usually quite large. Bonus chapter, strategy guide, and performance achievements. Replayable HO scenes (but not puzzles…c’mon, Madhead!). Dev’s portfolio includes wallpapers, concept art, and downloadable soundtracks. Personally, I don’t find this to be CE-worthy.
The prior episodes, appropriately, had us collecting flames, crowns, and feathers. This episode has us collecting…puzzle pieces? They’re easy to see, being all the same shape and usually quite large. Bonus chapter, strategy guide, and performance achievements. Replayable HO scenes (but not puzzles…c’mon, Madhead!). Dev’s portfolio includes wallpapers, concept art, and downloadable soundtracks. Personally, I don’t find this to be CE-worthy.
CONCLUSION
I’m disappointed that there weren’t additional episodes for the other elements, earth and water at the very least. I felt that the storyline moved slowly and was disconnected from the rest of the series. Gameplay was decent, though I don’t find this worthy of a CE, so I’ll be waiting for the SE.
I’m disappointed that there weren’t additional episodes for the other elements, earth and water at the very least. I felt that the storyline moved slowly and was disconnected from the rest of the series. Gameplay was decent, though I don’t find this worthy of a CE, so I’ll be waiting for the SE.
Can you free Prometheus from Zeus's eternal punishment?
Overall rating
1
/
5
49 of 61 found this review helpful
This game mythed the mark.
PostedJuly 6, 2017
LunaNik
fromUsing the fire Prometheus gave me to incinerate this game.
Skill Level:Expert
Fun Factor
1
/
5
Visual/Sound Quality
5
/
5
Level of Challenge
1
/
5
Storyline
1
/
5
Review based on: full demo
Overall rating: ✭
What my rating means: I struggled to get through the demo.
Overall rating: ✭
What my rating means: I struggled to get through the demo.
SHORT & SWEET SUMMARY REVIEW
Another silly storyline having nothing to do with the original myth. Dated, boring, and simplistic gameplay we’ve seen a million times. This isn’t remotely a five-star game. Eipix should be embarrassed to put their name on it.
Another silly storyline having nothing to do with the original myth. Dated, boring, and simplistic gameplay we’ve seen a million times. This isn’t remotely a five-star game. Eipix should be embarrassed to put their name on it.
More details on the specific elements of the game below the fold…
————————————————————
STORYLINE ANALYSIS
Prometheus has stolen fire from the gods and given it to humans. His punishment is to be chained to a rock at the end of the world. And that’s where the similarity between this game and Greek mythology ends. Eipix has invented a daughter of Prometheus, Lysander, goddess of the eternal frost, to attempt to save Prometheus from the sanitized fate they’ve written for him.
————————————————————
STORYLINE ANALYSIS
Prometheus has stolen fire from the gods and given it to humans. His punishment is to be chained to a rock at the end of the world. And that’s where the similarity between this game and Greek mythology ends. Eipix has invented a daughter of Prometheus, Lysander, goddess of the eternal frost, to attempt to save Prometheus from the sanitized fate they’ve written for him.
Eipix’s fabricated version of the Prometheus myth leaves much to be desired. It’s an unnecessarily convoluted storyline that moves much too slowly, with subplots that are shallow, almost after thoughts. I wish Eipix would work within the context of the original myths, because they’re fascinating and much better than these made-up, airbrushed versions.
GAMEPLAY ANALYSIS
Eipix has taken a marathon’s worth of steps backward in gameplay here. Exploration is largely running back and forth finding and using shaped keys ad nauseum, many of them in groups of two or three. This gets old fast. One throwaway zoom scene had several jars. Open one with a shaped key, and find another. Keep doing this to finally get the item in the last jar. Honestly, who thinks this is fun?
Eipix has taken a marathon’s worth of steps backward in gameplay here. Exploration is largely running back and forth finding and using shaped keys ad nauseum, many of them in groups of two or three. This gets old fast. One throwaway zoom scene had several jars. Open one with a shaped key, and find another. Keep doing this to finally get the item in the last jar. Honestly, who thinks this is fun?
HO scenes were all unhidden object scenes, and presented in limited variation, mostly not very creative. Minimally interactive list, silhouette, capitalized words in a narrative, symbols, five of each to open list panels, mini-zoom multiples of one item. All easy, since the objects were in plain sight. You can play “skipping stones” instead.
Puzzles were neither innovative nor challenging.
• Eternal Frost (repeating) - Make connecting paths between the blue triangles by moving the blue tokens. Red tokens are stationary.
• Attack Zeus - To aim the spear, click and drag until the symbols align. Two levels.
• Nonogrid - Place the tokens in the grid according to the numbers in the rows and columns.
• Rock Climber - Descend the cliff by choosing the correct rocks.
• Pinball Wizard - Move the deflectors to create a path for the ball to the hole. Two levels.
• Jigsaw - Rotate the tiles to restore the image.
• Lyre, Lyre - Solve the logic puzzle to play the correct melody on the lyre. Two levels.
• Patterns - Rotate the circles and rings to match up the patterns.
• Soul Music - Connect the lines without using the same path twice.
• Eternal Frost (repeating) - Make connecting paths between the blue triangles by moving the blue tokens. Red tokens are stationary.
• Attack Zeus - To aim the spear, click and drag until the symbols align. Two levels.
• Nonogrid - Place the tokens in the grid according to the numbers in the rows and columns.
• Rock Climber - Descend the cliff by choosing the correct rocks.
• Pinball Wizard - Move the deflectors to create a path for the ball to the hole. Two levels.
• Jigsaw - Rotate the tiles to restore the image.
• Lyre, Lyre - Solve the logic puzzle to play the correct melody on the lyre. Two levels.
• Patterns - Rotate the circles and rings to match up the patterns.
• Soul Music - Connect the lines without using the same path twice.
DESIGN & PRODUCTION
Eipix’s usual top-notch graphics, animation, music, and sound. They’d be better at movies than games, since they keep offering the same tired storylines and same unhidden object scenes and easy puzzles over and over again.
Eipix’s usual top-notch graphics, animation, music, and sound. They’d be better at movies than games, since they keep offering the same tired storylines and same unhidden object scenes and easy puzzles over and over again.
EXTRAS
Bonus chapter, strategy guide, performance achievements. Collectible signs that are very easy to spot. Replayable HO scenes and puzzles, plus the “skipping stones” game and a souvenir room. The portfolio includes wallpapers, videos, concept art, and soundtracks.
Bonus chapter, strategy guide, performance achievements. Collectible signs that are very easy to spot. Replayable HO scenes and puzzles, plus the “skipping stones” game and a souvenir room. The portfolio includes wallpapers, videos, concept art, and soundtracks.
CONCLUSION
I found this game incredibly boring, and struggled just to finish the demo. The storyline moved slowly, yet was convoluted. The gameplay was repetitive and far too easy. IMO, this represents a huge myth-step for Eipix.
I found this game incredibly boring, and struggled just to finish the demo. The storyline moved slowly, yet was convoluted. The gameplay was repetitive and far too easy. IMO, this represents a huge myth-step for Eipix.
I don't recommend this game.
Your brother gets in trouble during the filming of his ghost hunting show!
Overall rating
1
/
5
23 of 27 found this review helpful
Cutscene Tales: The House of Really Loud Banners
PostedJuly 5, 2017
Fun Factor
1
/
5
Visual/Sound Quality
1
/
5
Level of Challenge
1
/
5
Storyline
1
/
5
Review based on: full demo
Overall rating: ✭
What my rating means: Not if it were the last game on Earth.
Overall rating: ✭
What my rating means: Not if it were the last game on Earth.
SHORT & SWEET SUMMARY REVIEW
Ridiculous storyline. Too easy gameplay offers no challenge. Truly ugly and cut-rate graphics and animation. The same 2½ minutes of soundtracks over and over again. And at least half the “game” is cutscenes, conversations, and banners.
Ridiculous storyline. Too easy gameplay offers no challenge. Truly ugly and cut-rate graphics and animation. The same 2½ minutes of soundtracks over and over again. And at least half the “game” is cutscenes, conversations, and banners.
More details on the specific elements of the game below the fold…
————————————————————
STORYLINE
Ghostly serial killer possesses your ghost-hunter brother and attempts to use your future sister-in-law as a vessel for the spirit of his dead child. Because it’s logical to reanimate a child into the body of a full-grown adult. I question the Count’s motives, to be honest. This is a weird one.
————————————————————
STORYLINE
Ghostly serial killer possesses your ghost-hunter brother and attempts to use your future sister-in-law as a vessel for the spirit of his dead child. Because it’s logical to reanimate a child into the body of a full-grown adult. I question the Count’s motives, to be honest. This is a weird one.
EXPLORATION
You’ll never get stuck in this game, for three reasons:
1. There is an overabundance of cutscenes telling you exactly what to do.
2. If that’s not enough for you, large banners loudly proclaim each and every task from goal completion to new goal to the inventory item you just picked up.
3. Whenever you encounter an obstacle, the solution will already be in your inventory.
Hope you like shaped keys, because there are tons of them. Also, you have your gimmicky magic glasses to see things no one else can see, and interact with things that aren’t really there.
You’ll never get stuck in this game, for three reasons:
1. There is an overabundance of cutscenes telling you exactly what to do.
2. If that’s not enough for you, large banners loudly proclaim each and every task from goal completion to new goal to the inventory item you just picked up.
3. Whenever you encounter an obstacle, the solution will already be in your inventory.
Hope you like shaped keys, because there are tons of them. Also, you have your gimmicky magic glasses to see things no one else can see, and interact with things that aren’t really there.
HIDDEN OBJECT SCENES
The presentation is varied, but none of the objects is hidden. I encountered interactive lists, a variation on the FROG, interactive silhouettes, small zoom box scenes, find the differences, and more. All were quite easy.
The presentation is varied, but none of the objects is hidden. I encountered interactive lists, a variation on the FROG, interactive silhouettes, small zoom box scenes, find the differences, and more. All were quite easy.
PUZZLES
Quite a few of the puzzles allow you to choose “easy” or “hard” mode, but even in “hard” mode, none of them was actually challenging.
• Rotate & Match: Four images are shown, and four rotating circles bear half of each image. Rotate the circles until all eight half-images match up. Rotating one circle affects others.
• Leap Frog: Swap the positions of the black and white tiles by either moving them one space forward or jumping them over pieces of the opposite color.
• Ghost Chasing: Clear the board of ghosts by moving your token to a space next to a ghost token.
• Lock Pick: Use the five arrow keys to correctly bend the hairpin into a lock pick. Press “play” to try your combination.
• Spot the Ghosts: For each image, scan through the colored filters until you find the ghost.
• Ouija Grid: Use the arrows to move the Ouija planchette through the grid, ensuring that each tile is flipped.
• Book Swap: Clicking on a book will swap the two adjacent books. Place each book in its correct spot.
• Tarot Riddles: Helen will give you a riddle in her crystal ball. Choose the Tarot card that best represents your answer and place it in the box.
• Paint by Numbers: Mix colors using basic addition to correctly paint the portrait.
• Helen’s Path Home: Place the arrow tiles on the board to create a path from Helen’s tile to the house tile, picking up each symbol along the way and avoiding the skulls.
Quite a few of the puzzles allow you to choose “easy” or “hard” mode, but even in “hard” mode, none of them was actually challenging.
• Rotate & Match: Four images are shown, and four rotating circles bear half of each image. Rotate the circles until all eight half-images match up. Rotating one circle affects others.
• Leap Frog: Swap the positions of the black and white tiles by either moving them one space forward or jumping them over pieces of the opposite color.
• Ghost Chasing: Clear the board of ghosts by moving your token to a space next to a ghost token.
• Lock Pick: Use the five arrow keys to correctly bend the hairpin into a lock pick. Press “play” to try your combination.
• Spot the Ghosts: For each image, scan through the colored filters until you find the ghost.
• Ouija Grid: Use the arrows to move the Ouija planchette through the grid, ensuring that each tile is flipped.
• Book Swap: Clicking on a book will swap the two adjacent books. Place each book in its correct spot.
• Tarot Riddles: Helen will give you a riddle in her crystal ball. Choose the Tarot card that best represents your answer and place it in the box.
• Paint by Numbers: Mix colors using basic addition to correctly paint the portrait.
• Helen’s Path Home: Place the arrow tiles on the board to create a path from Helen’s tile to the house tile, picking up each symbol along the way and avoiding the skulls.
PRODUCTION
The graphics are truly horrendous. Unnaturally bright colors grace nearly every surface, including neon blue moonlight, violently orange lamplight, toxic green foliage, and nearly glowing crimson woodwork. Whoever chose the palette has no sense of color. Animation was laughable; the characters didn’t walk…they floated without moving their legs.
The graphics are truly horrendous. Unnaturally bright colors grace nearly every surface, including neon blue moonlight, violently orange lamplight, toxic green foliage, and nearly glowing crimson woodwork. Whoever chose the palette has no sense of color. Animation was laughable; the characters didn’t walk…they floated without moving their legs.
There are only five soundtracks, and each one is less than 30 seconds long. That, in and of itself, is enough to make the music repetitive, but it gets worse. There’s not much variation between tracks, and each track is, itself, extremely repetitive. It didn’t take long to become annoyed with the music. Frankly, for a CE, I expect better than 2½ minutes of derivative music.
Game sounds were more than annoying. Each banner was accompanied by a loud crescendo. You couldn’t become immersed in this game if you tried.
EXTRAS
Bonus chapter, strategy guide, performance achievements. Collectibles include butterflies, morphing objects, Tarot cards, and figurines. You can replay HO scenes but not puzzles, which should be a requirement of CEs. The dev’s portfolio includes wallpapers, concept art, and the above mentioned 2½ minutes of soundtracks.
Bonus chapter, strategy guide, performance achievements. Collectibles include butterflies, morphing objects, Tarot cards, and figurines. You can replay HO scenes but not puzzles, which should be a requirement of CEs. The dev’s portfolio includes wallpapers, concept art, and the above mentioned 2½ minutes of soundtracks.
CONCLUSION
Nope. The story is stupid, the gameplay is easy, and the production is low quality. I don’t see any redeeming features to this game, which was at least 50% cutscenes, conversations, and banners.
Nope. The story is stupid, the gameplay is easy, and the production is low quality. I don’t see any redeeming features to this game, which was at least 50% cutscenes, conversations, and banners.
I don't recommend this game.
An artistic puzzle game inspired by 20th century Art Deco & stained glass artisans. Combine glass pieces to unveil themes from around the world!
Overall rating
5
/
5
26 of 26 found this review helpful
This is how jigsaw puzzles should be done!
PostedJuly 5, 2017
Fun Factor
5
/
5
Visual/Sound Quality
5
/
5
Level of Challenge
5
/
5
Review based on: full demo
Overall rating: ✭✭✭✭✭
What my rating means: This is a perfect “I need to relax” game.
Overall rating: ✭✭✭✭✭
What my rating means: This is a perfect “I need to relax” game.
SHORT & SWEET SUMMARY REVIEW
Glass Masquerade is a stunningly gorgeous series of increasingly difficult jigsaw puzzles rendered in the form of stained glass pictures. Gameplay is relaxing and enjoyable, and accompanied by beautifully zen music.
Glass Masquerade is a stunningly gorgeous series of increasingly difficult jigsaw puzzles rendered in the form of stained glass pictures. Gameplay is relaxing and enjoyable, and accompanied by beautifully zen music.
More details on the specific elements of the game below the fold…
————————————————————
STORYLINE
There isn’t really a storyline as such, but you’ll be traveling the globe, stopping in selected countries to restore a stained glass piece in the form of a clock. Each country’s piece is a theme selected from the history or myth of that country.
————————————————————
STORYLINE
There isn’t really a storyline as such, but you’ll be traveling the globe, stopping in selected countries to restore a stained glass piece in the form of a clock. Each country’s piece is a theme selected from the history or myth of that country.
GAMEPLAY
The Setup
The clock you’ll be restoring is in the center of the screen. Surrounding it are two concentric rings containing the puzzle pieces, which are merely silhouettes. There’s an option to begin each puzzle with several red “hint” pieces that attach to rings on the border of the clock. Turn this option on for a slightly easier puzzle, or off if you prefer a challenge.
The Setup
The clock you’ll be restoring is in the center of the screen. Surrounding it are two concentric rings containing the puzzle pieces, which are merely silhouettes. There’s an option to begin each puzzle with several red “hint” pieces that attach to rings on the border of the clock. Turn this option on for a slightly easier puzzle, or off if you prefer a challenge.
The Play
The rings with the puzzle pieces can be rotated by clicking and dragging, so you can view all the pieces at any time. When you click on a piece, it changes from a blank silhouette to its full color and proper orientation. Place it on the clock face, and it will click into place if your placement is correct, or slide back to the rings if incorrect. Gameplay is timed, but there’s no need to rush unless you wish to.
The rings with the puzzle pieces can be rotated by clicking and dragging, so you can view all the pieces at any time. When you click on a piece, it changes from a blank silhouette to its full color and proper orientation. Place it on the clock face, and it will click into place if your placement is correct, or slide back to the rings if incorrect. Gameplay is timed, but there’s no need to rush unless you wish to.
PRODUCTION
The graphics are crisp and the palette is rich jewel tones and burnished metals, both easy on and pleasing to the eye. Animation is smooth and lifelike. The music is lovely; I wish I could download it. Game sounds are nicely unobtrusive.
The graphics are crisp and the palette is rich jewel tones and burnished metals, both easy on and pleasing to the eye. Animation is smooth and lifelike. The music is lovely; I wish I could download it. Game sounds are nicely unobtrusive.
CONCLUSION
We all know I’m not a fan of jigsaw puzzles within HOPAs. Well, if they were like this, I’d definitely change my mind. Glass Masquerade is a lovely sensory experience with enjoyable, relaxing gameplay in the easy to medium difficulty range, a perfect accompaniment to your morning coffee, afternoon snack, or late night relaxation.
We all know I’m not a fan of jigsaw puzzles within HOPAs. Well, if they were like this, I’d definitely change my mind. Glass Masquerade is a lovely sensory experience with enjoyable, relaxing gameplay in the easy to medium difficulty range, a perfect accompaniment to your morning coffee, afternoon snack, or late night relaxation.
I recommend this game!
Follow Emily on her quest to trace the mysterious woman, elude death and ultimatly catch the killer in Ghost Files: The Face of Guilt.
Overall rating
2
/
5
18 of 25 found this review helpful
"Ghost Files?" I didn't see any ghosts. Did you?
PostedJune 27, 2017
Fun Factor
2
/
5
Visual/Sound Quality
4
/
5
Level of Challenge
2
/
5
Storyline
2
/
5
Review based on: full demo
Overall rating: ✭✭
What my rating means: Slow, boring story and easy gameplay.
Overall rating: ✭✭
What my rating means: Slow, boring story and easy gameplay.
SHORT & SWEET SUMMARY REVIEW
Oddly disjointed storyline, extremely easy gameplay. Extras are locked, so you don’t know what you’re getting. Also, that’s not what Boston looks like, and that’s not what Bostonians sound like.
Oddly disjointed storyline, extremely easy gameplay. Extras are locked, so you don’t know what you’re getting. Also, that’s not what Boston looks like, and that’s not what Bostonians sound like.
More details on the specific elements of the game below the fold…
————————————————————
STORYLINE
Detective Emily Meyer hasn’t a clue about the identity of the serial killer known as “The Guilty Man.” Finally, she gets a lead when a woman calls, claiming she knows his identity. Detective Meyer violates every police procedure in the book in her zeal to catch the killer.
————————————————————
STORYLINE
Detective Emily Meyer hasn’t a clue about the identity of the serial killer known as “The Guilty Man.” Finally, she gets a lead when a woman calls, claiming she knows his identity. Detective Meyer violates every police procedure in the book in her zeal to catch the killer.
I couldn’t figure out why a murder mystery was entitled “Ghost Files.” Now that I’ve played the demo, I still don’t know why. The storyline was rather disjointed. Given the computer on her desk, Detective Meyer should have suspected who the killer was and been able to set a trap to capture him. Instead, she goes off without backup and without a clue…and, apparently, without having cleaned her gun.
GAMEPLAY
The forensic kit provides for a set of repeating puzzles involving fingerprints and blood samples. Fingerprints: find five patterns within the print (really just wave your mouse over; it’ll find the patterns for you). Blood: find three microbes that the two slides have in common. Other puzzles include quite a few where you’re just copying the clue, matching the notes to the marked keys on a piano, moving a chess knight to unlock a box, and other extremely simple tasks.
The forensic kit provides for a set of repeating puzzles involving fingerprints and blood samples. Fingerprints: find five patterns within the print (really just wave your mouse over; it’ll find the patterns for you). Blood: find three microbes that the two slides have in common. Other puzzles include quite a few where you’re just copying the clue, matching the notes to the marked keys on a piano, moving a chess knight to unlock a box, and other extremely simple tasks.
HO scenes included interactive list, silhouette find and use, find multiples, and find the capitalized words in the narrative. Each scene has a morphing object, and you can play a matching card game instead. Other than that, there’s lots of back-and-forth problem solving, obstacles to overcome, and locks to unlock. There was a refreshing lack of shaped keys.
PRODUCTION
While the graphics were fairly good, 19 Congress Street is not a seedy, rundown residential neighborhood; it’s a stunning stone building in the middle of Boston’s financial district. I get that this is fiction, but if you’re going to use a real world setting, it should be true to life. None of the characters sported a Boston accent. The music was repetitive and I was forced to turn it off.
While the graphics were fairly good, 19 Congress Street is not a seedy, rundown residential neighborhood; it’s a stunning stone building in the middle of Boston’s financial district. I get that this is fiction, but if you’re going to use a real world setting, it should be true to life. None of the characters sported a Boston accent. The music was repetitive and I was forced to turn it off.
EXTRAS
The extras were locked, but as far as I can tell, they include a bonus chapter, downloadable music and wallpapers, replayable HO scenes and puzzles, performance achievements, and several types of collectibles (Polaroid photos, Tarot cards, and forensic equipment). There may be more than that.
The extras were locked, but as far as I can tell, they include a bonus chapter, downloadable music and wallpapers, replayable HO scenes and puzzles, performance achievements, and several types of collectibles (Polaroid photos, Tarot cards, and forensic equipment). There may be more than that.
CONCLUSION
To me, the two most important aspects of a game are an engaging storyline and challenging gameplay. Since this game had neither, I can’t recommend it.
To me, the two most important aspects of a game are an engaging storyline and challenging gameplay. Since this game had neither, I can’t recommend it.
I don't recommend this game.
A thrilling match-3 adventure where you need to escape an eerie labyrinth and determine if this is real or a nightmare.
Overall rating
3
/
5
6 of 10 found this review helpful
Not much to distinguish it from 1000 other M3 games.
PostedJune 27, 2017
Fun Factor
3
/
5
Visual/Sound Quality
4
/
5
Level of Challenge
3
/
5
Storyline
3
/
5
It's typical of the genre, with gems being the pieces, special pieces created when you match four or more, gradually increasing difficulty with the introduction of obstacles, and power-ups all wrapped in a basic storyline.
The graphics are decent, with the exception of the loading screens being pixellated, and the music isn't annoying. The storyline is fanciful with clearly defined goals for each level and section. And you can choose from three play levels, including relaxed, which is available immediately.
If you happen to be a fan of this genre, I recommend you try the demo.
Journey to the mythical Nine Worlds to save the Earth!
Overall rating
4
/
5
12 of 13 found this review helpful
Has its ups and downs...but there are a lot of ups.
PostedJune 26, 2017
Fun Factor
3
/
5
Visual/Sound Quality
5
/
5
Level of Challenge
3
/
5
Storyline
4
/
5
I got further into the game in the SE version than I did in the CE by skipping cutscenes, so I decided to write a new review to reflect that. Some of the complaints I had with the CE still stand true, specifically:
• Overall, the gameplay was too easy, but the challenge level was better than usual for Eipix.
• The option to turn off banners was a disappointment, since there still were game-stopping banners every time I acquired something for my inventory, completed an objective, and got a new objective. When I say I want to turn off banners, I want to turn off ALL of them.
• There were a number of mini-quests that lacked emotional motivation within the context of the storyline. I didn't feel the urgency or danger I should have, given the plot.
• The slide-in conversation panels, while graphically-impressive, just slowed down the game even more than conversations normally do.
• Some backstory on Nordic myth would have been appropriate. If I hadn't already known that "All Father" referred to Odin and wasn't familiar with his mythos, the drowning, boat, and raven scenes would have made no sense to me.
• Overall, the gameplay was too easy, but the challenge level was better than usual for Eipix.
• The option to turn off banners was a disappointment, since there still were game-stopping banners every time I acquired something for my inventory, completed an objective, and got a new objective. When I say I want to turn off banners, I want to turn off ALL of them.
• There were a number of mini-quests that lacked emotional motivation within the context of the storyline. I didn't feel the urgency or danger I should have, given the plot.
• The slide-in conversation panels, while graphically-impressive, just slowed down the game even more than conversations normally do.
• Some backstory on Nordic myth would have been appropriate. If I hadn't already known that "All Father" referred to Odin and wasn't familiar with his mythos, the drowning, boat, and raven scenes would have made no sense to me.
That having been said, I think this series holds quite a bit of promise if the pace steps up and gameplay offers innovation and challenge. Some of the elements I really appreciated and enjoyed:
• Two of the HO scenes where the objects were actually hidden. The first was navigating a ship through a scene obliterated by fog, following the clues of the narrator to find the objects. The second was a triptych mosaic, an interactive list, and a lyre. Plucking the lyre's strings changed the three panels of the mosaic, hiding and revealing the objects, which were well-integrated into the design.
• The ability to try using inventory items, even if the choice was wrong. Instead of getting the black bar reading, "That won't work!" there was an animation of me attempting to use the wrong item and being unsuccessful. Unique and much more true to life.
• The rebus logic puzzle to defeat the boar...quite creative!
• The multi-step puzzle to fight the dragon in Midgard, although I would have stepped up the difficulty on levels two and three.
• The three map puzzles in the dwarf mines that required strategy.
• And, of course, the incredible attention to detail in the graphics and animation.
• Two of the HO scenes where the objects were actually hidden. The first was navigating a ship through a scene obliterated by fog, following the clues of the narrator to find the objects. The second was a triptych mosaic, an interactive list, and a lyre. Plucking the lyre's strings changed the three panels of the mosaic, hiding and revealing the objects, which were well-integrated into the design.
• The ability to try using inventory items, even if the choice was wrong. Instead of getting the black bar reading, "That won't work!" there was an animation of me attempting to use the wrong item and being unsuccessful. Unique and much more true to life.
• The rebus logic puzzle to defeat the boar...quite creative!
• The multi-step puzzle to fight the dragon in Midgard, although I would have stepped up the difficulty on levels two and three.
• The three map puzzles in the dwarf mines that required strategy.
• And, of course, the incredible attention to detail in the graphics and animation.
If you played the CE and disliked it, I recommend playing the SE demo and, as I did, skipping the cutscenes so you can see more of the storyline. That changed my decision and prompted me to purchase the SE.
I recommend this game!
A young journalist following a wanted felon chases him to a golden elevator that takes her to other worlds, where huge danger threatens everything.
Overall rating
4
/
5
9 of 12 found this review helpful
Some innovation and challenge, good storyline. Wait for the SE.
PostedJune 25, 2017
Fun Factor
4
/
5
Visual/Sound Quality
4
/
5
Level of Challenge
3
/
5
Storyline
4
/
5
Review based on: full demo
Overall rating: ✭✭✭✭
What my rating means: I’ll probably pick up the SE, but I don’t find it CE-worthy.
Overall rating: ✭✭✭✭
What my rating means: I’ll probably pick up the SE, but I don’t find it CE-worthy.
SHORT & SWEET SUMMARY REVIEW
Good story with multiple plot lines that intersect. Some innovation in gameplay, and several challenging puzzles during the demo. Unique HO presentations with some items actually being hidden. Overall, this is a giant step in the right direction.
Good story with multiple plot lines that intersect. Some innovation in gameplay, and several challenging puzzles during the demo. Unique HO presentations with some items actually being hidden. Overall, this is a giant step in the right direction.
More details on the specific elements of the game below the fold…
————————————————————
STORYLINE
Private Investigator Ms. Chambers is in for the surprise of her life. While chasing down a wanted criminal, Mark Taylor, she stumbles upon the multiverse of Taleworld…and discovers something crucial about her identity as it relates to the various worlds. Meanwhile, she must stop Taylor before he finds the hearts of the stories, thus breaking down the barriers between them, which would cause destruction and chaos.
————————————————————
STORYLINE
Private Investigator Ms. Chambers is in for the surprise of her life. While chasing down a wanted criminal, Mark Taylor, she stumbles upon the multiverse of Taleworld…and discovers something crucial about her identity as it relates to the various worlds. Meanwhile, she must stop Taylor before he finds the hearts of the stories, thus breaking down the barriers between them, which would cause destruction and chaos.
GAMEPLAY
Lots of variety in gameplay, despite two repeating puzzles and the usual shaped keys. HO presentation includes a couple of brand new ideas that I really enjoyed. One concept was finding objects to decode two messages on a cellphone. Another had a typewriter producing silhouettes to find in the scene. More attention was paid to actually hiding the objects, although none were true HO scenes like they used to be.
Lots of variety in gameplay, despite two repeating puzzles and the usual shaped keys. HO presentation includes a couple of brand new ideas that I really enjoyed. One concept was finding objects to decode two messages on a cellphone. Another had a typewriter producing silhouettes to find in the scene. More attention was paid to actually hiding the objects, although none were true HO scenes like they used to be.
One of the repeating puzzles was simple: Move the mouse until you find the spot where the vertical and horizontal lines on the scope intersect. Meh. The other required some serious pattern recognition skills. To access the other worlds through the elevator, you had a large, complex symbol as your clue. Each press of one button caused several new buttons to light up. You had to choose which pattern was next, based on the large symbol.
My overall favorite puzzle was the gravestone one. There were nine intricate arrow shapes, and several rotating wheels with patterns on them. The idea was to rotate the wheels so that all the arrow shapes fit somewhere on them.
There were a few puzzles that were really too easy for an adult game. Matching symbols to shapes, sliding lights around to their correct places, clicking squares on a large grid so that only the green squares on the three small grids were lighted.
EXTRAS
Personally, I’m over the collectibles unless they’re extremely well-done morphing objects, or static objects where each one is designed differently and blended into the scene. The book-shaped collectibles all looked exactly the same, which made them easy to find. And each HO scene included a morphing object; I’d rather have them in the game scenes. Lastly, Madhead continues to fail to offer replayable puzzles, which should be standard for CEs.
Personally, I’m over the collectibles unless they’re extremely well-done morphing objects, or static objects where each one is designed differently and blended into the scene. The book-shaped collectibles all looked exactly the same, which made them easy to find. And each HO scene included a morphing object; I’d rather have them in the game scenes. Lastly, Madhead continues to fail to offer replayable puzzles, which should be standard for CEs.
CONCLUSION
I don’t think this is CE-worthy, but I might pick up the SE when it comes out. I was interested in the storyline, and there was quite a bit of gameplay that I found challenging and fun.
I don’t think this is CE-worthy, but I might pick up the SE when it comes out. I was interested in the storyline, and there was quite a bit of gameplay that I found challenging and fun.
Can you find the Flower of Life, before the Dragon Clan does?
Overall rating
3
/
5
14 of 22 found this review helpful
Who let the inmates out? Must have been the monkey.
PostedJune 18, 2017
Fun Factor
2
/
5
Visual/Sound Quality
5
/
5
Level of Challenge
2
/
5
Storyline
5
/
5
Review based on: full demo
Overall rating: ✭✭✭
What my rating means: Too many negatives for me to recommend.
Overall rating: ✭✭✭
What my rating means: Too many negatives for me to recommend.
SHORT & SWEET SUMMARY REVIEW
Engaging storyline and beautiful production eroded by insanely illogical gameplay, too much busy work, endless slow animation loops and conversations, and an unnecessary monkey helper.
Engaging storyline and beautiful production eroded by insanely illogical gameplay, too much busy work, endless slow animation loops and conversations, and an unnecessary monkey helper.
More details on the specific elements of the game below the fold…
————————————————————
STORYLINE ANALYSIS
Sarah Pennington is off for a well-deserved reunion with her mother in the Amazon, site of her mother’s latest project. When she arrives, it’s not quite the relaxing tea party she imagined. Her mother’s quest for the fabled Incan Flower of Life has attracted the unwanted attention of the notorious Dragon Clan, whose leader lusts after the Flower for his own nefarious purposes. Before Sarah even has a chance to get settled, the Clan kidnaps her mother, and she must follow the clues to secure the Flower before the Clan finds it.
————————————————————
STORYLINE ANALYSIS
Sarah Pennington is off for a well-deserved reunion with her mother in the Amazon, site of her mother’s latest project. When she arrives, it’s not quite the relaxing tea party she imagined. Her mother’s quest for the fabled Incan Flower of Life has attracted the unwanted attention of the notorious Dragon Clan, whose leader lusts after the Flower for his own nefarious purposes. Before Sarah even has a chance to get settled, the Clan kidnaps her mother, and she must follow the clues to secure the Flower before the Clan finds it.
Nicely layered storyline with intersecting plots over a foundation of a well-written backstory. The characters have distinct personalities, and the villain comes across as truly evil. Dr. Pennington is portrayed as eminently competent, while Sarah is smart and resourceful. Events were revealed at a good pace for gameplay, fast enough to keep the player interested, but so fast that the plot was spoiled.
GAMEPLAY ANALYSIS
Every screen was cluttered with junk piles, and each junk pile included several silly little tasks to complete, most of which required going back and forth. Each task allowed you to take one tiny step forward, only to be faced with another cascade of silly little tasks. This, overwhelming, comprised gameplay. HO scenes and puzzles were few and far between.
Every screen was cluttered with junk piles, and each junk pile included several silly little tasks to complete, most of which required going back and forth. Each task allowed you to take one tiny step forward, only to be faced with another cascade of silly little tasks. This, overwhelming, comprised gameplay. HO scenes and puzzles were few and far between.
HO scenes included interactive lists, a silhouette find and use, and a find and replace according to the narrative. I wish there had been more HO scenes, because they were the best part of gameplay. The silhouette find and use was not obvious; you really had to be observant. And the find and replace in the Incan carving was extremely well-done.
Puzzles were all throwaways; we’ve seen them a million times and they’re ridiculously easy.
• Matching pairs. (When the cube is activated…repeating puzzle.)
• Untangle the ropes. (I moved two knots and was done.)
• Relative volumes. (Use the 3-liter and 5-liter beakers to measure the correct amounts.)
• Navigation. (Set the plane’s course, copying the clue.)
• Electronics. (Plug the wires into the correct symbols to match the clue.)
• Basic Math. (Solve three elementary school math problems to get the combination.)
• Matching pairs. (When the cube is activated…repeating puzzle.)
• Untangle the ropes. (I moved two knots and was done.)
• Relative volumes. (Use the 3-liter and 5-liter beakers to measure the correct amounts.)
• Navigation. (Set the plane’s course, copying the clue.)
• Electronics. (Plug the wires into the correct symbols to match the clue.)
• Basic Math. (Solve three elementary school math problems to get the combination.)
LOGIC & PHYSICS
Did the person who drew up the plans for the bridge think, “Hmmm…what shall I use to build this bridge? I know! A nosecone from a crashed plane, a harness from a parachute, a castoff wheel…” Ridiculous.
Did the person who drew up the plans for the bridge think, “Hmmm…what shall I use to build this bridge? I know! A nosecone from a crashed plane, a harness from a parachute, a castoff wheel…” Ridiculous.
What was up with the first aid cabinet? It’s not normal to tape one’s stethoscope to the wall. Sphygmomanometers are not generally taken apart and the pieces scattered. If the cross needed to be white to unlock the first aid kit, how did it become not-white? Did the last person who used the kit sand the white paint off? Then conveniently leave a bottle of white paint and a paintbrush nearby?
Too many of the stereotypical casual game devices were included: the coin as screwdriver, things sewn inside seat cushions, ewwww…cobwebs, fires to be put out, the shaped key concept (which should really die a slow death).
DESIGN
The bottom of the screen was a nightmare of clustered icons. The map was inconveniently (and stupidly) located next to the ginormous hint button, while everything else was crammed into the opposite corner, including a completely unnecessary journal.
The bottom of the screen was a nightmare of clustered icons. The map was inconveniently (and stupidly) located next to the ginormous hint button, while everything else was crammed into the opposite corner, including a completely unnecessary journal.
So much animation that took forever to finish. Meanwhile, you couldn’t do anything; the cursor actually had a spinning hourglass, so you couldn’t even skip it. Nor could you skip through conversations, since they were in cutscene form. You could skip the entire thing, thus missing the information, but you couldn’t skip through it.
PRODUCTION
Beautiful graphics and animation. Lovely music. Excellent voiceovers.
Beautiful graphics and animation. Lovely music. Excellent voiceovers.
CONCLUSION
This game had real potential with a well-written storyline and terrific production. But it got bogged down by game mechanics, irrationality, laundry lists of inane tasks, and overly easy puzzles. Not to mention there was a monkey in the works.
This game had real potential with a well-written storyline and terrific production. But it got bogged down by game mechanics, irrationality, laundry lists of inane tasks, and overly easy puzzles. Not to mention there was a monkey in the works.
I don't recommend this game.
Can you stop darkness from taking over the kingdoms?
Overall rating
1
/
5
21 of 26 found this review helpful
Same as the last few games.
PostedJune 16, 2017
LunaNik
fromCan I help Queen Mortis defeat these insipid princesses so the endless sequelae will stop?
Skill Level:Expert
Fun Factor
1
/
5
Visual/Sound Quality
3
/
5
Level of Challenge
1
/
5
Storyline
1
/
5
Review based on: full demo
Overall rating: ✭
What my rating means: Derivative storyline and gameplay. Why bother?
Overall rating: ✭
What my rating means: Derivative storyline and gameplay. Why bother?
SHORT & SWEET SUMMARY REVIEW
• Same characters: Princess, Nanny, Isa, Master Miscreant
• Same story: Isa as the puppet to Master Miscreant. Princess must save the day aided by Nanny.
• Same gameplay: Magical gimmick that detects evil/corruption. Unhidden object scenes. Simple puzzles.
• Same characters: Princess, Nanny, Isa, Master Miscreant
• Same story: Isa as the puppet to Master Miscreant. Princess must save the day aided by Nanny.
• Same gameplay: Magical gimmick that detects evil/corruption. Unhidden object scenes. Simple puzzles.
More details on the specific elements of the game below the fold…
————————————————————
STORYLINE
All the other princesses have been captured by Queen Mortis and forced to wear Leeloo’s castoff wardrobe from “The Fifth Element.” Isa is still satisfied to play second fiddle to inept evildoers. You’re the only one who can save the known world, per the prophecy. Weirdly, your nanny is more knowledgeable and qualified than you are, except that she talks too much.
————————————————————
STORYLINE
All the other princesses have been captured by Queen Mortis and forced to wear Leeloo’s castoff wardrobe from “The Fifth Element.” Isa is still satisfied to play second fiddle to inept evildoers. You’re the only one who can save the known world, per the prophecy. Weirdly, your nanny is more knowledgeable and qualified than you are, except that she talks too much.
GAMEPLAY
You have not one, but two silly devices that take the place of actual gameplay. First, there’s the one that lets you see evil when you wave it around the scene. Oddly, it’s called a magic mirror, but you can see through it. Second, there’s your father’s bow, with which you’re allowed your choice of targets. Woo hoo.
You have not one, but two silly devices that take the place of actual gameplay. First, there’s the one that lets you see evil when you wave it around the scene. Oddly, it’s called a magic mirror, but you can see through it. Second, there’s your father’s bow, with which you’re allowed your choice of targets. Woo hoo.
HO scenes offer various presentations but no hidden objects. There are interactive lists, silhouette lists, storybook narratives, multiples of one object, and constellation patterns. Puzzles are nearly all retreads and easy. I encountered a 16-piece slider, a version of All Lights On, untangle the ropes, matching pairs, copy the given clue, rotating rings jigsaw, the repeating puzzles that accompany the magic mirror and bow, and finally, the only enjoyable one: Use the domino-like tiles to correctly fill in the grid. Some dominos can fit in more than one space. I enjoyed this game when it appeared in "Return to Ravenhearst," too, on the door to Victor’s cottage.
PRODUCTION
This series always goes back to the painterly style of old ERS games, which I don’t have issues with. There are only four soundtracks, so the music becomes repetitive fairly quickly. The voiceovers are mediocre, in my opinion.
This series always goes back to the painterly style of old ERS games, which I don’t have issues with. There are only four soundtracks, so the music becomes repetitive fairly quickly. The voiceovers are mediocre, in my opinion.
EXTRAS
Bonus chapter which you play as the nanny, strategy guide, performance achievements. Collect puzzle pieces and morphing objects. Replay HO scenes and puzzles. The dev’s portfolio includes wallpapers, screensavers (only if you collect the puzzle pieces), movies, concept art, and soundtracks.
Bonus chapter which you play as the nanny, strategy guide, performance achievements. Collect puzzle pieces and morphing objects. Replay HO scenes and puzzles. The dev’s portfolio includes wallpapers, screensavers (only if you collect the puzzle pieces), movies, concept art, and soundtracks.
CONCLUSION
This storyline has been beaten to death in this series, and there’s nothing innovative in the gameplay. I’d rather give my money to a dev who’s being creative. Sorry, but boring, easy, and full of gimmicks means one star, not four or five.
This storyline has been beaten to death in this series, and there’s nothing innovative in the gameplay. I’d rather give my money to a dev who’s being creative. Sorry, but boring, easy, and full of gimmicks means one star, not four or five.
I don't recommend this game.