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:
After Sara inherits a home, she discovers that a restless spirit can speak to her! Help her sooth Emily’s soul in Haunted Past: Realm of Ghosts!
Overall rating
4
/
5
1 of 1 found this review helpful
This blast from the past was better than most newer games.
PostedJanuary 4, 2019
LunaNik
fromMore games like this one, please!
Skill Level:Expert
Favorite Genre(s):Adventure, Brain Teaser, Card & Board, Hidden Object, Large File, Puzzle, Strategy, Word
Fun Factor
4
/
5
Visual/Sound Quality
4
/
5
Level of Challenge
3
/
5
Storyline
4
/
5
Note: This game worked perfectly with El Capitan.
Play as Sara, who has inherited a huge, gorgeous mansion that, unfortunately, has been left to decay. Sara discovers ghosts in her new home...and a special gift that will help them achieve closure. This is a nostalgic ghost story, rather than a horrifying one.
While the rooms are dilapidated, each room with a reflective surface allows Sara to enter the realm of ghosts. There, she can find inventory items and hide them, to be retrieved when she returns to the land of the living. Also, there are numerous paintings, each missing an item; once restored, they will provide Sara with additional items.
While the HO scenes and mini-games weren't overly difficult, I found them much more interesting than the usual matching pairs, Simon Says, and simple jigsaw puzzles.
The production, while lacking today's bells and whistles, was quite well done. Graphics are crisp, clear, and lifelike. Voiceovers are professional and sound effects add to the ambience of a haunted house. Note that there is no map, but the back and forth isn't onerous. There is a journal which details the backstory.
The extras are not generous. There's a bonus chapter, which took me about an hour, concept art, wallpapers, and a strategy guide. No collectibles, if you like them. For this reason, I recommend the SE over the CE.
My only real complaint is that I can't find a sequel. I was looking forward to a new ghost story in Ireland.
I recommend this game!
A couple's fixer-upper is haunted by a fierce creature.
Overall rating
2
/
5
15 of 29 found this review helpful
Dreadful Game
PostedJanuary 4, 2019
LunaNik
from2019 is the new 2018 in the casual game industry.
Skill Level:Expert
Favorite Genre(s):Adventure, Brain Teaser, Card & Board, Hidden Object, Large File, Puzzle, Strategy, Word
Fun Factor
1
/
5
Visual/Sound Quality
3
/
5
Level of Challenge
2
/
5
Storyline
2
/
5
The storyline initially seemed to have some promise, but it devolved rather quickly into nonsense. Meanwhile, the thing in the walls apparently abandoned the place out of boredom, and I don't blame it.
Gameplay is typical: run around collecting an inventory full of junk with no idea why you need it, fix endless broken things, solve the occasional mini-game (with no instructions), and find items in plain sight.
The production seemed like it was created by a bunch of different people using different styles. Some parts were crisp and realistic, others blurry and difficult to identify.
Personally, I put my cookie cutters in storage after Christmas. I strongly suggest that HOPA devs do the same.
I don't recommend this game.
Play a new fantasy brain-teaser where you can create your own Kingdom with Castles, Knights, Warlocks and Dragons! Great for gamers of ALL ages.
Overall rating
3
/
5
9 of 10 found this review helpful
You really only need one.
PostedJanuary 1, 2019
LunaNik
fromHappy New Year!!!
Skill Level:Expert
Favorite Genre(s):Adventure, Brain Teaser, Card & Board, Hidden Object, Large File, Puzzle, Strategy, Word
Fun Factor
4
/
5
Visual/Sound Quality
3
/
5
Level of Challenge
3
/
5
I've lost count of how many episodes of Doodle God have been released, but if you've played one, this one won't provide much that's new to you.
As usual, you begin with a couple categories of elements which you can attempt to combine to create a new element. Some combinations are fairly obvious, while others are a bit obscure. And some combinations seem logical, yet they don't work. For example, DRAGON + METAL did not equal GOLD, for some reason. It should, right?
I always, once I've created fifty or so elements, have trouble remembering which ones are in what category, because that often seems capricious as well. I have no idea why MAGIC is not in the same group as MAGICIAN, to name one.
That said, these games are entertaining, not just for the dopamine rush when a combination is successful, but also because the developer has chosen any number of quotes to accompany each elements. Some are humorous, others make you stop and think.
Still, I can't help but think that the Doodle God games miss tons of opportunities to be creative. In another dev's version of this type of game, for example, I combined STAR and MAN and got DAVID BOWIE. Which delighted me and made me want to continue trying combinations.
Overall, this isn't a bad game. On the contrary, the concept is rather brilliant, but I feel the execution is a tad lacking. YMMV so give the demo a try, especially if you've never played this type of game.
Can you save Christmas before it’s too late?!
Overall rating
3
/
5
41 of 59 found this review helpful
Celebrity Death Match: Santa v. Krampus
PostedDecember 20, 2018
LunaNik
fromDashing through the...rain. It's raining in New England. In December. And there isn't a single flake of snow on the ground. Bah humbug.
Skill Level:Expert
Favorite Genre(s):Adventure, Brain Teaser, Card & Board, Hidden Object, Large File, Puzzle, Strategy, Word
Fun Factor
2
/
5
Visual/Sound Quality
4
/
5
Level of Challenge
3
/
5
Storyline
3
/
5
If you're a Christmas fanatic looking for a holiday-themed game with an interesting storyline and relatively easy gameplay, you might like Who Framed Santa Claus?
THE GOOD STUFF
Beautifully lifelike graphics.
Mostly excellent HO scenes.
Storyline interesting.
Not a single shaped key in sight.
Beautifully lifelike graphics.
Mostly excellent HO scenes.
Storyline interesting.
Not a single shaped key in sight.
THE BAD STUFF
Mini-games either too easy or just irritating.
Lots of back and forth to fix broken stuff.
Annoying voiceovers.
Mini-games either too easy or just irritating.
Lots of back and forth to fix broken stuff.
Annoying voiceovers.
In general, it's quite a bit better than most HOPAs being released today, but it's not my cup of cocoa. I recommend trying the demo to see if it's yours.
Mother Goose has gone missing, and Christmas is in danger!
Overall rating
2
/
5
22 of 48 found this review helpful
Storyline, gameplay, production for children, not adults.
PostedDecember 17, 2018
LunaNik
fromWishing all fishies and their families a wonderful holiday season!
Skill Level:Expert
Favorite Genre(s):Adventure, Brain Teaser, Card & Board, Hidden Object, Large File, Puzzle, Strategy, Word
Fun Factor
1
/
5
Visual/Sound Quality
3
/
5
Level of Challenge
1
/
5
Storyline
3
/
5
I don't understand the rave reviews. This isn't a game for adults. At all. The storyline would probably engage a 6-year-old, but I found it saccharine, and it was annoying being spoken to as if I were that 6-year-old by literally every character.
Gameplay is similarly for children. The HO scenes I encountered were storybook style, read as if to a kindergarten class. Mini-games were extremely easy. The rest of the gameplay involved doing favors for everyone.
As usual, Domini's graphics are so oversaturated that my eyes hurt from looking at the screen. Blue snow...again. The overly bright primary colors might appeal to children, but appear garish to adults.
The prevalence of games designed for children is an annoying trend. Most fishies have children of their own, and in some cases, grandchildren too. Could we possibly have some games designed for mature adults who prefer a challenge?
As for recommending a Christmas games, I'd go with any of the Christmas Wonderland series, which are challenging for adults and appropriate for all ages.
I don't recommend this game.
Can you stop a dangerous stalker’s sinister plan in time?
Overall rating
2
/
5
16 of 25 found this review helpful
Interesting idea, poor execution.
PostedDecember 17, 2018
LunaNik
fromWishing all fishies and their families a wonderful holiday season!
Skill Level:Expert
Favorite Genre(s):Adventure, Brain Teaser, Card & Board, Hidden Object, Large File, Puzzle, Strategy, Word
Fun Factor
1
/
5
Visual/Sound Quality
4
/
5
Level of Challenge
1
/
5
Storyline
3
/
5
I found the storyline quite engaging, especially after reaching the train station. Unfortunately, the game "solved" nearly everything for you, which reduced the challenge level to zero.
The number of shaped keys and random knobs became annoying rather quickly. Like most HOPA games released in the past few years, everything was broken, missing parts, or required a medallion to unlock.
HOPA scenes showed some creativity in presentation, but were still much too easy...large objects in plain sight. Mini-games had nothing to figure out; you knew what to do the instant you saw it and just had to go through the motions.
And inventory items were used in ways so unconventional, you literally had to just try each one on an obstacle. Knife to replace broken trash can lever. Silver tray used as a pry bar. This isn't innovative; it's nonsensical.
The exposition nicely teased you along regarding the plot, but since the challenge level is zero, it's not for me. I like games that keep my brain sharp, that make me actually think, and that don't hold my hand.
I don't recommend this game.
In Christmas Wonderland 9 you visit Santa’s workshop, decorate the house, visit grandparents open presents and more. Have the best Christmas ever!
Overall rating
5
/
5
85 of 95 found this review helpful
If this doesn't put you in the Christmas spirit, then nothing will!
PostedDecember 10, 2018
LunaNik
fromWishing all fishies and their families a wonderful holiday season!
Skill Level:Expert
Favorite Genre(s):Adventure, Brain Teaser, Card & Board, Hidden Object, Large File, Puzzle, Strategy, Word
Fun Factor
5
/
5
Visual/Sound Quality
5
/
5
Level of Challenge
5
/
5
Storyline
5
/
5
As always, this year's Christmas Wonderland is an absolute delight for all ages. I honestly wish I'd put some cookies in the oven, just to complete the experience.
Gameplay alternates HO scenes—which are MUCH more challenging than most—with a variety of mini-games ranging from find the differences to different types of jigsaws to word searches.
In each HO scene, there are collectible golden reindeer to find as well as lost-and-found items. Indicators for both are in the lower left. All scenes are word lists, and all with thoughtful interactions. Some items require an additional action to be revealed, while others involve fixing or creating things.
The production is spot on Christmas. Bright, colorful graphics depict lifelike scenes while upbeat Christmas carols play in the background.
All in all, this year's Christmas Wonderland fulfilled every expectation. And it's a perfect game for adults, children, and families. If you're feeling like a Grinch, download this game! You'll be glad you did.
I recommend this game!
Tune into the story of the aspiring space-archaeologist Van Klik on his mission to the mysterious planet of Horizon!
Overall rating
3
/
5
3 of 3 found this review helpful
Not my cup of tea.
PostedDecember 9, 2018
LunaNik
fromWishing all fishies and their families a wonderful holiday season!
Skill Level:Expert
Favorite Genre(s):Adventure, Brain Teaser, Card & Board, Hidden Object, Large File, Puzzle, Strategy, Word
Fun Factor
2
/
5
Visual/Sound Quality
3
/
5
Level of Challenge
3
/
5
Storyline
3
/
5
This game is very different from the usual offerings. It's sort of a choose your own story, where the choices you make affect how the plot advances. Each choice you make affects your insight and other abilities.
The player character is exploring the last known unexplored star system. The method of gameplay is answering questions posed by an AI, which will lead to different situations, often gaining you a gadget or weapon.
While I like text adventures, I found this one fairly repetitive. The graphics aren't really necessary to the gameplay, that is to say, they don't add anything except a minor amount of visual appeal. However, it's worth a demo.
When Hector, Demon Hunter for hire, agreed to save a lost tourist from the haunted Museum of Mysticism and Monstrosity, he never imagined that he could be the one in need of saving.
Overall rating
1
/
5
23 of 29 found this review helpful
"Then just give up." You got it. Wish you'd asked 20 minutes ago.
PostedDecember 9, 2018
LunaNik
fromWishing all fishies and their families a wonderful holiday season!
Skill Level:Expert
Favorite Genre(s):Adventure, Brain Teaser, Card & Board, Hidden Object, Large File, Puzzle, Strategy, Word
Fun Factor
1
/
5
Visual/Sound Quality
3
/
5
Level of Challenge
1
/
5
Storyline
1
/
5
Chase yet another eldritch paranormal creature through a house filled with boring chores to do. I lost my patience with the repeated taunting, cutscenes, and remarks from my character, all of which I had to wait through since the mouse wouldn't work until they were finished.
In 20 minutes, I fished a key from a crack, replaced both battery and bulb in a flashlight, bribed a crow, found and replaced several missing parts, patched a vacuum cleaner bag, and found and inserted any number of shaped keys. These kinds of chores are about as challenging and fun as doing a load of dishes.
About the best thing I can say is that the storyline was clearly meant for adults. I wish it had been less shallow and something we hadn't already seen a zillion times.
Be warned: there are jump scares frequently.
I don't recommend this game.
Dark Reapers kidnapped your mother and aunt! Will you be next?
Overall rating
1
/
5
28 of 38 found this review helpful
Another children's game; I lasted 7 minutes.
PostedDecember 9, 2018
LunaNik
fromWishing all fishies and their families a wonderful holiday season!
Skill Level:Expert
Favorite Genre(s):Adventure, Brain Teaser, Card & Board, Hidden Object, Large File, Puzzle, Strategy, Word
Fun Factor
1
/
5
Visual/Sound Quality
3
/
5
Level of Challenge
1
/
5
Storyline
1
/
5
It's long past time for AMAX to abandon all the series it's currently milking, most of which have at least a dozen episodes, all of which are exactly alike. The Spirits of Mystery storyline has long been played out.
Once again, we play as a princess and, once again, must save family members from some evil spirit from another world. Devs, could you please stop with the childish storylines? Your. Customers. Are. Adults.
Same for the gameplay, which is insipid, repetitive, and utterly boring. Waving an amulet around the screen every two minutes isn't gameplay. And the whole shaped keys thing has reached critical mass at this point. It's only a matter of time until a singularity develops and sucks them all in.
It's also annoying to interrupt gameplay every few seconds for yet another cutscene or conversation. If you intend this to be an interactive story, then don't market it as a game.
I can't even recommend this for children, because they might be frightened by the dark spirit thing. And I'm wondering who these devs think their target audience is. They certainly don't have a high opinion of their customers' abilities and attention span.
I don't recommend this game.