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:
Investigate bizarre mysteries by finding clues and solving puzzles!
Overall rating
5
/
5
ENJOY THREE SLEUTH WORTHY CASES
PostedDecember 19, 2024
sunnyglow
fromHoping Five-BN will give the “hottie” Detective John Woodbray his own series.
Skill Level:Expert
Fun Factor
5
/
5
Visual/Sound Quality
5
/
5
Level of Challenge
5
/
5
REVIEW BASED UPON THE ENTIRE GAME
3 Chapters, - Game Strategy Guide: 89 pages
3 Chapters, - Game Strategy Guide: 89 pages
CHAPTER SYNOPSIS: Play Mystery Detective, John Woodbray. As a recent graduate from the university, you are off on your first three (3) cases. Each chapter takes the player into a new case.
Chapter 1. Tthe villagers of Easttown are being terrified by demon dogs. The local cleric believes the mystical happenings around the area along with the demon dogs are the result of the land being cursed. Travel throughout Easttown and discover the true reason behind all these mystical occurrences.
Chapter 2. The second case involves a woman who believes her son was murdered by a local businessman. The police believe it was suicide; however, could there be evidence he was murdered?
Chapter 3. The third case involves the death of a miner. It appears the death was an accident; however, the manager of the mine believes it was foul play. Discover the death was an accident or murder and how other mining accidents of are tied to this victim.
ANALYSIS: This is another exceptional game for Five-BN. Hopefully, this game is the beginning of a new series. I love this developer’s games and to me this game is a hybrid between an adventure game and a HOPA game. The game is more of an adventure game with a few HOP scenes tossed into the mix. If you do not like puzzle intense games, you will probably not like this game. It is also a little more challenging than most HOPA games. However, the stories from this game are sleuth worthy and, to me, better than in most HOPA detective games.
I feel the pace is excellent. Each chapter presents a new case. I feel this provides variety within the game and also allows the player to stop playing the game without feeling they will forget important information. I always like games with different stories throughout. The graphics are excellent. The pace is excellent with plenty of activities.
The collectibles vary within each chapter. There are three collectibles within each chapter. Collect forty-nine (49) morphing chalices which are within all the chapters. The other collectibles are records, watches, chess pieces, anchors, hard hats, and fans.
Chapter 1: Collect morphing chalices, 9 records and 9 watches
Chapter 2: Collect morphing chalices, 7 coins and 15 metal roses
Chapter 3: Collect morphing chalices, 9 records and 9 watches
Chapter 2: Collect morphing chalices, 7 coins and 15 metal roses
Chapter 3: Collect morphing chalices, 9 records and 9 watches
There are only ten (10) HOP scenes within the entire game. The game is puzzle intense. The mini-games are somewhat challenging and most are thematic, relating to the story in some way. Each chapter contains fourteen (14) puzzles. There is no bonus chapter, instead there are bonus puzzles to play. The HOP scenes include lists of items, searches for one item, search-and-replace items, and silhouette,
MECHANICS:
• Four (4) levels of play including a customized version.
• 20 achievements.
• Collect 9 records, 9 watches, 8 chess pieces, 8 anchors, 7 hard hats, 8 fans
• Collect 49 morphing chalices
• Replay 28 mini-games and 9 puzzles
• Bonus mini-games which provide 20 sliding tiles puzzles in which you move tiles to appropriate slots along the sides of the grid.
• Four (4) levels of play including a customized version.
• 20 achievements.
• Collect 9 records, 9 watches, 8 chess pieces, 8 anchors, 7 hard hats, 8 fans
• Collect 49 morphing chalices
• Replay 28 mini-games and 9 puzzles
• Bonus mini-games which provide 20 sliding tiles puzzles in which you move tiles to appropriate slots along the sides of the grid.
SPOILERS: HERE ARE SOME OF THE MINI-GAMES FROM THE 3 CHAPTERS:
CHAPTER 1:
A. Sequence puzzle. Move liquid from four containers to a larger one in the middle by pressing on valves to move the liquid. Go back-and-forth between the containers until all the liquid is in the middle container.
B. Sequence puzzle. Open all books on a grid. Opening one either opens or closes those next to it.
C. Math puzzle. Switch books with numbers on them on 3 shelves so the total of the numbers on the books equal the value given at the bottom of each of 3 sections on 3 shelves.
D. Assembly puzzle. Using given symbols choose the three needed to create each of 7 symbolic designs.
E. Matching. On a constellation locate two halves which, when combined create a complete constellation. Find all shown on a sheet of paper.
CHAPTER 2:
F. Book puzzle. Push in books in the proper order as per clues within the scene to open a scene to a hidden safe
G. Switch puzzle. Place segments of a star next to each other so that the sides of each part of the segment matches the one next to it. Switch them around until all are placed properly.
H. Sliding tiles puzzle. Slide bars with flowers on them, up -down and sideways so that each row has flowers of the same color
I. Assembly puzzle. Place roses on two grids with openings for the roses so when the two plates merge, all the slots will have a metal rose in them.
J. Switch puzzle. Switch pieces on a round grid to restore an image
CHAPTER 3:
K. Tangram puzzle. Place tokens into position on a grid so all are used, all fit and none overlap each other.
L. Mathematical puzzle. Calculate the mathematical sequence to provide the numbers to open a safe.
M. Maze/Strategy puzzle. Choose the correct paths to get to he place of death, collecting items along the way
N. Book Sequence puzzle. Switch books so all are in sequential numerical order.
O. Mathematical puzzle. Use 20 numbers on a grid to create equations – adding and multiplying to get the 10 numbers at the sides of the grid. All numbers must be used.
A. Sequence puzzle. Move liquid from four containers to a larger one in the middle by pressing on valves to move the liquid. Go back-and-forth between the containers until all the liquid is in the middle container.
B. Sequence puzzle. Open all books on a grid. Opening one either opens or closes those next to it.
C. Math puzzle. Switch books with numbers on them on 3 shelves so the total of the numbers on the books equal the value given at the bottom of each of 3 sections on 3 shelves.
D. Assembly puzzle. Using given symbols choose the three needed to create each of 7 symbolic designs.
E. Matching. On a constellation locate two halves which, when combined create a complete constellation. Find all shown on a sheet of paper.
CHAPTER 2:
F. Book puzzle. Push in books in the proper order as per clues within the scene to open a scene to a hidden safe
G. Switch puzzle. Place segments of a star next to each other so that the sides of each part of the segment matches the one next to it. Switch them around until all are placed properly.
H. Sliding tiles puzzle. Slide bars with flowers on them, up -down and sideways so that each row has flowers of the same color
I. Assembly puzzle. Place roses on two grids with openings for the roses so when the two plates merge, all the slots will have a metal rose in them.
J. Switch puzzle. Switch pieces on a round grid to restore an image
CHAPTER 3:
K. Tangram puzzle. Place tokens into position on a grid so all are used, all fit and none overlap each other.
L. Mathematical puzzle. Calculate the mathematical sequence to provide the numbers to open a safe.
M. Maze/Strategy puzzle. Choose the correct paths to get to he place of death, collecting items along the way
N. Book Sequence puzzle. Switch books so all are in sequential numerical order.
O. Mathematical puzzle. Use 20 numbers on a grid to create equations – adding and multiplying to get the 10 numbers at the sides of the grid. All numbers must be used.
I recommend this game!
There’s life behind a toy’s eyes if you’re really looking.
Overall rating
5
/
5
ELEPHANT INVENTS A NEW NUTCRACKER
PostedDecember 12, 2024
sunnyglow
fromLightening things up! A big thank you to Elephant for providing a brightness control at the beginning of the game. Hopefully, other developers will follow suit.
Skill Level:Expert
Fun Factor
4
/
5
Visual/Sound Quality
5
/
5
Level of Challenge
4
/
5
Storyline
5
/
5
REVIEW BASED UPON THE ENTIRE GAME
4 Chapters Plus a Bonus Chapter – Strategy Guide: 40 pages
4 Chapters Plus a Bonus Chapter – Strategy Guide: 40 pages
STORY: Welcome to the world of the Nutcracker. This fractured Prussian folk tale has been revamped, with some of its characters appearing within a new story. Play Clara, a young, budding inventor. Unexpectedly, she brings home a broken nutcracker, one she hopes to repair and gift to her father. This toy houses Prince Arthur who has been transformed into a nutcracker by the evil Mouse Queen, Mouserinks. After being repaired, Prince Arthur asks for her help to transform him back into his former self. With the help of the prince’s family amulet and fellow inventor Thomas Drosselmeyer, traverse to another world to battle this evildoer to restore the nutcracker prince’s kingdom.
ASSESSMENT: It would not be Christmas without the annual Elephant Christmas game. Although this is not their best game of the series, I did feel it was a good game. First, I would like to thank Elephant for allowing players to adjust the brightness of the screen. This has always been an issue for me with not only games from Elephant but other developers as well. Some of the scenes are so dark that you cannot see the items. Hopefully other developers will add this feature to their games.
This is a game which can be played by the entire family. The format is the same as with all Elephant’s other games. The story is decent and is an excellent one for young girls as it promotes women in science. It is a short game; however, length is not as important as content and pace. The pace is excellent. For me, I was engaged throughout the game and did not feel it bogged down as it progressed.
The graphics are superb and truly encapsulate the Christmas spirit. There are two collectibles, mouse figures and picture fragments which are featured as snowflakes. A jigsaw puzzle can be played with the puzzle fragments upon completion of the game. Missing collectibles can be found by going into the expedition room which allows the player to revisit scenes to find them. However, they are so large it would be hard to miss them in the scenes. The music is not Christmassy as in their other games. I would have liked to have heard more Yuletide carols as in their earlier games; however, the Christmassy graphics make up for that.
There are fourteen (14) HOP scenes and several mini-HOP scenes, featuring six items to be located. There are twenty-two (22) puzzles. Thirteen (13) of each can be replayed upon completion of the game. The scenes are lists of items, silhouette, search and replace, narrative, and pattern. There is a nice variety of puzzles, and both the HOP scenes and puzzles are creatively designed. I found most of the puzzles very easy and most could be played by children as well as adults.
MEFCHANICS:
• Four (4) levels of play including a customized version.
• 12 achievements.
• 26 scenes
• Collect 12 mouse figurines
• Collect 26 puzzle fragments shaped like snowflakes to complete a jigsaw puzzle hidden with the secret room
• 5 wallpapers along with a screensaver and music selections.
• Replay 13 HOP scenes and 13 puzzles.
• Expedition room allows players to search for collectibles missed in the scenes.
• 12 achievements.
• 26 scenes
• Collect 12 mouse figurines
• Collect 26 puzzle fragments shaped like snowflakes to complete a jigsaw puzzle hidden with the secret room
• 5 wallpapers along with a screensaver and music selections.
• Replay 13 HOP scenes and 13 puzzles.
• Expedition room allows players to search for collectibles missed in the scenes.
BONUS CHAPTER: Return to Catstown, a location from a previous Christmas game. Play Clara again in this chapter. Captain Purray has asked you and the prince for help in battling a witch, Morgaret La Noir, the Red Moon Witch. Thomas Drosselmeyer holds the key to defeating this witch, but he has been kidnapped. Travel with the prince to Catstown to rid the town of this evildoer. Locate your cohort, Drosselmeyer and find a way to defeat the witch. I found this a nice addition to the game. There are five (5) HOP scenes, one mini-HOP scene, and seven (7) puzzles. To me, the puzzles were more difficult in this chapter. However, both the HOP scenes and puzzles are well-designed.
SPOILERS: HERE ARE SOME OF THE PUZZLES AFTER THE DEMO:
A. Sequence puzzle. Move down a brick wall by placing hand and feet symbols onto the proper locations on the wall to descend to the bottom.
B. Jigsaw puzzle. Recreate an image using jigsaw pieces.
C. Switch puzzle. Switch pieces on a round plate to restore an image.
D. Assembly puzzle. Search for items for 2 knights and place them in the proper location so they match in appearance.
E. Map puzzle. Move Clara from an entrance to an exit avoiding reindeer along the path.
BONUS CHAPTER:
F. Rotating Tiles puzzle. Rotate hexagonal tiles so that track segments for 3 tracks are connected.
G. Sequence puzzle. Remove cat shaped spokes out of their hinges. Moving one affects the others.
H. Connection puzzle. Lead a sled along paths to musical notes without retracing steps.
I. Origami puzzle. Fold a paper map to create the shortest path.
B. Jigsaw puzzle. Recreate an image using jigsaw pieces.
C. Switch puzzle. Switch pieces on a round plate to restore an image.
D. Assembly puzzle. Search for items for 2 knights and place them in the proper location so they match in appearance.
E. Map puzzle. Move Clara from an entrance to an exit avoiding reindeer along the path.
BONUS CHAPTER:
F. Rotating Tiles puzzle. Rotate hexagonal tiles so that track segments for 3 tracks are connected.
G. Sequence puzzle. Remove cat shaped spokes out of their hinges. Moving one affects the others.
H. Connection puzzle. Lead a sled along paths to musical notes without retracing steps.
I. Origami puzzle. Fold a paper map to create the shortest path.
I recommend this game!
Unwrap the gift of holiday fun the whole family can enjoy!
Overall rating
5
/
5
CHRISTMAS IS FINALLY HERE!
PostedDecember 5, 2024
sunnyglow
fromReturning home to Springfield for Christmas! Casual Arts is the Norman Rockwell of HOP games.
Skill Level:Expert
Fun Factor
5
/
5
Visual/Sound Quality
5
/
5
Level of Challenge
5
/
5
Storyline
5
/
5
Merry Christmas! Christmas at BFG does not begin until Casual Arts releases its new Christmas Wonderland game. If this game does not get you into the Christmas spirit, nothing will! It is chock full of the Christmas spirit of small-town America. Travel to Springfield. This town could be in any state in the USA. There are stickers and car licenses from all over the USA. Many of us look forward to returning to this town for Christmas. It encapsulates Americana at its best. This game is all decked out for Christmas with scenes filled with glistening Christmas trees, yummy cookies, uplifting Christmas music and the warmth of small-town America.
The game follows the same format as their other Christmas games. First play jigsaw puzzle providing a map of Springfield. Then, search the beautiful Christmassy scenes to search for well-hidden objects. Every scene also features the additional items, golden angels and Christmas presents, which are shown at the bottom left of the screen. Throughout the game are a series of puzzles – including their famous thematic word searches and math puzzle to figure out a code, along with several matching puzzles. However, this developer always provides some new elements, such as some new puzzles.
I have not completely played this game. I want to savor every moment of the Christmas spirit from playing this game. The Christmas games from this developer remind me of my own childhood in Ohio. That is nostalgia which should not be rushed but enjoyed throughout the season.
I recommend this game!
Reopen the toy store and win over a grumpy mayor who dismisses Christmas!
Overall rating
5
/
5
SAVE ANOTHER RETAIL GIANT FROM CLOSING STORES DURING THE CHRISTMAS SEASON
PostedDecember 3, 2024
sunnyglow
fromTake a sniff out crime! Rudolf, the red -nosed reindeer has another job besides lighting up the sky. Being nosy, Rudolf has put his talents to good use by moonlighting as a detective. He now uses his nose to sniff out crime and missing people.
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: 56 pages
3 Chapters Plus a Bonus Chapter – Strategy Guide: 56 pages
STORY: Bah Humbug! Welcome to Christmasshire, a town devoid of Christmas. Play the son and heir to the chain of Toy Land stores. Your father wants you to succeed him in the family business; however, you must prove yourself worthy. Your task is to visit this small burg to find out why the mayor of the town wants to close the store, turning it into a clothing store. This old humbug has banned all holidays from being celebrated within the town. Once a man with a great deal of holiday spirit, he has turned into an old scrooge. Discover what has happened to your store and the town. With the help of Nicholas and Rudolf the Reindeer, perhaps you can save the town and perhaps, help the mayor resurrect his holiday spirit.
ANALYSIS: What a wonderful game to begin the Christmas season. This game is all decked out for the holidays! It is filled with joyful music, bright lights, and beautiful Christmas scenes chock full of everything related to the Yuletide season. It is full of eye candy to feast upon without gaining a pound. The game is full of Christmas cheer. I loved playing this game and feel it is a major improvement for this developer.
Domini Games listened to the players and it shows with this game. The format for the game is similar, but not quite the same as their other games. People complained about collecting stars and having summaries at the end of each chapter. Domini listened and got rid of this feature. There are no stars given for choosing the right action or comments throughout the game. You are not evaluated for the choices made throughout this game. You won’t have stars in your eyes with this game. I feel this action alone improved the game.
Another improvement with this game is the length. This game is not as long as this developer’s other games. To me, that is a good thing. Some of their games are just too long and become boring and repetitious after a few hours of game play. Less is more sometimes. I feel this is a nice-sized game with plenty of activities but not so long that you become bored. There are two collectibles, morphing Christmas cards and snow globes. I found some difficult to locate; however, for the most part, they are easy to locate. Players can collect golden gears which can be exchanged for items in the boudoir.
This game may not appeal to everyone. It HOP light and puzzle intense. However, I feel there are some of us who want more puzzles than HOP scenes. For those who dislike a lot of puzzles, there are plenty of HOP games consisting of mostly HOP scenes with a few easy puzzles thrown into the mix. The puzzles within this game are easy and what is delightful about DO Games is that the player can play most of the puzzles in either an easy or hard mode.
There are sixteen (16) HOP scenes in the entire game. All can be replayed upon completion of the game. All the HOP scenes are reused a second time, using a completely different style of HOP search. The types of HOP scenes include lists of items, rebus clues, cryptic clues, narrative, fragments, matching and placement of items back into the scene. There are also a few mini-HOP scenes in which the searches are only for five or six items. There are fifty-six (56) puzzles, forty-nine (49) of which can be replayed upon completion of the game. Most of them are creatively designed and reflect the Christmas theme.
MECHANICS:
• Four (4) levels of play including a customized version.
• 39 achievements.
• Collect 10 Christmas cards and 10 morphing snow globes
• Collect 70 golden gears to exchange for assorted items in the boudoir at the end of the game
• 10 wallpapers along with concept art, music, and video sequences
• Replay 16 HOP scenes and 49 mini-games.
• 39 achievements.
• Collect 10 Christmas cards and 10 morphing snow globes
• Collect 70 golden gears to exchange for assorted items in the boudoir at the end of the game
• 10 wallpapers along with concept art, music, and video sequences
• Replay 16 HOP scenes and 49 mini-games.
BONUS CHAPTER: It is a sequel. After contacting your father upon completion of your assignment, he agrees to help you locate the missing person from the main game. Return to the abandoned post office from the first game and search for an address where this person may be living. I feel it is a decent chapter. There are three (3) HOP scenes and nine (9) mini-games. I feel this was a nice addition to the game. The sequel in this game does provide a much happier ending than from the main game and puts a nice final touch for the story behind the game.
SPOILERS: HERE ARE A FEW OF THE FIFTY-SIX (56) MINI-GAMES FROM THE GAME.
A. E/H. Switch puzzle. Switch snowflakes on colored cords so every snowflake is on a liked-colored cord. The easy version has 4 cords. The hard version has more snowflakes to place on 5 cords.
B. E/H. Map puzzle. Place 8 markers with numbers on them, the number indicate steps to take to reach a destination. Set them up in the right sequence. The hard version has a more detailed map.
C. Assembly puzzle. Create a train track from give sections of track.
D. E/H. Picture puzzle. Rotate and place fragments into position to create an image. The easy version has 5 pieces and the hard 7.
E. E/H. Math Puzzle. Every shield has a numerical value. Place them so the sum of the numbers between them equals the number beneath the pair of them. The easy version has 5 shields and the hard has 6.
F. Ye Olde Fox and Hens puzzle. In this case, move 3 snowmen and 3 elves across a bridge. Ther cannot be more snowmen than elves on the shore when the sled leaves. And the sled cannot move without passengers.
G. Run, Run Rudophr! Map puzzle. Ride a reindeer while avoiding obstacles in your path. You get 3 lives.
H. E/H. Weights and Balances puzzle. Weigh items and arrange them on plates according to a given set of instructions. The hard version has more items to weigh
I. E/H. Assembly puzzle. Place axe tokens with prongs jutting from them so they fit into a path. Every token will be used. The easy version has 7 and the hard version has 8.
J. E/H. Using dials on a clock, point each one to a portion of a snowflake, which, when combined, creates one of the snowflakes. The easy version has 4 and the hard version has 5.
BONUS CHAPTER:
K. E/H. Maze puzzle. Go down halls to locate a postal archive while removing obstacles from your path.
L. E/H. Matching puzzle. Match lock parts so they can connect. The easy version has 10 lock pieces to match, and the hard version has 12.
M. E/H. Maze puzzle. Using arrows, set up the sequence of steps to get out of a maze.
N. Match 3 games. Remove paints drops in groups of 3 or more until all are removed.
B. E/H. Map puzzle. Place 8 markers with numbers on them, the number indicate steps to take to reach a destination. Set them up in the right sequence. The hard version has a more detailed map.
C. Assembly puzzle. Create a train track from give sections of track.
D. E/H. Picture puzzle. Rotate and place fragments into position to create an image. The easy version has 5 pieces and the hard 7.
E. E/H. Math Puzzle. Every shield has a numerical value. Place them so the sum of the numbers between them equals the number beneath the pair of them. The easy version has 5 shields and the hard has 6.
F. Ye Olde Fox and Hens puzzle. In this case, move 3 snowmen and 3 elves across a bridge. Ther cannot be more snowmen than elves on the shore when the sled leaves. And the sled cannot move without passengers.
G. Run, Run Rudophr! Map puzzle. Ride a reindeer while avoiding obstacles in your path. You get 3 lives.
H. E/H. Weights and Balances puzzle. Weigh items and arrange them on plates according to a given set of instructions. The hard version has more items to weigh
I. E/H. Assembly puzzle. Place axe tokens with prongs jutting from them so they fit into a path. Every token will be used. The easy version has 7 and the hard version has 8.
J. E/H. Using dials on a clock, point each one to a portion of a snowflake, which, when combined, creates one of the snowflakes. The easy version has 4 and the hard version has 5.
BONUS CHAPTER:
K. E/H. Maze puzzle. Go down halls to locate a postal archive while removing obstacles from your path.
L. E/H. Matching puzzle. Match lock parts so they can connect. The easy version has 10 lock pieces to match, and the hard version has 12.
M. E/H. Maze puzzle. Using arrows, set up the sequence of steps to get out of a maze.
N. Match 3 games. Remove paints drops in groups of 3 or more until all are removed.
I recommend this game!
Uncover the identity of a mysterious woman with a message from the past!
Overall rating
5
/
5
MEET A NEW ARCHNEMESIS WHICH INCORPORATES THE BODY AND SOUL OF PURE EVIL
PostedNovember 26, 2024
sunnyglow
fromOnly in videogames! Where else can one find pop up cans along with pop up snakes in 1911?
Skill Level:Expert
Fun Factor
5
/
5
Visual/Sound Quality
5
/
5
Level of Challenge
5
/
5
Storyline
5
/
5
STORY: Welcome back Master Detective! Enter a new chapter in the series along with a new arch nemesis. This evildoer is one who truly incorporates the body and soul of the series. This person is more sinister than the Dalimar clan. Even worse, this villain may be harder to track in future games.
Your new assignment takes you to the Bishop residence where Agnes Bishop, an elderly woman, is experiencing strange events. She asks for your help when she begins to experience ghostly events. Go beneath the surface of the Bishop mansion and uncover what evil lurks beneath it. You will be playing a cat and mouse game with the evildoer, entering a rat’s maze of doors with the evildoer taunting you along the way. However, who is the cat and who is the mouse? To give more information about the story would ruin the game for those who have not played it. Suffice it to say, this is a fantastic game, and to me, one of the best in the series.
ANALYSIS: I loved playing this game. This game should appeal to those who love sci-fi or games which are a little more challenging. The game follows the same format as other GrandMA games. I found the story for the main game and the bonus chapter excellent and well-written. Most of the activities involve science or mechanics. Most puzzles involve machine assembly, robotics, and chemical formulations. The collectibles are morphing watchers and puzzles pieces. I found them well-hidden. I had to use the strategy guide for help in finding some of them. The puzzles pieces are white and blend in well within the scenes.
There are twenty-six (26) mini-games. Three of those are meta games (AKA Rube-Goldberg puzzles) which have several mini-puzzles within one larger puzzle. I feel the puzzles are creatively designed as are the sixteen (16) HOP scenes. There are also several mini-HOP scenes in which the player searches for five or six items. After the game the player can replay 15 HOP scenes and twelve (12) mini-games. The HOP scenes are varied, interactive, and challenging . They include lists of items, silhouette, narrative, fragments, and matching.
MECHANICS:
• Four (4) levels of play including a customized version.
• 18 achievements.
• Collect 54 morphing watchers and 20 puzzle jigsaw pieces for a puzzle available at the end of the game
• 10 wallpapers along with concept art, music, and video sequences
• Replay 15 HOP scenes and 12 mini-games
• Four (4) levels of play including a customized version.
• 18 achievements.
• Collect 54 morphing watchers and 20 puzzle jigsaw pieces for a puzzle available at the end of the game
• 10 wallpapers along with concept art, music, and video sequences
• Replay 15 HOP scenes and 12 mini-games
BONUS CHAPTER! What a fang-tastic prequel! Enjoy romping through ta jungle filled with snakes! Snakes are popping up all over in this chapter. Personally, I hate snakes (almost a phobia) and it was difficult for me to play this chapter. There is one gasping moment at the beginning! Be prepared! Play Margaret Bellow, who, along with guide Angelica, tromp through the jungles of Central American searching for the Snake Mask. Despite the creepy crawlies slithering around, I loved this game. The graphics are breathtaking. It has a great storyline and there are plenty of activities to enjoy. There are three (3) HOP scenes and eight (8) mini-games. There are numerous mini-HOP scenes throughout the chapter. To me this is a nice addition to the game.
SPOILERS: HERE ARE SOME OF THE MINI-GAMES AFTER THE DEMO:
A. Maze puzzle from the 1980’s. Move a mouse through a rat maze collecting food items along the path. The number of each of 3 items is listed at the top. If you collect too many items, you must restart.
B. Connection puzzle. Move through a maze of firefly bugs (or whatever they are) so that each bug is connected without retracing steps. The bugs are place the direction in which the player must move. Move the bugs so that when you press Go a path is created.
C. Stacking puzzle. Collect 6 objects, incorporating them into each other starting with the smallest and moving up to the largest.
D. Rope puzzle. Free a beetle by releasing the light rays holding it
E. Sequence puzzle. Push numbers on cylinders in sequential order from 1 to 10. Move the cylinders up and down to reveal the numbers
F. Meta Puzzle:
(1) Locate all eyes within the scene.
(2) Maze puzzle. Lead a ball through a tube avoiding obstacles in its path
(3) Enter Morse code symbols onto a screen.
(4) Sliding tiles. Slide tiles with picture fragments on them to create an image
(5) Spot the differences: Spot the 4 differences between two pictures
(6) Type in a code based upon the code given for each symbol
(7) Math puzzle. Match up wires with dots on them so that the sum of their dots is the same throughout.
(8) Logic puzzle. Place numbers into rows and columns so that no number appears twice in any row or column.
BONUS CHAPTER:
G. Tangram puzzle. Place pieces into position to create a complete form. 2X
H. Connection puzzle. Connect dots so that all are connected and steps are not retraced.
I. Block puzzle Move hands to create a path for two dishes of pomegranates to reach hands within the grid.
J. Sequence puzzle. Switch 5 tokens so they are in the proper order according to given clues.
B. Connection puzzle. Move through a maze of firefly bugs (or whatever they are) so that each bug is connected without retracing steps. The bugs are place the direction in which the player must move. Move the bugs so that when you press Go a path is created.
C. Stacking puzzle. Collect 6 objects, incorporating them into each other starting with the smallest and moving up to the largest.
D. Rope puzzle. Free a beetle by releasing the light rays holding it
E. Sequence puzzle. Push numbers on cylinders in sequential order from 1 to 10. Move the cylinders up and down to reveal the numbers
F. Meta Puzzle:
(1) Locate all eyes within the scene.
(2) Maze puzzle. Lead a ball through a tube avoiding obstacles in its path
(3) Enter Morse code symbols onto a screen.
(4) Sliding tiles. Slide tiles with picture fragments on them to create an image
(5) Spot the differences: Spot the 4 differences between two pictures
(6) Type in a code based upon the code given for each symbol
(7) Math puzzle. Match up wires with dots on them so that the sum of their dots is the same throughout.
(8) Logic puzzle. Place numbers into rows and columns so that no number appears twice in any row or column.
BONUS CHAPTER:
G. Tangram puzzle. Place pieces into position to create a complete form. 2X
H. Connection puzzle. Connect dots so that all are connected and steps are not retraced.
I. Block puzzle Move hands to create a path for two dishes of pomegranates to reach hands within the grid.
J. Sequence puzzle. Switch 5 tokens so they are in the proper order according to given clues.
SHOULD I PLAY OR STAY AWAY? To me, this is a must-have, especially if you love this series! To me, this is one of the best games of the series and also for GrandMA Games. Some of the puzzles may seem too mechanical or scientific; however, there are also some excellent HOP scenes and less of those types of puzzles at the beginning and end of the game.
I recommend this game!
Detective Amber’s greatest villains are back, and they have a surprise!
Overall rating
3
/
5
ELF HAS BEEN BROUGHT DOWN FROM THE SHELF
PostedNovember 14, 2024
sunnyglow
fromThe Case of the Missing Bonus Chapter. Hiring Elf to sniff around and see if he can dig up the rest of this game.
Skill Level:Expert
Fun Factor
3
/
5
Visual/Sound Quality
1
/
5
Level of Challenge
3
/
5
Storyline
5
/
5
REVIEW BASED UPON THE MAIN GAME - COULD NOT ACCESS THE BONUS CHAPTER
3 Chapters Plus a Bonus Chapter – Strategy Guide: 36 pages
3 Chapters Plus a Bonus Chapter – Strategy Guide: 36 pages
STORY: Welcome back Elf! Our fashionista pup comes out of retirement to help fellow detective, Amber, dig up the dirt on a group of evildoers out to destroy the Order. Morpheus, the discredited founder of the Order, has returned, along with a group of evildoers, each featured in a former Mystery Trackers game. Amber has become the head of the Order after her boss is killed. Elf, along with Amber will take charge and try to defeat the evildoers, and perhaps, be able to restore the Order to its former glory. Will Amber come out of retirement permanently? In a timely manner, she might reconsider her options.
ANALYSIS: From what I played, this is an okay game. The format is the same as the other games from Elephant. I could not access the bonus chapter. I do not know if it is an issue with my computer or if there is an issue with the game. However, I do believe I should alert people that the bonus chapter may not be available.
It is a short game; however, I enjoyed the activities and the story behind the game. The game is more science-oriented with a little AI thrown into the mix. I hate helpers in games and ten (10) years ago, there were a lot of them in the HOPA games. However, Elf is nostalgic addition to this game and his services are not used often. There have been better games from this series; however, considering the times in which we are living, with few HOPA games being offered, it is not a bad game.
Collect twelve (12) Elf figurines, each from a different game within the series. Elf is dressed in attire associated with the game featured. Also collect twenty-four (24) picture fragments which are featured as big red gems within the scenes. Both collectibles are easy to locate within the scenes.
There are not many HOP scenes nor puzzles, but some are creatively designed. There are fourteen (14) puzzles and nine (9) HOP scenes along with seven (7) mini-HOP scenes. Since I could not finish the game, I do not know how many of the puzzles and HOP scenes are within the bonus chapter.
Both can be replayed upon completion of the game.
Both can be replayed upon completion of the game.
I loved the maze puzzle and there is a variation of marble popper game within the game. As with other Elephant games, there are many picture puzzles to solve and some of them are tricky. For me, there are too many mini-HOP scenes and not enough of the regular HOP scenes. Those which are within the game are creatively designed. However, there are just not a lot of them.
MECHANICS:
• Four (4) levels of play including a customized version.
• 10 achievements.
• Collect 12 Elf dolls representing characters from previous games in the series
• Collect 24 picture fragments (shaped like red gems) for a jigsaw puzzle in the secret room
• 5 wallpapers along with a screensaver and music options
• Replay of some HOP scenes and puzzles
• 10 achievements.
• Collect 12 Elf dolls representing characters from previous games in the series
• Collect 24 picture fragments (shaped like red gems) for a jigsaw puzzle in the secret room
• 5 wallpapers along with a screensaver and music options
• Replay of some HOP scenes and puzzles
SHOULD I PLAY OR STAY AWAY? From what I have played, the main game is decent. When I entered the bonus chapter, the screen went black. However, it could be a glitch within my computer. The game is not as good as previous games in the series. However, if you are a fan of this series, it might be of interest to you. Many loved Elf and for those Elf fans, it will be a nostalgic experience. I cannot recommend this game because of the inability to play the bonus chapter.
HERE ARE SOME OF THE PUZZLES WITHIN THE MAIN CHAPTER:
A. Assembly puzzle. Rotate parts of an animal and then place them into the proper location for 3 mutated animals.
B. Bullseye puzzle. Adjust targets so they match with a bullseye on the screen. 4X
C. Maze puzzle. Move a fist through three mazes collecting all small fists along the way to increase your strength.
D. Picture puzzle. Place 12 pieces into position to restore 6 pictures
E. Marble-Popper. Fight Morpheus by eliminating 3 or more marbles of the same color. You have 3 lives
F. Picture puzzle. Switch pieces on a grid to restore an image displaying only one-half of them at a time.
A. Assembly puzzle. Rotate parts of an animal and then place them into the proper location for 3 mutated animals.
B. Bullseye puzzle. Adjust targets so they match with a bullseye on the screen. 4X
C. Maze puzzle. Move a fist through three mazes collecting all small fists along the way to increase your strength.
D. Picture puzzle. Place 12 pieces into position to restore 6 pictures
E. Marble-Popper. Fight Morpheus by eliminating 3 or more marbles of the same color. You have 3 lives
F. Picture puzzle. Switch pieces on a grid to restore an image displaying only one-half of them at a time.
I don't recommend this game.
Literature’s most famous vampire and his brides’ world is at stake!
Overall rating
3
/
5
MEGAN THE LIBRARIAN BATTLES A BOOKISH EVILDOER
PostedOctober 31, 2024
sunnyglow
fromAfter years of sitting on a dusty shelf, Dracula and crew should revamp and sink their teeth into the world of reality television. There is “Sister Wives.” It is time for “Sister Brides.”
Skill Level:Expert
Fun Factor
3
/
5
Visual/Sound Quality
3
/
5
Level of Challenge
3
/
5
Storyline
3
/
5
MEGAN THE LIBRARIAN BATTLES A BOOKISH EVILDOER
REVIEW BASED UPON THE ENTIRE GAME
4 Chapters Plus a Bonus Chapter – Strategy Guide: 38 pages
4 Chapters Plus a Bonus Chapter – Strategy Guide: 38 pages
STORY: Grab your library card and enter the world of books. Join Megan the Librarian as she ventures into three book worlds to save these literary classics from an evildoer. His plan is to destroy the worlds, to rewrite the story. No, the evildoer is not a book editor, but rather, a masked man with an evil plan, using big red flowers as his weapon. Come to think about it, it could be a book editor. Begin your journey in the world of Dracula, where Megan is slated as Dracula’s next bride. Your journey will take you to three more literary worlds to battle the culprit. Save the book worlds and please, return those books back to the Great Library on time!
ANALYSIS: Although I have a literary bent, to me this series is my least favorite from this developer. However, in comparison to the previous two games, I feel this game is better. I like the story, although bouncing between three different stories and transporting to book worlds via those big red flowers, did get confusing. I am still uncertain what the motive was for the evildoer in this game. Nevertheless, this game is longer, and to me, better designed than the previous two games from Elephant. There are more activities and feel the activities are better designed as well.
The game has the same format as this developer’s other games. There are two collectibles, puzzles fragments shaped as fangs and bookmarks. I found both easy to locate within the scenes. The puzzle fragments are used to complete a puzzle hidden within the secret room upon completion of the game. If the player does not locate all the fragments, they can return to the scenes via the expedition room. The player can earn ten achievements for gameplay. There are the usual wallpapers and music selections.
There are twenty-two (22) puzzles and twenty-two (22) HOP scenes. Thirteen (13) of each can be replayed upon completion of the game. Many of the HOP scenes are what I consider mini-HOP scenes in which there are only six items are to locate. The HOP scenes include lists of items, silhouette, matching, narrative, fragments, and search-and-replace. I found the scenes interactive and creatively designed. The puzzles are varied, many are variations of ones seen in other games. I found most of the puzzles easy. There are more picture puzzles than other types of puzzles which is common in Elephant games.
MECHANICS:
• Four (4) levels of play including a customized version.
• 10 achievements.
• Collect 12 bookmarks
• Collect 24 puzzle pieces (shaped like fangs) for a jigsaw puzzle hidden within a secret room
• Expedition room which allows the player to return to scenes to collect missing collectibles
• 6 wallpapers along with a screensaver and music.
• Replay 13 HOP scenes and 13 puzzles.
• Four (4) levels of play including a customized version.
• 10 achievements.
• Collect 12 bookmarks
• Collect 24 puzzle pieces (shaped like fangs) for a jigsaw puzzle hidden within a secret room
• Expedition room which allows the player to return to scenes to collect missing collectibles
• 6 wallpapers along with a screensaver and music.
• Replay 13 HOP scenes and 13 puzzles.
BONUS CHAPTER: Happy Birthday Megan! Tom Sawyer, with a little help from Megan’s heartthrob, Elgin, is planning a party to celebrate her 25th birthday. Help Tom search around the Great Library for items for the party plus help him design a gift for her. I feel this is a decent addition to the game. There are seven (7) HOP scenes and seven (7) puzzles. I feel the HOP scenes and puzzles are better within this chapter than in the main game. I always enjoy the pictures puzzles where the player must toggle switches to move and change the size of the pieces to create a picture. The beam of light puzzle in this chapter is somewhat difficult. For me, this is probably the most difficult puzzle within the game.
SPOILERS: HERE ARE SOME OF THE PUZZLES AFTER THE DEMO:
A. Picture puzzle. Place picture fragments into a book to produce a narrative. 3X
B. Rotating tiles puzzle. Rotate tiles on a triangular shaped lock to create an image. 2X
C. Switch/Logic puzzle. Switch 6 bottles in a grid so each bottle matches the symbols on the sides of each row and top of each column.
D. Picture puzzle. Move three levers to adjust the position and size of fragments to create a picture. 3X
BONUS CHAPTER:
E. Sequence/Logic puzzle. Arrange 4 statues of Tom Sawyer based on given clues.
F. Assembly puzzle. Recreate 6 shapes on a grid using string
G. Alignment puzzle. Move musical notes up-and-down until all align in the center of a music scale. Moving one note affects the others.
H. Sequence puzzle. Move circular fragments of a picture along a path so each fragment is situated in its proper position.
B. Rotating tiles puzzle. Rotate tiles on a triangular shaped lock to create an image. 2X
C. Switch/Logic puzzle. Switch 6 bottles in a grid so each bottle matches the symbols on the sides of each row and top of each column.
D. Picture puzzle. Move three levers to adjust the position and size of fragments to create a picture. 3X
BONUS CHAPTER:
E. Sequence/Logic puzzle. Arrange 4 statues of Tom Sawyer based on given clues.
F. Assembly puzzle. Recreate 6 shapes on a grid using string
G. Alignment puzzle. Move musical notes up-and-down until all align in the center of a music scale. Moving one note affects the others.
H. Sequence puzzle. Move circular fragments of a picture along a path so each fragment is situated in its proper position.
I recommend this game!
Find out the truth about the mysterious legend in this exciting hidden object adventure!
Overall rating
5
/
5
A MONSTROUS GAME FOR HALLOWEEN
PostedOctober 28, 2024
sunnyglow
fromHappy Halloween! Just keep those monsters at bay while you are out trick or treating.
Skill Level:Expert
Fun Factor
4
/
5
Visual/Sound Quality
5
/
5
Level of Challenge
5
/
5
Storyline
5
/
5
STORY: Play a small town girl, Elaine. While talking through the forest, you are whisked away to a castle, saved from a monstrous beast by another monster. Your savior is Lystrad who looks a lot like a vampire with his red eyes. Romp around the castle as you try to escape Lystrad’s clutches.
This is a short game but I feel it is decent. There are no voiceovers and the characters pop up along with dialogue which I found somewhat irritating. However, there is music and sound effects. The graphics are excellent. I loved the story behind the game.
There are mainly HOP scenes with a few puzzles thrown into the mix. However, both are excellent. Locating those items is difficult because the scenes are very dark. There are a variety of scenes including lists of items, silhouette, cryptic clues, and matching. There are not many puzzles. I only saw three in the entire game along with eight HOP scenes.
SHOULD I PLAY OR STAY AWAY? I would give this game a chance. Along with MixoGames, this is another developer who I feel could create some outstanding HOPA games. Heavens knows we have lost more HOPA developers than we have producing games nowadays and we cannot expect Elephant, our beloved GrandMA, and Friendly Fox to keep us in weekly games. The game does not have a lot of activities; however, the story is excellent and if you like a little challenge in your games, this one does provide that.
NOTE TO THE DEVELOPER: This game would be sensational if you would add voiceovers. They would not have to have mouth movements; however, just some voice would make this a better game. Keep up the good work. I would love to see a collector’s edition HOPA game from the developer. Hopefully we will see more HOPA games from Magnussoft. The game shows creative design and great graphics. Best of luck!
I recommend this game!
Rest is good for the blood.
Overall rating
5
/
5
TAKING A BITE OUT OF VAMPIRE CRIME
PostedOctober 24, 2024
sunnyglow
fromMild Mannered Monsters? For those who love scary stories which send shivers down their spines and cause them to gasp - can they accept these reformed monsters?
Skill Level:Expert
Fun Factor
5
/
5
Visual/Sound Quality
5
/
5
Level of Challenge
5
/
5
Storyline
4
/
5
REVIEW BASED UPON THE ENTIRE GAME
3 Chapters Plus a Bonus Chapter – Strategy Guide: 62 pages
3 Chapters Plus a Bonus Chapter – Strategy Guide: 62 pages
This Halloween season, enjoy the ultimate gaming experience at the Hotel Frightsylvania! Nestled in the misty, ghost-filled Carpathian Mountains of Transylvania, it promises to be a monstrous hit! At the invitation of Vlad, a reformed vampire, you and your friend, Annabelle, will enjoy a fun-filled romp around the castle. Meet vampires and other monsters as you enjoy the party. However, it would not be a story without conflict. One of the guests is not who he states he is. Be prepared to engage in a battle to save the monsters attending this party. Along the way, enjoy the scenery. In a game all decked out for Halloween, this game is a treat with plenty of eye candy to get you into the Halloween spirit.
OPINION Despite what the gaming blurb states, this is not a scary game. It is one which can be enjoyed by the entire family. The graphics are all decked out in Halloween regalia. There are pumpkins and jack-o-lanterns to light up every scene. The game has the same format as Domini’s other games. It is a puzzle intense and HOP light game. If you love puzzles, you will probably love this game, but if you don’t, you will probably hate this game.
There are three chapters plus a bonus chapter. I liked the story but felt the theme was a little odd for Halloween. However, I am a connoisseur of hard-core, scary, creepy nail biters. From the gaming blurb I expected the story behind the game to be a super duper spookfest. However, it is the opposite. Somehow, kind-hearted vampires and a monster reformation league seem strange for Transylvania. Collect morphing portraits, and anti-vampire weapons. Collect invitation tickets which are exchanged for yummy food items in the boudoir.
There are few HOP scenes. There are only seventeen (17) in the entire game. Sixteen (16) of those can be replayed upon completion of the game. The scenes are varied with lists of items, fragments, rebus clues, cryptic clues, matching, and silhouette. The HOP scenes are used twice with a different format for each one. They are laden with Halloween items. A Match-3 game can be played instead of the HOP scene. There are sixty (60) mini-games. The player can replay forty-eight (48) of these. Most of the puzzles have the choice to be played in either a hard or easy version. These mini-games are superb, especially the picture puzzles. As with other of this developer’s games, each of these picture puzzles is designed differently. I loved the puzzles within this game and with forty-eight (48) which can be replayed, I am ecstatic!
BONUS CHAPTER: It is a sequel. A year has passed, and Vlad is preparing for another Halloween party. However, the monsters are reverting to their animalistic nature. Vlad asks for your help to investigate why the monsters are behaving so badly. A demented evildoer may be the culprit behind this outbreak of monstrous activity. Return to Romania and help Vlad return these monsters to their tranquil dispositions. There are four (4) HOP scenes and fifteen (15) mini-games. Continue collecting the collectibles. I feel this chapter was a nice addition to the game and worth the collector’s edition price.
HEAVENS! LOOK AT ALL THOSE STARS! Throughout the game, the player must choose an action or response to proceed. The player receives stars for the proper action or answer given. It is easy to detect the proper response since a star is next to it. At the end of each chapter, a summary appears outlining what happened in that chapter and the number of stars earned. For all the star haters out there, I believe I know why Domini has them. Most of their games premiere as mobile games and the player must purchase hints and extra footage which is provided as part of the PC game. Also, most of the mobile games are released as chapters, thus a summary is given so the player can refer to it as the continue into the next chapter. However, I would recommend that Domini remove this chapter summary from the PC version of the game. It appears most who play these games on PC find it irritating.
SPOILERS: HERE ARE SOME OF THE 60 MINI-GAMES FROM THIS GAME: (E= Easy; H=Hard)
A. E/H. Switch puzzle. Ye Olde Clock puzzle. Using arrows, rotate the dial on a clock and switch numbers so each one is in its proper location on the clock.
B. E/H. Connection puzzle. Connect vampire heads which are different from each other. The hard version has more heads to connect.
C. Maze puzzle. Choose the proper arrows to move through the tunnels of a spooky old castle until you exit.
D. E/H. Switch puzzle. Sort and place gems into their proper position. All like-colored gems should be together in the same line. Move gems back-and-forth until all are in their correct location. The hard version has one more set of gems to position.
E. E/H. Sequence puzzle. Arrange musical notes in the proper sequence as shown on a diagram. Notes will need to be arranged so as they to go through a path which curves in different directions, each one will end up in its proper location. The hard version has more notes.
F. E/H. Matching puzzle. Match up like pumpkins – each matching the number of segments on the pumpkin. The hard version has more pumpkins to match.
G. E/H. Press on button surrounding rocks so that the number of buttons pushed along the sides of the rocks equals the number in the center of each rock. The hard version has more rocks.
BONUS CHAPTER
H. Picture puzzles. (1) Switch pieces so that when the top and bottom portion meet, they mesh to create an image. (2) Switch triangular pieces until an image is formed. (3) Rotate rings in a circular grid until an image appears.
I. Ye Olde Boat Crossing puzzle. Move monsters from one side of the river to the other following rules concerning how many and what kind of monsters can be in the boat at one time.
J. E/H. Rope puzzle. In this case untangle beams of light The hard version has a more complex design.
B. E/H. Connection puzzle. Connect vampire heads which are different from each other. The hard version has more heads to connect.
C. Maze puzzle. Choose the proper arrows to move through the tunnels of a spooky old castle until you exit.
D. E/H. Switch puzzle. Sort and place gems into their proper position. All like-colored gems should be together in the same line. Move gems back-and-forth until all are in their correct location. The hard version has one more set of gems to position.
E. E/H. Sequence puzzle. Arrange musical notes in the proper sequence as shown on a diagram. Notes will need to be arranged so as they to go through a path which curves in different directions, each one will end up in its proper location. The hard version has more notes.
F. E/H. Matching puzzle. Match up like pumpkins – each matching the number of segments on the pumpkin. The hard version has more pumpkins to match.
G. E/H. Press on button surrounding rocks so that the number of buttons pushed along the sides of the rocks equals the number in the center of each rock. The hard version has more rocks.
BONUS CHAPTER
H. Picture puzzles. (1) Switch pieces so that when the top and bottom portion meet, they mesh to create an image. (2) Switch triangular pieces until an image is formed. (3) Rotate rings in a circular grid until an image appears.
I. Ye Olde Boat Crossing puzzle. Move monsters from one side of the river to the other following rules concerning how many and what kind of monsters can be in the boat at one time.
J. E/H. Rope puzzle. In this case untangle beams of light The hard version has a more complex design.
I recommend this game!
One way or another, the past always comes back.
Overall rating
4
/
5
WELCOME TO DAVID BLACKTHORNE, A MIRROR IMAGE OF HIS COUSIN, JAMES!
PostedOctober 17, 2024
sunnyglow
fromMirror, mirror, on the wall -What terror will befall - Those who set their sight - Upon you in the dark of night
Skill Level:Expert
Fun Factor
3
/
5
Visual/Sound Quality
5
/
5
Level of Challenge
3
/
5
Storyline
5
/
5
REVIEW BASED UPON THE ENTIRE GAME
4 Chapters Plus a Bonus Chapter – Strategy Guide: 37 pages
4 Chapters Plus a Bonus Chapter – Strategy Guide: 37 pages
STORY: Welcome David Blackthorne, another paranormal investigator, following in the ghostly footsteps of his famous cousin, James. Join Blackthorne, as he battles the Grim Spirit, a menacing ghoul residing in a hidden mirror within a deserted mansion inherited by Harry Burton. Harry Burton’s brother went missing in 2007. Ten years later, after the death of his estranged father, Harry inherited this mansion which he intended to sell. However, ghosts from his past will need his help to free themselves from the grasps of the mirror. Aid Harry and Blackthorne as they tackle the menacing Grim Spirit.
ANALYSIS: I loved the story behind this game! This game is right up my dark, spooky alley chock filled with ghosts and scary fare! It is a short game; however, I feel it is a quality game. The graphics are amazing. I do feel it is worth the price of a collector’s edition although it does not have as many activities as other games. I believe the simplicity of the game may be due to the fact that it was designed as a family game, one which all ages can enjoy. This game is one which should get the player into the Halloween spirit. There are a few Easter eggs in this game. There are some references to James Blackthorne and his fiancé Rachel.
The game has the same format as other Elephant Games. Collect puzzle fragments (shaped like books) and haunted buildings. I found both easy to locate. At the end of the game the fragments are used to play a jigsaw puzzle hidden within a secret room. If any collectibles are missing, there is an expedition room which allows the player to return to scenes to locate those missing items.
There are twenty (20) puzzles, thirteen (13) of which can be replayed upon completion of the game. There are fourteen (14) HOP scenes, all of which can be replayed. There are also many mini-HOP scenes with five or six items to be located. The HOP scenes consist of lists of items, silhouette, matching, fragment, narrative and replacement. The scenes with lists of items are highly interactive. My favorite scenes are the replacement scenes, where the player places items into the proper location within the scene.
MECHANICS:
Four (4) levels of play including a customized version.
• 10 achievements.
• Collect 25 puzzle fragments shaped like books which will be used to play a jigsaw puzzle upon completion of the game. The puzzle is within the secret room.
• Collect 12 innocent looking buildings with a shady past
• 5 wallpapers along with a screensaver and music selections
• Replay 14 HOP scenes and 13 puzzles
• 10 achievements.
• Collect 25 puzzle fragments shaped like books which will be used to play a jigsaw puzzle upon completion of the game. The puzzle is within the secret room.
• Collect 12 innocent looking buildings with a shady past
• 5 wallpapers along with a screensaver and music selections
• Replay 14 HOP scenes and 13 puzzles
BONUS CHAPTER: It is a prequel. It tells the story of how the mirror from the main game ended up at the Burton Hotel. Relive the story of doomed lovers and one man’s quest to prove himself worthy for his beloved. I found the chapter a nice addition to the game. There are five (5) puzzles and three (3) HOP scenes along with several mini-HOP scenes.
SHOULD I PLAY OR STAY AWAY? I believe people will either love or hate this game. It is very short. The puzzles are easy. There are not a lot of HOP scenes. Tracing symbols is not my idea of a puzzle; however, that puzzle may appeal to children, and this game would be an excellent game for older school-age children. If you want an easy game, one which might get you into the Halloween spirit like an old Vincent Price movie, then this game may appeal to you. The game is not terribly scary, but there again, do you really know what lurks inside your mirrors? Do you? You might not want to look into a mirror in the dead of night after playing this game. Dare you to look!
SPOILERS: HERE ARE SOME OF THE PUZZLES AFTER THE DEMO:
A. Tracing puzzle. Trace an image staying within the lines of the symbol 3X
B. Bullseye puzzle Align two bullseyes together with sliders and then press a button to eliminate a paper airplane 5X
C. Strategy puzzle. Move 5 musical notes up-and-down on a sheet of music until all are in the center. Moving one affects the others.
D. Switch puzzle. Switch pieces on a puzzle to restore the image of 3 people
E. Card game. Fill up your slider (20 points) faster than your opponent. You choose a card from your hand and if it is valued higher than your opponent you get a point and vice versa.
BONUS CHAPTER:
F. Switch puzzle. On a maze with paths, move symbols so each symbol is located next to 2 matching symbols.
G. Connection puzzle. Connect beads on a necklace to match that on a given diagram. 3X
B. Bullseye puzzle Align two bullseyes together with sliders and then press a button to eliminate a paper airplane 5X
C. Strategy puzzle. Move 5 musical notes up-and-down on a sheet of music until all are in the center. Moving one affects the others.
D. Switch puzzle. Switch pieces on a puzzle to restore the image of 3 people
E. Card game. Fill up your slider (20 points) faster than your opponent. You choose a card from your hand and if it is valued higher than your opponent you get a point and vice versa.
BONUS CHAPTER:
F. Switch puzzle. On a maze with paths, move symbols so each symbol is located next to 2 matching symbols.
G. Connection puzzle. Connect beads on a necklace to match that on a given diagram. 3X
I recommend this game!