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:
Hop aboard to cross the border between life and death!
Overall rating
4
/
5
1 of 2 found this review helpful
Un buen juego!
PostedJune 11, 2014
LunaNik
fromThe Island of Myst
Skill Level:Expert
Favorite Genre(s):Word, Adventure, Hidden Object, Large File, Card & Board, Strategy, Time Management
Fun Factor
4
/
5
Visual/Sound Quality
4
/
5
Level of Challenge
3
/
5
Storyline
5
/
5
Calavera: Day of the Dead SE
Review based on Completed Game
Review based on Completed Game
PREFACE…
…and now for something completely different. Calavera injects dry humor into a dark storyline, similar to the way the movie Beetlejuice did. You'll play mini-games of an entirely new genre, that of an old-style arcade. And you'll visit the Land of the Dead as you've never envisioned it, as a "living" society. This dev gets 5 stars for thinking outside the box.
…and now for something completely different. Calavera injects dry humor into a dark storyline, similar to the way the movie Beetlejuice did. You'll play mini-games of an entirely new genre, that of an old-style arcade. And you'll visit the Land of the Dead as you've never envisioned it, as a "living" society. This dev gets 5 stars for thinking outside the box.
ONCE UPON A TIME...
Alan proposes to Catalina, but she insists on getting her father's blessing, so they travel to Mexico by train, arriving in an abandoned rail station on the Day of the Dead celebration. Her father isn't there to meet them, and she faints from the heat.
Alan proposes to Catalina, but she insists on getting her father's blessing, so they travel to Mexico by train, arriving in an abandoned rail station on the Day of the Dead celebration. Her father isn't there to meet them, and she faints from the heat.
While searching the station for water, Alan discovers the eldritch Book of the Dead, which warns him that Catalina is in mortal danger. He rushes back to her, only to find her in the hands of the Baron, who whisks her onto his hellbound train! Now Alan must travel to the surreal Land of the Dead to rescue Catalina from the Baron.
PLAY THE GAME...
Adventure through the Land of the Dead in three areas: the landing area, the town, and the Baron's mansion. The latter two are initially closed to you, but the Book will guide you regarding opening them. HO scenes are minimally interactive with only one item requiring an extra step, and you visit each one more than once. The mini-games will challenge all your gaming skills from timing to speed, from placement to perception.
Adventure through the Land of the Dead in three areas: the landing area, the town, and the Baron's mansion. The latter two are initially closed to you, but the Book will guide you regarding opening them. HO scenes are minimally interactive with only one item requiring an extra step, and you visit each one more than once. The mini-games will challenge all your gaming skills from timing to speed, from placement to perception.
SIGHTSEEING…
Graphics have a hand-colored appearance to them, somewhat like a high-end comic book. The Land of the Dead is a surreal environment, but not at all monotone. Its denizens are beautifully illustrated sugar skeletons, each one unique. Animations are fairly well-done.
Graphics have a hand-colored appearance to them, somewhat like a high-end comic book. The Land of the Dead is a surreal environment, but not at all monotone. Its denizens are beautifully illustrated sugar skeletons, each one unique. Animations are fairly well-done.
SOUND WAVES…
Although there isn't a lot of variation in the music, it is appropriate and not annoying. Voiceovers are quite tongue-in-cheek, with somewhat stereotypical Mexican accents. Environmental sounds are exceptional, and change from area to area.
Although there isn't a lot of variation in the music, it is appropriate and not annoying. Voiceovers are quite tongue-in-cheek, with somewhat stereotypical Mexican accents. Environmental sounds are exceptional, and change from area to area.
TOOLBOX…
The map shows current objectives and transports, a necessity as there is a bit of back-and-forth. There is no journal, and there are a few numbers to remember, so a notepad and pen would be helpful. The inventory panel does lock open. The Book acts as your hint function, and its animation is wonderful.
The map shows current objectives and transports, a necessity as there is a bit of back-and-forth. There is no journal, and there are a few numbers to remember, so a notepad and pen would be helpful. The inventory panel does lock open. The Book acts as your hint function, and its animation is wonderful.
THE LAST WORD…
Calavera is unique in gameplay, has a well-developed storyline, and is lovely to look at. I quite enjoyed playing it and believe it has replay value. This is the first game I've bought by this dev, so I have no other recommendations from their catalog. But do try this one!
Calavera is unique in gameplay, has a well-developed storyline, and is lovely to look at. I quite enjoyed playing it and believe it has replay value. This is the first game I've bought by this dev, so I have no other recommendations from their catalog. But do try this one!
I recommend this game!
The fate of the magical world is in your hands – free it from evil!
Overall rating
4
/
5
3 of 3 found this review helpful
Immersive story, relaxing gameplay, quite enjoyable
PostedJune 4, 2014
LunaNik
fromThe Island of Myst
Skill Level:Expert
Favorite Genre(s):Word, Adventure, Hidden Object, Large File, Card & Board, Strategy, Time Management
Fun Factor
4
/
5
Visual/Sound Quality
5
/
5
Level of Challenge
3
/
5
Storyline
5
/
5
Nearwood SE
Review based on Completed Game
Review based on Completed Game
PREFACE…
I recall enjoying the CE demo, but deciding to wait for the SE, as I felt there were not sufficient extras to warrant CE status. And I'm glad I did. Nearwood is not an overly-challenging game, but a lovely and immersive story to enjoy on a relaxing afternoon.
I recall enjoying the CE demo, but deciding to wait for the SE, as I felt there were not sufficient extras to warrant CE status. And I'm glad I did. Nearwood is not an overly-challenging game, but a lovely and immersive story to enjoy on a relaxing afternoon.
ONCE UPON A TIME...
Jane Lockwood lost her parents at an early age and was raised by her aunt. Now an adult, Jane's aunt has passed and left her a cryptic note regarding a secret about her parents. And so Jane sets off to her childhood home, where she's greeted by Fey, an elfin creature who reveals to her the world of Nearwood.
Jane Lockwood lost her parents at an early age and was raised by her aunt. Now an adult, Jane's aunt has passed and left her a cryptic note regarding a secret about her parents. And so Jane sets off to her childhood home, where she's greeted by Fey, an elfin creature who reveals to her the world of Nearwood.
Nearwood is an alternate world where magic is a reality, and Jane must travel there to not only uncover the secrets of her past, but also to rid that world of an unspeakable evil.
PLAY THE GAME...
Nearwood is mainly adventure with puzzles and some HO scenes. The HOs are of two types: multiple items and FROGs. The puzzles include both retreads and originals; both types are graphically-beautiful. Some are quite simple, while others take some planning and thought. All in all, it's a nice mix.
Nearwood is mainly adventure with puzzles and some HO scenes. The HOs are of two types: multiple items and FROGs. The puzzles include both retreads and originals; both types are graphically-beautiful. Some are quite simple, while others take some planning and thought. All in all, it's a nice mix.
SIGHTSEEING…
Don't miss the cinematic running behind the menu. They're truly gorgeous. Game graphics are fanciful, evoking a magical fairy tale world full of giant mushrooms, strange flowers, magnificent architecture, adorable woodland creatures, and the like. Animation is done well.
Don't miss the cinematic running behind the menu. They're truly gorgeous. Game graphics are fanciful, evoking a magical fairy tale world full of giant mushrooms, strange flowers, magnificent architecture, adorable woodland creatures, and the like. Animation is done well.
SOUND WAVES…
The music is lovely, mostly ethereal as you would expect fairy tale music to be, but dramatic when events dictate. Voiceovers were professional, which is just as well as the characters talked a LOT. Environmental sounds were extremely well done.
The music is lovely, mostly ethereal as you would expect fairy tale music to be, but dramatic when events dictate. Voiceovers were professional, which is just as well as the characters talked a LOT. Environmental sounds were extremely well done.
TOOLBOX…
The map, unfortunately, is rather useless. It's not graphic enough for you to distinguish your current and destination locations, and the transportation function must recharge before you can reuse it. While it does show active areas, it shows them all, not just current objectives.
The map, unfortunately, is rather useless. It's not graphic enough for you to distinguish your current and destination locations, and the transportation function must recharge before you can reuse it. While it does show active areas, it shows them all, not just current objectives.
You won't find yourself getting lost, however. Each area is made distinct by the artists through its design and color, and navigation is intuitive.
A satchel serves in place of the customary journal, and the inventory panel locks open.
THE LAST WORD…
I enjoyed my visit to Nearwood, and look forward to the sequel that was hinted at near the end. Unlike some, I don't feel a game has to be difficult or challenging to be enjoyable. I find relaxing gameplay fun as long as the story captures me. This is a game appropriate for all ages as well. Other notable games by the same dev include the Brink of Consciousness series.
I enjoyed my visit to Nearwood, and look forward to the sequel that was hinted at near the end. Unlike some, I don't feel a game has to be difficult or challenging to be enjoyable. I find relaxing gameplay fun as long as the story captures me. This is a game appropriate for all ages as well. Other notable games by the same dev include the Brink of Consciousness series.
I recommend this game!
Guests keep disappearing from a gimmicky haunted hotel. Is there someone pulling the strings, or are these ghosts actually real?
Overall rating
2
/
5
19 of 23 found this review helpful
The misogynistic detective is back...no thanks.
PostedMay 31, 2014
LunaNik
fromThe Island of Myst
Skill Level:Expert
Favorite Genre(s):Word, Adventure, Hidden Object, Large File, Card & Board, Strategy, Time Management
Fun Factor
2
/
5
Visual/Sound Quality
3
/
5
Level of Challenge
3
/
5
Storyline
2
/
5
Now I remember why I disliked the last episode in this series: the supercilious, condescending detective who let us do all the work, then took all the credit for it. I'll pass.
I have no issue when the player character is male. Honestly, there should be more male players; they're so often female. But to make the player character female, then have this patronizing idiot ordering her (us!) around the entire game is more than annoying.
I don't recommend this game.
After a long journey, Queen Sophia faces her enemy for the last time - but will she succeed in saving her parents?
Overall rating
4
/
5
10 of 14 found this review helpful
One of my favorite series...and the Redleaf Forest doesn't disappoint.
PostedMay 31, 2014
LunaNik
fromThe Island of Myst
Skill Level:Expert
Favorite Genre(s):Word, Adventure, Hidden Object, Large File, Card & Board, Strategy, Time Management
Fun Factor
4
/
5
Visual/Sound Quality
5
/
5
Level of Challenge
3
/
5
Storyline
4
/
5
Awakening: The Redleaf Forest CE
Review based on Completed Game + Bonus Chapter
Review based on Completed Game + Bonus Chapter
PREFACE…
Awakening has long been one of my favorite series when I crave escapism and relaxation. Each episode has provided an immersive experience through fanciful graphics, ambient music, detailed storyline, and busy but not overly challenging gameplay. I'm sad to see this series come to an end, although perhaps Andreia will take over the adventuring now that her mother, Sophia, has settled down.
Awakening has long been one of my favorite series when I crave escapism and relaxation. Each episode has provided an immersive experience through fanciful graphics, ambient music, detailed storyline, and busy but not overly challenging gameplay. I'm sad to see this series come to an end, although perhaps Andreia will take over the adventuring now that her mother, Sophia, has settled down.
ONCE UPON A TIME...
Sophia, a human with no magic, set off upon a quest to find the rest of her kind, rescue her parents, and rid the world of the evil Dreadmyre. Now she comes to the last leg of her journey: Redleaf Forest, where she must find the Blacksmith and forge the Blade of Courage in order to defeat Dreadmyre once and for all and, hopefully, reawaken her parents.
Sophia, a human with no magic, set off upon a quest to find the rest of her kind, rescue her parents, and rid the world of the evil Dreadmyre. Now she comes to the last leg of her journey: Redleaf Forest, where she must find the Blacksmith and forge the Blade of Courage in order to defeat Dreadmyre once and for all and, hopefully, reawaken her parents.
PLAY THE GAME...
If you're familiar with the series, then you know how lovely this game will play. Your inventory will fill with a staggering variety of beautiful items, gathered from interactive HO scenes, from the areas on your map, and from interacting with the denizens of Redleaf Forest. There are lots of puzzles…some short and simple, others more complicated.
If you're familiar with the series, then you know how lovely this game will play. Your inventory will fill with a staggering variety of beautiful items, gathered from interactive HO scenes, from the areas on your map, and from interacting with the denizens of Redleaf Forest. There are lots of puzzles…some short and simple, others more complicated.
SIGHTSEEING…
The graphics are wonderfully painterly, tending toward the warm tones of autumn. Cutscene animation is not wonderful, unfortunately, being rather staccato, more like a series of still frames taken out of context.
The graphics are wonderfully painterly, tending toward the warm tones of autumn. Cutscene animation is not wonderful, unfortunately, being rather staccato, more like a series of still frames taken out of context.
SOUND WAVES…
There are 12 soundtracks, including variations on the title theme. I found the music beautifully ambient, accenting the experience without overwhelming it. Voiceovers were, for the most part, well done, although the dwarves were a touch bombastic.
There are 12 soundtracks, including variations on the title theme. I found the music beautifully ambient, accenting the experience without overwhelming it. Voiceovers were, for the most part, well done, although the dwarves were a touch bombastic.
TOOLBOX…
The map indicates where tasks may be accomplished, and transports. There is no journal, but it would be superfluous. Inventory is lockable. Naturally, you have Ran the Owl back as your hint, and the pocket dragon to light fires for you.
The map indicates where tasks may be accomplished, and transports. There is no journal, but it would be superfluous. Inventory is lockable. Naturally, you have Ran the Owl back as your hint, and the pocket dragon to light fires for you.
EXTRA, EXTRA…
The bonus chapter finds you reliving Sophia's adventures through the eyes of her daughter, Andreia, in a charmingly childlike rendition of the series. Other extras include the SG, collectibles with which you can build a garden, performance achievements, and the developer's portfolio.
The bonus chapter finds you reliving Sophia's adventures through the eyes of her daughter, Andreia, in a charmingly childlike rendition of the series. Other extras include the SG, collectibles with which you can build a garden, performance achievements, and the developer's portfolio.
THE LAST WORD…
The main game was 3.5 hours and the bonus chapter was 1.5 for me. I did skip a couple mini-games in each, though. It's rare these days for me to recommend a CE, but in this case I do, because I felt that the bonus chapter nicely tied up the series and, possibly, hinted at future adventures in this lovely, fantastic world.
The main game was 3.5 hours and the bonus chapter was 1.5 for me. I did skip a couple mini-games in each, though. It's rare these days for me to recommend a CE, but in this case I do, because I felt that the bonus chapter nicely tied up the series and, possibly, hinted at future adventures in this lovely, fantastic world.
I recommend this game!
When his sister is murdered, you must prove your nephew’s innocence!
Overall rating
4
/
5
5 of 6 found this review helpful
Too much handholding (the scratched drawings) but still a good game.
PostedMay 30, 2014
LunaNik
fromThe Island of Myst
Skill Level:Expert
Favorite Genre(s):Word, Adventure, Hidden Object, Large File, Card & Board, Strategy, Time Management
Fun Factor
3
/
5
Visual/Sound Quality
5
/
5
Level of Challenge
3
/
5
Storyline
5
/
5
Grim Tales: The Vengeance
Review based on Completed Game + Bonus Chapter
Review based on Completed Game + Bonus Chapter
PREFACE…
Other than Bloody Mary, which was truly frightening, Grim Tales hasn't been on my list of the best series from the Pachyderm. Having played The Vengeance, I maintain that Bloody Mary is the best of the lot.
Other than Bloody Mary, which was truly frightening, Grim Tales hasn't been on my list of the best series from the Pachyderm. Having played The Vengeance, I maintain that Bloody Mary is the best of the lot.
While I liked the storyline in The Vengeance, with its crime-solving drama and time-traveling, I felt that it became somewhat convoluted with the annoying amount of backstory that was thrown at me unnecessarily through the collectible statuettes. Obviously, the SE would eliminate this issue.
ONCE UPON A TIME...
Your nephew, James, stands accused of murdering his sister, Elizabeth, sole heir to the family estate. The judge requests your assistance in the case, because you have a unique power: you're able to learn the history of an object by touching it. He presents to you all the evidence in the case. Is James guilty or innocent? If he's innocent, who's the killer? And what's behind the mysterious dark force obstructing your investigation?
Your nephew, James, stands accused of murdering his sister, Elizabeth, sole heir to the family estate. The judge requests your assistance in the case, because you have a unique power: you're able to learn the history of an object by touching it. He presents to you all the evidence in the case. Is James guilty or innocent? If he's innocent, who's the killer? And what's behind the mysterious dark force obstructing your investigation?
PLAY THE GAME...
With each object you examine, you travel back in time to a pivotal moment in the case, and must explore the castle and its grounds for clues to solving the murder mystery. HO scenes are interactive, but easy. There are some unique puzzles, some rehashes, and some that barely qualify as puzzles. The hand-holding in the form of drawings scratched into the surface near every action was insulting, I felt. And we're still seeing a plethora of shaped insets requiring medallions, bas reliefs, etc.
With each object you examine, you travel back in time to a pivotal moment in the case, and must explore the castle and its grounds for clues to solving the murder mystery. HO scenes are interactive, but easy. There are some unique puzzles, some rehashes, and some that barely qualify as puzzles. The hand-holding in the form of drawings scratched into the surface near every action was insulting, I felt. And we're still seeing a plethora of shaped insets requiring medallions, bas reliefs, etc.
SIGHTSEEING…
The graphics are beautiful, as is typical of this dev, realistically rendered yet artistic. In the time-traveling parts, perspective is somewhat skewed from reality…a nice touch. Characters are well-drawn. In-game animation is gorgeously lifelike.
The graphics are beautiful, as is typical of this dev, realistically rendered yet artistic. In the time-traveling parts, perspective is somewhat skewed from reality…a nice touch. Characters are well-drawn. In-game animation is gorgeously lifelike.
SOUND WAVES…
I often don't care for the music in the Pachyderm's games, but this time I felt it was appropriately ambient, swelling to a crescendo when the action stepped up. Voiceovers were professional.
I often don't care for the music in the Pachyderm's games, but this time I felt it was appropriately ambient, swelling to a crescendo when the action stepped up. Voiceovers were professional.
TOOLBOX…
The map indicates current objectives, transports, and is itself a work of art. There is a journal, and inventory is lockable.
The map indicates current objectives, transports, and is itself a work of art. There is a journal, and inventory is lockable.
EXTRA, EXTRA…
In the bonus chapter, you finally lay to rest the curse on the Gray/McGray family. There are morphing objects and collectible statuettes of family members, as well as performance achievements. Lastly, there is the SG and the developer's portfolio of sights and sounds.
In the bonus chapter, you finally lay to rest the curse on the Gray/McGray family. There are morphing objects and collectible statuettes of family members, as well as performance achievements. Lastly, there is the SG and the developer's portfolio of sights and sounds.
THE LAST WORD…
While there's nothing technically wrong with The Vengeance, it falls short of being a five-star game for me because it wasn't all that challenging. However, I'd put it in second place in this series, after Bloody Mary.
While there's nothing technically wrong with The Vengeance, it falls short of being a five-star game for me because it wasn't all that challenging. However, I'd put it in second place in this series, after Bloody Mary.
I recommend this game!
Giant mutated plants have sprung up across the city! It's time to save the day!
Overall rating
2
/
5
5 of 7 found this review helpful
Poor interface & game mechanics ruined a good story.
PostedMay 26, 2014
LunaNik
fromThe Island of Myst
Skill Level:Expert
Favorite Genre(s):Word, Adventure, Hidden Object, Large File, Card & Board, Strategy, Time Management
Fun Factor
1
/
5
Visual/Sound Quality
2
/
5
Level of Challenge
2
/
5
Storyline
3
/
5
Natural Threat 2
Review based on Partial Demo
Review based on Partial Demo
PREFACE…
Oh, how I crave more science fiction games! I really wanted to like this one, too, and I'm hoping that game design won't follow Hollywood and habitually make bad renditions of science fiction.
Oh, how I crave more science fiction games! I really wanted to like this one, too, and I'm hoping that game design won't follow Hollywood and habitually make bad renditions of science fiction.
ONCE UPON A TIME...
Gigantic, seemingly sentient plants have taken over your city, and a strange woman who can control them walks the streets. Is she a goddess, spirit, or alien? You'll have to solve the mystery—and stay alive in the process—if you ever want to see your daughter again.
Gigantic, seemingly sentient plants have taken over your city, and a strange woman who can control them walks the streets. Is she a goddess, spirit, or alien? You'll have to solve the mystery—and stay alive in the process—if you ever want to see your daughter again.
PLAY THE GAME...
Sadly, poor game mechanics overwhelmed whatever enjoyment might have been had from actual gameplay, which had promise. The first HO scene was not instantly recognizable as such. Instead, you had to decorate a cake…and search the scene for the correct items to put on it.
Sadly, poor game mechanics overwhelmed whatever enjoyment might have been had from actual gameplay, which had promise. The first HO scene was not instantly recognizable as such. Instead, you had to decorate a cake…and search the scene for the correct items to put on it.
SIGHTSEEING…
The graphics appeared rather old school, the animation was blurry, and the posers were frighteningly non-human in facial expression. Perspective was terrible, with everyday items being the wrong size in relation to their surroundings.
The graphics appeared rather old school, the animation was blurry, and the posers were frighteningly non-human in facial expression. Perspective was terrible, with everyday items being the wrong size in relation to their surroundings.
SOUND WAVES…
I turned the music off after about a minute; it was irritatingly upbeat, which didn't fit the theme of the game, and very repetitive. Voiceovers were ok. Environmental sounds were fairly good, with the plants hissing and gurgling.
I turned the music off after about a minute; it was irritatingly upbeat, which didn't fit the theme of the game, and very repetitive. Voiceovers were ok. Environmental sounds were fairly good, with the plants hissing and gurgling.
TOOLBOX…
I didn't see a map at all, though there was a journal. The inventory did not lock, and the "navigate back" arrow was inside the inventory…extremely annoying!
I didn't see a map at all, though there was a journal. The inventory did not lock, and the "navigate back" arrow was inside the inventory…extremely annoying!
THE LAST WORD…
Considering the poor user interface and shoddy game mechanics, I can't recommend this game unless a patch is issued with corrections. This dev has done much better, notably the Stray Souls and Twisted Lands series, and Eternal Journey: New Atlantis. I recommend all of them, especially the last if you're a science fiction fan.
Considering the poor user interface and shoddy game mechanics, I can't recommend this game unless a patch is issued with corrections. This dev has done much better, notably the Stray Souls and Twisted Lands series, and Eternal Journey: New Atlantis. I recommend all of them, especially the last if you're a science fiction fan.
I don't recommend this game.
Haunted Manor: Painted Beauties Collector's Edition
A peaceful day at the park becomes a journey into the surreal when you become the latest victim of a troubled artist's deal with Death!
Overall rating
2
/
5
26 of 33 found this review helpful
Haunted? This game wouldn't frighten a child. Or challenge one.
PostedMay 25, 2014
LunaNik
fromThe Island of Myst
Skill Level:Expert
Favorite Genre(s):Word, Adventure, Hidden Object, Large File, Card & Board, Strategy, Time Management
Fun Factor
2
/
5
Visual/Sound Quality
2
/
5
Level of Challenge
2
/
5
Storyline
4
/
5
Haunted Manor: Painted Beauties
Review based on Demo
Review based on Demo
PREFACE…
Dear Game Developers,
The overwhelming majority of your customers are grown adults. If you're going to make a creepy game, make it goosebumps crawling up my spine, nightmare-inducing creepy, please!
Dear Game Developers,
The overwhelming majority of your customers are grown adults. If you're going to make a creepy game, make it goosebumps crawling up my spine, nightmare-inducing creepy, please!
Villains are supposed to be evil, intent on their goal, and with no regard for whomever gets in their way. Your villains are milquetoasts with about as much evil in them as jaywalkers. They frighten us about as much as burnt toast.
Lastly, no cuteness! Evil is never cute. Creepiness is never cute. If you must include cuteness, warp it until it's terrifying. No more horror games that Hollywood would rate PG, please.
ONCE UPON A TIME...
Stephan Black, a talented artist, lost his wife and child. Stricken with grief, he made a bargain with Death. Stephan would entrap souls for Death if she would return his family to him.
Stephan Black, a talented artist, lost his wife and child. Stricken with grief, he made a bargain with Death. Stephan would entrap souls for Death if she would return his family to him.
Enter Amelie, a young and beautiful woman, bored to tears. Stephan offers to paint her portrait and she, with nothing better to do, agrees. (There's a moral lesson here.) Before she realizes what's happening, she's trapped in a gothic nightmare, and must free not only herself, but all the other young women whose souls Stephan has stolen for Death.
PLAY THE GAME...
This is a typical HOPA, heavy on the (incredibly easy) mini-games and puzzles, light on the HO scenes. As Amelie, you must travel into Stephan's paintings during your adventure, something that always appeals to me. The HO scenes are interactive, but only in the sense that you must move things aside to reveal objects on the list. They are of two types: standard list and detailed silhouette. During the demo, I found quite a lot of tasks to accomplish, but very few items with which to accomplish them.
This is a typical HOPA, heavy on the (incredibly easy) mini-games and puzzles, light on the HO scenes. As Amelie, you must travel into Stephan's paintings during your adventure, something that always appeals to me. The HO scenes are interactive, but only in the sense that you must move things aside to reveal objects on the list. They are of two types: standard list and detailed silhouette. During the demo, I found quite a lot of tasks to accomplish, but very few items with which to accomplish them.
SIGHTSEEING…
The graphics are mostly grays, and even the colors are toned down. This makes it difficult to distinguish one scene from another, in my opinion, and a bit boring. The in-game, zoomed in animation (like key turning in lock) was well done, but the cut scene and action animation was amateurish. At one point, you light roots on fire. The animation of the fire burning the roots was laughable.
The graphics are mostly grays, and even the colors are toned down. This makes it difficult to distinguish one scene from another, in my opinion, and a bit boring. The in-game, zoomed in animation (like key turning in lock) was well done, but the cut scene and action animation was amateurish. At one point, you light roots on fire. The animation of the fire burning the roots was laughable.
SOUND WAVES…
The music was decent, mostly staying in the background unless events dictated that it crescendo. Voiceovers were acceptable but not outstanding. Environmental sounds were appropriately creepy, with lots of creaking doors and the like.
The music was decent, mostly staying in the background unless events dictated that it crescendo. Voiceovers were acceptable but not outstanding. Environmental sounds were appropriately creepy, with lots of creaking doors and the like.
TOOLBOX…
Worst map ever. Neither tasks nor active areas were highlighted. While it did transport, the overwhelming gray shade of the graphics made it difficult to pinpoint your destination. The journal included a task list. Inventory was lockable. You also have a rosary for which you must collect beads to protect yourself from Death.
Worst map ever. Neither tasks nor active areas were highlighted. While it did transport, the overwhelming gray shade of the graphics made it difficult to pinpoint your destination. The journal included a task list. Inventory was lockable. You also have a rosary for which you must collect beads to protect yourself from Death.
EXTRA, EXTRA…
Extras include a bonus chapter, morphing objects, achievements, the SG, and the developer's portfolio of sights and sounds. (Frankly, I'm getting to the point where I want double the gameplay if I'm going to pay double the price. I really don't care about the bells and whistles anymore.)
Extras include a bonus chapter, morphing objects, achievements, the SG, and the developer's portfolio of sights and sounds. (Frankly, I'm getting to the point where I want double the gameplay if I'm going to pay double the price. I really don't care about the bells and whistles anymore.)
THE LAST WORD…
The storyline had so much promise, but the lack of horror and scariness along with poor gameplay meant it would never fulfill that potential. I much preferred the creepy little girl in Queen of Death.
The storyline had so much promise, but the lack of horror and scariness along with poor gameplay meant it would never fulfill that potential. I much preferred the creepy little girl in Queen of Death.
I don't recommend this game.
Travel to South America to investigate a deadly cosmic force. Can you uncover the secrets of the missing research team?
Overall rating
4
/
5
4 of 4 found this review helpful
4½ Stars...The "outcome" is good gameplay.
PostedMay 19, 2014
LunaNik
fromThe Island of Myst
Skill Level:Expert
Favorite Genre(s):Word, Adventure, Hidden Object, Large File, Card & Board, Strategy, Time Management
Fun Factor
5
/
5
Visual/Sound Quality
5
/
5
Level of Challenge
4
/
5
Storyline
4
/
5
Phenomenon: Outcome CE
Review based on Completed Game
Review based on Completed Game
PREFACE…
I'm glad to see more games with science fiction themes being released. This one, although it barely touched on the topic of alien influence on our planet, had a decent, if somewhat poorly told, story.
I'm glad to see more games with science fiction themes being released. This one, although it barely touched on the topic of alien influence on our planet, had a decent, if somewhat poorly told, story.
ONCE UPON A TIME...
As a child, you found a golden medallion depicting an alien creature while visiting a park with your parents. A lightning strike took them from you, but you kept the medallion into adulthood.
As a child, you found a golden medallion depicting an alien creature while visiting a park with your parents. A lightning strike took them from you, but you kept the medallion into adulthood.
One night, you awoke from a dream and the medallion was vibrating. When you placed it on a map, it led to you an almost deserted island. Most of the residents had either fled or succumbed to a sickness caused by mysterious substance called Cyan Plasma. It turns out that your medallion neutralizes the effects of the plasma, so you're the ideal person to uncover its secrets and, hopefully, neutralize it for good before its effects spread across the globe.
PLAY THE GAME...
Outcome is a VERY long game with an extensive map. In adventure mode, you'll usually have a full inventory of items to use, including tools, substances, instructions, and keys. HO scenes are all alike: each one has two interactive lists, and you can switch between them. Once you solve both lists, the final object is revealed. Puzzles are few and far between, but are more complex than usual.
Outcome is a VERY long game with an extensive map. In adventure mode, you'll usually have a full inventory of items to use, including tools, substances, instructions, and keys. HO scenes are all alike: each one has two interactive lists, and you can switch between them. Once you solve both lists, the final object is revealed. Puzzles are few and far between, but are more complex than usual.
SIGHTSEEING…
The graphics depict everything from pastoral garden scenes to futuristic alien control room, complete with the full palette of colors and a lot of texture. The animation is smooth and well done. Characters are rendered and do lip synch, although their facial expression are sometimes a touch unusual.
The graphics depict everything from pastoral garden scenes to futuristic alien control room, complete with the full palette of colors and a lot of texture. The animation is smooth and well done. Characters are rendered and do lip synch, although their facial expression are sometimes a touch unusual.
SOUND WAVES…
I loved the music, and downloaded it as soon as I finished playing. It was beautifully ambient and never intrusive. The voiceovers were extremely professional. Environmental and game sounds were appropriate.
I loved the music, and downloaded it as soon as I finished playing. It was beautifully ambient and never intrusive. The voiceovers were extremely professional. Environmental and game sounds were appropriate.
TOOLBOX…
The map shows active areas and transports, a feature you'll be happy to have, as the game area is quite large. The journal is in the form of a scroll and keeps clues as well as the story. Inventory locks. And, of course, there's the medallion, which you'll need to neutralize any Cyan Plasma you encounter. The plasma blocks you from HO areas until you can charge your medallion. Charging stations are not hard to find. Some of them need repairing.
The map shows active areas and transports, a feature you'll be happy to have, as the game area is quite large. The journal is in the form of a scroll and keeps clues as well as the story. Inventory locks. And, of course, there's the medallion, which you'll need to neutralize any Cyan Plasma you encounter. The plasma blocks you from HO areas until you can charge your medallion. Charging stations are not hard to find. Some of them need repairing.
EXTRA, EXTRA…
The bonus chapter finds you creating "life capsules" to reverse the effects of the plasma in its victims. Other extras include the SG, collectibles, and the developer's portfolio of sights and sounds.
The bonus chapter finds you creating "life capsules" to reverse the effects of the plasma in its victims. Other extras include the SG, collectibles, and the developer's portfolio of sights and sounds.
THE LAST WORD…
The only drawback to Outcome is that you're sort of thrown into the story without much explanation. Nothing is said regarding why the plasma makes people sick, or why our heroine is "called" to neutralize it. Other than that, I recommend this game. Immersive story and gameplay. Lovely graphics and music.
The only drawback to Outcome is that you're sort of thrown into the story without much explanation. Nothing is said regarding why the plasma makes people sick, or why our heroine is "called" to neutralize it. Other than that, I recommend this game. Immersive story and gameplay. Lovely graphics and music.
I recommend this game!
Find your sister and escape from a terrifying haunted house!
Overall rating
4
/
5
10 of 12 found this review helpful
I'll wait for the SE. I'm sort of sick of collectibles and morphing objects.
PostedMay 19, 2014
LunaNik
fromThe Island of Myst
Skill Level:Expert
Favorite Genre(s):Word, Adventure, Hidden Object, Large File, Card & Board, Strategy, Time Management
Fun Factor
4
/
5
Visual/Sound Quality
4
/
5
Level of Challenge
4
/
5
Storyline
4
/
5
Tales of Terror: House on the Hill CE
Review based on Completed Demo
Review based on Completed Demo
PREFACE…
Who doesn't love a haunted house? This is a new twist on the "missing relative" genre of HOPAs, and I'll admit I was pulled in. There are resemblances to the movie "The Haunting," based on Shirley Jackson's "The Haunting of Hill House."
Who doesn't love a haunted house? This is a new twist on the "missing relative" genre of HOPAs, and I'll admit I was pulled in. There are resemblances to the movie "The Haunting," based on Shirley Jackson's "The Haunting of Hill House."
ONCE UPON A TIME...
You and your sister Hope, who loves the paranormal, sign up for a tour of a haunted house, reported as having appeared out of the ether several month ago. As you enter, the doors slam behind you, the rooms begin morphing, and you and Hope are separated. You periodically glimpse a hooded figure who continually balks your progress with traps as you attempt to find Hope and escape the house. Further, you encounter others also trapped, and one who states he's been trapped for years! What's going on? Can all this be part of the tour? Or are there darker forces at work?
You and your sister Hope, who loves the paranormal, sign up for a tour of a haunted house, reported as having appeared out of the ether several month ago. As you enter, the doors slam behind you, the rooms begin morphing, and you and Hope are separated. You periodically glimpse a hooded figure who continually balks your progress with traps as you attempt to find Hope and escape the house. Further, you encounter others also trapped, and one who states he's been trapped for years! What's going on? Can all this be part of the tour? Or are there darker forces at work?
PLAY THE GAME...
Since the rooms morph and the hooded figure sets traps for you, things are constantly changing, and that presents a new challenge for adventure mode. Just when you think you can move on…boom! Something new to figure out. The HO scenes are interactive and the puzzles, at least thus far, are unique.
Since the rooms morph and the hooded figure sets traps for you, things are constantly changing, and that presents a new challenge for adventure mode. Just when you think you can move on…boom! Something new to figure out. The HO scenes are interactive and the puzzles, at least thus far, are unique.
SIGHTSEEING…
Beautiful graphics in stunning colors and textures abound. Animations are smooth and lifelike, and live actors do a great job of adding to the immersive experience.
Beautiful graphics in stunning colors and textures abound. Animations are smooth and lifelike, and live actors do a great job of adding to the immersive experience.
SOUND WAVES…
The music is appropriate, but not outstanding. Environmental sounds are done well, and voiceovers are excellent.
The music is appropriate, but not outstanding. Environmental sounds are done well, and voiceovers are excellent.
TOOLBOX…
You have a jump map with the current objective noted (but not available actions), a journal to narrate the story and note clues, and a lockable inventory.
You have a jump map with the current objective noted (but not available actions), a journal to narrate the story and note clues, and a lockable inventory.
EXTRA, EXTRA…
Extras include a bonus game in which you rescue the other survivors, the SG, heart medallion collectibles integrated in every scene, and the developer's portfolio.
Extras include a bonus game in which you rescue the other survivors, the SG, heart medallion collectibles integrated in every scene, and the developer's portfolio.
THE LAST WORD…
I've kind of outgrown the collectibles, achievements, and morphing objects at this point. To me, they're just distraction from playing the game. I generally don't make use of anything in the developer's portfolio, unless the music is truly epic. So I have to say that the bonus game and SG aren't enough for me to purchase the CE here. I will get the SE when it's released, though.
I've kind of outgrown the collectibles, achievements, and morphing objects at this point. To me, they're just distraction from playing the game. I generally don't make use of anything in the developer's portfolio, unless the music is truly epic. So I have to say that the bonus game and SG aren't enough for me to purchase the CE here. I will get the SE when it's released, though.
Investigate strange goings-on in the eerie town of Fort Nightingale!
Overall rating
2
/
5
4 of 7 found this review helpful
Badly-written storyline, simple gameplay
PostedMay 18, 2014
LunaNik
fromThe Island of Myst
Skill Level:Expert
Favorite Genre(s):Word, Adventure, Hidden Object, Large File, Card & Board, Strategy, Time Management
Fun Factor
1
/
5
Visual/Sound Quality
4
/
5
Level of Challenge
1
/
5
Storyline
1
/
5
Forbidden Secrets: Alien Town
Review based on Completed Demo
Review based on Completed Demo
PREFACE…
Being a science fiction geek, I had hopes. It's rare to see a casual game with an SF theme. Sadly, my hopes were dashed once again. The exposition of the storyline was so incredibly slow that it was impossible to become immersed.
Being a science fiction geek, I had hopes. It's rare to see a casual game with an SF theme. Sadly, my hopes were dashed once again. The exposition of the storyline was so incredibly slow that it was impossible to become immersed.
ONCE UPON A TIME...
You are Clarissa, an agent of the Federal Bureau of Biohazards, sent to investigate the city of Fort Nightingale. The citizens seem to have been frozen in time, still alive, but not moving. Yet the children are alive and well, or so it seems. What's going in on Fort Nightingale? Is it an epidemic? Or something more sinister?
You are Clarissa, an agent of the Federal Bureau of Biohazards, sent to investigate the city of Fort Nightingale. The citizens seem to have been frozen in time, still alive, but not moving. Yet the children are alive and well, or so it seems. What's going in on Fort Nightingale? Is it an epidemic? Or something more sinister?
PLAY THE GAME...
Lots of back-and-forth in adventure mode, as you find an item at one end of the map, only to remember it needs to be used at the other end. HO scenes are interactive, some of the list type, others requiring you to put objects back where they belong. Puzzles are ridiculously easy (rotate the rings to complete the picture, swap the squares to make the picture).
Lots of back-and-forth in adventure mode, as you find an item at one end of the map, only to remember it needs to be used at the other end. HO scenes are interactive, some of the list type, others requiring you to put objects back where they belong. Puzzles are ridiculously easy (rotate the rings to complete the picture, swap the squares to make the picture).
SIGHTSEEING…
No complaints about graphics or animation. Both are modern and well done, if a bit dark in some places.
No complaints about graphics or animation. Both are modern and well done, if a bit dark in some places.
SOUND WAVES…
The music seems to come in and out, acting as an accent rather than as an ever-present background element, which I liked. Voiceovers were mediocre, far to stereotypical for my taste. Environmental sounds were mostly absent, I found.
The music seems to come in and out, acting as an accent rather than as an ever-present background element, which I liked. Voiceovers were mediocre, far to stereotypical for my taste. Environmental sounds were mostly absent, I found.
TOOLBOX…
You'll be glad that the map transports! It also indicates where actions are available. The journal actually is necessary, as it keeps track of clues. The inventory, unfortunately, does not lock.
You'll be glad that the map transports! It also indicates where actions are available. The journal actually is necessary, as it keeps track of clues. The inventory, unfortunately, does not lock.
EXTRA, EXTRA…
Extras include a bonus chapter, the SG, "beyond" objects which are easy to find, and the developer's portfolio. I don't find this game CE-worthy.
Extras include a bonus chapter, the SG, "beyond" objects which are easy to find, and the developer's portfolio. I don't find this game CE-worthy.
THE LAST WORD…
I found this game far too easy to enchant me, and the storyline far too slow-moving to interest me, I'm sad to say. For those reasons, I don't recommend it. Far better games by the same developer are the Stray Souls and Twisted Lands series.
I found this game far too easy to enchant me, and the storyline far too slow-moving to interest me, I'm sad to say. For those reasons, I don't recommend it. Far better games by the same developer are the Stray Souls and Twisted Lands series.
I don't recommend this game.