I love magical Time Management games like the Miriel games and so when this came out I bought it straight off. It's got great graphics and the music isn't too annoying, but there were a few things I'm dissapointed with. I haven't finished playing yet, but so far at the 2nd tavern there's really little to write home about. It's annoying that you can't put more than one seperate person at a table if there are empty spaces. This wouldn't be so bad if the new customers didn't back up so much. I also didn't like the way the characters bang on their tables like spoilt kids if they have to wait too long. I'm really quick with these games usually, but this is just a little too crazy. The gramophone doesn't really do much and I didn't get why the old man was there as he didn't make any difference other than using up valuable time when you had to go and talk to him. The power-ups (speed up, stop time) only happen when a Match 3 game comes up which isn't on every level and even then they can only be used once and then that's it. I also noticed that the 'stop time' power-up didn't stop the customers from banging on the tables anyway. I think my most dissapointment has been that you can't decorate/upgrade each place (well thus far), so there's no creative outlet. Overall I think this game had potential as the main character is quite cool, but whereas I look forward to playing Miriel etc, this game has so far left me a little cold.
I've played many HO games and own 74 that I've enjoyed playing very much, but this is the best I've played thus far when it comes to best value for money, length of game-play and puzzles. It's taken me many hours over the past few days to complete (on the normal level, no sparkles etc) and been an absolute joy to play. The puzzles are great, but the main, 'multi' puzzles are the best. I had to get a game hint on the first one as I didn't quite get it, but when I understood how they interlink, I looked forward to the next.
I also loved how the note book played a big part in it all and the map with the illuminated domes that lets you know there's something to be done there. The HO scenes are also very well put together, difficult enough to enjoy without getting annoying.
And then there's Isis, Madame Fate's beautiful, slinky cat who helps out from time to time. It's sweetly amusing watching her interact in her own room where you can buy things for her. Get the comb so that you can watch her fur stand on end with the static electricity. Funny. Not an elegant look for such a dignified cat!
It's also nice to see an English edge to it instead of the usual American when finding pounds and not dollars that go towards buying Isis her things. You can collect bobble-heads and cards too which breaks up the intensity a little.
As for the Bonus level, that was as much fun as the main game and took a while in itself which was great and also included the 'multi' puzzles. I also like the way the game resolved itself in the Bonus for both Madame Fate and Isis whilst giving the impression that there is more for you, the detective, to come in a new adventure.
The graphics were brilliant along with the sound and music (which didn't distract me at all). I guess I'm going to have buy another couple of MCF games because in a word, this one was brilliant!