sunnyglow's Profile
Stat Summary
- Average Rating:4.3
- Helpful Votes:80,084
- Reviews Submitted:815
- First Review:November 27, 2011
- Most Recent Review:March 25, 2025
- Featured reviews0
Status:
Arthurian legends are just stories, but sometimes fiction hides the truth.
Overall rating
5
/
5
177 of 259 found this review helpful
ANOTHER HIDDEN EXPEDITION MASTERPIECE
PostedJune 17, 2021
sunnyglow
fromHurrah! For once, the collectibles did not include coins or tokens to exchange for knights, medieval armaments, or anything else to fill up some room in a museum or castle.
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: 5 hours)
4 Chapters Plus a Bonus Chapter – Strategy Guide: 48 pages (My time: 5 hours)
OPINION: Enjoy an epic, action-packed adventure researching the authenticity of the Arthurian legends. For me, this is one of the best Hidden Expedition games produced. I commend Domini on a well-written gaming script. I found the stories from both the main chapter and the bonus chapter interesting in their purview of these legends. I am not certain if the facts behind the theories purported in this game are authentic, but they do provide a unique perspective which I have never seen before.
Domini always provides more game for the money and this one is no exception. As in their other games, there are three collectibles – fact disks, shields, and souvenirs. I found most easy to locate within the scenes. At the end of the game, the player can read the fact disks to learn more about the legends and other facts covered in the game. I appreciate this aspect of this series – it is educational as well as entertaining and a great game for players of all ages. I found the graphics creatively designed. I feel it has good pace with a variety of activities. It is an easy play, and I found no errors within the game.
MECHANICS:
• Four (4) levels of play including a customized version.
• 31 achievements.
• Collect 15 fact disks, 11 shields, and 15 souvenirs.
• 10 wallpapers along with concept art, music, and video sequences.
• Replay 17 HOP scenes and 18 mini-games.
• Four (4) levels of play including a customized version.
• 31 achievements.
• Collect 15 fact disks, 11 shields, and 15 souvenirs.
• 10 wallpapers along with concept art, music, and video sequences.
• Replay 17 HOP scenes and 18 mini-games.
BONUS CHAPTER. It is a sequel. You are off to Wales to authenticate a golden cup which is believed to be part of the Arthurian legend. However, conflict will arise when a fellow H.E.L.P. colleague wants to preserve an item which is cursed. The world may be destroyed if this item is not. I found this chapter a nice addition to the main chapter. However, I was surprised that there are few collectibles to locate within this chapter. Most scenes do not have a collectible. However, there plenty of activities with five (5) HOP scenes and eight (8) puzzles.
HOP SCENES: There are eighteen (18) HOP scenes, seventeen (17) of which can be replayed at the end of the game. They include lists of items, silhouette, matching, rebus clues, spot the differences, and storybook scenes. They are highly interactive. Returning are the scenes with morphing objects. I enjoy watching the items blink within the scenes. As in other games, a Match-3 game can be played instead of the scenes.
My only complaint are the storybook scenes. Most of the scenes involve one or two historical scenes in which to locate the items. However, to me, the relationship between the item to be found and the item itself did not compute logically with me. I could understand a skull for death, but the images for “conquest” and “battle” to me in one of the scenes did not make any sense. To me, a knight, in a scene with many other knights, does not stand out as being associated with either a conquest or a battle.
MINI-GAMES: This is a puzzle lover’s dream game. There are twenty-nine (29) mini-games, eighteen (18) of which can be replayed at the end of the game. Most can be played in either an “easy” mode for an easy breezy game or in a “hard” mode for more of a challenge within the game. There are some creatively designed games. I loved the bridges and ladders puzzle and a connection puzzle involving flags on a globe. Both are unique! There is one puzzle I found somewhat challenging; however, most of the “hard” versions of the puzzles are not terribly difficult.
SPOILERS: HERE ARE SOME OF THE MINI-GAMES AFTER THE DEMO: (E = Easy; H = Hard)
A. E/H. Assembly puzzle. Position parts of two knights to match those on a given diagram. In the hard version, moving one part of a knight affects those on the other knight.
B. Bridges and ladders puzzle. Using levers, position bridges and ladders on a building to reach the top. As you position them, you will be shown the path you have created.
C. E/H. Connection puzzle. Connect flags on a globe as per a given diagram. The hard version has more flags to connect.
D. E/H. Sequence puzzle Move planets to their matching slots on a maze. Planets must be pushed in the proper sequence for all to end up at their proper slots. The hard version has two more planets to move.
E. Lock puzzle. Enter a given code for a lock on a safe.
F. E/H. Matching puzzle. Use a magnifying glass to locate molecules by moving a tablet up, down and sideways. The harder version has more molecules to locate.
G. E/H. Assembly puzzle. Place berries in a box so none overlap. The hard version has more berries to place In the box.
H. Switch/Logic puzzle. Switch shields on the Round Table as per given clues.
BONUS CHAPTER:
I. Mathematical puzzle. Using buttons to move a latch -3, -4, and +5, spaces on a grid, create an equation of moves so that a latch is removed in 7 moves.
J. Rope puzzle. Untangle a rope so no sections cross.
K. E/H. Battleship. Clear a grid of square tiles except those which conceal traps. There are numbered indicators which help deduce where traps are located.
B. Bridges and ladders puzzle. Using levers, position bridges and ladders on a building to reach the top. As you position them, you will be shown the path you have created.
C. E/H. Connection puzzle. Connect flags on a globe as per a given diagram. The hard version has more flags to connect.
D. E/H. Sequence puzzle Move planets to their matching slots on a maze. Planets must be pushed in the proper sequence for all to end up at their proper slots. The hard version has two more planets to move.
E. Lock puzzle. Enter a given code for a lock on a safe.
F. E/H. Matching puzzle. Use a magnifying glass to locate molecules by moving a tablet up, down and sideways. The harder version has more molecules to locate.
G. E/H. Assembly puzzle. Place berries in a box so none overlap. The hard version has more berries to place In the box.
H. Switch/Logic puzzle. Switch shields on the Round Table as per given clues.
BONUS CHAPTER:
I. Mathematical puzzle. Using buttons to move a latch -3, -4, and +5, spaces on a grid, create an equation of moves so that a latch is removed in 7 moves.
J. Rope puzzle. Untangle a rope so no sections cross.
K. E/H. Battleship. Clear a grid of square tiles except those which conceal traps. There are numbered indicators which help deduce where traps are located.
I recommend this game!
Follow Iselin on an adventure like no other, explore a magical land to stop the witch Aradia, find hidden objects, and solve challenging puzzles.
Overall rating
5
/
5
90 of 142 found this review helpful
A FANTASTIC, “FROG” LADEN GEM SET IN AN ENCHANTED KINGDOM
PostedJune 12, 2021
sunnyglow
fromSeeing this small FROG in a Big Fish Pond put a smile on my face. Ribbit!
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 (My Time: 5 Hours)
Ribbit! Remember FROGs (Fragmented objects games)? This game is overrun with them – one “hop-ping” up in every scene! Enjoy an exciting adventure seen through the eyes of a sixteen-year-old, Islelin, as she battles to save her world from an evil witch. This is a basic, no frills HOPA game, and for me, a nostalgic trip back in time to when HOPA games were simpler fare. It is a quality game, and although it is missing all the extras seen in the Collector Edition games, for this game, less is more. Comparing it to those from the major developers is like comparing apples to oranges. This game is not in the same league. However, for the price, it is a little gem, especially for those who miss FROG games.
There are no extras in this game. There is no strategy guide, nor bonus chapter. There are no puzzles to replay (although I wish there were), and no achievements. However, the player has the choice of 4 levels of play. The map is crucial in this game as it informs and transports the player to where there is an action or activity which needs to be performed. I feel that graphics are beautiful, and a great deal of work went into designing this game. It is a nice, no frills HOP game, and to me, it was a joy to play.
There are thirteen (13) HOP scenes within the game. You search for fragments of some inventory item. I found some of those difficult to locate within the scenes. Many are well-hidden. There are eighteen (18) puzzles as well. I feel the puzzles are creatively designed. There is a nice variety of puzzles from easy to difficult. The puzzles in this game are as good as, or better than, those in the collector edition games from some of the major developers.
The best part of the game, for me, was where I began the game. I played the beta for this game and was pleasantly surprised the downloaded game remembered me from the beta. The game started where I left off at the end of the beta. I wish more games from other developers would provide this feature. The one think I dislike is having to replay the beginning of the game (the demo) which I already played as the beta. Nevertheless, anyone can start the game at the beginning. Watch out for your inventory! If you collect too many inventory items, you will be forced to use them before being able to collect any more.
VERIDICT: For the price, this game is a steal. It is a piece of nostalgia for those of us who remember HOPA games without all the “extras.” For FROG lovers, this is must-have! For puzzle-lovers, there are some little gems in this game and at least one which is a nail biter. Seven Sails has done an excellent job with this game and personally, I hope BFG will offer more of their HOPA games in the future.
SPOILERS: HERE ARE SOME OF THE 18 PUZZLES WITHIN THIS GAME:
A. Coloring/strategy puzzle. Color triangular segments of a large triangle so every color has four squares colored and the shape of those four squares are different from each other.
B. Gear puzzle. Rotate gears so each red mark on a gear is next to a red mark on the grid.
C. Rope puzzle. Adjust candles attached to ropes so none of the ropes cross each other.
D. Weights and balances puzzle. Place weighted bird statues on 5 scales so that all the birds, when placed, are level with each other. Green lights will light up when each bird is placed correctly.
E. Rotating tiles puzzle. Rotate 3 rings so that colored roses are next to one of a matching color on the outside of the grid.
F. Chess/Strategy Puzzle. Reverse the positions of 6 tokens (3 on the right and 3 on the bottom of a grid). Clicking on each token provides several positions for it to move on the grid (or zero as well). Move the tokens into different positions until they are reversed from the original layout.
B. Gear puzzle. Rotate gears so each red mark on a gear is next to a red mark on the grid.
C. Rope puzzle. Adjust candles attached to ropes so none of the ropes cross each other.
D. Weights and balances puzzle. Place weighted bird statues on 5 scales so that all the birds, when placed, are level with each other. Green lights will light up when each bird is placed correctly.
E. Rotating tiles puzzle. Rotate 3 rings so that colored roses are next to one of a matching color on the outside of the grid.
F. Chess/Strategy Puzzle. Reverse the positions of 6 tokens (3 on the right and 3 on the bottom of a grid). Clicking on each token provides several positions for it to move on the grid (or zero as well). Move the tokens into different positions until they are reversed from the original layout.
I recommend this game!
Can you solve a sinister mystery in time to save your nuptials?
Overall rating
3
/
5
95 of 167 found this review helpful
A SERIES FINALE AND NEW BEGINNINGS
PostedJune 10, 2021
sunnyglow
fromHopefully, the death of this series will open a portal to new ones from this developer.
Skill Level:Expert
Fun Factor
3
/
5
Visual/Sound Quality
4
/
5
Level of Challenge
3
/
5
Storyline
3
/
5
REVIEW BASED UPON THE ENTIRE GAME
3 Chapters Plus a Bonus Chapter – Strategy Guide: 23 pages (My Time – 4 Hours)
3 Chapters Plus a Bonus Chapter – Strategy Guide: 23 pages (My Time – 4 Hours)
OPINION: All good things must come to an end, including this series. Paranormal detective, James Brown, and significant other, Jessica, are off to new adventures. For me, it is a tired farewell, a game which appears to have been thrown together hurriedly to tie up loose ends. In the finale, James Brown is giving up his bachelor days of investigating the paranormal with one final ghostly fling at the Hotel del Pasado. He, along with his fiancée, Jessica, travel to this hotel to tie the knot. However, a ghostly infestation will need to be cleared out before the couple can say their “I do’s.” And, of course, “until death do us part,” has no meaning to this duo. And although this series has ended, death is just another portal to Brown continuing with the Detectives United series.
This is a short game, one which I found somewhat lackluster, lacking the creativity of the earlier games from the series. The game activities revolve around investigating the hotel to locate items to perform a ritual to rid the hotel of ghosts. There is great deal of running to-and-fro throughout the hotel searching for the ritual and afterward, locating items for that ritual. Although the game is short, I feel it has some instances where it becomes tedious and somewhat boring. There are few HOP scenes and puzzles. And the ones within the game lack any unusual or creative touches to pique my interest. However, the graphics are decent and consistent with those from the other games within the series.
There are two collectibles, picture pieces to create four pictures and morphing photographs of the game characters. I found some easy to locate and a few well-hidden within the scenes. There is a bar on the right side of the screen indicating how many collectibles have been collected. There is an Expedition Room which allows the player to return to the scenes to locate missing collectibles. It is available upon completion of the game. As in their other games, there is a Secret Room which allows the player to return to the scenes to search for more items. This is timed and the player can earn rewards based on the number of items found and the time required to do so. The Strategy Guide is a complete mess! The scenes are out of sequence, and I wish this developer had placed each scene’s collectibles together. It appears that this guide was not proofread before being released with the game.
VERDICT: This is a decent but not outstanding game. It is a short game which will appeal to those who like easy play games. For me, I found some of the game boring. I do believe that if the developer had provided a few creatively designed puzzles and HOP scenes, it would have been a fantastic game. Since it is the last game in this series, it is worth playing, if for nothing more than to see what happens to James Brown and his bride. It is not a terrible game; however, to me, it is a very poor ending to what was a great series.
MECHANICS:
• Four (4) levels of play including a customized version.
• 20 achievements.
• Collect 20 puzzle pieces to create 4 pictures.
• Collect 13 morphing photos.
• 5 wallpapers along with concept art, music, and video sequences
• Replay 12 HOP scenes and 12 mini-games.
• Secret Room – Return to the scenes and search for more objects within the scenes. You are timed and can earn rewards.
• Expedition Room – Allows the player to return to the scenes to search for missing collectibles.
• Four (4) levels of play including a customized version.
• 20 achievements.
• Collect 20 puzzle pieces to create 4 pictures.
• Collect 13 morphing photos.
• 5 wallpapers along with concept art, music, and video sequences
• Replay 12 HOP scenes and 12 mini-games.
• Secret Room – Return to the scenes and search for more objects within the scenes. You are timed and can earn rewards.
• Expedition Room – Allows the player to return to the scenes to search for missing collectibles.
BONUS CHAPTER: It is a sequel. Play a young ghost who has been left behind at the hotel and is frantically searching for the portal to journey to the afterlife. His only hope rests with James Brown. I found it consistent in quality to the main game. There are five (5) HOP scenes and six (6) mini-games. I found the chapter decent but not outstanding. The quality is consistent to the main game.
HOP SCENES: There are thirteen (13) HOP scenes, twelve (12) of which can be replayed upon completion of the game. I found them nondescript, somewhat boring with little creative design. They lack the interaction seen in their other games. Most the scenes are either standard lists of items or silhouette. There are also five (5) mini-HOP scenes with searches for six (6) items each.
MINI-GAMES: There are twenty-one (21) mini-games, twelve (12) of which can be replayed upon completion of the game. All have been seen in other games. I found all the puzzles easy and lackluster in design.
SPOILERS: HERE ARE SOME OF THE 21 MINI-GAMES FROM THE GAME – THESE ARE AFTER THE DEMO:
A. Sequence puzzle. Pull keys in the proper sequence to destroy white ghosts with green smoke.
B. Switch puzzle. Switch pieces of a heart to restore its image.
C. Connection puzzle. Connect gems with each other without retracing steps.
D. Switch puzzle. Switch circular parts of a tree to restore an image of the tree.
E. Assembly puzzle. Press on piano keys to color in squares red and green in a grid so that only two highlighted ones are green, with the color red being removed completely from the grid.
BONUS CHAPTER
F. Checkers puzzle. Start with a grasshopper. Jump over the others within a grid until only one remains. 3X
G. Rotating rings puzzle. Rotate 4 diamond-shaped emblems on a typewriter, so that each square of the emblems matches a colored bead next to it.
H. Connection puzzle. Connect all gems on a cup while avoiding ghostly obstacles which will break the connection.
B. Switch puzzle. Switch pieces of a heart to restore its image.
C. Connection puzzle. Connect gems with each other without retracing steps.
D. Switch puzzle. Switch circular parts of a tree to restore an image of the tree.
E. Assembly puzzle. Press on piano keys to color in squares red and green in a grid so that only two highlighted ones are green, with the color red being removed completely from the grid.
BONUS CHAPTER
F. Checkers puzzle. Start with a grasshopper. Jump over the others within a grid until only one remains. 3X
G. Rotating rings puzzle. Rotate 4 diamond-shaped emblems on a typewriter, so that each square of the emblems matches a colored bead next to it.
H. Connection puzzle. Connect all gems on a cup while avoiding ghostly obstacles which will break the connection.
I recommend this game!
Can you undo Neptune’s deadly curse in time?
Overall rating
4
/
5
98 of 150 found this review helpful
CURSES! ANOTHER ISLAND HOLIDAY RUINED
PostedJune 3, 2021
sunnyglow
fromAfter playing this game I would like to know what happened to that “undying love” between King Charles and Ayrine?
Skill Level:Expert
Fun Factor
3
/
5
Visual/Sound Quality
4
/
5
Level of Challenge
3
/
5
Storyline
3
/
5
REVIEW BASED UPON THE ENTIRE GAME
4 Chapters Plus a Bonus Chapter – Strategy Guide: 41 pages (My Time: 8 Hours)
4 Chapters Plus a Bonus Chapter – Strategy Guide: 41 pages (My Time: 8 Hours)
OPINION: Enjoy a seafaring adventure loosely based upon the Hans Christian Anderson tale of “The Little Mermaid.” I loved the first part of this game. However, as the game progressed, the game became boring to me - mired down in the doldrums of repetitive stories and actions. The actions are the same throughout the main game. Sail from one sea monster to another attempting to return their hideous presence to their former human self. The sequence is the same. Find the monster, locate a magic pearl, give the pearl to Morgana (your storyteller helper), listen to her narrate a tale of woe about the character, play the same Match-3 game, then receive a token to return the monster to its former human self.
Curses! This whole island is cursed, and you will need to not only remove them from five characters but also locate and return an item which has a special significance to that person. By the end of the game, I was saying “Curses! How many more monsters do I need to save?” Yawn! I think this game would have been better if it were shorter or provided a little more variety in the gameplay.
One feature I did enjoy about the game is the side bar on the left which indicates how many collectibles are remaining within the scene. I do wish more developers provided this feature. The collectibles are morphing objects and game characters. Every scene has two of each. I found some were easy to locate; however, I did have problems locating a few of them. However, I enjoy a challenge and I found this a good thing. If the player locates all the characters, a map puzzle is made available to play upon completion of the game. The game has beautiful artwork. The soundtrack is the same one as in most of this developer’s games. I do hope this developer will develop a new theme song for their games.
STORY: Play Amber as she ventures off to celebrate Neptune Day on Sunshine Island with her brother, Adam. After years apart, both are excited at the reunion. This day celebrates the harmonious relationship between the sea dwellers and the inhabitants of the island. However, when the mermaid who forged the truce, Ayrine disappears, her sister mermaids believe she is dead and blame her death on the island’s residents. They have placed a curse upon the residents and since you are not a resident, you are their only hope in stopping this curse. Is Ayrine dead or is she missing? The answer rests with an evil denizen of the ocean, the Sea Witch, who has ensnared the whole island kingdom in her net of deceit.
VERDICT: This is a long game which I feel would be better if it were shorter. I did enjoy the game. I feel it is worth purchasing and playing. There are some fantastic HOP scenes and puzzles. However, to me, it is not outstanding. Sorry, but I do not feel this is worthy of an editor's choice award. There are some good features within this game; however, to me, there is a lot of filler - making the game longer through the same repetitive actions.
MECHANICS:
• Four (4) levels of play including a customized version.
• 18 achievements. (Some have 3 parts)
• 26 game scenes.
• Collect 52 morphing objects and 52 characters from the game. Every scene has 2 morphing objects and 2 characters.
• 8 wallpapers and 5 screensavers, along with concept art, music, and video sequences
• Morgana a helper sea creature who will help you when you locate and give her a magic pearl.
• Replay 20 HOP scenes and 17 mini-games.
• Four (4) levels of play including a customized version.
• 18 achievements. (Some have 3 parts)
• 26 game scenes.
• Collect 52 morphing objects and 52 characters from the game. Every scene has 2 morphing objects and 2 characters.
• 8 wallpapers and 5 screensavers, along with concept art, music, and video sequences
• Morgana a helper sea creature who will help you when you locate and give her a magic pearl.
• Replay 20 HOP scenes and 17 mini-games.
BONUS CHAPTER: It is a sequel. Play Adam, Amber’s brother, as he helps Davy Jones save his ship, the Flying Dutchman, from the ghost of Mary Reed, the ship’s former captain. Mary has been cursed by the Sea Witch and you, as Adam, must find a way to allow her to escape this curse. There are six (6) mini-games and nine (9) HOP scenes. I felt the pace dragged a little in this chapter. Nevertheless, with all the activities within this chapter, it is worthy of a collector’s edition.
HOP SCENES: There are twenty-eight (28) HOP scenes, twenty (20) of which can be replayed at the end of the game. Some of these are what I consider mini-HOP scenes, which are searches for six or less items. I feel the best part of the game are the HOP scenes. They are highly interactive. They include the standard lists of items and silhouette scenes. There are also matching scenes, rebus clues, scenes in which items are to be replaced into the proper place within the scene. There is even a FROG in the bonus chapter! A few scenes have a mini-game within them as well.
MINI-GAMES: There are thirty-eight (38) mini-games, seventeen (17) of which can be replayed upon completion of the game. There is a variety of different styles, and most are thematic. Some of the puzzles have the option to be played in either an easy or hard mode.
SPOILERS: HERE ARE A FEW OF THE 38 MINI-GAMES AFTER THE DEMO: (E = Easy; H = Hard)
A. Match 3 game. Fight a squid (Davy Jones) by filing up your bar with tokens before he does in 20 moves. (Same puzzle is played throughout the game)
B. Connection puzzle. Connect thread points with each other on an embroidery hoop without crossing lines.
C. Rope puzzle. Untangle a rope so no parts intersect with each other.
D. Switch puzzle. Switch pieces on a pocket watch to restore an image.
E. Checkers puzzle. Move colored gems on a magic wand, jumping over other gems to a free open space until all gems are in their matching slots.
F. Switch puzzle. On a circular grid switch tokens so that they are next to the two symbols which, when combined, create the image on the token.
G. Checkers puzzle. On a grid full of roses, have the roses jump over each other to a free space until only one remains.
BONUS CHAPTER:
A. E/H. Logic puzzle. Place colored fireworks into boxes as per written instructions.
B. Bullseye puzzle. Move 3 sliders into position to knock down a stalactite.
C. Maze puzzle. Find a way through a maze by choosing between 3 doors at each turn using a guide with symbols on it.
B. Connection puzzle. Connect thread points with each other on an embroidery hoop without crossing lines.
C. Rope puzzle. Untangle a rope so no parts intersect with each other.
D. Switch puzzle. Switch pieces on a pocket watch to restore an image.
E. Checkers puzzle. Move colored gems on a magic wand, jumping over other gems to a free open space until all gems are in their matching slots.
F. Switch puzzle. On a circular grid switch tokens so that they are next to the two symbols which, when combined, create the image on the token.
G. Checkers puzzle. On a grid full of roses, have the roses jump over each other to a free space until only one remains.
BONUS CHAPTER:
A. E/H. Logic puzzle. Place colored fireworks into boxes as per written instructions.
B. Bullseye puzzle. Move 3 sliders into position to knock down a stalactite.
C. Maze puzzle. Find a way through a maze by choosing between 3 doors at each turn using a guide with symbols on it.
I recommend this game!
The oracle’s strange vision portends cataclysmic destruction!
Overall rating
5
/
5
145 of 230 found this review helpful
5-STAR PLUS SCI-FI ADVENTURE DESTINED TO BECOME THE BEST GAME OF THE YEAR
PostedMay 27, 2021
sunnyglow
fromI wish I may, I wish I might – I just wish we had more games like this one which came out tonight. Such a joy to play. This one is a classic!
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: 51 pages (My Time: 8 Hours)
OPINION: Amazing! Sensational! These two adjectives cannot fully describe the quality of this game! Kudos to 5-BN for producing a sensational sci-fi adventure, a HOPA game which is destined to become a classic. To me, this game is the best HOPA game produced this year. It is a puzzle-lover’s delight. And although there are fewer HOP scenes, the ones within this game are creatively designed and puzzle-like in nature. It is a lengthy game; however, for me, the time passed quickly due to its fast pace and the multitude of puzzles and HOP scenes.
The graphics are beautiful – a work of art. The story behind the game is a well-written sci-fi thriller. There are seven (7) different collectibles with at least two per scene. Most scenes have a morphing object. I found most of the collectibles were easy to locate; however, there are some which are well-hidden. There are five (5) picture puzzles which can be played upon completion of the game. There is also a bonus puzzle which has twenty (20) levels of play – each one increasing in difficulty.
FINAL VERDICT: This is one game you will not want to miss, especially if you love sci-fi or are an avid puzzle lover! If there was only one game, I could play this year, this would be the one. It is well-worth the full price for this game. It is an exceptional game which, in my opinion, is worth more than the price I paid for it.
STORY: Join Scarlett (AKA the Purple Fox) on an adventure to save the world from destruction. Time is of the essence as she must return an Ancient, Anum Kaytel, back to Eltay Island. Only he can stop the destructive energy within a volcano from destroying the entire world.
MECHANICS:
• Four (4) levels of play including a customized version.
• 22 achievements.
• Collect 30 morphing objects.
• Collect 8 manuscripts, 7 ravens, 8 crystals balls, 8 figurines, 7 compasses, and (12 shells in the bonus chapter).
• 10 wallpapers along with concept art, music, and video sequences.
• Replay 14 mini-games.
• Play 5 picture puzzles upon completion of the game.
• Upon completion of the game, play a block puzzle with 20 different games – each one increasing in difficulty.
• Four (4) levels of play including a customized version.
• 22 achievements.
• Collect 30 morphing objects.
• Collect 8 manuscripts, 7 ravens, 8 crystals balls, 8 figurines, 7 compasses, and (12 shells in the bonus chapter).
• 10 wallpapers along with concept art, music, and video sequences.
• Replay 14 mini-games.
• Play 5 picture puzzles upon completion of the game.
• Upon completion of the game, play a block puzzle with 20 different games – each one increasing in difficulty.
BONUS CHAPTER: It is a prequel. It explains in more detail the beginning of the main game. Join the Archwitch from the main game and her aide-de-camp as they explore Eltay Island in search of sarcophagi and anything else related to the Ancients. It is a long chapter with three (3) HOP scenes and eleven (11) mini-games. Collect twelve (12) sea shells in this chapter. To me, it is fantastic bonus chapter.
HOP SCENES: There are fifteen (15) HOP scenes. They are puzzle-like in nature. They include standard lists of items and silhouette. The silhouette scenes are searches for items which, once located, are used back within the scene. Most of the scenes contain at least one mini-game and some of the scenes have two. They are highly interactive with some scenes having items well-hidden within the scenes.
MINI-GAMES: There are fifty-one (51) mini-games, fourteen (14) of which can be replayed at the end of the game. My only disappointment is that there are not more of these puzzles available to be replayed. I found the puzzles vary in difficulty with some extremely easy such imputing a code into a lock to extremely challenging. I found the last puzzle in this game somewhat difficult.
SPOILERS: HERE ARE SOME OF THE 51 PUZZLES IN THIS GAME:
A. Assembly puzzle. Rotate and move fragments of the four card suit emblems (a spade, a club,, a diamond, and a heart) so the symbols are created on four circles.
B. Switch puzzle. Switch triangular pieces to restore a picture on a mosaic.
C. Assembly puzzle. Position parts of a bug according to a given diagram.
D. Checkers puzzle. Jump over tokens until only one remains.
E. Strategy puzzle. On a 5 x 5 grid calculate moves to move 5 fish tokens so they escape through holes in nets at the top and bottom of the grid. The fish travel up-and-down until they bump into another fish token or the sides of the grid.
F. Switch puzzle. Switch numbers on a clockface so all are in their proper position. There are 3 arrows on the clock, two which allow the number to move and one which switches the numbers between two spaces.
G. Assembly puzzle. On a 5 x 5 grid, place masks so that the colors and emotions on each one are not repeated in each row and column.
H. Maze puzzle. Find a path through an underground maze.
I. Connection puzzle. Rotate all connectors so that beams of light connect all of them within a grid.
BONUS CHAPTER:
J. Mathematical puzzle. Place numbers into a 5 x 6 grid so the sum of the columns and rows equal the numbers listed at the top and sides of the grid.
K. Connection puzzle. Two for the price of one. Connect like-colored buttons on a grid without crossing lines. There are bridges within the grid to enable a line to go over it and another to go under it.
L. Assembly puzzle. On a hexagonal grid with hexagon shaped cells, use an arrow to fill in all tiles without running out of spaces nor retracing steps.
B. Switch puzzle. Switch triangular pieces to restore a picture on a mosaic.
C. Assembly puzzle. Position parts of a bug according to a given diagram.
D. Checkers puzzle. Jump over tokens until only one remains.
E. Strategy puzzle. On a 5 x 5 grid calculate moves to move 5 fish tokens so they escape through holes in nets at the top and bottom of the grid. The fish travel up-and-down until they bump into another fish token or the sides of the grid.
F. Switch puzzle. Switch numbers on a clockface so all are in their proper position. There are 3 arrows on the clock, two which allow the number to move and one which switches the numbers between two spaces.
G. Assembly puzzle. On a 5 x 5 grid, place masks so that the colors and emotions on each one are not repeated in each row and column.
H. Maze puzzle. Find a path through an underground maze.
I. Connection puzzle. Rotate all connectors so that beams of light connect all of them within a grid.
BONUS CHAPTER:
J. Mathematical puzzle. Place numbers into a 5 x 6 grid so the sum of the columns and rows equal the numbers listed at the top and sides of the grid.
K. Connection puzzle. Two for the price of one. Connect like-colored buttons on a grid without crossing lines. There are bridges within the grid to enable a line to go over it and another to go under it.
L. Assembly puzzle. On a hexagonal grid with hexagon shaped cells, use an arrow to fill in all tiles without running out of spaces nor retracing steps.
I recommend this game!
In The Wild Case, go on a first-person point-and-click adventure and explore a remote village located deep within a mysterious forest.
Overall rating
1
/
5
92 of 157 found this review helpful
A BEASTLY ADVENTURE SET IN RUSSIA
PostedMay 26, 2021
sunnyglow
fromRed eyes? Even my eyes turned red from reading all the dialogue within this game.
Skill Level:Expert
Fun Factor
1
/
5
Visual/Sound Quality
2
/
5
Level of Challenge
1
/
5
Storyline
1
/
5
STORY: You are off to a small mining town in Russia. Play Alexander Mikhailovich, a detective investigating the sudden appearance of red-eyed wild beasts who are menacing this town. The chairman of the town has contacted you because these beasts are attacking the townspeople. Now that the coal mine has been closed, the town is almost desolate with few villagers remaining. Could the abandoned coal mine hold the key to the appearance of these monsters?
OPINION. I love playing this developer’s HOPA games and was excited to see them venture into adventure games, another one of my favorite gaming genres. However, I absolutely hated this game. To me this game is a boring "snoozefest." The entire game consists of nothing more than running throughout the town and surrounding forest searching for inventory items. There are no voiceovers so the player must read every line of dialogue throughout the game and there is a lot of dialogue. In a nutshell, the player chats with the town residents and scampers back-and-forth between the scenes searching for one inventory item after another to satisfy some request by one of the game characters. Halfway through the game, I was completely bored and could not wait for the game to end.
The blurb for the game states there are puzzles to solve. Where? I found only one puzzle in this game – one involving a horseshoe which is used to open a door. The game does require strategic thinking to figure out where to go and what activities are needed to accomplish the required steps. However, it would have been a better game if the developer had included puzzles to add variety to the game, helping to break up the monotonous searches for inventory items.
For me, the graphics are depressing. The setting is a rundown town set against a depressing gray background highlighted with dark colors. I played the entire game in approximately four (4) hours which is short for an adventure game; however, for the price of the game, it is probably the right length. There are eighteen (18) achievements. I found the settings somewhat clunky. To get a windowed screen I had to disable the full screen and click on resolution to get the smaller screen. There is no strategy guide to reference while playing the game. However, there are You Tube videos which provide a walkthrough of this game.
FINAL VERDICT: “Nyet!” This is not an adventure game I recommend unless the player enjoys reading a massive amount of dialogue combined with endless searches for inventory items. All the activities are set in a depressing background of a desolate town with slum-like buildings. There are better adventure games out there. For me, it is not the price paid for the game which I regret, but rather, the time wasted playing it. And with all the fantastic adventure games out there, I do hope BFG will find better ones to offer in the future.
I don't recommend this game.
Can Camelot survive the wrath of the Green Knight?
Overall rating
5
/
5
90 of 173 found this review helpful
“THERE IS SIMPLY NOT - A LESS CONGENIAL SPOT” IN THIS CAMELOT
PostedMay 22, 2021
sunnyglow
fromNight and day I spent playing this long game about the Green Knight – all while listening to songs like “Stay the Night” by Green Day. Now it is time to call it a night!
Skill Level:Expert
Fun Factor
4
/
5
Visual/Sound Quality
4
/
5
Level of Challenge
4
/
5
Storyline
4
/
5
REVIEW BASED UPON THE ENTIRE GAME
3 Chapters Plus a Bonus Chapter – Strategy Guide: 87 pages (My time: 12 Hours)
STORY: Be prepared for a long adventure! Pack your talismans, amulets, and grimoire and transport back in time to Camelot and the court of King Arthur. As a fledgling court mage, Bliss, you are off on your first assignment. The Green Knight, the keeper of nature, believes King Arthur abducted his wife. As a result, he has turned the king to stone. However, your mentor, Merlin, does not believe this is the case. He believes Arthur’s wayward sister and arch nemesis, Morgana, may be behind the abduction as part of a plot against the king. Can you locate the Green Knight’s bride and save the kingdom from his revenge? Paraphrasing the song from the musical, “There is simply not, a less congenial spot” as Camelot in this game.
OPINON: This is an action-packed game with a good storyline and plenty of activities to keep a player engaged. There is a combination of seventy-five (75) HOP scenes and puzzles in this game. The graphics well-portray medieval England. This game is long in comparison to those from other developers. To me, this game is better than this developer’s previous game, “Pride and Prejudice: Bloodlines.” There is more variety and creativity in the HOP scenes and puzzles. I feel the pace is better as well. However, I do not feel these HOP scenes nor puzzles are as creatively designed as in other HOPA games I have played. They are decent but not spectacular. I also did not discover any glitches or errors while downloading nor playing this game.
There is only one collectible, scrolls, which I found easy to locate within the scenes. There is a sidebar on the left side of the screen indicating how many scrolls are within a scene and how many you have collected. The player receives a gimmicky glove to fight off danger which is charged by finding spells throughout the game. There are no “extras” in this game. The player cannot replay HOP scenes nor mini-games. However, there are a small number of achievements which can be earned.
WHY 5 STARS? Some will wonder why I gave this game 5 stars if I had these small complaints. I am awarding this game 5 stars not because it is an outstanding game, but rather based on the improvement seen from the developer’s previous game offered on this site. I do hope that in future games, this developer will shorten their games and concentrate on providing more creatively designed HOP scenes and puzzles along with a provision to replay some those HOP scenes and puzzles. Hope to see more HOPA games from this developer in the future!
MECHANICS:
• Four (4) levels of play including a customized version.
• 15 achievements.
• Collect 65 scrolls.
• 7 wallpapers along with concept art, music, and video sequences.
• 44 Scenes within the entire game.
• Gimmicky magic glove charged by finding spells throughout the game.
MECHANICS:
• Four (4) levels of play including a customized version.
• 15 achievements.
• Collect 65 scrolls.
• 7 wallpapers along with concept art, music, and video sequences.
• 44 Scenes within the entire game.
• Gimmicky magic glove charged by finding spells throughout the game.
BONUS CHAPTER: “Invasion of the Monsters.” Monsters have invaded the castle and have captured King Arthur and his wizard, Merlin. They have also turned the knights into statues. You must now find a grimoire to stop them and return these monsters to the portal from which they came and seal it. Afterward, discover the culprit and his motives for releasing these monsters. Continue collecting he collectibles. There are nine (9) HOP scenes and sixteen (16) mini-games. This is a long chapter, well-crafted and worth the price of a collector’s edition.
HOP SCENES. There are thirty-six (36) HOP scenes. Unlike other BFG HOP games, the player cannot replay any of the scenes. They are varied in style and somewhat creatively designed. They include standard lists of items, matching, silhouette, replacement of items back into the scene, and a search for items to be used within the scene. This variety of scenes was not present within their previous game. I found them decent and varied but none which were outstanding.
MINI-GAMES: There are thirty-nine (39) mini-games. None can be replayed at the end of the game. The puzzles are variations of those seen in other games. There are some decent puzzles within this game. They are thematic. My only complaint is that I wish I could have replayed some of them. Perhaps in the future, this developer will make this provision within their games.
MINI-GAMES: There are thirty-nine (39) mini-games. None can be replayed at the end of the game. The puzzles are variations of those seen in other games. There are some decent puzzles within this game. They are thematic. My only complaint is that I wish I could have replayed some of them. Perhaps in the future, this developer will make this provision within their games.
SPOILERS: HERE ARE A FEW OF THE 39 PUZZLES FROM THE GAME:
A. Checkers puzzle. Exchange the positions of red and blue gems on a grid so that red gems are located where the blue gems are and vice versa. Gems can jump over each other if there is an open space available.
B. Connection puzzle. Move a pretzel through a maze so that all squares are covered without retracing steps.
C. Rope puzzle. Untangle ropes so they do not cross over each other.
D. Paint puzzle. Color segments of an image so no segments of the same color are next to each other.
E. Rotating rings puzzle. Rotate 3 rings to restore an image of a dragon.
F. Math problem. Lead a blue dragon’s head and a gold dragon’s head to silver and gold tokens within a grid. You must plot the course, so both dragon heads land exactly on the tokens at the same time. The blue dragon moves 7 spaces, and the gold dragon moves 9 spaces.
BONUS CHAPTER:
G. Bullseye. Hit a monster once with a bola to kill him. Choose the right point on the monster to hit him.
H. Bullseye puzzle. Use a crystal scepter charged with energy to zap monsters within the castle.
I. Switch puzzle. Switch slats within a round shield to restore an image.
J. Sequence puzzle. Click on animals in a grid in sequence.
B. Connection puzzle. Move a pretzel through a maze so that all squares are covered without retracing steps.
C. Rope puzzle. Untangle ropes so they do not cross over each other.
D. Paint puzzle. Color segments of an image so no segments of the same color are next to each other.
E. Rotating rings puzzle. Rotate 3 rings to restore an image of a dragon.
F. Math problem. Lead a blue dragon’s head and a gold dragon’s head to silver and gold tokens within a grid. You must plot the course, so both dragon heads land exactly on the tokens at the same time. The blue dragon moves 7 spaces, and the gold dragon moves 9 spaces.
BONUS CHAPTER:
G. Bullseye. Hit a monster once with a bola to kill him. Choose the right point on the monster to hit him.
H. Bullseye puzzle. Use a crystal scepter charged with energy to zap monsters within the castle.
I. Switch puzzle. Switch slats within a round shield to restore an image.
J. Sequence puzzle. Click on animals in a grid in sequence.
I recommend this game!
Can you stop Taleville’s newest criminal from destroying the city?
Overall rating
5
/
5
124 of 194 found this review helpful
BETTING ODDS ARE THAT YOU WILL LOVE THIS GAME!
PostedMay 20, 2021
sunnyglow
from“All My Godchildren.” After this series ends, Fairy Godmother along with Snow white, the Little Mermaid, Prince Leo and the Seawitch have been cast to star in their own soap opera set in Lagoon Island.
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: 43 pages (My Time: 6 Hours)
7 Chapters Plus a Bonus Chapter – Strategy Guide: 43 pages (My Time: 6 Hours)
STORY: Armed with your magic wand, head off to Taleville to solve another crime. Be certain to pack some sparkles in your ammo bag! As Fairy Godmother, use your magical ability to help your partner-in-fighting crime, Detective Goodwin, locate “Puss in Boots,” a two-bit gambler in need of a stash of cash to pay off his gambling debts. Instead of castles, this game will see you visiting casinos and the seamier side of Taleville.
OPINON: What a fantastic game! To me, this game is better than the collector’s edition offered last week. Domini is my favorite developer and to me, this is one of the best games they have produced this year. I love this detective series and the ingenious way the developer uses fairytale characters to set the story within these detective games.
OPINON: What a fantastic game! To me, this game is better than the collector’s edition offered last week. Domini is my favorite developer and to me, this is one of the best games they have produced this year. I love this detective series and the ingenious way the developer uses fairytale characters to set the story within these detective games.
This is an action-packed game with plenty of activities. I found no errors within this game – the game for me was an easy, smooth play. There are three collectables – morphing artifacts, photos, and poker chips used to purchase items for a Fairy Room. The player receives a gimmicky wand which is charged with sparkles before it is used. Most of the puzzles have the option to be played in either an easy mode for a more casual play or in a hard mode providing more challenge for those who wish it. As with other games, the settings for the puzzles can be set in the menu but can be changed while playing the game.
MECHANICS:
• Four (4) levels of play including a customized version.
• 39 achievements.
• Collect 15 photos and 15 morphing artifacts.
• Collect 63 poker chips to outfit a Fairy Room.
• 10 wallpapers along with concept art, music, and video sequences.
• Gimmicky wand used throughout the game. Charge It with crystals you find within the scenes.
• Replay 18 HOP scenes and 18 Mini-games.
• 39 achievements.
• Collect 15 photos and 15 morphing artifacts.
• Collect 63 poker chips to outfit a Fairy Room.
• 10 wallpapers along with concept art, music, and video sequences.
• Gimmicky wand used throughout the game. Charge It with crystals you find within the scenes.
• Replay 18 HOP scenes and 18 Mini-games.
BONUS CHAPTER: Soap Opera Drama! Enter the soapy fairy tale world of Lagoon Island in which you, Fairy Godmother, have been invited to attend the wedding of the Little Mermaid and Prince Leo. Upon arrival, you discover that the bride-to-be’s father, King Newt, has been poisoned. Who could have done such a dastardly thing? As you investigate, enjoy all the drama of a fairy tale soap opera as you discover the culprit behind the crime. Enjoy this amusing melodrama as you compile evidence from the Sea Witch, Snow White, Prince Leo, and the Little Mermaid. I enjoyed this chapter immensely. There is some tongue-in-cheek humor throughout. There are five (5) HOP scenes and eight (8) mini-games. I loved the story in this chapter more than that in the main game. To me, this chapter is long and well-worth the price of a collector’s edition.
HOP SCENES: There are eighteen (18) HOP scenes, and all can be replayed upon completion of the game. I always enjoy Domini’s HOP scenes because they are so creatively designed. There is also a Match-3 game which can be played instead. The game includes standard lists of items and silhouette items. There are also some puzzle-like scenes using cryptic clues and rebus clues. There are scenes where items are located and returned to the scene to be used to collect other items. There is a beautiful mosaic scene featuring Alice in Wonderland with its characters in which mosaic pieces are placed into their proper positions. Another cleverly designed scene involves a globe in which countries and fragments of countries are placed within the globe.
MINI-GAMES: There are twenty-six (26) mini-games, eighteen (18) of which can be replayed upon completion of the game. They are thematic and vary in design and variety. I was thrilled to see a marble popper game for a change. I do not believe I have seen this puzzle in a game for some time. However, the marbles move a little too slow for my taste!
SPOILERS: HERE ARE SOME OF THE MINI-GAMES AFTER THE DEMO: (E = Easy; H = Hard)
A. E/H. Map puzzle. Use a magnifying glass on a map to locate 4 types of leaves. In the hard version you locate them in order presented.
B. E/H. Switch puzzle. On a circular grid, switch two sets of symbols on two circular disks so that each set of like symbols is next to each other. The easy version only has 6 pairs of disks and the hard has 12 pairs.
C. Switch puzzle. Switch the locations of two sets of colored yarn so they are reversed so that the pink yarn is on the right end and the blue yarn is on the left end.
D. Connection puzzle. Rotate tiles on a 4 x 4 grid (16 tiles) so the path segments on the tiles connect in one continuous link.
E. E/H. Rope puzzle. Move light spheres so none of their rays overlap. The hard version has more lights to untangle.
F. Sequence puzzle. Remove interlocked bars in the proper sequence until all are removed.
BONUS CHAPTER:
G. Marble popper game. Shoot marbles onto a moving path of marbles to create chains of 3 or more to remove. Remove all the marbles before they reach the exit.
H. E/H, Moving tiles puzzle. In this case moving chains. Move colored chain segments on a circular grid so each chain is next to one which matches it in color. The hard version has a disk which covers one side at a time.
I. E/H. Connection puzzle. Connect sparkles in a line; however, you can only connect sparkles within the same row or column. The harder version has more sparkles to connect.
B. E/H. Switch puzzle. On a circular grid, switch two sets of symbols on two circular disks so that each set of like symbols is next to each other. The easy version only has 6 pairs of disks and the hard has 12 pairs.
C. Switch puzzle. Switch the locations of two sets of colored yarn so they are reversed so that the pink yarn is on the right end and the blue yarn is on the left end.
D. Connection puzzle. Rotate tiles on a 4 x 4 grid (16 tiles) so the path segments on the tiles connect in one continuous link.
E. E/H. Rope puzzle. Move light spheres so none of their rays overlap. The hard version has more lights to untangle.
F. Sequence puzzle. Remove interlocked bars in the proper sequence until all are removed.
BONUS CHAPTER:
G. Marble popper game. Shoot marbles onto a moving path of marbles to create chains of 3 or more to remove. Remove all the marbles before they reach the exit.
H. E/H, Moving tiles puzzle. In this case moving chains. Move colored chain segments on a circular grid so each chain is next to one which matches it in color. The hard version has a disk which covers one side at a time.
I. E/H. Connection puzzle. Connect sparkles in a line; however, you can only connect sparkles within the same row or column. The harder version has more sparkles to connect.
I recommend this game!
Can you save the world of Spirits from a dangerous adversary?
Overall rating
5
/
5
121 of 202 found this review helpful
DOMINI’S GAMING SPIRIT PRODUCES ANOTHER GREAT GAME!
PostedMay 13, 2021
sunnyglow
fromThis heart of this game reminds me of an old saying – “the spirit is willing, but the flesh is weak.”
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: 47 pages
4 Chapters Plus a Bonus Chapter – Strategy Guide: 47 pages
STORY: Journey to an enchanted kingdom where forest spirits provide harmony and balance to nature. Your uncle, a physician and renown inventor of prosthetics, wishes to check your artificial heart. However, while visiting your uncle, you learn that someone is killing these spirits, sapping them of their energy, but, for what purpose? The Guardians of Harmony have been blamed by the king for the murders since they have the knowledge of how to transform animals into monsters. However, while investigating, you discover this may not be the case. Be prepared for surprises as to the villain and the surprising motive behind the killings.
OPINION: Be prepared for a long journey, romping through the kingdom in search of the evildoer behind these murders. This is a long game. Domini always provides more game for the money and this one is no exception. I enjoyed playing the game; however, to me, it does not merit an editor’s choice award. I can think of other games from this developer which are better than this one. Nevertheless, I enjoyed playing this game and found it kept my interest.
Grab your sneakers as you will be traveling to-and-fro searching for inventory items. There are not as many activities as in other games from this developer. The collectibles are morphing inventions, spirited potions, and coins with which to purchase items for a laboratory. I found most easy to locate. The game has a good pace and I feel the story behind the game is decent. This is a puzzle-intense game! There are almost twice the number of puzzles in comparison to the HOP scenes. As in their other games, most of the puzzles have the option to be played in either an “easy” mode for a more casual play, or in a “hard” mode for a little more challenge for those who wish it. This can be set within the menu but can be changed while playing the puzzle.
I discovered one error while playing this game. When I play a game, I double-check to see if I have missed any of the collectibles. While checking the strategy guide for this game, I discovered the four (4) screenshots labeled “F” are missing and the lettering is not sequential. However, other than this minor error, I found no other errors in this game.
MECHANICS:
• Four (4) levels of play including a customized version.
• 32 achievements.
• Collect 15 morphing inventions and 15 spirited potions.
• Collect 70 coins to purchase items for a laboratory.
• Bestiary Book of spells to transform cursed monstrous animals back into their normal state.
• 15 Wallpapers along with concept art, music, and video sequences.
• Replay 18 HOP scenes and 20 mini-games.
• 32 achievements.
• Collect 15 morphing inventions and 15 spirited potions.
• Collect 70 coins to purchase items for a laboratory.
• Bestiary Book of spells to transform cursed monstrous animals back into their normal state.
• 15 Wallpapers along with concept art, music, and video sequences.
• Replay 18 HOP scenes and 20 mini-games.
BONUS CHAPTER: Play Phyllis, a Harmony Guardian from the main chapter. The kingdom is in chaos and the king has sent the captain of his guards to summon you to investigate. Nature is changing with plants mutating and changing color. When a hooded, unknown assailant tries to thwart your investigation with a bomb, you are off on an adventure to discover his identity and the reason for his desire to disrupt nature. It is a long chapter with five (5) HOP scenes and six (6) mini-games. I feel it is worthy of a collector’s edition designation. Continue to collect the collectibles throughout this chapter. To me, it is consistent in quality with the main game.
HOP SCENES: There are eighteen (18) HOP scenes, all of which can be replayed upon completion of the game. As in their other games, there is an optional Match-3 game which can be played instead of the scenes. Although Domini is best known for their puzzles, their HOP scenes are creatively designed. One of the elements I enjoyed while playing this game were the multiple scenes within many of the HOP scenes in which to locate items. There are the standard lists of items, silhouette, and storybook scenes. There is one slider scene with a slight variation in which the silhouette must be aligned with a silhouette within the scene to view the item before removing it. I loved the cryptic clues – searching for two items which are related in some way to the item to be removed.
MINI-GAMES: There are twenty-seven (27) mini-games, twenty (20) of which can be replayed upon completion of the game. For once, Domini has provided more puzzles to replay than HOP scenes. As stated, most of these can be played in either an easy or hard version of the puzzle. There is a “Bestiary Puzzle” which is played when a monster must be vanquished and returned its normal animal state. There are four (4) of these within the game. However, after the demo, there is only one.
SPOILERS: HERE ARE SOME OF THE MINI-GAMES AFTER THE DEMO: (E = Easy; H = Hard)
A. E/H, Assembly puzzle. Rotate a center gear and attach other gears based on the shape of the opening which matches up with each gear. The hard version has more gears to attach.
B. E/H. Block puzzle. Create a path to move a crown to its slot at the other end by rotating and moving sliders along the way. Select buttons to move sliders to create a path for the crown to move. The hard version has a longer path and more sliders to rotate to clear a path.
C. E/H. Mathematical puzzle. On a grid, slide 6 lines of musical notes so that the number of notes in each column matches the number listed at the bottom of the column. The easy version has 3 columns; the hard version has 6.
D. Strategy puzzle. Choose the correct stone or branch to climb up a cliff. Start over if you make a mistake.
E. E/H. Sequence puzzle. Place 6 boat tokens with directional numbers written on them in sequence to plot a course for a ship to move across a body of water without any moves remaining. The harder version has a harder route to plot.
F. Tracing puzzle. Trace an image to unlock handcuffs.
BONUS CHAPTER:
G. E/H. Switch puzzle. Switch 4 tokens surrounding 4 circles so that each token matches the one in the center of the circle it surrounds. The hard version has less paths to move and switch tokens.
H. E/H Sequence puzzle. Cut vines in sequence to free a bridge. The hard version has more vines to cut.
I. E/H. Moving tiles puzzle. Move 3 flower petals on a circular grid avoiding obstacles in their path as they move to 3 empty slots. Arrows move at the same time the petals. If an arrow collides with a petal, you must restart. The harder version requires that the colored petals move to a same-colored slot.
B. E/H. Block puzzle. Create a path to move a crown to its slot at the other end by rotating and moving sliders along the way. Select buttons to move sliders to create a path for the crown to move. The hard version has a longer path and more sliders to rotate to clear a path.
C. E/H. Mathematical puzzle. On a grid, slide 6 lines of musical notes so that the number of notes in each column matches the number listed at the bottom of the column. The easy version has 3 columns; the hard version has 6.
D. Strategy puzzle. Choose the correct stone or branch to climb up a cliff. Start over if you make a mistake.
E. E/H. Sequence puzzle. Place 6 boat tokens with directional numbers written on them in sequence to plot a course for a ship to move across a body of water without any moves remaining. The harder version has a harder route to plot.
F. Tracing puzzle. Trace an image to unlock handcuffs.
BONUS CHAPTER:
G. E/H. Switch puzzle. Switch 4 tokens surrounding 4 circles so that each token matches the one in the center of the circle it surrounds. The hard version has less paths to move and switch tokens.
H. E/H Sequence puzzle. Cut vines in sequence to free a bridge. The hard version has more vines to cut.
I. E/H. Moving tiles puzzle. Move 3 flower petals on a circular grid avoiding obstacles in their path as they move to 3 empty slots. Arrows move at the same time the petals. If an arrow collides with a petal, you must restart. The harder version requires that the colored petals move to a same-colored slot.
I recommend this game!
Can you keep this bewitching case from becoming your last?
Overall rating
4
/
5
147 of 207 found this review helpful
HELP A “FOX-Y“ LADY REUNITE WITH HER BEAU
PostedMay 6, 2021
sunnyglow
fromLocation: Flusstal Woods. Wandering these woods for a “spell” to help a “fox-y” lady return to her former self.
Skill Level:Expert
Fun Factor
4
/
5
Visual/Sound Quality
4
/
5
Level of Challenge
3
/
5
Storyline
3
/
5
REVIEW BASED UPON THE ENTIRE GAME
5 Chapters Plus 2 Bonus Chapters – Strategy Guide: 29 pages (My Time – 8 Hours)
5 Chapters Plus 2 Bonus Chapters – Strategy Guide: 29 pages (My Time – 8 Hours)
STORY: Here comes the bride! Well not – yet! Which girl will make it down the aisle? You are off to visit your friend, Wolf in the town of Flusstal to attend the wedding of his son, Uwe, to a local girl, Ellie. However, upon entering Flusstal Woods, you are bombarded with black magic, being hurled at you by the witch Urusla. Meet a foxy lady, Agnes, a woman who was transformed into a fox by this evil witch. She is Uwe’s true love, but Ursula has erased his memory of her for her own nefarious purposes. This witch is out for revenge! Vanquish this witch's power as you help Agnes transform into her human form and reunite with her true love.
OPINION: Do not let the short strategy guide fool you. This is a long game, and one which I enjoyed playing for the most part. A lot of work went into creating it. I found it an easy play with a good pace throughout and did not experience any technical glitches or difficulties. However, I did find a few elements which I disliked about the game. However, this is a matter of personal preference on my part. There is a lot of travelling to-and-fro, searching for inventory items and fewer HOP scenes and mini-games than in most other HOPA games. I prefer to have more activities within a game.
I think the story is a little too complex for a HOPA game with too many characters and too much history. Less is more and I think that applies to this game. I got tired of reading the excessive number of stories and the history concerning this town. I think the game would have been better without the overabundance of characters and the numerous subplots and stories.
There are two collectibles - envelopes (some morphing ones) and jigsaw puzzle pieces. I found some of them difficult to locate and some of the envelopes did not look like envelopes to me. The same can be said for the jigsaw puzzle pieces. Some were difficult to see from the way they were positioned within the scene. I like the fact there is an indicator bar at the left of the screen which indicates how many of collectibles are within the scene and whether all have been collected. I wish more developers would provide this feature. There are two (2) bonus chapters; however, the second bonus chapter is just a mini-game to provide closure to the story behind the game.
MECHANICS:
• Four (4) levels of play including a customized version.
• 15 achievements.
• Collect 20 jigsaw pieces to complete a jigsaw puzzle at the end of the game.
• Collect 48 collectibles. (envelopes) – some are morphing.
• 10 wallpapers along with concept art, music, and video sequences
• Replay 12 HOP scenes and 9 mini-games.
• 15 achievements.
• Collect 20 jigsaw pieces to complete a jigsaw puzzle at the end of the game.
• Collect 48 collectibles. (envelopes) – some are morphing.
• 10 wallpapers along with concept art, music, and video sequences
• Replay 12 HOP scenes and 9 mini-games.
BONUS CHAPTER 1: It is a prequel. Play a young Ursula before she became an evildoer. Wolf asks for her help to stop his dad from practicing black magic. As Ursula you are off to help Wolf locate a grimoire and hide it away in a cave so it can no longer be used for nefarious purposes. However, when you meet one of the original First Dwellers, an evil magician named Manfred, you will engage in some deal making with a surprising outcome. Continue collecting collectibles. There are nine (9) mini-games and two (2) HOP scenes. The chapter is short; however, it does add clarification to the main story. I feel the puzzles are more creatively designed this chapter than in the main game. To me this chapter is worthy of a collector’s edition classification.
BONUS CHAPTER 2: it is a sequel and provides closure to the game. Play the detective and finally end the black magic generated by the grimoire. There is only one activity – a puzzle which seals the grimoire so it can never be used again.
HOP SCENES: There are fifteen (15) HOP scenes plus numerous mini-HOP scenes with six (6) to eleven (11) items to be located. Twelve (12) of these can be replayed at the end of the game. They are interactive requiring the player to interact with each scene to remove the items. Most of the scenes are standard lists of items or silhouette. There are some matching scenes as well. Although there is not as much variety as in some other developers’ games, found them creatively designed. There is an optional Match-3 puzzle which can be played instead of the scene. My favorite scene involved searching for people and items within a model of the town of Flusstal.
MINI-GAMES: There are twenty-six (26) mini-games, nine (9) of which can be replayed upon completion of the game. They vary in style and difficulty. I feel most are on the easier side. I found none challenging. There is a Rube-Goldberg puzzle in this game. As the player enters a hall, he plays four (4) consecutive puzzles to reach the door to exit the hallway.
SPOILERS: HERE ARE SOME OF THE MINI-GAMES AFTER THE DEMO:
SPOILERS: HERE ARE SOME OF THE MINI-GAMES AFTER THE DEMO:
A. Tracing puzzle. Trace two letters on a locket to open it.
B. Match-3 puzzle. Connect 3 or more like-colored hands to turn the squares behind them light blue. Connections can be made vertically or horizontally. Tokens must be switched to create the connections. Game is complete when all the squares are turned light blue. Play this puzzle 3 times within the game.
C. Maze puzzle. Slide town landmarks along paths into their proper position based upon a map of the town.
D. Connection puzzle. Connect the dots on a bear as per a given diagram.
E. Balance puzzle. Move the detective across a bridge using a pole to maintain balance. Click on the bridge on the right or left to maneuver in that direction.
BONUS CHAPTER 1
F. Rube-Goldberg Puzzle
1. Lock puzzle. Press down 5 tumblers with a bobby pin. Release when they begin to shake.
2. Sequence puzzle. Repeat a given sequence with tiles on a floor by pressing down the tiles in the proper order.
3. Sequence puzzle. Deactivate electric rods as per a given sequence.
4. Block puzzle. Move blocks to create a path for a key to move from the left to a keyhole on the right.
G. Maze puzzle. Move a mouse through a maze in the dark collecting 3 leaves to remove beetles in your path.
B. Match-3 puzzle. Connect 3 or more like-colored hands to turn the squares behind them light blue. Connections can be made vertically or horizontally. Tokens must be switched to create the connections. Game is complete when all the squares are turned light blue. Play this puzzle 3 times within the game.
C. Maze puzzle. Slide town landmarks along paths into their proper position based upon a map of the town.
D. Connection puzzle. Connect the dots on a bear as per a given diagram.
E. Balance puzzle. Move the detective across a bridge using a pole to maintain balance. Click on the bridge on the right or left to maneuver in that direction.
BONUS CHAPTER 1
F. Rube-Goldberg Puzzle
1. Lock puzzle. Press down 5 tumblers with a bobby pin. Release when they begin to shake.
2. Sequence puzzle. Repeat a given sequence with tiles on a floor by pressing down the tiles in the proper order.
3. Sequence puzzle. Deactivate electric rods as per a given sequence.
4. Block puzzle. Move blocks to create a path for a key to move from the left to a keyhole on the right.
G. Maze puzzle. Move a mouse through a maze in the dark collecting 3 leaves to remove beetles in your path.
I recommend this game!