sunnyglow's Profile
Stat Summary
- Average Rating:4.3
- Helpful Votes:80,084
- Reviews Submitted:821
- First Review:November 27, 2011
- Most Recent Review:June 27, 2025
- Featured reviews0
Status:
Can you defeat the Spirit of Ice and Cold in time?
Overall rating
5
/
5
117 of 224 found this review helpful
A GAME TO WARM UP AN ICY, COLD WINTER NIGHT
PostedJanuary 27, 2022
sunnyglow
fromExcuses! Tired of hearing the phrase, “Sorry I can’t go with you” while you, a mere mortal, go off to battle some super-powered evildoer? Handing you some crappy token to “help” you, they excuse themselves as being exhausted, sick, injured or too old.
Skill Level:Expert
Fun Factor
5
/
5
Visual/Sound Quality
5
/
5
Level of Challenge
5
/
5
Storyline
5
/
5
REVIEW BASED UPON THE ENTIRE GAME
4 Chapters Plus a Bonus Chapter – Strategy Guide: 48 pages (My Time: 7 Hours)
4 Chapters Plus a Bonus Chapter – Strategy Guide: 48 pages (My Time: 7 Hours)
Brave the ice and snow as you travel to the kingdom of Wintersea which has been ravaged by the angry Spirit of Ice and Cold, Nega. Nega is out for revenge and her cold rage has driven out Arkanius, the Spirit of Fire who has provided warmth for the kingdom. You, as a novice healer, must stop this avenging spirit.
I was ecstatic to see another game by this developer. Domini Games is my favorite developer and, despite the one error in the strategy guide, they have provided another fantastic game. This is a very long game; however, the time went by quickly playing it, and feel it has a good pace. The game follows the same pattern as Domini’s other games. There are three (3) collectibles, some type of gimmick used within the game, and two levels of difficulty for the mini-games which can be set within the menu of the game.
I enjoyed the game and am always amazed at the creative genius of this developer. This developer always provides more game for the money and this game is no exception. The gimmick is a bestiary which is used to tame monsters and return them to normal animals. There is a puzzle which is played before the bestiary can be used to return the monster to its normal animal self. The bestiary is used six (6) times within the game.
The collectibles are morphing spirit amulets and spellbooks. I found the amulets difficult to locate; however, I found the spellbooks easy to find. There are spheres to collect (within the closeup scenes) which can be exchanged to fill a barn with magical animals.
***OH NO! NOT AGAIN! WHERE ARE THE SCREENSHOTS LABELED “F”? There is only one minor error in this game. The four screenshots for the collectibles labeled “F” are missing. I was able to locate them, however, but I do like to check those screenshots to be assured I am not missing any collectibles. I wish BFG would proof these games before they are released. This is the second week that a game with errors was released.
BONUS GAME: It is a sequel, one month after the end of the main game. The spirit world is in chaos again, as a human, Milena tries to steal the power from the Spirit of Fire, Arkanius. You will again battle another misguided spirit out for revenge. I found this a wonderful addition to the main game. There are five (5) HOP scenes and nine (9) mini-games! No other developer provides the number of activities this developer provides in their bonus chapters. This is a long chapter and worthy every penny of the additional cost of a collector’s edition game.
HOP SCENES: What fantastic HOP scenes! I used to look forward to this developer’s puzzles; however, nowadays, I also look forward to their HOP scenes. They are exquisite and many of them are puzzle-like themselves. Domini provides a variety of different styles of scenes, many with two or three scenes in which to locate items. There are eighteen (18) HOP scenes and all of them can be replayed upon completion of the game. They include the usual standard lists of items and silhouette scenes. However, there are also rebus clues (my favorite), item replacement scenes, matching, and those with highlighted items in a story format. As in their other games, a Match-3 game can be played instead of the scenes.
MINI-GAMES: There are thirty-four (34) puzzles, eighteen (18) of which can be replayed upon completion of the game. Our “puzzlemeister” has provided another game with outstanding, thematic puzzles. I just love the puzzles within Domini’s games. Most of them are offered in both an easy and hard version. I especially loved the variation of the “Queens 8” puzzle in the bonus chapter. They have tweeked it somewhat, and although I normally can play this puzzle blindfolded (having played it many times), I found this variation challenging. Again, most of the puzzles can be played in either an easy version or a hard version. Domini is truly the best puzzle designer on this gaming site. Truly exquisite puzzles!
SPOILERS: HERE ARE SOME OF THE MINI-GAMES FROM THIS GAME: (E = Easy; H = Hard)
A. Switch puzzle. Move snowflakes on the right side of the grid and flames on the left along connecting tracks so that their positions are reversed.
B. E/H. Bestiary Puzzle - Checkers puzzle. Remove all tokens on a board by jumping over them to remove them. The hard version has more tokens to remove
C. E/H. Assembly puzzle. Choose symbols on rocks, which, when combined, will create a given emblem in the center. The easy version has 2 emblems to create; the hard version has 3 to create, with the symbols located by lamplight.
D. E/H. Slider puzzle. Slide rows of musical notes up/down and sideways until all the same-colored notes are within the same row. The easy version has 3 rows, while the hard version has 4
E. E/H. Assembly puzzle. Rotate blue marbles with pins emanating from them so that a design is created matching that on a given diagram. The hard version has more marbles to rotate within its design.
F. E/H Paint puzzle. Paint 3 parts of a symbols shown in the center of the screen using the 3 primary colors. In the hard version, the 3 primary colors must be combined to create other colors 5X
G. E/H Bestiary Puzzle - Connection puzzle. Make all the symbols on a grid the same. There are 5 symbols used, and it must be done within a specific number of turns. The easy version has colored symbols but the hard does not have any color designated on the symbols. The easy version allows 10 moves and only 6 in the hard version.
H. E/H. Riddle me this. Answer riddles by clicking on the proper item on a shield. The hard version supposedly has harder questions; however, I found no difference in difficulty.
I. E/H. Tangram puzzle. Place kitchen utensils on a grid so all are placed, and none overlap each other. The hard version has more items to place.
BONUS CHAPTER:
J. E/H. Switch puzzle. Switch wolves on the left with the lambs on the right. As you move them on the paths, the wolves cannot be next to the lambs. The easy version has 3 of each and the hard version has 4 of each.
K. E/H. Connection puzzle. Place a pin within holes in a map. The pins must connect with each other without returning to the same hole. The hard version has a more difficult pattern for the pins.
L. E/H. Queens 8 puzzle. Place Queens into position on a chess board so no two are in the same row, column nor diagonal. The easy version provides a hint
B. E/H. Bestiary Puzzle - Checkers puzzle. Remove all tokens on a board by jumping over them to remove them. The hard version has more tokens to remove
C. E/H. Assembly puzzle. Choose symbols on rocks, which, when combined, will create a given emblem in the center. The easy version has 2 emblems to create; the hard version has 3 to create, with the symbols located by lamplight.
D. E/H. Slider puzzle. Slide rows of musical notes up/down and sideways until all the same-colored notes are within the same row. The easy version has 3 rows, while the hard version has 4
E. E/H. Assembly puzzle. Rotate blue marbles with pins emanating from them so that a design is created matching that on a given diagram. The hard version has more marbles to rotate within its design.
F. E/H Paint puzzle. Paint 3 parts of a symbols shown in the center of the screen using the 3 primary colors. In the hard version, the 3 primary colors must be combined to create other colors 5X
G. E/H Bestiary Puzzle - Connection puzzle. Make all the symbols on a grid the same. There are 5 symbols used, and it must be done within a specific number of turns. The easy version has colored symbols but the hard does not have any color designated on the symbols. The easy version allows 10 moves and only 6 in the hard version.
H. E/H. Riddle me this. Answer riddles by clicking on the proper item on a shield. The hard version supposedly has harder questions; however, I found no difference in difficulty.
I. E/H. Tangram puzzle. Place kitchen utensils on a grid so all are placed, and none overlap each other. The hard version has more items to place.
BONUS CHAPTER:
J. E/H. Switch puzzle. Switch wolves on the left with the lambs on the right. As you move them on the paths, the wolves cannot be next to the lambs. The easy version has 3 of each and the hard version has 4 of each.
K. E/H. Connection puzzle. Place a pin within holes in a map. The pins must connect with each other without returning to the same hole. The hard version has a more difficult pattern for the pins.
L. E/H. Queens 8 puzzle. Place Queens into position on a chess board so no two are in the same row, column nor diagonal. The easy version provides a hint
***I did not deduct a star for this error because it did not interfere with the ability to play the game. It is within the strategy guide and not within the game itself.
I recommend this game!
The tenacious trio takes on a master of the occult!
Overall rating
2
/
5
126 of 203 found this review helpful
A DIZZYING BACK-AND-FORTH ROLLER COASTER RIDE THROUGH TIME
PostedJanuary 20, 2022
sunnyglow
fromThe Grim Inquirer. Hot flash off the press! After this game, we may have some idea of Anna Gray’s true age. Let us just say she is no longer 25 years old in some scenes. Will she revert to her real age or will she now age gracefully?
Skill Level:Expert
Fun Factor
1
/
5
Visual/Sound Quality
4
/
5
Level of Challenge
3
/
5
Storyline
1
/
5
REVIEW BASED UPON THE ENTIRE GAME
3 Chapters Plus a Bonus Chapter – Strategy Guide: 28 pages (My Time: 4.5 Hours)
3 Chapters Plus a Bonus Chapter – Strategy Guide: 28 pages (My Time: 4.5 Hours)
STORY: Join the three paranormal detectives as they tag team to battle an evil sorceress, Agatha. This evildoer grants wishes to her clients for a price. The terms of her contract can be murder for those who sign it. Zigzag back-and-forth through time as you play each of the three detectives.
HELP ME! I AM LOST IN TIME! Where am I? I am still confused on some aspects of the story behind this game! With each of the three characters moving back-and-forth through different time periods and places, I felt overwhelmed. I found it difficult to keep up with where I was located and the time period I was in. Editor’s choice designation? Sorry, but I found this game one of the worst games I have played this year. In addition to the confusing stories in both the main game and the bonus chapter, I found several errors in the mini-games. The activities are lackluster, most lacking creative design. After the phenomenal game Elephant published a few weeks ago, this one is a surprise – a horrible surprise!
This is a very short, dark game dealing with ritualistic practices of the occult. The collectibles are morphing watches and puzzle pieces. The collectibles are few and far between and many scenes do not have any at all. I found most easy to locate. However, unlike other games, all the collectibles are located within the close-up scenes. There is an Expedition Room which allows the players to return to scenes to retrieve any missing collectibles upon completion of the game. As in many this developer’s games, there is a Secret Room in which the player can return to the scenes to locate more items.
MANY MINI-GAME ERRORS! Two mini-games have their directions switched. A sleight of hand puzzle has its directions switched with a map puzzle which follows it sequentially. One of the puzzles does not even have directions. I figured out the first part of this puzzle – matching skeletal heads to the proper ones emanating from Agatha; however, I could not figure out the second part of the puzzle. Finally, I just gave up and skipped it. Errors like this are unforgiveable. There is no reason that these errors should have not been discovered by the game testers. Unfortunately, we are seeing more errors within these HOPA games.
MECHANICS:
• Four (4) levels of play including a customized version.
• 22 achievements.
• Collect 13 morphing watches and 20 puzzle pieces
• 10 wallpapers along with concept art, music, and video sequences
• Replay 13 HOP scenes and 13 mini-games
• Expedition Room which allows players to return to the scenes to locate missing collectibles
• Secret Room in which to locate more items within the scenes. You are timed and can earn awards.
• 22 achievements.
• Collect 13 morphing watches and 20 puzzle pieces
• 10 wallpapers along with concept art, music, and video sequences
• Replay 13 HOP scenes and 13 mini-games
• Expedition Room which allows players to return to the scenes to locate missing collectibles
• Secret Room in which to locate more items within the scenes. You are timed and can earn awards.
BONUS CHAPTER: It is a sequel to the main game. Play the trio of paranormal investigators as they investigate another case of ritualistic magic. The case is like the violin case from the main game. It appears someone is trying to recreate Agatha’s ritual. I found the story in this chapter confusing as well. There are four (4) HOP scenes and six (6) mini-games. I did feel the activities were somewhat better than the main game.
HOP SCENES: Beyond Boring! I counted fourteen (14) scenes, thirteen (13) of which can be replayed upon completion of the game. However, one of those is debatable as to whether the developer considered a HOP scene or a mini-HOP scenes with only nine (9) items. There are several mini-HOP scenes, each with a small number of items to be located – usually five or six. All the scenes are either lists of items or silhouette. However, there is one which uses sliders to place pieces of the items on top of the item itself to remove it. Another involves replace items back into the scene. Other than those two, all the rest of to me were repetitious.
MINI-GAMES: There are twenty-two (22) mini-games, thirteen (13) of which can be replayed upon completion of the game. Some of the puzzles from this game are the only saving grace for this game. Most the puzzles are well-constructed, although three had issues with directions.
MINI-GAMES: There are twenty-two (22) mini-games, thirteen (13) of which can be replayed upon completion of the game. Some of the puzzles from this game are the only saving grace for this game. Most the puzzles are well-constructed, although three had issues with directions.
SPOILERS: HERE ARE SOME OF THE MINI-GAMES AFTER THE DEMO:
A. Switch puzzle. Switch picture fragments to restore two pictures.
B. Sleight of hand puzzle. Take a token and put it under a cup. Then a mechanized machine will rotate them. Try to pick the cup with the token under it. 3X (Has the wrong directions)
C. Map puzzle. Set the route for couple to move through the streets of a town. Set up the 5 directions and then the characters will move it see if you are correct. 3X (Has the wrong directions)
D. Rotating tiles. Picture puzzle in which the player rotates triangular pieces of a picture until the picture is formed.
E. Switch puzzle. Switch 15 tokens hanging on 3 bells (5 each bell) until each matches the pattern directly above it.
F. Weights and balances puzzle. Place 3 weights int a the left-hand pan on a set of scales so that the weights equal the weight of the amber in the pan on the right side of the scales
BONUS CHAPTER
G. Weights puzzle. Pour wine into glasses so that the weight in each glass matches that given in a diagram.
H. Rock, Scissors, Paper. Beat a sly skeleton at his own game. Choose between the 3. You need to win 2 out of 3
I. The Evolution of Man Puzzle. Switch puzzle. Switch slides to sequence the evolution of man – from a furry little monkey to a furry-faced modern man. For some out there – this evolution is reversed.
B. Sleight of hand puzzle. Take a token and put it under a cup. Then a mechanized machine will rotate them. Try to pick the cup with the token under it. 3X (Has the wrong directions)
C. Map puzzle. Set the route for couple to move through the streets of a town. Set up the 5 directions and then the characters will move it see if you are correct. 3X (Has the wrong directions)
D. Rotating tiles. Picture puzzle in which the player rotates triangular pieces of a picture until the picture is formed.
E. Switch puzzle. Switch 15 tokens hanging on 3 bells (5 each bell) until each matches the pattern directly above it.
F. Weights and balances puzzle. Place 3 weights int a the left-hand pan on a set of scales so that the weights equal the weight of the amber in the pan on the right side of the scales
BONUS CHAPTER
G. Weights puzzle. Pour wine into glasses so that the weight in each glass matches that given in a diagram.
H. Rock, Scissors, Paper. Beat a sly skeleton at his own game. Choose between the 3. You need to win 2 out of 3
I. The Evolution of Man Puzzle. Switch puzzle. Switch slides to sequence the evolution of man – from a furry little monkey to a furry-faced modern man. For some out there – this evolution is reversed.
**I usually never give a 2-star rating to a game; however, with the errors in this game, I feel it was necessary
I don't recommend this game.
The most challenging and fun Clutter yet!
Overall rating
5
/
5
23 of 46 found this review helpful
IT’S ABOUT TIME FOR A CLUTTER COLLECTOR’S EDITION GAME!
PostedJanuary 15, 2022
sunnyglow
fromCongrats Joe on another fantastic game. So glad you finally have your own collector’s edition - and about time as well! Congrats to a fellow member of the Pond Friends Forum.
Skill Level:Expert
Fun Factor
5
/
5
Visual/Sound Quality
5
/
5
Level of Challenge
5
/
5
Storyline
5
/
5
Our clutter “puzzlemeister” is back with another superb game and it’s about time! I love these clutter games and no other gaming developer produces clutter games of the same caliber as this developer. These games are in a league of their own. I am a HOPA aficionada – a rabid pursuer of well-hidden objects and challenging, nail-biting puzzles. However, when I have free time during the day, my number one activity is to engage in playing one or two clutter games.
MECHANICS: As with the other clutter games, this one also has thousands of puzzles. Returning are the cluttered heaps of items to be matched – all lumped together. All can be played either timed or untimed; however, Joe suggests you at least try to take the challenge by trying to get all the matches in the time required. Items to be matched includes some incredibly beautiful flowers, yummy looking donuts (which might find you trying to eat a few), jewels, buttons, white cubes, letters clumped together, and a variety of other items. Matches can be with same items, smaller with large of the same item, the same category of item but different shapes, black-and-white, or halves of items to be matched. In this game there are scenes with adorable cartoon characters.
New to the game is a 24-page strategy guide to help navigate the game. I, for one, am delighted to see this guide as it explains in detail what the various symbols indicate at the top and sides of the game. There are also three bonus areas with even more puzzles to enjoy. Joe has provided an amusing l story “A Burger and Change,” which gives an insight on Joe’s philosophical evolution in life. I love the new addition of cartoon characters. However, as a shoe aficionada, I did miss the shoe puzzles from the last game. We need more shoes Joe!
New to the game is a 24-page strategy guide to help navigate the game. I, for one, am delighted to see this guide as it explains in detail what the various symbols indicate at the top and sides of the game. There are also three bonus areas with even more puzzles to enjoy. Joe has provided an amusing l story “A Burger and Change,” which gives an insight on Joe’s philosophical evolution in life. I love the new addition of cartoon characters. However, as a shoe aficionada, I did miss the shoe puzzles from the last game. We need more shoes Joe!
TYPE OF PUZZLES: This is a list of the type of puzzles available. Most have several hundred to over a thousand games.
• Box Quotes – Change letters to reveal a quotation which should provide valuable advice as well!
• Spinning Spirals – A roller coaster ride of whirling, swirling items to match which go back and forth at a dizzying pace. It is guaranteed to cause you to cross your eyes or pull your hair out!
• Rotation Madness – Items to match based on the direction in they are oriented.
• Singletons – Under time pressure, locate the items which have no match in a large clutter of similar items – clocks, flowers, and other items which look similar. Another puzzle to drive you crazy!
• Clutter Jong – Kung Fu Mahjong – Clutter-style
• PotPouri – Joe says it all – “It’s like being in a quest without a quest” Basically a huge kitchen sink of clutter
• Clutter Gaps – Switch puzzle in which halves of items within squares (some blurry as well) are matched
• Cartoony Craziness – Ultimate in Clutter craziness in matching items in humongous, exceptionally large clutters. The adorable cartoon characters are new in this game.
• Clutter pics. – Matching up like pictures in squares, hexagons, circles, oblongs – either same shapes or matching like pics in different shapes
• Sliders – Create pictures by sliding slats up-and-down and sideways until a picture is created. Some of these are so skinny they could advertise for a weight loss company
• Picture Quest – picture puzzles plain and simple. Just move pieces and fragments to create a picture
• Box Quotes: Switch letters to create a pithy quotation. Remember said quotation for a better life! Maybe not, but at least Joe tried to inspire you!
• Spinning Spirals – A roller coaster ride of whirling, swirling items to match which go back and forth at a dizzying pace. It is guaranteed to cause you to cross your eyes or pull your hair out!
• Rotation Madness – Items to match based on the direction in they are oriented.
• Singletons – Under time pressure, locate the items which have no match in a large clutter of similar items – clocks, flowers, and other items which look similar. Another puzzle to drive you crazy!
• Clutter Jong – Kung Fu Mahjong – Clutter-style
• PotPouri – Joe says it all – “It’s like being in a quest without a quest” Basically a huge kitchen sink of clutter
• Clutter Gaps – Switch puzzle in which halves of items within squares (some blurry as well) are matched
• Cartoony Craziness – Ultimate in Clutter craziness in matching items in humongous, exceptionally large clutters. The adorable cartoon characters are new in this game.
• Clutter pics. – Matching up like pictures in squares, hexagons, circles, oblongs – either same shapes or matching like pics in different shapes
• Sliders – Create pictures by sliding slats up-and-down and sideways until a picture is created. Some of these are so skinny they could advertise for a weight loss company
• Picture Quest – picture puzzles plain and simple. Just move pieces and fragments to create a picture
• Box Quotes: Switch letters to create a pithy quotation. Remember said quotation for a better life! Maybe not, but at least Joe tried to inspire you!
And finally - thank you Joe for another fantastic game! You can never ever finish these games, but have played a lot of the puzzles within this one. Your fellow members from the Pond Friends Forum are happy for you and most of us cannot wait to see Clutter 13. Hope that number will be lucky for you and will provide a baker's dozen of more amazing puzzles!
I recommend this game!
Can you save Redwood National Park before it’s too late?
Overall rating
4
/
5
84 of 148 found this review helpful
GIVE A HOOT DON'T POLLUTE
PostedJanuary 13, 2022
sunnyglow
fromFrom Flora to Fauna! As people change into plants in this game, Amanda Jones changes careers. Beginning the game as prize-winning botanist, by the end of the game she has changed her career to that of a biologist.
Skill Level:Expert
Fun Factor
4
/
5
Visual/Sound Quality
4
/
5
Level of Challenge
5
/
5
Storyline
3
/
5
REVIEW BASED UPON THE ENTIRE GAME
4 Chapters Plus a Bonus Chapter – Strategy Guide: 69 pages
4 Chapters Plus a Bonus Chapter – Strategy Guide: 69 pages
Give a hoot and don’t pollute as you join Amanda Jones’ trek through Redwood Forest. As Amanda, you have been asked to investigate plants which look like humans and contain human DNA. However, as you investigate, you discover this forest is on the brink of ecological disaster. With the help of owl-clad Children of the Forest and a sheriff, search for culprits involved in illegal logging of the majestic sequoias, and poachers stealing the magical animals from the forest. And, hopefully, you can return those vegetative humans back into their human form. And this game proves it is not easy being green! Just ask Kermit the Frog, the human plants in this game, or any ecologist!
This is a fantastic game for HOP lovers, ecologists, and animal lovers! This game has more HOP scenes than mini-games. It is chock full of flora and fauna and the activities are thematic, with trees and animals galore. I did not especially care for this game. The story did not interest me. However, although the story was not to my taste, it is a creatively designed game. There are two collectibles, morphing objects and animals. I found the animals well-hidden in scenes. There are two of each type of collectible in each scene. The animals collected are exchanged for five (5) forest animals and opens an additional HOP scene upon completion of the game. This HOP scene can be replayed with new lists of items each time.
There are two gimmicks in the game, glasses, and Gray the dog. The player receives a pair of glasses which are used upon locating an animal. Using the glasses, the player searches for fragments which combine to create an item which provides a narrative to further the storyline. At the end of the narrative, the player receives an animal power such as falcon vision or bear strength. There are five (5) scenes like this in the game. The other gimmick, Gray the dog, is not used that often. He sits in the inventory and is used to dig up buried items.
There are two gimmicks in the game, glasses, and Gray the dog. The player receives a pair of glasses which are used upon locating an animal. Using the glasses, the player searches for fragments which combine to create an item which provides a narrative to further the storyline. At the end of the narrative, the player receives an animal power such as falcon vision or bear strength. There are five (5) scenes like this in the game. The other gimmick, Gray the dog, is not used that often. He sits in the inventory and is used to dig up buried items.
MECHANICS:
• Four (4) levels of play including a customized version.
• 15 achievements.
• Collect 52 animals which unlock 5 animals in the forest and another HOP scene which can be played with a series of lists.
• Collect 52 morphing objects.
• 10 wallpapers and 5 screensavers along with concept art, music, and video sequences
• Gimmicky glasses use with animals you locate throughout the game.
• Helper Gray the Dog – used to dig up inventory items
• Replay 17 HOP scenes and 13 mini games
• 15 achievements.
• Collect 52 animals which unlock 5 animals in the forest and another HOP scene which can be played with a series of lists.
• Collect 52 morphing objects.
• 10 wallpapers and 5 screensavers along with concept art, music, and video sequences
• Gimmicky glasses use with animals you locate throughout the game.
• Helper Gray the Dog – used to dig up inventory items
• Replay 17 HOP scenes and 13 mini games
BONUS CHAPTER: It is a sequel. You, as Amanda Jones, are the new park director. You have restored the beauty of the park. However, a storm is brewing, a typhoon. You must save your Aunt Tina and her group who are unaware of the impending storm. I found this chapter equal in quality to the main game. There are six (6) HOP scenes and five (5) mini-games. I found it a nice addition to the game and provides a nice ending to the game. Continue to collect the collectibles within the chapter.
HOP SCENES: There are nineteen (19) scenes in the game, seventeen (17) of which can be replayed upon completion of the game. The scenes consist of standard lists of items, matching and silhouette. However, there are also scenes in which items are placed into the scene in the proper location and scenes with a narrative containing items in highlighted letters which are to be located in various formats.. I found most blasé and nondescript. They are the same as those found in most games. I did not find any which I would consider exceptional in design.
MINI-GAMES: For me, the best part of this game are the mini-games! There are seventeen (17) mini-puzzles, thirteen (13) of which can be replayed upon completion of the game. Surprisingly, this developer has included more puzzles which can be played in two different levels of difficulty – casual and hard. I am happy to see this developer providing this option for those who want a little more challenge in playing a game.
SPOILERS: HERE ARE SOME OF THE MNI-GAMES AFTER THE DEMO:
A. Casual/ Hard. Assembly puzzle. Move colored liquids between test tubes so that each tube contains liquid of the same color. Transfer liquid between the tubes. There are 2 extra tubes to store liquid in.
B. Alignment puzzle. Using knobs on a monitor, synchronize 3 sine waves on the monitor.
C. Casual/ Hard. Connection puzzle. Light up fuses on a diamond-shaped grid according to the numbers near them. The fuses lit surrounding each number should match the number
D. Casual Hard. Knight Chess Puzzle. Use buttons with directions on them to pass a target through all cells. The movements are the same “L” shaped moves made by a knight in a chess game.
BONUS CHAPTER:
E. Maze puzzle. Get out of a forest through the limited vision of a telescope, locating items to help you overcome obstacles
F. Checkers puzzle. Exchange the position of 3 red flames on the left and 3 blue flames on the right. Flames can jump over each other to a free space or move to a free space.
B. Alignment puzzle. Using knobs on a monitor, synchronize 3 sine waves on the monitor.
C. Casual/ Hard. Connection puzzle. Light up fuses on a diamond-shaped grid according to the numbers near them. The fuses lit surrounding each number should match the number
D. Casual Hard. Knight Chess Puzzle. Use buttons with directions on them to pass a target through all cells. The movements are the same “L” shaped moves made by a knight in a chess game.
BONUS CHAPTER:
E. Maze puzzle. Get out of a forest through the limited vision of a telescope, locating items to help you overcome obstacles
F. Checkers puzzle. Exchange the position of 3 red flames on the left and 3 blue flames on the right. Flames can jump over each other to a free space or move to a free space.
I recommend this game!
Two people are in danger and are awaiting you to help them!
Overall rating
4
/
5
109 of 206 found this review helpful
I SEE A BAD MOON ARISING FOR THESE STAR-CROSSED LOVERS
PostedJanuary 6, 2022
sunnyglow
fromSeems like weddings are in store for the couples in this game. Bet this kingdom has some wonderful “furtographers” to capture those special moonlit nights!
Skill Level:Expert
Fun Factor
4
/
5
Visual/Sound Quality
5
/
5
Level of Challenge
5
/
5
Storyline
4
/
5
I SEE A BAD MOON ARISING FOR THESE STAR-CROSSED LOVERS
REVIEW BASED UPON THE ENTIRE GAME
3 Chapters Plus a Bonus Chapter – Strategy Guide: 47 pages (My Time – 7 Hours)
3 Chapters Plus a Bonus Chapter – Strategy Guide: 47 pages (My Time – 7 Hours)
Travel to the village of Bamberg, a village nestled in the woods, known for its coven of witches and a legendary werewolf. Join sweethearts, Riviera, a healer-in-training, and her beau, Mark, an alchemist, as they join forces to battle a misguided witch hunter, Gregor, who sees Riviera as a witch-in-training instead. Complications arise when Mark is attacked by a werewolf, finding himself under the curse of the werewolf as well. This is another good game with an decent story which has some twists and turns and surprising evildoers as well.
Play both Mark and Riviera as they tag team, taking turns saving each other in this game. When one finds themselves imprisoned or injured, the other is off to the rescue. Domini provides more game for the money and this one is no exception. This game follows the same pattern as their other games. There are three collectibles, morphing statues of monsters, feathers to add to dreamcatchers, and potions which can be exchanged for items to outfit a witch’s hut. I found most easy to locate. There is an indicator bar at the left side of the screen lights up when an item is within the scene.
It appears Domini is making some improvements to their games. I welcome the fact that Domini now has an arrow which can be clicked to return to the previous scene. The pace is excellent for the most part; however, I did find some parts toward the end dragged. In my opinion, some of the last sections of the game should have been cut. I realize that this developer probably wanted to showcase some HOP scenes and mini-games; however, I do believe the plot became overcomplicated and the game should have ended sooner than it did. To me, it seemed there was a lot of filler, running to-and-fro searching for inventory to use in another location to get yet even more inventory items.
It appears Domini is making some improvements to their games. I welcome the fact that Domini now has an arrow which can be clicked to return to the previous scene. The pace is excellent for the most part; however, I did find some parts toward the end dragged. In my opinion, some of the last sections of the game should have been cut. I realize that this developer probably wanted to showcase some HOP scenes and mini-games; however, I do believe the plot became overcomplicated and the game should have ended sooner than it did. To me, it seemed there was a lot of filler, running to-and-fro searching for inventory to use in another location to get yet even more inventory items.
STRATEGY GUIDE ERROR: For some reason, Domini has occasional problems with the strategy guides for their games. I always check the guide to see if I have all the collectibles. This game is missing the scenes “E” and “F” illustrating the collectibles and the pictures on the last page of the strategy guide are out of order.
MECHANICS:
• Four (4) levels of play including a customized version.
• 39 achievements.
• Collect 15 morphing figurines and 15 feathers to decorate dreamcatchers
• Collect 70 potions to exchange for items to outfit a witch’s hut
• 11 wallpapers along with concept art, music, and video sequences
• Replay 18 HOP scenes and 17 mini-games
• Four (4) levels of play including a customized version.
• 39 achievements.
• Collect 15 morphing figurines and 15 feathers to decorate dreamcatchers
• Collect 70 potions to exchange for items to outfit a witch’s hut
• 11 wallpapers along with concept art, music, and video sequences
• Replay 18 HOP scenes and 17 mini-games
BONUS CHAPTER: It is a sequel, years after the main game. After settling down to wedded bliss, Mark and Riviera, have a daughter, Canissa, who is preparing to marry Prince Wolfus. However, on the day of the wedding, Canissa is abducted by a wolf. As Prince Wolfus, you are off to rescue your bride. I found this a decent bonus game. There are five (5) HOP scenes and seven (7) mini-games. There is an incredibly beautiful HOP scene in this chapter, one which features bird nests with a wide array of colorful eggs. To me, this is chapter well-worth the collector’s edition designation.
HOP SCENES: There are eighteen (18) HOP scenes, all of which can be replayed upon completion of the game. A thematic Match-3 game can be played instead of the scenes. Although they are best-known for their puzzles, in my opinion, Domini provides the most creatively designed HOP scenes of all the other vendors. There is a wide variety of different styles, and all are thematic and highly interactive. My favorite scene is one in which three colored lenses provide three different scenes. This scene usually has the player searching for items; however, in this scene, the player must return items back into the scene and determine which scene the item should be located. I found this one somewhat challenging.
MINI-GAMES: There are twenty-five (25) mini-games, seventeen (17) of which can be replayed upon completion of the game. However, one of the puzzles, a map puzzle which has the player choosing paths to take throughout the town contains three additional puzzles within it. As in other games, most of the puzzles can be played in either an easy or hard version.
SPOILERS: HERE ARE SOME OF THE MINI-GAMES FROM THE GAME: (E = Easy; H = Hard)
A. E/H. Maze/Gear puzzle. Move an owl along the paths of a maze using gears to change the paths. Some paths may need to be revisited several times The hard version has more gears within the maze.
B. E/H. Sequence puzzle. Play a melody on a harp by plucking strings sequentially using hints written in a music book. If correct, you will fill in one musical item on the side of the harp. In the easy version there are 3 to locate and in the hard version there are 5.
C. E/H. Connection puzzle. On a stained-glass window, move a bee so it passes through each square once without retracing steps. The hard version requires formulating a more complex path to cover each square
D. E/H. Assembly puzzle. Move funnels into position to allow a stream of sap to flow down a tree trunk and into a container. The easy version has more funnels within the proper position whereas the hard version has them well-jumbled
E. Climb every mountain. Scale up a cliff by moving hand and feet icons to spots on the cliff. 4X
F. Bullseye. Adjust 2 bullseyes so they connect with each other using 3 sliders to adjust them. 3X
G. Matching puzzle. Locate 54 pairs of inedible berries.
H. E/H. Connection puzzle. Move stair steps back and forth so that lines imprinted upon them connect bowls at the bottom with 2 at the top of the grid. The easy version has 3 bowls at the bottom and the hard has 4 at the bottom.
BONUS CHAPTER:
I. E/H. Pull on colored cords up-and-down until each one aligns with a matching, colored circle on the left side of the grid. Moving one cords affects the others. The easy version has 5 cords, and the hard version has 7.
J. E/H. Matching puzzle. Rotate a circular grid on a tree so that gears with cutouts can fit on top of the shapes on the grid. The easy version has 8 of reach and the hard version has 10.
K. Paint by Number. Paint a picture as per a given diagram.
B. E/H. Sequence puzzle. Play a melody on a harp by plucking strings sequentially using hints written in a music book. If correct, you will fill in one musical item on the side of the harp. In the easy version there are 3 to locate and in the hard version there are 5.
C. E/H. Connection puzzle. On a stained-glass window, move a bee so it passes through each square once without retracing steps. The hard version requires formulating a more complex path to cover each square
D. E/H. Assembly puzzle. Move funnels into position to allow a stream of sap to flow down a tree trunk and into a container. The easy version has more funnels within the proper position whereas the hard version has them well-jumbled
E. Climb every mountain. Scale up a cliff by moving hand and feet icons to spots on the cliff. 4X
F. Bullseye. Adjust 2 bullseyes so they connect with each other using 3 sliders to adjust them. 3X
G. Matching puzzle. Locate 54 pairs of inedible berries.
H. E/H. Connection puzzle. Move stair steps back and forth so that lines imprinted upon them connect bowls at the bottom with 2 at the top of the grid. The easy version has 3 bowls at the bottom and the hard has 4 at the bottom.
BONUS CHAPTER:
I. E/H. Pull on colored cords up-and-down until each one aligns with a matching, colored circle on the left side of the grid. Moving one cords affects the others. The easy version has 5 cords, and the hard version has 7.
J. E/H. Matching puzzle. Rotate a circular grid on a tree so that gears with cutouts can fit on top of the shapes on the grid. The easy version has 8 of reach and the hard version has 10.
K. Paint by Number. Paint a picture as per a given diagram.
I recommend this game!
A mysterious bartender gives extraordinary guidance to those in need.
Overall rating
5
/
5
101 of 184 found this review helpful
ELEPHANT IS ON THE RIGHT PATH WITH THIS INNOVATIVE NEW SERIES
PostedDecember 30, 2021
sunnyglow
fromIs this game Elephant’s salvation? Hopefully, Elephant will continue down this path, giving the player more choices as to the direction their games will take.
Skill Level:Expert
Favorite Genre(s):Hidden Object
REVIEW BASED UPON THE ENTIRE GAME
4 Chapters Plus a Bonus Chapter – Strategy Guide: 30 pages (My Time: 5 Hours)
4 Chapters Plus a Bonus Chapter – Strategy Guide: 30 pages (My Time: 5 Hours)
Feeling you are going down the wrong path in life? Are you finding yourself at a crossroads? Do you need direction as to how to solve dilemmas about your life? You may find salvation at the Crossroads Bar, a place situated between nowhere and everywhere. You hostess will be Mistress Eve, who, with a flick of her quill, will try to rewrite the story of your life without changing your fate.
For me, this is one of the best games Elephant has produced. Hopefully, this is not a one-game series as I would love to see more games forthcoming. I loved playing this game and it is different from anything they have done in the past. It is nice to see Elephant Games move in a new direction and try their hand at something different than detective stories and sugary tales of love and romance. I never replay HOPA games; however, this is one I will replay to increase my score in the game!
The story is well-written. There are three different tales portrayed in a comic book setting. The subject, a social worker who is suffering from erroneous decisions he made in his life, is taken into the world of comics where he must meet three trials to see if he can succeed in redeeming himself and choosing a path to redemption. There are three (3) comic book tales, and the player can play them in any order he chooses. This game reminds me somewhat of the “Creepshow” franchise.
What I enjoy the most in this game is the ability to make choices which influence how the game will proceed. The choices will not significantly change the game framework, but it will change it slightly. At the end of the game, the player is evaluated as to his success. The player is also allowed to return to each of the comic book tales and try to better his score.
There are two collectibles, puzzle pieces and comic books. I found both easy to locate within the game. The puzzles pieces provide a jigsaw puzzle to complete at the end of the game and the comic books provide a narrative concerning Mistress Eve and how she was able to become a source to guide mortals to the right path. I did not find this game scary nor a psychological thriller. To me, it is more of a morality tale of redemption.
MECHANICS:
• Four (4) levels of play including a customized version.
• 12 achievements. Some with multiple parts
• Collect 24 puzzle pieces and 12 comic books
• 6 wallpapers and screenshots, along with concept art, music, and video sequences
• Secret room which contains a jigsaw puzzle to complete upon the end of the game.
• Expedition Room which allows the player to return to scenes and locate missing collectibles
• Archives room which contains 13 HOP scenes and 13 Mini-games which can be replayed.
• 12 achievements. Some with multiple parts
• Collect 24 puzzle pieces and 12 comic books
• 6 wallpapers and screenshots, along with concept art, music, and video sequences
• Secret room which contains a jigsaw puzzle to complete upon the end of the game.
• Expedition Room which allows the player to return to scenes and locate missing collectibles
• Archives room which contains 13 HOP scenes and 13 Mini-games which can be replayed.
BONUS CHAPTER: Mistress Eve’s quill, one which she uses to write stories to rectify the lives of humans, has disappeared. Play this deity of balance as she tries to retrieve this quill which has fallen into the wrong hands of one of the comic world’s denizens. The comic world is in chaos with stories and scenes being switched. The perpetrator is in trouble as well. Help her restore order to the world of comics. This is a nice addition to the game and sets up the next story in the series. (And I do hope there is another game in this series). There are five (5) HOP scenes and six (6) mini-games.
HOP SCENES: It is always difficult for me to define what Elephant considers a HOP scene. Some of their “scenes” consist of no more than searches for six or less items which I call “mini-HOP” scenes. However, I counted sixteen (16) which I consider standard HOP scenes, thirteen (13) of which can be replayed upon completion of the game. For me, these are some of the best scenes I have seen from Elephant. There are some creatively designed scenes within the game. In one, the player uses binoculars to search for items. Another scene uses cars on a Ferris Wheel which move into position for the player to search for items within them.
MINI-GAMES: There are seventeen (17) mini-games, thirteen (13) of which can be replayed upon completion of the game. There are not as many mini-games as in other games; however, for me, I would rather play a creatively designed game which has a good story and a good pace than one which is heavy laden with puzzles and is boring and slow-paced.
SPOILERS: HERE ARE SOME OF THE MINI-GAMES AFTER DEMO: (IN NO PARTICULAR ORDER AS THE 3 CHAPTERS CAN BE PLAYED IN ANY ORDER)
A. Maze puzzle. Move a car down a road avoiding trees and obstacles within its path.
B. Escape puzzle. Lead a comic book character out of a grid by moving one space-at-a-time avoiding evil skeletons in her path.
C. Switch puzzle. Switch origami animals so their shadows match up with the stained-glass figures on a window.
BONUS CHAPTER
D. Rotating disks puzzle. Rotate 3 disks to restore an image.
E. Strategy puzzle. On a diamond-shaped grid, press on buttons on the grid to light them up so that the number of lights surrounding each button matches the number next to it.
F. Card game puzzle. Play a card game where both you and the dealer expose your cards at the same time and the higher card wins. Play until your 5 cards of good qualities defeats your opponent’s bad quality cards.
G. Switch puzzle. Switch pipe pieces to restore water flow within a water system.
B. Escape puzzle. Lead a comic book character out of a grid by moving one space-at-a-time avoiding evil skeletons in her path.
C. Switch puzzle. Switch origami animals so their shadows match up with the stained-glass figures on a window.
BONUS CHAPTER
D. Rotating disks puzzle. Rotate 3 disks to restore an image.
E. Strategy puzzle. On a diamond-shaped grid, press on buttons on the grid to light them up so that the number of lights surrounding each button matches the number next to it.
F. Card game puzzle. Play a card game where both you and the dealer expose your cards at the same time and the higher card wins. Play until your 5 cards of good qualities defeats your opponent’s bad quality cards.
G. Switch puzzle. Switch pipe pieces to restore water flow within a water system.
I recommend this game!
Can you uncover who’s behind the haunting of the McKirk estate?
Overall rating
4
/
5
122 of 189 found this review helpful
DECK THE HALLS WITH MURDER
PostedDecember 23, 2021
sunnyglow
fromDeck the halls with murder? While you are eating your Christmas turkey or goose, remember somebody committed a murder most “fowl!”
Skill Level:Expert
Fun Factor
4
/
5
Visual/Sound Quality
5
/
5
Level of Challenge
3
/
5
Storyline
4
/
5
REVIEW BASED UPON THE ENTIRE GAME
5 Chapters Plus a Bonus Chapter – Strategy Guide: 47 pages (My Time: 5 Hours)
5 Chapters Plus a Bonus Chapter – Strategy Guide: 47 pages (My Time: 5 Hours)
Super sleuth, Sharlotte Holmes, (Sherlock’s copycat relative), returns in another whodunit! Discover who is behind a rash of robberies at an old English manor, the McKirk Estate. Are ghosts involved, or could there be a less ethereal, flesh-and-blood culprit behind the missing McKirk jewels? Unfortunately, this case will develop into more than theft - find yourself investigating a murder as well. Can ghosts commit murder? Enjoy your romp in the English countryside as you deal with the estate’s conniving butler and rude staff. Watch out for "ghosts" as well!
This is a nice relaxing game for detectives of all ages. This is an “okay” game. I use the word, “okay,” because there is nothing spectacular nor sensational about this game; however, it is a decent game. For me, it is a nice change from the overabundance of sugary, glittery Christmas fare. I welcomed playing a game which did not reek of angels, goody two-shoe elves, Rudolf, Santa, nor a ton of tempting pictures of high-calorie, sugary delights. After being “over-glitterized,” and Christmas caroled to death, having a good detective game to play was a nice change of pace and a treat!
The game has the same format as Elephant’s other games. There are two collectibles, detective paraphernalia, and puzzle pieces which produce a picture at the end of the game. I found the picture pieces easy to locate; however, it seems that this developer along several others have begun designing collectibles which appear smaller and smaller within the scenes - in other words, hard to see. I realize this is a detective game; however, I don’t’ want to use a magnifying glass to search for collectibles, nor do I wish to go blind. Again, I make my plea to this developer to please make those collectibles easier to see within the scenes. The game is short, but I feel it has a good pace throughout. It is not the best game this developer has produced; however, it is a decent game and a nice whodunit for those who enjoy this type of game.
BONUS CHAPTER: Detective Holmes is off on another case involving a hotel, the Tower Bridge Guest House, which may be housing some criminal elements. Uncover the secrets of this guest house. I uncovered a chapter which is identical to the main game. Continue to search for the hard-to-see collectibles. There are four (4) HOP scenes plus a few mini-HOP scenes with searches for six items. There are five (5) mini-games. Personally, I had a difficult time assessing what the story was about in this chapter. To me, there seems to be a lack of clarification of the storyline at the beginning of the chapter.
MECHANICS:
• Four (4) levels of play including a customized version.
• 19 achievements.
• Collect 12 items belonging to Sharlotte Holmes.
• Collect 23 puzzle pieces which create a picture upon completion of the game.
• 7 wallpapers along with concept art, music, and video sequences
• Expedition room allows the player to return to scenes to retrieve missed collectibles.
• Replay 13 HOP scenes and 13 mini-games hidden within the Archives room.
• Four (4) levels of play including a customized version.
• 19 achievements.
• Collect 12 items belonging to Sharlotte Holmes.
• Collect 23 puzzle pieces which create a picture upon completion of the game.
• 7 wallpapers along with concept art, music, and video sequences
• Expedition room allows the player to return to scenes to retrieve missed collectibles.
• Replay 13 HOP scenes and 13 mini-games hidden within the Archives room.
HOP SCENES: There thirteen (13) HOP scenes, all of which can be replayed upon completion of the game. In my opinion, they are standard fare, lackluster in comparison to those from other developers. They include scenes with standard lists of items, silhouette scenes, story centered scenes which flush out the story behind the game, and matching scenes. There are also quite a few mini-HOP scenes with searches for six items.
MINI-GAMES: There are twenty (20) mini-games, thirteen (13) which can be replayed upon completion of the game. They are easy puzzles and ones which have appeared in other games in one variation or another. I thought two were somewhat creative. I enjoyed an escape puzzle in which the player must encircle a fishing rod with a net so it cannot escape the grid. The net has squares which cover several squares of the grid. I thought that was a unique approach to this puzzle. The other I enjoyed is a connection puzzle in which the player must recreate a given image by connecting dots within the grid to defeat a criminal. However, overall, I was not enthralled with puzzles within the game.
SPOILERS: HERE ARE SOME OF THE MINI-GAMES AFTER THE DEMO:
A. Gear puzzle. Switch gears which have picture fragments on them, so they restore the complete image.
B. Assembly puzzle. Create medicine by following given instructions. 3X
C. Block puzzle. Create a path for a fastener to reach the end of a grid by pushing blocks out of the way to create a path.
D. Switch puzzle. Switch two rows of clamps (8 on each side) so that each two which face each other mesh.
E. Escape puzzle. Surround a fishing rod in the “water” by using a net to enclose it so it cannot escape. The net will close off squares within the grid There are only 6 moves to trap the item so it cannot escape
F. Connection Puzzle. Create a given pattern on a grid with dots. If you fail 3 times the game restarts. 6 images
BONUS CHAPTER:
G. Sequence puzzle. Move gems on a peacock to the top of the plumage so that all are on top. Moving one affects the others.
H. Picture puzzle. Rotate and place hexagonal picture fragments into position to restore a picture on a hexagonal shaped grid.
I. Chess puzzle. Use a knight to defeat a queen on a chessboard. 2X
B. Assembly puzzle. Create medicine by following given instructions. 3X
C. Block puzzle. Create a path for a fastener to reach the end of a grid by pushing blocks out of the way to create a path.
D. Switch puzzle. Switch two rows of clamps (8 on each side) so that each two which face each other mesh.
E. Escape puzzle. Surround a fishing rod in the “water” by using a net to enclose it so it cannot escape. The net will close off squares within the grid There are only 6 moves to trap the item so it cannot escape
F. Connection Puzzle. Create a given pattern on a grid with dots. If you fail 3 times the game restarts. 6 images
BONUS CHAPTER:
G. Sequence puzzle. Move gems on a peacock to the top of the plumage so that all are on top. Moving one affects the others.
H. Picture puzzle. Rotate and place hexagonal picture fragments into position to restore a picture on a hexagonal shaped grid.
I. Chess puzzle. Use a knight to defeat a queen on a chessboard. 2X
I recommend this game!
Bring an end to the Swamp Witch’s terror!
Overall rating
5
/
5
127 of 200 found this review helpful
OFF ON A WITCH HUNT TO DRAIN THE SWAMP
PostedDecember 18, 2021
sunnyglow
fromThis game proves that nothing is worse than a witch with a bad attitude! These two witches woke up (resurrected) on the wrong side of the broom!
Skill Level:Expert
Fun Factor
5
/
5
Visual/Sound Quality
5
/
5
Level of Challenge
5
/
5
Storyline
5
/
5
REVIEW BASED UPON THE ENTIRE GAME
3 Chapters Plus a Bonus Chapter – Strategy Guide: 45 pages (My Time: 7 Hours)
3 Chapters Plus a Bonus Chapter – Strategy Guide: 45 pages (My Time: 7 Hours)
Get your amulets charged and head off to the town of Liberville to partake in a witch hunt in this premiere game in a new series. Play a royal advisor to the king who investigates unusual happenings within the kingdom. In this game, you will get two witches for the price of one – a pretty, nasty one in the main game and an ugly crone in the bonus chapter! Hopefully you can drain the swamp of these two hags causing chaos in the kingdom.
This game follows the same pattern as previous games from this developer. There are three collectibles, amulets, morphing witch’s belongings, and coins. I found most easy to locate; however, I did feel some were too small to be identified. I do hope Domini will enlarge the collectibles in future games. The coins are used to purchase items for a witch’s garden upon completion of the game. The stories are well-written for both the main game and the bonus chapter. I found the pace excellent with plenty of activities within this game. As always, Domini provides more game for the money with an incredible number of creatively designed puzzles and ingenious HOP scenes.
In summary, for the cost, and in comparing this game to other developers’ games, this game is well-worth the price for the entertainment value. For those who love puzzles (like me) these "puzzlemeisters" provide an exceptional number of creatively designed puzzles, most which can be played in an easy version for a light-hearted, easy, breezy game or in a hard version for those wanting more challenge. Although they are best-known for their puzzles design, I found the HOP scenes in this game ingeniously designed. This is my favorite designer and seldom am I disappointed in the quality of their games.
MECHANICS:
• Four (4) levels of play including a customized version.
• 38 achievements.
• Collect 15 amulets and 15 morphing witch’s belongings
• Collect 65 witch’s coins used to purchase items for a Witch’s Garden
• 10 wallpapers along with concept art, music, and video sequences
• Replay 18 HOP scenes and 18 mini-games
• 38 achievements.
• Collect 15 amulets and 15 morphing witch’s belongings
• Collect 65 witch’s coins used to purchase items for a Witch’s Garden
• 10 wallpapers along with concept art, music, and video sequences
• Replay 18 HOP scenes and 18 mini-games
BONUS CHAPTER: It is sequel. As the king’s advisor you are off to Rainville, a town plagued by bad weather, the result of another nasty witch out for revenge. This story is a continuation of the story from the main game. There are five (5) HOP scenes and seven (7) mini-games. I found the story a nice sequel to the original game with activities like those within the main game. This is a long chapter and a nice addition to the game.
HOP SCENES: There are eighteen (18) HOP scenes, all of which can be replayed upon completion of the game. Again, Domini provides more variety in creation of their HOP scenes than any other HOPA game designer. I have several favorites in this game. In one scene, the player must place items used to create a potion on the proper numbered squares. Another favorite of mine involves locating fluttering butterflies – just incredibly beautiful. Another has morphing frogs which I found amusing – Ribbit! Most have more than one scene in which to search for items and I loved one in which scenes are brought down using ropes.
MINI-GAMES: There are twenty-seven (27) mini-games, eighteen (18) of which can be replayed upon completion of the game. Most can be played in an easy version for a hard version. This can bet set in the menu, but the difficulty can be changed if the puzzle proves to be too easy or too difficult.
SPOILERS: HERE ARE SOME OF THE 27 MINI-GAMES FROM THIS GAME: (E = Easy; H = Hard)
A. Assembly puzzle. Place boards into position to create a set of stairs with no gaps between the boards. Correctly placed, boards stay level.
B. E/H. Maze puzzle. Ride a horse. Ride a horse while avoiding obstacles in your path. Hard version has more obstacles blocking your path
C. E/H. Switch puzzle. On six circles, each with 4 flowers, rotate them so that flowers which are next to each other are the same. In the hard version, you must not only rotate the circles to match up the flower but you must switch the circles as well to get it to work properly.
D. E/H. Position gems on bracelets so they match up to a given image. Gems can move up-and-down on the bracelets using arrows. You can also switch gems within the same row. The easy version has 3 bracelets and the hard version has 4.
BONUS CHAPTER:
E. Map puzzle. Find a way out of a forest avoiding obstacles in your path. Pick up items along the way to help maneuver through the forest.
F. E/H. Connection puzzle. Use the rays of a lantern to scare away cave creatures. All pairs of eyes must be hit by the rays. The hard version has more eyes to connect to the rays of light
G. E/H. Sequence puzzle. Click on 4 lions in the proper sequence following a given guide. The hard version has a more complex sequence to follow.
H. E/H. Climb up a cliff to get to the top choosing the correct objects. If you choose wrong stone or stump, you restart. The hard version has more choices to ponder.
B. E/H. Maze puzzle. Ride a horse. Ride a horse while avoiding obstacles in your path. Hard version has more obstacles blocking your path
C. E/H. Switch puzzle. On six circles, each with 4 flowers, rotate them so that flowers which are next to each other are the same. In the hard version, you must not only rotate the circles to match up the flower but you must switch the circles as well to get it to work properly.
D. E/H. Position gems on bracelets so they match up to a given image. Gems can move up-and-down on the bracelets using arrows. You can also switch gems within the same row. The easy version has 3 bracelets and the hard version has 4.
BONUS CHAPTER:
E. Map puzzle. Find a way out of a forest avoiding obstacles in your path. Pick up items along the way to help maneuver through the forest.
F. E/H. Connection puzzle. Use the rays of a lantern to scare away cave creatures. All pairs of eyes must be hit by the rays. The hard version has more eyes to connect to the rays of light
G. E/H. Sequence puzzle. Click on 4 lions in the proper sequence following a given guide. The hard version has a more complex sequence to follow.
H. E/H. Climb up a cliff to get to the top choosing the correct objects. If you choose wrong stone or stump, you restart. The hard version has more choices to ponder.
I recommend this game!
Can you break a curse in time to save Christmas?
Overall rating
3
/
5
152 of 220 found this review helpful
ALL DRESSED UP FOR CHRISTMAS BUT LACKING THE SPIRIT
PostedDecember 16, 2021
sunnyglow
fromIf the second star to the right and straight on till morning takes you to Never Never Land, what is the route to Christmasland?
Skill Level:Expert
Fun Factor
3
/
5
Visual/Sound Quality
4
/
5
Level of Challenge
3
/
5
Storyline
4
/
5
REVIEW BASED UPON THE ENTIRE GAME
4 Chapters Plus a Bonus Chapter – Strategy Guide: 34 pages (My Time: 7 Hours)
4 Chapters Plus a Bonus Chapter – Strategy Guide: 34 pages (My Time: 7 Hours)
You are off to Christmasland; however, your trip will not be filled with the warmth and merriment of the Christmas spirit. Your nephew, Peter Pan Junior, has contacted you as his last hope to save his land from a winter curse. This curse has caused the inhabitants to become angry and aggressive. Now with the help of your nephew and his pixie, you must try to restore the inhabitants to their former selves and the land to its congenial happiness.
This game is loosely based on the Peter Pan story with many of its characters taken from the original story. It is decked out in Christmas fare, but, to me, lacks the spirit of the season. I did enjoy the game and loved the whimsy of the adorable kittenish pixies; however, to me, this game has nothing to do with the spirit of Christmas. To me, it is more of a fairy tale game than a Christmas game. I also believe some might find it “surprising” that, according to the game, the Christmas holiday originated within this land and is the “reason for the season.”
This is not my favorite Christmas game this year and to me, not nearly as good as the other two games. I was shocked this was designated as an editor’s choice game. I found some of the HOP scenes were repeated and many are not well-designed. This is a long game; however, I also feel that there is a lot of filler to make the game longer. This filler made the game boring in some places. It did not get me into the Christmas spirit as the other games did. There is no Christmas background music nor message. The story has nothing to do with Christmas. Nevertheless, it is a good family game which can be enjoyed by everyone. Most of the puzzles are easy making it an easy play.
The game is set in the same format as other games by this developer. There are two collectibles, morphing stockings and pixies. Each scene has two of each. I found some difficult to locate and needed to search the strategy guide to locate some of those collectibles. At the end of the game if all collectibles are found, the player can play another HOP scene which is timed. There is helper in this game – a pixie which sits on the inventory bar and charges personal items with pixie dust to help restore good memories.
MECHANICS:
• Four (4) levels of play including a customized version.
• 26 achievements – some with 3 parts.
• Collect 50 morphing stockings and 50 pixies
• There are 2 collectibles within each scene.
• 6 wallpapers and 5 screensavers along with concept art, music, and video sequences
• Replay 17 HOP scenes and 10 Mini-games
• Helper pixie who sits at the left side of the inventory bar
• Four (4) levels of play including a customized version.
• 26 achievements – some with 3 parts.
• Collect 50 morphing stockings and 50 pixies
• There are 2 collectibles within each scene.
• 6 wallpapers and 5 screensavers along with concept art, music, and video sequences
• Replay 17 HOP scenes and 10 Mini-games
• Helper pixie who sits at the left side of the inventory bar
BONUS CHAPTER: It is a sequel. In celebration of Christmas, Junior wants to celebrate the holiday in grand fashion. Junior along this his two friends are each responsible for providing something to make the celebration fantastic. The chapter is divided into three (3) activities, one assigned to Junior and one each to his two friends, Amelia, and Fang. These chapter sections can be played in any order the player wishes. Amelia is responsible for providing the food, Fan is responsible for creating figurines used as presents, and you, as Junior, are responsible for creating an ice rink. I found this chapter creatively designed and I feel it does a better job of providing the Christmas spirit than the main game. There are ten (10) mini-games and seven (7) HOP scenes.
HOP SCENES: I had a difficult time ascertaining what this developer considers a HOP scene. I counted twenty-two (22) HOP scenes, seventeen (17) of which can be replayed upon completion of the game. There are also several mini-HOP scenes which have small number of items to be search for within the scenes. They are varied in style. I must admit some of the scenes are creatively designed. I loved the one with the farm animals and the bonus scene provided at the end of the game. There is a wide range of scenes such as lists of items, silhouette, matching, and rebus clues. There are scenes in which items are to be placed into the scene.
MINI-GAMES: There are forty-three (43) mini-games; however only ten (10) can be replayed at the end of the game. I cannot believe with all these mini-games in the game, the developer did not provide more for replay. Unbelievable! There are some which can be played in either a casual or hard version. However, for the most part, I found most of the puzzles easy. There is one repetitive slider puzzle which is used to narrate the story of the characters who have been affected by the winter curse. Sliders are switched to provide 3 different pictures for each of five (5) different characters. Each picture, once completed, provides a background narrative for the characters.
SPOILERS: HERE ARE SOME OF THE MIN-GAMES AFTER THE DEMO:
A. Casual/Hard Strategy puzzle. Arrange scarves on rows and columns so no row nor column contains the same color nor symbol. The casual version has 5 rows and 4 columns. The hard version has 5 rows and 5 columns
B. Mathematical puzzle. Find how many of each food item are needed to fill a basket by figuring out a given mathematical equation.
C. Assembly puzzle. Using logic, figure out the sequence and symmetry on each string of ornaments on a tree, then place given ornaments into position to fill empty spots.
D. Casual/Hard. Jigsaw puzzle. Assemble a map. The hard version has more pieces. Then plot a route based on given coordinates
E. Mirror puzzle. Click on lanterns so that the beams of lights radiating from them pass through each of 10 flowers
F. Connection puzzle. Pipe puzzle. Connect pipe segments so that water flows in an unbroken path from top left to bottom right
G. Maze puzzle. On a cryptex with 5 segments, rotate each segment to create a path for 3 tokens to reach their matching slots on the other end of the cryptex.
BONUS CHAPTER:
H. Rope puzzle. Move knots on a rope so that no parts of the rope touch each other.
I. Checkers puzzle. Switch sides between two sets of chips – 3 in each set – so that they are reversed in location. Tokens can only move by jumping over each other or moving one space at a time.
J. Switch puzzle. Switch books on a bookshelf so it matches a given setup on the bottom of the bookshelf
K. Paint-by-Number Puzzle. Paint 4 figures according to a given diagram
B. Mathematical puzzle. Find how many of each food item are needed to fill a basket by figuring out a given mathematical equation.
C. Assembly puzzle. Using logic, figure out the sequence and symmetry on each string of ornaments on a tree, then place given ornaments into position to fill empty spots.
D. Casual/Hard. Jigsaw puzzle. Assemble a map. The hard version has more pieces. Then plot a route based on given coordinates
E. Mirror puzzle. Click on lanterns so that the beams of lights radiating from them pass through each of 10 flowers
F. Connection puzzle. Pipe puzzle. Connect pipe segments so that water flows in an unbroken path from top left to bottom right
G. Maze puzzle. On a cryptex with 5 segments, rotate each segment to create a path for 3 tokens to reach their matching slots on the other end of the cryptex.
BONUS CHAPTER:
H. Rope puzzle. Move knots on a rope so that no parts of the rope touch each other.
I. Checkers puzzle. Switch sides between two sets of chips – 3 in each set – so that they are reversed in location. Tokens can only move by jumping over each other or moving one space at a time.
J. Switch puzzle. Switch books on a bookshelf so it matches a given setup on the bottom of the bookshelf
K. Paint-by-Number Puzzle. Paint 4 figures according to a given diagram
I recommend this game!
The bad kids are taking over the Polar Express!
Overall rating
5
/
5
134 of 248 found this review helpful
GET ON BOARD FOR A GOLDEN HOLIDAY ADVENTURE
PostedDecember 9, 2021
sunnyglow
fromHere's what we know about Santa. He sees you when you're sleeping. He knows when you're awake. He knows if you've been bad or good. I think he's with the NSA.
Skill Level:Expert
Fun Factor
5
/
5
Visual/Sound Quality
5
/
5
Level of Challenge
5
/
5
Storyline
5
/
5
REVIEW BASED UPON THE ENTIRE GAME
7 Chapters Plus a Bonus Chapter – Strategy Guide: 64 pages (My Time: 7 Hours)
7 Chapters Plus a Bonus Chapter – Strategy Guide: 64 pages (My Time: 7 Hours)
Were you good or bad this year? If you were good (and we know you were), then board the Polar Express for a trainload of Christmas good cheer! Here is your golden ticket to experience an excellent game, one to usher in the holiday season. It is decked out in holiday cheer with snow, elves, reindeer, glistening Christmas trees, oodles of toys, and Santa, of course. This is a game which can be played by the entire family. Your help will be needed by Santa this year. He will have more than his share of headaches within this game as he battles some mean boys and a disgruntled elf. And always remember - Santa knows if you've been bad or good, "so be good for goodness sake!"
As usual, Domini does not disappoint with this game. They always provide more game for the money and this one is no exception. The graphics and musical background provide a game rich in the Christmas spirit. Bright and cheerful Christmas music (repeated "12 Days of Christmas" serenades throughout the game) sets the background for this game. The game has the same format as their previous games. There are three collectibles. The collectibles are morphing Christmas items, Christmas cards, and gingerbread cookies. After the game is completed, the player can read about holiday traditions in other parts of the world on the cards. I found this a nice touch. Upon completion of the game, the gingerbread cookies can be exchanged for items to decorate a boudoir with Christmas regalia.
MECHANICS:
• Four (4) levels of play including a customized version.
• 20 achievements.
• Collect 15 Christmas cards relating information about Christmas celebrations around the world
• Collect 15 morphing Christmas items
• Collect 70 gingerbread cookies to exchange to items to decorate a boudoir
• 15 wallpapers along with concept art, music, and video sequences
• Replay 18 HOP scenes and 19 mini-games
• 20 achievements.
• Collect 15 Christmas cards relating information about Christmas celebrations around the world
• Collect 15 morphing Christmas items
• Collect 70 gingerbread cookies to exchange to items to decorate a boudoir
• 15 wallpapers along with concept art, music, and video sequences
• Replay 18 HOP scenes and 19 mini-games
BONUS CHAPTER: Become Santa’s helper as you try to save Christmas from being destroyed by one of Santa’s disgruntled employees, an elf named Georgie. Time is of the essence as you try to keep Georgie from destroying elements which create Christmas magic. There are eight (8) mini-games and five (5) HOP scenes. I found this chapter a nice Christmassy addition to the game. For me, it is a worthy addition to make this game a collector’s edition.
HOP SCENES: There are eighteen (18) HOP scenes, all of which can be replayed upon completion of the game. The scenes are jam packed with Christmas items. They are varied in style. In my opinion, Domini provides some of the most ingenious and creatively designed HOP scenes. My favorite is one in which the player reads children’s letters to Santa Claus and then chooses the present alluded to in the letter. I also enjoyed searching for holiday desserts from around the world in one of the scenes. And as in previous games, a thematic Match-3 games can be played in lieu of the puzzles.
MINI-GAMES: There are twenty-eight (28) mini-games, nineteen (19) which can be replayed upon completion of the game. The majority can be played in either an easy or hard version. As in all their games you can choose the difficulty level in the menu; however, the difficulty can be changed while playing the puzzle. They are also varied in style, and the puzzles have been created to reflect the Christmas spirit of the game.
SPOILERS: HERE ARE 12 MINI-GAMES OF CHRISTMAS APPEARING AFTER THE DEMO: (E = Easy: H = Hard)
1. Partridge in a pear tree. Map puzzle. Lead a balloon through the air avoiding birds within the path. Choose between 4 paths at the proper moment
2. Turtle Doves. E/H. Block puzzle. Move a red candy to the right end of a lock. Open the blocked paths by moving green candies to create a path for the red candy. The hard version has 2 scenes to solve.
3. French Hens. E/H. Switch puzzle. Switch boards to restore a sign. In the easy version, the player can switch the 8 boards in any order while in the hard version, the boards can only be switched with adjoining boards.
4. Calling Birds. E/H. Sequence puzzle. Press on piano keys with notes imprinted on them so they match up sequentially with those on a sheet of music. The hard version has a longer sequence of notes
5. Gold rings. E/H. Sequence puzzle. Remove interconnected bars in sequential order. The easy version has 10 bars, and the hard version has 12.
6. Geese-a-Laying. Open 4 doors to 4 rooms and search for items which are out of place, then place them into their proper locations.
7. Swans-a-Swimming. E/H. Connection puzzle. Connect snowflakes in the proper sequence until all are connected. The harder version has more snowflakes to connect
8. Maids-a-Milking. E/H. Maze puzzle. Move keys along 5 different paths so each colored key matches up with is same-colored lock. The easy version has 4 keys and hard version has 5.
9. Ladies Dancing. E/H. Matching puzzle. On a circular grid with 3 rings, match up sets of 3 lights each which are the same color until all are lit. In the hard version, the rings of lights rotate after each move
10. Lords-a-Leaping. E/H. Checkers puzzle. Capture all your opponent’s tokens. Capture them by jumping over them. The hard version starts out with one more of your opponent’s token.
11. Pipers Piping. Sequence puzzle. Enter a 5-digit code using a dial on a circular grid to point to the items. The dial can be moved 3, 5, and 7 spaces either clockwise or counterclockwise.
12. Drummers Drumming. E/H. Sequence/Assembly puzzle. Select arrows to rotate and center crystal pieces to create a flower. Pieces must be placed in the proper sequence so all fit. The hard version has more pieces to assemble
2. Turtle Doves. E/H. Block puzzle. Move a red candy to the right end of a lock. Open the blocked paths by moving green candies to create a path for the red candy. The hard version has 2 scenes to solve.
3. French Hens. E/H. Switch puzzle. Switch boards to restore a sign. In the easy version, the player can switch the 8 boards in any order while in the hard version, the boards can only be switched with adjoining boards.
4. Calling Birds. E/H. Sequence puzzle. Press on piano keys with notes imprinted on them so they match up sequentially with those on a sheet of music. The hard version has a longer sequence of notes
5. Gold rings. E/H. Sequence puzzle. Remove interconnected bars in sequential order. The easy version has 10 bars, and the hard version has 12.
6. Geese-a-Laying. Open 4 doors to 4 rooms and search for items which are out of place, then place them into their proper locations.
7. Swans-a-Swimming. E/H. Connection puzzle. Connect snowflakes in the proper sequence until all are connected. The harder version has more snowflakes to connect
8. Maids-a-Milking. E/H. Maze puzzle. Move keys along 5 different paths so each colored key matches up with is same-colored lock. The easy version has 4 keys and hard version has 5.
9. Ladies Dancing. E/H. Matching puzzle. On a circular grid with 3 rings, match up sets of 3 lights each which are the same color until all are lit. In the hard version, the rings of lights rotate after each move
10. Lords-a-Leaping. E/H. Checkers puzzle. Capture all your opponent’s tokens. Capture them by jumping over them. The hard version starts out with one more of your opponent’s token.
11. Pipers Piping. Sequence puzzle. Enter a 5-digit code using a dial on a circular grid to point to the items. The dial can be moved 3, 5, and 7 spaces either clockwise or counterclockwise.
12. Drummers Drumming. E/H. Sequence/Assembly puzzle. Select arrows to rotate and center crystal pieces to create a flower. Pieces must be placed in the proper sequence so all fit. The hard version has more pieces to assemble
I recommend this game!