Gameplay is almost identical to Alice TM series. Would like some variation in gameplay, but enjoyable. Not sure what another reviewer was talking about. You can absolutely turn system cursor on or off in the options menu (a wrench icon lower right on the splash page). Had no problem with the custom one.
Generally music gets short shrift in casual games. Loops are short and the soundtracks are often irritating or distracting. I think a lot of us just turn it down or off. The piano music here is seasonal without being cheesy and beautifully played. Ranges from bluesy and jazzy to classical without being intrusive. I'd buy a cd of this stuff.
This series and Viking Saga were my introduction to this type of game, and I enjoy them both. This game has absolutely raised the bar as far as graphics are concerned. In particular, the underwater episodes are gorgeous. Love the schools of fish moving around the "polyps" I recommend starting in untimed mode just to savor the visuals. Another subtle thing about this series is the interactivity of lots of the background people and creatures. Click a moose and it shakes it's head, people jump as if surprised or turn and wave, ducks flap their wings. I won't say what the starfish with eyes do, but it's hilarious, especially with the sound on. I cannot speak to the challenge of the game in timed mode as I seldom play these timed, but even untimed you will benefit from planning your approach to the challenges. My one #minor# quibble with this and the latest Viking Saga is some of the text was perhaps note proofed into English as well as it might have been. This does not cause any problems understanding what needs to be done. I don't review a lot, but had to plug this one. Couldn't be more pleased. Bought it immediately.