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:
You came to the town of Brownville, Louisiana hoping to find a new job. But you weren't expecting to stumble upon a strange adventure in a world filled with beauty and danger!
Overall rating
4
/
5
6 of 10 found this review helpful
4½ stars...unique storyline, lush graphics, lovely ambient music
PostedJanuary 3, 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
4
/
5
Storyline
5
/
5
Dangerous Games: Prisoners of Destiny
Developed by Blam! Games
Collector's Edition
Review based on demo
Developed by Blam! Games
Collector's Edition
Review based on demo
IN THE BEGINNING...
Your friend Ben has offered you a way out of the Great Depression, a job with his employer, Simon. So you leave the City for the small town of Brownville to meet Ben at Simon's Club. As you approach the Club, a strange woman wielding playing cards warns you away but, since you're desperate, you ignore her warning.
Your friend Ben has offered you a way out of the Great Depression, a job with his employer, Simon. So you leave the City for the small town of Brownville to meet Ben at Simon's Club. As you approach the Club, a strange woman wielding playing cards warns you away but, since you're desperate, you ignore her warning.
Simon suggests you all play a game of cards before beginning work. But as soon as you set your first card down on the table, reality begins to blur and you find yourself in a surreal, nightmarish world. From a crystal ball, Simon informs you that you're in the game, and that all of you must survive in order to win.
PLAY THE GAME...
In addition to finding items conveniently lying around the landscape, you'll also have magic cards to use against the elements. The first one you activate is the Ice Card, which is fitting since the first World you're in is the World of Fire. There are interactive HO scenes and puzzles as well. Despite what some other reviewers said, I didn't have an issue keeping track of where I was or what my next task was.
In addition to finding items conveniently lying around the landscape, you'll also have magic cards to use against the elements. The first one you activate is the Ice Card, which is fitting since the first World you're in is the World of Fire. There are interactive HO scenes and puzzles as well. Despite what some other reviewers said, I didn't have an issue keeping track of where I was or what my next task was.
SIGHTSEEING…
The graphics are lushly colorful and somewhat stylized, but not flattened. I thought the style appropriate to the game theme. Animation was excellent.
The graphics are lushly colorful and somewhat stylized, but not flattened. I thought the style appropriate to the game theme. Animation was excellent.
SOUND WAVES…
I really enjoyed the music, as it was mostly ambient rather than melodic, which I always think is more conducive to immersion. Game sounds were appropriate, and voiceovers weren't too bad.
I really enjoyed the music, as it was mostly ambient rather than melodic, which I always think is more conducive to immersion. Game sounds were appropriate, and voiceovers weren't too bad.
TOOLBOX…
I didn't access the map, but others have said it's both interactive and transports. The inventory bar locks, thank the Universe. The SG is pretty standard and doesn't follow your progress.
I didn't access the map, but others have said it's both interactive and transports. The inventory bar locks, thank the Universe. The SG is pretty standard and doesn't follow your progress.
EXTRA, EXTRA…
I must admit to curiosity about the bonus adventure…the reason behind the game. It strikes me as a blend of Jumanji, D&D, and Magic: The Gathering. There are achievements for various accomplishments, collectibles in the form of jigsaw puzzle pieces, and the usual offerings.
I must admit to curiosity about the bonus adventure…the reason behind the game. It strikes me as a blend of Jumanji, D&D, and Magic: The Gathering. There are achievements for various accomplishments, collectibles in the form of jigsaw puzzle pieces, and the usual offerings.
THE LAST WORD…
I enjoyed the gameplay, appreciated the storyline, liked the sights and sounds, and loved the surrealism of the scenery, so this will probably be a buy for me.
I enjoyed the gameplay, appreciated the storyline, liked the sights and sounds, and loved the surrealism of the scenery, so this will probably be a buy for me.
I recommend this game!
Life imitates art with deadly results in this thrilling whodunit!
Overall rating
4
/
5
5 of 5 found this review helpful
Solid storyline, good gameplay
PostedJanuary 2, 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
Punished Talents: Seven Muses
Developed by Blam! Games
Standard Edition
Review based on full game
Developed by Blam! Games
Standard Edition
Review based on full game
IN THE BEGINNING...
Your talented friends are being murdered one by one, and the murder scenes come straight from the pages of your husband's novels! Even worse, evidence from the crime scenes points to him as the leading suspect. Now you must clear your husband's name, save your remaining friends, and identify the real murderer. Explore Boston in the 1930s to solve this murder mystery.
Your talented friends are being murdered one by one, and the murder scenes come straight from the pages of your husband's novels! Even worse, evidence from the crime scenes points to him as the leading suspect. Now you must clear your husband's name, save your remaining friends, and identify the real murderer. Explore Boston in the 1930s to solve this murder mystery.
PLAY THE GAME...
There's a lot to accomplish and many areas to explore, but the navigation is so well done that you almost don't need the map. This is a rather HO-heavy game, especially in the latter half, but they're all interactive. Puzzles are about half and half familiar and unique. None are overly difficult, but several were lacking in the instruction department.
There's a lot to accomplish and many areas to explore, but the navigation is so well done that you almost don't need the map. This is a rather HO-heavy game, especially in the latter half, but they're all interactive. Puzzles are about half and half familiar and unique. None are overly difficult, but several were lacking in the instruction department.
SIGHTSEEING…
Scene graphics beautifully depict the era, while the HO scenes are well-rendered, objects clearly recognizable. In-game animation is smooth and realistic. Character animation is quite well done, with the exception of close-up hand movements (such as piano-playing and typing).
Scene graphics beautifully depict the era, while the HO scenes are well-rendered, objects clearly recognizable. In-game animation is smooth and realistic. Character animation is quite well done, with the exception of close-up hand movements (such as piano-playing and typing).
SOUND WAVES…
The music was nicely unobtrusive, although a touch repetitive. It did help with immersion. Voiceovers were professional and reflected the time period well.
The music was nicely unobtrusive, although a touch repetitive. It did help with immersion. Voiceovers were professional and reflected the time period well.
TOOLBOX…
The map indicates where actions are available (not just objectives) and is a jump map. The journal notes clues and narrates the storyline. Inventory is lockable and, best of all, when you click the left/right arrows, it goes all the way to the beginning/end of your inventory, rather than simply moving one item at a time.
The map indicates where actions are available (not just objectives) and is a jump map. The journal notes clues and narrates the storyline. Inventory is lockable and, best of all, when you click the left/right arrows, it goes all the way to the beginning/end of your inventory, rather than simply moving one item at a time.
THE LAST WORD…
The storyline was engaging, gameplay was fun, and the sights and sounds were excellent. Yet a couple things kept this from being a five-star game for me. There was one period in the game where I hit nothing but HOs every few seconds. That got irritating and detracted from immersion into the story.
The storyline was engaging, gameplay was fun, and the sights and sounds were excellent. Yet a couple things kept this from being a five-star game for me. There was one period in the game where I hit nothing but HOs every few seconds. That got irritating and detracted from immersion into the story.
I also found the detective's character totally unnecessary, being as the author's wife did all the work. He seemed to give advice she didn't need, take credit for her work, and magically offer just what she needed at the right time. If you're going to have a heroine, don't have a cardboard male character to prop her up unnecessarily.
That having been said, I do still recommend this game and I found the quality of gameplay quite good and the storyline well presented.
I recommend this game!
Time is running out for a worried bride! Locate her groom in a town plagued by mysterious drownings.
Overall rating
2
/
5
4 of 7 found this review helpful
It's a mystery...um...I didn't find my bliss.
PostedDecember 30, 2013
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
4
/
5
Level of Challenge
2
/
5
Storyline
2
/
5
Mysterium: Lake Bliss
Developed by Big Top Games
Collector's Edition
Review based on demo
Developed by Big Top Games
Collector's Edition
Review based on demo
IN THE BEGINNING...
You're a detective who's been hired by a Molly Huggins to find her fiancé, Tommy Drake, who went missing a few days ago in Lake Bliss, a town that's experienced a more than normal rate of drownings recently. After an hour of play, a couple more NPCs had been introduced, along with a paranormal subplot, but I still had no idea what was going on. Except that I was collecting spectral light, for some reason.
You're a detective who's been hired by a Molly Huggins to find her fiancé, Tommy Drake, who went missing a few days ago in Lake Bliss, a town that's experienced a more than normal rate of drownings recently. After an hour of play, a couple more NPCs had been introduced, along with a paranormal subplot, but I still had no idea what was going on. Except that I was collecting spectral light, for some reason.
PLAY THE GAME...
Standard HOPA. During the demo, I played several HO scenes (all easy and minimally interactive), one FROG, and a few very simple and done-to-the-death puzzles, including a standard 5x5 Sudoku, two "guess the correct order to unlock," and the one where you exchange the two sets of three marbles.
Standard HOPA. During the demo, I played several HO scenes (all easy and minimally interactive), one FROG, and a few very simple and done-to-the-death puzzles, including a standard 5x5 Sudoku, two "guess the correct order to unlock," and the one where you exchange the two sets of three marbles.
SIGHTSEEING…
Graphics were painterly with lush colors. Objects were easily recognizable, but many were quite small in the HOs. Cutscene animation was cartoonish, as were the characters. No lip synching. In-game animation was minimal.
Graphics were painterly with lush colors. Objects were easily recognizable, but many were quite small in the HOs. Cutscene animation was cartoonish, as were the characters. No lip synching. In-game animation was minimal.
SOUND WAVES…
The music was quite lovely…lots of soundscapes and not at all repetitive. Voiceovers were professional.
The music was quite lovely…lots of soundscapes and not at all repetitive. Voiceovers were professional.
TOOLBOX…
The map indicates where your objectives are and transports you. The journal notes clues for you. I didn't use any hints. Unfortunately, you cannot lock the inventory panel open…a pet peeve of mine. You also have a steampunk-looking capsule in which to collect the hot pink "spectral light".
The map indicates where your objectives are and transports you. The journal notes clues for you. I didn't use any hints. Unfortunately, you cannot lock the inventory panel open…a pet peeve of mine. You also have a steampunk-looking capsule in which to collect the hot pink "spectral light".
EXTRA, EXTRA…
All the usual extras are offered with the CE, as well as a bonus adventure, collectible dragonflies, achievements, and the SG which does not follow your progress.
All the usual extras are offered with the CE, as well as a bonus adventure, collectible dragonflies, achievements, and the SG which does not follow your progress.
THE LAST WORD…
For me, this is not a buy because it was too easy and because the storyline was confusing. Perhaps it simply did not develop enough within the hour demo, but I'm not willing to risk 13.99USD on it. There's nothing wrong with this game, per se, and for that reason, my recommendation is that you try the demo yourself.
For me, this is not a buy because it was too easy and because the storyline was confusing. Perhaps it simply did not develop enough within the hour demo, but I'm not willing to risk 13.99USD on it. There's nothing wrong with this game, per se, and for that reason, my recommendation is that you try the demo yourself.
Help John explore a Sinister City and save his bride, Nina, from vicious vampires! Travel to the astral plane and save your love!
Overall rating
4
/
5
16 of 17 found this review helpful
Tongue-in-cheek humor makes this "adventure lite" game thoroughly enjoyable!
PostedDecember 28, 2013
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
4
/
5
Sinister City
Developed by Jet Dogs Games
Review based on full game
Developed by Jet Dogs Games
Review based on full game
IN THE BEGINNING...
Your bride Nina has been kidnapped by the most vicious vampire in Sinister City, one Count Orlok. As a mere mortal, you'll need your wits to survive this surreal misadventure, which pokes fun at the ridiculous level to which the vampire genre has been taken of late.
Your bride Nina has been kidnapped by the most vicious vampire in Sinister City, one Count Orlok. As a mere mortal, you'll need your wits to survive this surreal misadventure, which pokes fun at the ridiculous level to which the vampire genre has been taken of late.
PLAY THE GAME...
Sinister City is a scattered object third person puzzle adventure…er…a SCOPA, if you will. The SCO part of it generally means you'll be finding several of one type of object scattered among a few areas where you zoom in from the main area. These objects are used to repair items, satisfy NPC requests, advance the plot, etc.
Sinister City is a scattered object third person puzzle adventure…er…a SCOPA, if you will. The SCO part of it generally means you'll be finding several of one type of object scattered among a few areas where you zoom in from the main area. These objects are used to repair items, satisfy NPC requests, advance the plot, etc.
There are also plenty of puzzles—none difficult—including a jigsaw, pipe connection, memorize and choose the correct pattern, move tokens to match the background, etc. This is a perfect game for beginners to the adventure genre.
SIGHTSEEING…
Graphics are reminiscent of old-school adventure games…rendered 3D with superimposed textures. Animation includes posers and is fairly well done.
Graphics are reminiscent of old-school adventure games…rendered 3D with superimposed textures. Animation includes posers and is fairly well done.
SOUND WAVES…
The music is well in the background and very appropriate to the game theme. Voiceovers are quite professional and add to the humor of the game.
The music is well in the background and very appropriate to the game theme. Voiceovers are quite professional and add to the humor of the game.
TOOLBOX…
There is a map, but you don't access it. Instead, you're taken to it when it's time to move to a different location (sort of Indiana Jones style). The hint button tells you exactly what to do next (and gives you directions for the puzzles).
There is a map, but you don't access it. Instead, you're taken to it when it's time to move to a different location (sort of Indiana Jones style). The hint button tells you exactly what to do next (and gives you directions for the puzzles).
THE LAST WORD…
While Sinister City is quite short, less than 2 hours, I rather enjoyed it for the humor and because I love adventure games. I definitely recommend it as a DD or if you have a PCC. Be sure to watch the credits!
While Sinister City is quite short, less than 2 hours, I rather enjoyed it for the humor and because I love adventure games. I definitely recommend it as a DD or if you have a PCC. Be sure to watch the credits!
I recommend this game!
Stop the bitter Spirit of Cold from killing your ancestors!
Overall rating
1
/
5
16 of 20 found this review helpful
RIP Redemption Cemetery...ERS has jumped the shark AGAIN
PostedDecember 28, 2013
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
Redemption Cemetery: Bitter Frost
Developed by ERS
Collector's Edition
Review based on first two chapters of full game
Developed by ERS
Collector's Edition
Review based on first two chapters of full game
IN THE BEGINNING...
Wenonah, the Spirit of Cold, is methodically destroying your ancestors because Koturi, the Owl Spirit (another of your ancestors) did not return her love. For some reason, a photo album holds the key to stopping Wenonah and ensuring your own continued existence.
Wenonah, the Spirit of Cold, is methodically destroying your ancestors because Koturi, the Owl Spirit (another of your ancestors) did not return her love. For some reason, a photo album holds the key to stopping Wenonah and ensuring your own continued existence.
And the storyline goes downhill from there, I'm sorry to say, into a confusing morass of vignettes populated with characters so wooden that you can't identify with them, subplots so illogically twisted that you can't follow them, and gameplay so nonsensical that even the most seasoned player will be outraged.
PLAY THE GAME...
Navigate a seemingly endless series of filler HO scenes which are minimally interactive. Play formulaic mini-games you've seen a thousand times before. Discover items and use them in ways they were never meant to be used. For example, the lid of a jar is on tightly and you end up using a can opener to get inside the jar.
Navigate a seemingly endless series of filler HO scenes which are minimally interactive. Play formulaic mini-games you've seen a thousand times before. Discover items and use them in ways they were never meant to be used. For example, the lid of a jar is on tightly and you end up using a can opener to get inside the jar.
SIGHTSEEING…
Graphics are colorful and well-drawn, probably the best aspect of the whole game. Thankfully, the washed out pastels that typified ERS games are not in use here. Animation is somewhat stilted with lip-synching surprisingly missing.
Graphics are colorful and well-drawn, probably the best aspect of the whole game. Thankfully, the washed out pastels that typified ERS games are not in use here. Animation is somewhat stilted with lip-synching surprisingly missing.
SOUND WAVES…
While the music is not the standard ERS game music, it is reminiscent of that in tone, mood, and repetition. I really would like to destroy the "screeching violins" patch on their synthesizer. Game sounds are appropriate. Ambient sounds? I must have missed them, as I don't recall hearing wind blowing, water gurgling, etc.
While the music is not the standard ERS game music, it is reminiscent of that in tone, mood, and repetition. I really would like to destroy the "screeching violins" patch on their synthesizer. Game sounds are appropriate. Ambient sounds? I must have missed them, as I don't recall hearing wind blowing, water gurgling, etc.
TOOLBOX…
The map exists inside a screen-wide snow globe. Moving your cursor to its edges allows you to access more of the map, and it is a transporter and indicates objectives. I don't recall whether there was a journal, and I didn't use hints, preferring to rely on the SG which, unfortunately, contained uncorrected errors (probably from the beta) that were maddening.
The map exists inside a screen-wide snow globe. Moving your cursor to its edges allows you to access more of the map, and it is a transporter and indicates objectives. I don't recall whether there was a journal, and I didn't use hints, preferring to rely on the SG which, unfortunately, contained uncorrected errors (probably from the beta) that were maddening.
EXTRA, EXTRA…
Collect snowflakes to decorate your own snow globe. I didn't notice myself earning any achievements, so I can't speak to that. There is a bonus adventure and the usual cast of characters offered as extras.
Collect snowflakes to decorate your own snow globe. I didn't notice myself earning any achievements, so I can't speak to that. There is a bonus adventure and the usual cast of characters offered as extras.
THE LAST WORD…
I did purchase the game, but haven't finished it. Frankly, it bored me. I don't know what the initials "ERS" stand for, but given their recent history, they should consider renaming themselves "JTS Games," as they have become infamous for jumping the shark in just about every one of their series. RIP Redemption Cemetery…we'll miss you.
I did purchase the game, but haven't finished it. Frankly, it bored me. I don't know what the initials "ERS" stand for, but given their recent history, they should consider renaming themselves "JTS Games," as they have become infamous for jumping the shark in just about every one of their series. RIP Redemption Cemetery…we'll miss you.
I don't recommend this game.
You have been chosen to defend all of mankind in Red Crow Mysteries: Legion! Stand up to a terrible evil and save humanity!
Overall rating
3
/
5
6 of 6 found this review helpful
It had promise, but was too easy and too short.
PostedDecember 23, 2013
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
4
/
5
Level of Challenge
2
/
5
Storyline
2
/
5
Red Crow Mysteries: Legion
Developed by Cateia Games
Review based on full game
Developed by Cateia Games
Review based on full game
IN THE BEGINNING...
You have a gift that runs in your family, and can see things other can not. Now you are to be put to the test to see if you are worthy to defend mankind against Legion in the ages old battle of good and evil.
You have a gift that runs in your family, and can see things other can not. Now you are to be put to the test to see if you are worthy to defend mankind against Legion in the ages old battle of good and evil.
PLAY THE GAME...
Legion is purely an adventure game, but quite "lite." In each scene, you're told what inventory items you need to find, and none are difficult to discover. The puzzles repeat several times, and none are hard…or original. Cateia is on the right track, but needs to step up gameplay for us FPA lovers.
Legion is purely an adventure game, but quite "lite." In each scene, you're told what inventory items you need to find, and none are difficult to discover. The puzzles repeat several times, and none are hard…or original. Cateia is on the right track, but needs to step up gameplay for us FPA lovers.
SIGHTSEEING…
The graphics and animation are decent, reminiscent of classic adventure games. They are realistic but artistic. Colors and tones reflect the mood of each scene.
The graphics and animation are decent, reminiscent of classic adventure games. They are realistic but artistic. Colors and tones reflect the mood of each scene.
SOUND WAVES…
The music was well done, although I wish it had been more ambient and less melodic. It did not, however, annoy. Voiceovers were professional.
The music was well done, although I wish it had been more ambient and less melodic. It did not, however, annoy. Voiceovers were professional.
TOOLBOX…
There was no map, and navigation was rather spotty. There was also no journal, which is pro forma for a FPA, and you will want a paper and pen to take a few notes.
There was no map, and navigation was rather spotty. There was also no journal, which is pro forma for a FPA, and you will want a paper and pen to take a few notes.
THE LAST WORD…
The storyline was intriguing, but not presented well. Legion was presented as urbane, but was not at all frightening. Frankly, the game was far too easy and much too short. The ending was abrupt and blatantly points to a sequel, but I'm not at all sure I'm interested. Considering we get so few true adventure games, I'm disappointed.
The storyline was intriguing, but not presented well. Legion was presented as urbane, but was not at all frightening. Frankly, the game was far too easy and much too short. The ending was abrupt and blatantly points to a sequel, but I'm not at all sure I'm interested. Considering we get so few true adventure games, I'm disappointed.
Play as both Ellie and Ian, two scientists stranded on Botanica. Can you save your friends and find your way home?
Overall rating
4
/
5
9 of 9 found this review helpful
4½ stars! Better than the first one!
PostedDecember 16, 2013
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
5
/
5
Storyline
5
/
5
Botanica: Earthbound
Developed by BoomZap (Produced by Big Fish Games)
Collector's Edition
Review based on full game
Developed by BoomZap (Produced by Big Fish Games)
Collector's Edition
Review based on full game
IN THE BEGINNING...
Ellie Wright, a botanist who had come to Botanica to search for her father, and Ian Garrett, a scientist trying to return to his daughter on Earth, had finally reached the portal. Unfortunately, Queen Kassandra and Gustav were there waiting for them. In an unexpected turn of events, Gustav betrayed his Queen and wounded her…whereupon the portal pulled all four through to a different part of Botanica. A place where a volcano was ready to erupt and destroy all in its path!
Ellie Wright, a botanist who had come to Botanica to search for her father, and Ian Garrett, a scientist trying to return to his daughter on Earth, had finally reached the portal. Unfortunately, Queen Kassandra and Gustav were there waiting for them. In an unexpected turn of events, Gustav betrayed his Queen and wounded her…whereupon the portal pulled all four through to a different part of Botanica. A place where a volcano was ready to erupt and destroy all in its path!
PLAY THE GAME...
Play alternately as Ellie and as Ian, since they end up in two separate locations. (And the bonus adventure has you playing as a considerably humbled Kassandra, saving villagers from the pending eruption.) The HO scenes are magnificently interactive and include gadgets, codes, and puzzles…all within the HO scene. The mini-games, for the most part, require observation to locate clues in order to solve them. As Ellie, you have the botanical kit your father gave you, and a "claw crab" to cut and snip things. As Ian, you have a chemistry kit, and an animal friend to help you out (I don't want to spoil it for you).
Play alternately as Ellie and as Ian, since they end up in two separate locations. (And the bonus adventure has you playing as a considerably humbled Kassandra, saving villagers from the pending eruption.) The HO scenes are magnificently interactive and include gadgets, codes, and puzzles…all within the HO scene. The mini-games, for the most part, require observation to locate clues in order to solve them. As Ellie, you have the botanical kit your father gave you, and a "claw crab" to cut and snip things. As Ian, you have a chemistry kit, and an animal friend to help you out (I don't want to spoil it for you).
SIGHTSEEING…
The graphics are typical of BoomZap's style, painterly yet detailed with lots of lush colors. Character animation is cartoonish.
The graphics are typical of BoomZap's style, painterly yet detailed with lots of lush colors. Character animation is cartoonish.
SOUND WAVES…
The music is truly excellent, an ambient soundscape that really helps with immersion and setting the mood. Voiceovers are done fairly well.
The music is truly excellent, an ambient soundscape that really helps with immersion and setting the mood. Voiceovers are done fairly well.
TOOLBOX…
The map indicates active areas and transports, while the journal lists tasks and keeps your "Encyclopedia Botanica." Inventory is lockable and functional.
The map indicates active areas and transports, while the journal lists tasks and keeps your "Encyclopedia Botanica." Inventory is lockable and functional.
EXTRA, EXTRA…
The bonus adventure is lengthy and satisfying. Collectibles consist of red and green ladybugs. There are a number of achievements to be earned, including some that will surprise you. And the usual offerings are available.
The bonus adventure is lengthy and satisfying. Collectibles consist of red and green ladybugs. There are a number of achievements to be earned, including some that will surprise you. And the usual offerings are available.
THE LAST WORD…
While the main game does end definitively, the bonus adventure gives a happy ending to the tale of the people of Botanica. Also, the music is download-worthy, IMO. (I, personally, have a playlist of ambient music from computer games that lulls me off to sleep each night, dreaming of alternate worlds.)
While the main game does end definitively, the bonus adventure gives a happy ending to the tale of the people of Botanica. Also, the music is download-worthy, IMO. (I, personally, have a playlist of ambient music from computer games that lulls me off to sleep each night, dreaming of alternate worlds.)
I recommend this game!
The mystical Silver Arrow has been stolen from you on the eve of your wedding. Without it, you can’t marry your beloved Prince Philip! Can you track down the arrow in time?
Overall rating
4
/
5
9 of 9 found this review helpful
Spirits of Mystery is back! (Pay no attention to the Dark Minotaur behind the curtain.)
PostedDecember 15, 2013
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
Spirits of Mystery: The Silver Arrow
Developed by ERS (Produced by Big Fish Games)
Collector's Edition
Review based on full game
Developed by ERS (Produced by Big Fish Games)
Collector's Edition
Review based on full game
IN THE BEGINNING...
The Crown Prince of the Pearl Kingdom is required to let Fate select his bride. He shoots a magic Silver Arrow into the sky and it flies through the window of the one destined to be his Queen. Fortunately, as the Crown Prince is your love Philip, the Arrow chooses you!
The Crown Prince of the Pearl Kingdom is required to let Fate select his bride. He shoots a magic Silver Arrow into the sky and it flies through the window of the one destined to be his Queen. Fortunately, as the Crown Prince is your love Philip, the Arrow chooses you!
Unfortunately, the evil sorceress Mortis is back and up to her old tricks. Her minion steals the arrow as part of her nefarious plot. Now it's up to you to get the crucial magic Arrow back, not only to save your upcoming wedding, but also to keep peace in the known world.
In the bonus adventure, you must stop Mortis from opening a portal between worlds and freeing Isa, her old love and your nemesis.
PLAY THE GAME...
Lots to do in adventure mode…much to collect and interact with. HO scenes vary in type: silhouette, sequential silhouette, return objects, find matching pairs. Puzzles vary from simple to somewhat difficult, with most being variations on familiar puzzles. A few have customizable difficulty settings. There's also some use of animals in lieu of tools (but you then use the actual tool later on…a bit strange). Lastly, you have a blue creature that resembles a Furby who can translate any animal language for you.
Lots to do in adventure mode…much to collect and interact with. HO scenes vary in type: silhouette, sequential silhouette, return objects, find matching pairs. Puzzles vary from simple to somewhat difficult, with most being variations on familiar puzzles. A few have customizable difficulty settings. There's also some use of animals in lieu of tools (but you then use the actual tool later on…a bit strange). Lastly, you have a blue creature that resembles a Furby who can translate any animal language for you.
SIGHTSEEING…
The graphics are more detailed and less pastel than ERS' usual fare which, I hope, means they're stepping away from their signature washed out look. Animation is typical for this series, hand-drawn and a touch stilted, but not awful.
The graphics are more detailed and less pastel than ERS' usual fare which, I hope, means they're stepping away from their signature washed out look. Animation is typical for this series, hand-drawn and a touch stilted, but not awful.
SOUND WAVES…
The music, thankfully, was not THAT music. Although I did cringe a few times on hearing those high-pitched violins, which I wish they'd stop using. Game sounds were appropriate and voiceovers were done well.
The music, thankfully, was not THAT music. Although I did cringe a few times on hearing those high-pitched violins, which I wish they'd stop using. Game sounds were appropriate and voiceovers were done well.
TOOLBOX…
The map indicates objectives and completed tasks, and transports. The journal tracks the story, holds clues, and lists the current goals. Inventory is lockable and functional.
The map indicates objectives and completed tasks, and transports. The journal tracks the story, holds clues, and lists the current goals. Inventory is lockable and functional.
EXTRA, EXTRA…
There's the bonus adventure, of course, with some new areas to play. The revisited areas contain new items and tasks. Collectibles are multi-colored pearls with which you can repair, remodel, and furnish your tower. You can replay both puzzles and HO scenes. And there's the usual offerings, of interest mostly to artists and budding game designers.
There's the bonus adventure, of course, with some new areas to play. The revisited areas contain new items and tasks. Collectibles are multi-colored pearls with which you can repair, remodel, and furnish your tower. You can replay both puzzles and HO scenes. And there's the usual offerings, of interest mostly to artists and budding game designers.
THE LAST WORD…
The Silver Arrow is one thousand times better than The Dark Minotaur was, and is a worthy addition to the Spirits of Mystery series, hearkening back to the first two games in quality, enjoyment, and immersion. The main adventure does end conclusively, but the bonus adventure was lengthy and interesting—not at all an afterthought—and gives additional closure.
The Silver Arrow is one thousand times better than The Dark Minotaur was, and is a worthy addition to the Spirits of Mystery series, hearkening back to the first two games in quality, enjoyment, and immersion. The main adventure does end conclusively, but the bonus adventure was lengthy and interesting—not at all an afterthought—and gives additional closure.
I recommend this game!
The gates to another world will open soon! You can stop the impending disaster - if you track down the stolen runes!
Overall rating
5
/
5
4 of 4 found this review helpful
Great gameplay, super story, glorious graphics, intensely immersive!
PostedDecember 10, 2013
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
5
/
5
Storyline
5
/
5
Portal of Evil: Stolen Runes
Collector's Edition
Review based on full game
Collector's Edition
Review based on full game
IN THE BEGINNING...
For centuries, the Order of Light has guarded the Portal of Evil against opening every 600 years. That event is prevented by the seven seals, several of which have been stolen by a traitor to the Order, and scattered throughout time.
For centuries, the Order of Light has guarded the Portal of Evil against opening every 600 years. That event is prevented by the seven seals, several of which have been stolen by a traitor to the Order, and scattered throughout time.
You are the last in line of the Van Helsing family, members of the Order of Light since its inception. Since your grandfather, Abraham, has gone missing, it's now up to you not only to find him, but also to find the missing seals and return them to the Portal, lest Evil be loosed upon the world.
Bonus Adventure: Capture the traitor.
PLAY THE GAME...
Stolen Runes plays like a first-person adventure game nicely interspersed with HO scenes, puzzles, and mini-games. There's a lot to do and remember, many areas to explore, and lots of items to collect and use.
Stolen Runes plays like a first-person adventure game nicely interspersed with HO scenes, puzzles, and mini-games. There's a lot to do and remember, many areas to explore, and lots of items to collect and use.
The HO scenes are of two types: interactive list and return items to their places. The puzzles and mini-games are mostly familiar: concentration, wedge and ring jigsaws, etc.
SIGHTSEEING…
Wow. The graphics and animation are impeccable. Realistic textures adorn artistic landscapes. Brilliant colors shade to moody monotones as the tone of the game changes. Light and shadow add realism to each scenario. Even the poser work is amazing.
Wow. The graphics and animation are impeccable. Realistic textures adorn artistic landscapes. Brilliant colors shade to moody monotones as the tone of the game changes. Light and shadow add realism to each scenario. Even the poser work is amazing.
SOUND WAVES…
The music is really beautiful, worthy of being downloaded. I recommend turning it up, as it truly adds to immersion. Voiceovers are quite well done.
The music is really beautiful, worthy of being downloaded. I recommend turning it up, as it truly adds to immersion. Voiceovers are quite well done.
TOOLBOX…
The map notes active areas and transports, both utterly necessary functions as the game area is rather large and there are quite a few actions in each area that you cannot accomplish immediately. The journal tracks the story and notes clues, again necessary. Inventory is lockable.
The map notes active areas and transports, both utterly necessary functions as the game area is rather large and there are quite a few actions in each area that you cannot accomplish immediately. The journal tracks the story and notes clues, again necessary. Inventory is lockable.
EXTRA, EXTRA…
As noted, there is a bonus adventure, which does revisit some areas but also adds new areas. You can also replay the puzzles and mini-games, and there are the usual offerings of wallpapers and such. There are no collectibles, morphing objects, or achievements to be found, but I believe Stolen Runes to be worthy of CE status nonetheless because of its length, complexity, and replay value.
As noted, there is a bonus adventure, which does revisit some areas but also adds new areas. You can also replay the puzzles and mini-games, and there are the usual offerings of wallpapers and such. There are no collectibles, morphing objects, or achievements to be found, but I believe Stolen Runes to be worthy of CE status nonetheless because of its length, complexity, and replay value.
THE LAST WORD…
Brilliant and beautiful. Buy it. I'm already drooling for the sequel, and for more from this developer.
Brilliant and beautiful. Buy it. I'm already drooling for the sequel, and for more from this developer.
I recommend this game!
Help Ashley Ford find her father and solve the mystery of the Three Oak Mansion.
Overall rating
2
/
5
5 of 7 found this review helpful
Not even good enough for 1993, never mind 2013.
PostedDecember 4, 2013
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
1
/
5
Storyline
3
/
5
Crystals of Time
Review based on as much of the demo as I could tolerate
Review based on as much of the demo as I could tolerate
IN THE BEGINNING...
Professional thief Ashley, who has learned her skill at her father's knee, has gone to search for him at Three Oaks Mansion. With only a crystal as a clue to his whereabouts, she must investigate the mansion to find her missing father. This is related to you in a short paragraph on the menu screen; there is no intro.
Professional thief Ashley, who has learned her skill at her father's knee, has gone to search for him at Three Oaks Mansion. With only a crystal as a clue to his whereabouts, she must investigate the mansion to find her missing father. This is related to you in a short paragraph on the menu screen; there is no intro.
PLAY THE GAME...
Ostensibly a HOPA, it was impossible to become immersed in either story or gameplay owing to clunky game mechanics and Escher-esque navigation. There are objects to collect here and there, HO scenes which are not interactive, and ridiculously easy puzzles to solve.
Ostensibly a HOPA, it was impossible to become immersed in either story or gameplay owing to clunky game mechanics and Escher-esque navigation. There are objects to collect here and there, HO scenes which are not interactive, and ridiculously easy puzzles to solve.
SIGHTSEEING…
Graphics are fairly photorealistic and static.
Graphics are fairly photorealistic and static.
SOUND WAVES…
Music was moody and repetitive. There were no ambient sounds, which also detracted from immersion.
Music was moody and repetitive. There were no ambient sounds, which also detracted from immersion.
TOOLBOX…
I know from other reviews that there was a map somewhere, but I never saw it. The journal noted clues and narrated the story. The inventory was somewhat hard to get used to using, as it was difficult to discern whether you had simply placed an item improperly or had the wrong item altogether.
I know from other reviews that there was a map somewhere, but I never saw it. The journal noted clues and narrated the story. The inventory was somewhat hard to get used to using, as it was difficult to discern whether you had simply placed an item improperly or had the wrong item altogether.
THE LAST WORD…
Crystals of Time attempted to be an enigmatic adventure game, but only succeeded in being dated, rather boring, and a tad frustrating. Frustrating not only because of issues with the inventory, but also with basic logic. (Slight spoiler: To restore power to the house, you "steal" a fuse from the box at the street. Sorry, but wouldn't that simply cut off power to the house at an earlier junction box up the line? And that wasn't the only example.)
Crystals of Time attempted to be an enigmatic adventure game, but only succeeded in being dated, rather boring, and a tad frustrating. Frustrating not only because of issues with the inventory, but also with basic logic. (Slight spoiler: To restore power to the house, you "steal" a fuse from the box at the street. Sorry, but wouldn't that simply cut off power to the house at an earlier junction box up the line? And that wasn't the only example.)
Also, as many other reviewers mentioned, the poor language editing was maddening. It wasn't just that "disappearance" was spelled "dissapearence," which was bad enough. But "gulf" is a body of water, while "golf" is a sport. Big difference. I imagine that big difference probably showed up in the HO scenes, to the intense frustration of the player. As such…
I don't recommend this game.