The controls are so sluggish you might as well just close your eyes and mash buttons - you'll get much the same result. Santa can barely move, often lands on bits of landscape that aren't actually "there" (you can't land on them twice, because you're not supposed to be able to land on them the first time) and jumps with the speed of a glacier. The levels are timed, which is fine, but with Sluggish Santa shuffling along it can get frustrating. Waiting for a slow enemy to move so you can jump them is also annoying. In order to complete a level, you have to collect a certain number of scattered gifts. Also not a terrible idea, but at no time are you told how many gifts you need to collect. Basically, this game feels like an alpha version released too soon.
It's not so much that there's holes in this plot, but there's plot in this hole - however this makes for some hilariously unexpected dialogue and twists so if you like to laugh while you play, I can actually recommend this one purely on the plot alone.
Graphically, this game is fantastic - the graphics are rich, detailed and immersive. Rather than the usual HO scenes, you are asked to find certain pictured items instead of a list of words - this can be quite challenging at times as the picture doesn't include things like rotation (ie, the picture may call for a cup showing the cup side on, but the actual cup may be turned over to show the top or bottom).
The puzzles require some thought, and I made heavy use of the map which indicates where things need to be done, either puzzles, finding useful items or HO Scenes - the map is so helpful, without it I would still be stuck somewhere on the Mountain.
Overall, the smooth graphics and interesting puzzle elements go hand in hand with this ridiculous storyline and writing, and it was a fun romp.
The idea behind this game - entering the pages of books to help those inside - is excellent. The puzzles are not particularly difficult, although from time to time some extra thought is required. This also goes for the minigames.
However, the interface is frustrating. Having to click "Ok" on random dialogue, popup hints etc etc slows the game down and becomes irritating over time.
Overall though, a decent game and a good way to spend a rainy afternoon.
Return once more to the haunted grounds of Ravenhearst Manor to uncover new details about this poignant saga. What you find could very well be the final chapter of this riveting story-if you escape.
You won't want to Quit till the story is done. Atmospheric, absorbing and stunning visually, this game will draw you in and keep you there as you work through the insanity.
The morphing objects make a wonderful change from the usual hidden object scenes. The acting is excellent and the integration of live action and CGI is seamless.
The story is strong and grounded in good plot, with puzzles varying from the obvious to the tricky.
In short, this gets 5 stars only because I can't give it 10, it was a fully immersive game and one of the most enjoyable games I've played in a long time.
I recommend this game!
+3points
5of7voted this as helpful.
Strange Cases: The Secrets of Grey Mist Lake Collector's Edition
Discover the Secrets of Grey Mist Lake! FBI Agent Claire Ellery has discovered another Strange Case and she needs your help!
Overall rating
4/ 5
52 of 62 found this review helpful
Great plot, slow play
PostedNovember 18, 2011
Frogglin
fromMelbourne, Australia
Skill Level:Expert
Favorite Genre(s):Adventure, Hidden Object, Large File, Puzzle, Strategy
Fun Factor
4/ 5
Visual/Sound Quality
5/ 5
Level of Challenge
3/ 5
This game feels longer than it is, which I suppose could be a good thing. The hint system is pretty much unhelpful in most cases but as the "next step" is always on the screen this isn't as annoying as it could be. Do watch for misnamed items in the HO scenes - these can make it more frustrating than fun sometimes. Overall, a decent game, with a strong story and a good spooky feel.
Favorite Genre(s):Adventure, Hidden Object, Large File, Puzzle
Fun Factor
5/ 5
Visual/Sound Quality
5/ 5
Level of Challenge
5/ 5
From the exquisite graphics to the wonderfully plotted storyline, this game is a winner from start to finish. Three levels of difficulty makes it easy to select what sort of game experience you'd like - from Casual to Hardcore. The cut scenes are almost movie quality and the hidden object scenes are fantastic, beautifully rendered in every way. Completely recommend getting the CE for the extra chapters. Immersive, beautiful and thrilling.
Favorite Genre(s):Adventure, Hidden Object, Large File, Puzzle, Strategy
Fun Factor
5/ 5
Visual/Sound Quality
5/ 5
Level of Challenge
4/ 5
A great mix of puzzle and hidden object, with enough of a mix so that neither got boring. Voice acting is fantastic and the plot is strong. Could have been longer (another in the series perhaps? Hopefully!), but the game play was interesting and challenging. The game looks amazing, the graphics are fantastic and the HO scenes look natural - no random copy paste photos in this one.