sunnyglow's Profile
Stat Summary
- Average Rating:4.3
- Helpful Votes:80,068
- Reviews Submitted:758
- First Review:November 27, 2011
- Most Recent Review:September 12, 2024
- Featured reviews0
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A murder investigation uncovers ancient secrets and dark magic!
Overall rating
4
/
5
91 of 181 found this review helpful
THE SCARS OF ST. GERMAIN STILL REMAIN
PostedAugust 15, 2019
sunnyglow
fromIn this game, the nasty dwarf St. Germain appears to be “dis-grunt-led.” There is not one instance of grunting within the entire game by this evildoer.
Skill Level:Expert
Fun Factor
4
/
5
Visual/Sound Quality
5
/
5
Level of Challenge
4
/
5
Storyline
3
/
5
REVIEW BASED UPON THE ENTIRE GAME
4 Chapters Plus a Bonus Chapter – Strategy Guide: 48 pages (My time: 6 Hours)
4 Chapters Plus a Bonus Chapter – Strategy Guide: 48 pages (My time: 6 Hours)
OPINION: Agent! You are off to Sauvenage City to investigate another baffling case involving women afflicted with luminescent scars. Contend with two evildoers as you all battle each other to locate the “source” of this malady and cure. The annoying dwarf, St. Germain returns; however, he is a bit player in this game. Although I found the story bizarre, I found the game itself a decent addition to the series. The beginning of the main game is fast paced; however, the end is snail-paced with a great deal of back-and-forth action between scenes.
There are two collectibles, morphing lanterns and puzzle fragments. The fragments create six pictures which give information about the characters from the game. Most are easy to locate but there are some which are well-hidden within the scenes. The graphics within the scenes are beautifully illustrated as in most of this developer’s games.
There are seventeen (17) HOP scenes within the game – fourteen (14) of which can be replayed. Most of the scenes are standard lists of items or silhouette. There are a few matching and storybook scenes as well. Most of the scenes lack variety. They are simple searches with little creative design. There are also twenty (20) mini-HOP scenes which consist of searching for six (6) to twelve (12) items or fragments of items within a scene.
Nevertheless, there is one scene which I found creatively designed and puzzle-like. The player is given a map of a labyrinth. In the labyrinth the player must search for silhouette items which uncover parts of directional signs with symbols on them. Once the signs have been restored, the player must choose the one which matches with one of the symbols on the map and then proceed in that direction.
I found the mini-games better designed that the HOP scenes. There are forty-five (45) mini-games which vary in difficulty and style. I found most of moderate difficulty. There is an option for some of the mini-games to be played in either a casual or hard mode. With this number of mini-games, I am somewhat disappointed that more them were not offered to be replayed at the conclusion of the game.
BONUS CHAPTER: It is a sequel. Return to Sauvenage City to investigate the case of a missing young man. Gustav Lefer has disappeared after acquiring a strange ring. Discover how this ring is tied into his disappearance. Evildoer, St. Germain makes an encore appearance in this chapter as well. It is a long chapter which I feel is well-worth the collector’s edition designation. I like the story better in this chapter than that from the main game. I also feel the activities are more creatively designed as well. There are eleven (11) mini-games and six (6) HOP scenes, along with one mini-HOP scene.
MECHANICS:
• Four (4) levels of play including a customized version.
• Fourteen (14) achievements.
• Collect thirty-six (36) puzzle fragments to create six (6) pictures which tell more about the characters from the game.
• Collect twenty-six (26) morphing objects (lanterns)
• Five (5) wallpapers and six (6) screensavers along with concept art, music and video sequences
• Replay fourteen (14) HOP scenes and thirteen (13) mini-games
• Fourteen (14) achievements.
• Collect thirty-six (36) puzzle fragments to create six (6) pictures which tell more about the characters from the game.
• Collect twenty-six (26) morphing objects (lanterns)
• Five (5) wallpapers and six (6) screensavers along with concept art, music and video sequences
• Replay fourteen (14) HOP scenes and thirteen (13) mini-games
SPOILERS: HERE ARE SOME OF THE MINI-GAMES AFTER THE DEMO:
A. Matching/Sequence puzzle. On a piano, press keys with symbols on them in sequential order to match up with those on a sheet of music.
B. Casual/Hard. Switch puzzle. Switch hexagonal pieces to restore an image. In the hard version, rotate the pieces as well
C. Switch puzzle. Switch butterflies around a circle so that the colors on the wings match those from colored disks in the center of the circle.
D. Map puzzle. Place 9 arrows into a box to plot a route for a horse while avoiding obstacles in its path. All arrows are used. (Repeated from the demo)
E. Switch puzzle. Switch fan blades to create an image on a fan.
F. Switch puzzle. Switch animal tokens so each is in its appropriate habitat
BONUS CHAPTER
G. Map puzzle. Follow given directions by moving onto spaces within a grid (north, south, east, and west) according to given clues.
H. Casual/Hard. Maze puzzle. Move through a maze while avoiding a ghost and other obstacles. Wander the maze to locate items which can be used to tackle the obstructions
I. Moving blocks puzzle. Move blocks up-and-down to create a path for 2 parts of a door to intersect and combine with each together.
B. Casual/Hard. Switch puzzle. Switch hexagonal pieces to restore an image. In the hard version, rotate the pieces as well
C. Switch puzzle. Switch butterflies around a circle so that the colors on the wings match those from colored disks in the center of the circle.
D. Map puzzle. Place 9 arrows into a box to plot a route for a horse while avoiding obstacles in its path. All arrows are used. (Repeated from the demo)
E. Switch puzzle. Switch fan blades to create an image on a fan.
F. Switch puzzle. Switch animal tokens so each is in its appropriate habitat
BONUS CHAPTER
G. Map puzzle. Follow given directions by moving onto spaces within a grid (north, south, east, and west) according to given clues.
H. Casual/Hard. Maze puzzle. Move through a maze while avoiding a ghost and other obstacles. Wander the maze to locate items which can be used to tackle the obstructions
I. Moving blocks puzzle. Move blocks up-and-down to create a path for 2 parts of a door to intersect and combine with each together.
I recommend this game!
Can you save your friend before your luck runs out?
Overall rating
5
/
5
209 of 296 found this review helpful
A POT O’ MAGICAL GAMING ENJOYMENT – ONE OF THE BEST GAMES OF THE YEAR
PostedAugust 8, 2019
sunnyglow
fromTo ward off some rascally leprechauns, you may to wear some lucky charms while playing this game – a game which is magically delicious!
Skill Level:Expert
Fun Factor
5
/
5
Visual/Sound Quality
5
/
5
Level of Challenge
5
/
5
Storyline
5
/
5
REVIEW BASED UPON THE ENTIRE GAME
3 Chapters Plus a Bonus Chapter – Strategy Guide: 45 pages -Time: 6 Hours
3 Chapters Plus a Bonus Chapter – Strategy Guide: 45 pages -Time: 6 Hours
OPINION: May the luck of the Irish be with you as you venture to the land of leprechauns. Hunt down a feisty leprechaun out to steal a dragon’s gold. This little leprechaun pot o’ enjoyment is worth its weight in gold. I found the game a fast-paced adventure filled with numerous activities to keep a player engaged. From shamrocks to leprechauns, this game is decked out in various shades of green. I have been anxiously awaiting this game from my favorite developer. This is a superb game from a developer who provides those extras not available in many other games.
With the choice of difficulty in playing the mini-games, this game should appeal to those who want an easy breezy game as well as those who want a little more challenge. There are three collectibles – leprechaun statues, morphing fairies, and Celtic crosses. I found most easy to locate; however, some of them are well-hidden for those super sleuths looking for a little challenge. At the end of the game, the Celtic crosses can be exchanged for items to place in a secret garden. There is an indicator on the inventory bar which lights up when an item is within a scene. A rather amusing touch for me was the part of the game where you crash land and must dig out of the rubble to reclaim your task book, map, hint bar and inventory items.
There are eighteen (18) of the most creative HOP scenes I have played in some time. They are exquisite. All can be replayed at the end of the game. There is the option to play a thematic Match-3 game in lieu of the scenes. However, with the quality and creativity in the design of the scenes, I believe most players will want to play most of them. There is an incredibly beautiful matching scene in which symbols must be matched on fairy wings. In another, the player must choose between four (4) responses to answer a question posed by Merlin, then locate three associated items within the scene. In another unique scene, two objects must be located, which, when combined, create the item in the list. Some scenes containing lists of items contain morphing objects as well.
There are twenty-seven (27) mini-games, eighteen (18) of which can be replayed at the end of the game. I found the directions clearly written and most have the option to be played in either an “easy” or “hard” mode. The difficulty of the puzzles can be set in the menu of the game. Nevertheless, the difficulty can be changed while playing the mini-game as well.
MECHANICS:
• Four (4) levels of play including a customized version.
• Thirty-two (32) achievements.
• Collect fifteen (15) statuettes of leprechauns and fifteen morphing (15) fairies
• Collect sixty-nine (69) Celtic crosses to exchange for items to place in a garden
• Twenty (20) wallpapers along with concept art, music and video sequences
• Replay eighteen (18) HOP scenes and eighteen (18) mini-games
• Thirty-two (32) achievements.
• Collect fifteen (15) statuettes of leprechauns and fifteen morphing (15) fairies
• Collect sixty-nine (69) Celtic crosses to exchange for items to place in a garden
• Twenty (20) wallpapers along with concept art, music and video sequences
• Replay eighteen (18) HOP scenes and eighteen (18) mini-games
BONUS CHAPTER: It is a prequel telling the story how Cedric, a character from the main game, became a village elder. Play Cedric as he tries to stop a fellow leprechaun, Aaron, from re-assembling the Blighter’s Crown, once worn by an evil dragon. Rejected by Merlin from attending the school for wizards, Aaron now is out to prove himself a wizard by collecting all the pieces of this crown, a crown which can obliterate everything. This chapter is as well-designed as the main chapter. It is a long chapter, well worth the extra price of a collector’s edition. There are five (5) HOP scenes and eight (8) mini-games. The mini-games are exquisite and all can be played in either a “hard” or “easy” mode. Continue collecting all three collectibles within this chapter.
SPOILERS: HERE ARE SOME OF THE MINI-GAMES AFTER THE DEMO:
A. Easy/Hard. Switch/Gear puzzle. Switch and rotate gears to restore an image of a dragon.
B. Easy/Hard. Tangram puzzle. Place segments with symbols on them into a square so they fit without any spaces between the segments. Symbols on each segment must match those of the segment next to it.
C. Easy/Hard. Domino puzzle. Place beetles with spots on their backs so that the number of spots matches between adjoining beetles
D. Easy/Hard. Maze puzzle. Move 3 (2 in the easy version) railcars through a maze at the same time using arrows at the top of the grid. All must reach the top at the same time.
E. Maze puzzle. Choose one of 3 paths to escape 2 dragons. The time to enter the maze is key. 3X
F. Easy/Hard. Sequence puzzle. Locate adjoining notes in sequence on a grid as per a given code. 3X
BONUS CHAPTER:
G. Sequence puzzle. Press keys on a xylophone in the proper sequence so all keys light up and stay lit.
H. Easy/Hard. Assembly puzzle. Rotate pieces and place them into a swan to restore its image.
I. Easy/Hard. Connection puzzle. Rotate hexagonal squares with lines upon them to create connections between like-colored energy balls.
B. Easy/Hard. Tangram puzzle. Place segments with symbols on them into a square so they fit without any spaces between the segments. Symbols on each segment must match those of the segment next to it.
C. Easy/Hard. Domino puzzle. Place beetles with spots on their backs so that the number of spots matches between adjoining beetles
D. Easy/Hard. Maze puzzle. Move 3 (2 in the easy version) railcars through a maze at the same time using arrows at the top of the grid. All must reach the top at the same time.
E. Maze puzzle. Choose one of 3 paths to escape 2 dragons. The time to enter the maze is key. 3X
F. Easy/Hard. Sequence puzzle. Locate adjoining notes in sequence on a grid as per a given code. 3X
BONUS CHAPTER:
G. Sequence puzzle. Press keys on a xylophone in the proper sequence so all keys light up and stay lit.
H. Easy/Hard. Assembly puzzle. Rotate pieces and place them into a swan to restore its image.
I. Easy/Hard. Connection puzzle. Rotate hexagonal squares with lines upon them to create connections between like-colored energy balls.
I recommend this game!
Step into the shoes of a Private investigator with short-term memory loss and uncover the shocking truth about his involvement with a serial killer called The Executioner.
Overall rating
5
/
5
164 of 287 found this review helpful
BEWARE A KILLER BLONDE BOMBSHELL WITH A SHORT FUSE
PostedAugust 1, 2019
sunnyglow
fromIn the city rummaging through “urban decay” and searching “urban outfitters” for that watch from this game – the one with the developer’s logo on the back.
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
6 Chapters Plus a Bonus Chapter – Strategy Guide: 43 pages - Time: 5 Hours
6 Chapters Plus a Bonus Chapter – Strategy Guide: 43 pages - Time: 5 Hours
OPINION: What a fantastic whodunit! Play private detective Arthur Christie investigating the case of a serial killer, nicknamed "The Executioner." This superb whodunit has a well-written story, one which takes the player on some twists and turns as it uncovers the identity of the bitter, vengeful killer. The whole story behind this case is not completely revealed until the end of the game.
Accompanying this tale of revenge are realistic graphics of the inner city. The corruption and urban decay are well-portrayed within the scenes. Featured in the game are plenty of activities, including creatively designed HOP scenes and minigames. Search for three collectibles – two within each scene, one being a morphing object. There are also morphing objects within the HOP scenes. I found the collectibles easy to locate.
There are twenty-three (23) HOP scenes in the game. A Match-3 game can be played in lieu of the scenes. The scenes are interactive. Items must be uncovered or manipulated in some way before they can be removed from the scene. There are some creatively designed scenes within this game. As an example, in one, while hanging from a rope in a fight for your life, use a lighter to locate designs on the four walls surrounding you.
There are twenty-six (26) minigames. The game also contains puzzle-like activities not designated as puzzles by the developer. They vary in style and difficulty. There are some very easy ones; however, there is an ample number which are moderately difficult. They are thematic, most relating to detective or police -type activities. The developer uses “memory picture puzzles” as a clever device to jar the memory of the detective to further the story. There are five (5) of these in the game. Each requires manipulating jigsaw pieces in a variety of different formats to create a photo.
I always look forward to this developer’s games. Although they do not produce many games, the ones they produce are masterfully designed. With a well-written gaming script, realistic graphics, a fast pace, and a variety of creatively designed activities, this game is a classic not to be missed.
MECHANICS:
• Four (4) levels of play including a customized version.
• Twenty-four (24) achievements.
• Collect sixteen (16) hats, fourteen (14) floppy disks, and thirty (31) morphing pipes
• Eight (8) wallpapers along with concept art, music and cut scenes from the game.
• Receive a forensic kit and a fingerprint kit to analyze evidence.
• Replay eight (8) HOP scenes and eight (8) minigames
• Twenty-four (24) achievements.
• Collect sixteen (16) hats, fourteen (14) floppy disks, and thirty (31) morphing pipes
• Eight (8) wallpapers along with concept art, music and cut scenes from the game.
• Receive a forensic kit and a fingerprint kit to analyze evidence.
• Replay eight (8) HOP scenes and eight (8) minigames
BONUS CHAPTER: It is a prequel. Play detective Arthur Christie and return to period before the beginning of the main game to discover the reason for your memory loss. There are no collectibles within this chapter. I found the chapter rather short; however, the activities are of the same quality as the main game. There are four (4) HOP scenes and four (4) minigames.
SPOILERS: HERE ARE SOME OF THE MINGAMES AFTER THE DEMO:
A. Memory Picture puzzle. Switch puzzle. Switch pieces to restore an image of a memory
B. Spot-the-Differences puzzle. Find the differences between two bullet casings. First adjust the focus at the side of a microscope to bring the two casings into focus. Then, compare the two casings
C. Search puzzle. Use a magnifying glass to search for 5 blonde hairs on a wig.
D. Matching puzzle. Match up 3 sets of microbes between two slides. Find one on one slide and switch to the other to get its match.
E. Memory puzzle. Rotating tiles. Rotate hexagonal pieces to restore an image of a memory.
F. Sequence puzzle. Using a guide, start a crane by following given directions.
G. Assembly puzzle. On a board with 4 colored wires - connect the ends of each wire to two symbols, which, when combined, create one of four symbols at the side of the grid.
BONUS CHAPTER:
H. Switch puzzle. Switch books so they are placed on a bookshelf as per clues given in a photo.
I. Play pool. Move lines of pool balls on a pool table so that 3 items move from the top of the table through openings within the lines to the bottom of the table.
B. Spot-the-Differences puzzle. Find the differences between two bullet casings. First adjust the focus at the side of a microscope to bring the two casings into focus. Then, compare the two casings
C. Search puzzle. Use a magnifying glass to search for 5 blonde hairs on a wig.
D. Matching puzzle. Match up 3 sets of microbes between two slides. Find one on one slide and switch to the other to get its match.
E. Memory puzzle. Rotating tiles. Rotate hexagonal pieces to restore an image of a memory.
F. Sequence puzzle. Using a guide, start a crane by following given directions.
G. Assembly puzzle. On a board with 4 colored wires - connect the ends of each wire to two symbols, which, when combined, create one of four symbols at the side of the grid.
BONUS CHAPTER:
H. Switch puzzle. Switch books so they are placed on a bookshelf as per clues given in a photo.
I. Play pool. Move lines of pool balls on a pool table so that 3 items move from the top of the table through openings within the lines to the bottom of the table.
I recommend this game!
Can you stop a dangerous cloaked assailant before it’s too late?
Overall rating
4
/
5
126 of 190 found this review helpful
MEET A NEW MEMBER OF “THE AVENGERS” – LIGEIA
PostedJuly 25, 2019
sunnyglow
fromLigeia would be a perfect addition to the “Avengers.” With her fiery eyes, she “possesses” the ability to avenge the dastardly deeds of ex-husbands.
Skill Level:Expert
Fun Factor
3
/
5
Visual/Sound Quality
5
/
5
Level of Challenge
4
/
5
Storyline
3
/
5
REVIEW BASED UPON THE ENTIRE GAME
4 Chapters Plus a Bonus Chapter – Strategy Guide: 36 pages (4-1/2 Hours)
4 Chapters Plus a Bonus Chapter – Strategy Guide: 36 pages (4-1/2 Hours)
OPINION: Detective! You and the debonair Dupin are off to the Phoenix Estate to deal with Ligeia, an avenging ghost, in a story with some unexpected twists. The game is mediocre fare, consistent with other games from this developer. The story is loosely based on the short story by Poe with the same characters as those from the story; however, the plot is much different. The scenes are beautifully illustrated as in all this developer’s games. The main game is short but has a decent pace with a variety of activities. The main game flows smoothly and kept my interest. However, I found the bonus chapter snail-paced. To me, this is a decent but not outstanding addition to the series.
There are twenty (20) HOP scenes and seven (7) mini-HOP scenes – those in which the player searches for a small number of items. There is not much variety in the scenes, with most being lists of items, silhouette, or matching. Nevertheless, I found them creatively designed. They are interactive requiring the player to manipulate items in some way within the scenes.
There are twenty-six (26) minigames within the game. Half of those are in the demo. I was disappointed by the lack of minigames after the demo. Although not as many as in other games, the ones in this game are well-designed and some have the option to be played in either a “casual” or “hard” mode. The minigames range from extremely easy to moderate difficulty. There are none which are difficult.
There are twenty-six (26) minigames within the game. Half of those are in the demo. I was disappointed by the lack of minigames after the demo. Although not as many as in other games, the ones in this game are well-designed and some have the option to be played in either a “casual” or “hard” mode. The minigames range from extremely easy to moderate difficulty. There are none which are difficult.
MECHANICS:
• Four (4) levels of play including a customized version.
• Twelve (12) achievements.
• Collect twenty-six (26) morphing objects
• Collect twelve (12) poisons and medicines
• Nine (9) wallpapers along with five (5) screensavers, concept art, music and video sequences
• Replay eleven (11) mini-games and fifteen (15) HOP scenes
• Twelve (12) achievements.
• Collect twenty-six (26) morphing objects
• Collect twelve (12) poisons and medicines
• Nine (9) wallpapers along with five (5) screensavers, concept art, music and video sequences
• Replay eleven (11) mini-games and fifteen (15) HOP scenes
BONUS CHAPTER: It is a sequel. The housekeeper, Robert Fowles, narrates his long-winded life’s story and how he ended up working for the Phoenix family. The chapter begins with a good pace but slows down toward the end. There are five (5) HOP scenes, most of which are storybook (searching for items within the narration of Fowles’ life) and lists of items. There are also mini-HOP scenes searching for a small number of some item. Toward the end of the chapter, all the HOP scenes are lists of items. There are five (5) minigames as well and most of those are creatively designed. I think the bonus chapter is too lengthy, slowing down the pace of the game. To me, it is not worth the price of a collector’s edition designation – not because it is too short, but because it is too long with a lot of filler.
SPOILERS: HERE ARE SOME OF THE MINIGAMES AFTER THE DEMO:
A. Switch puzzle. Switch parts of 18 lock tumblers so that each one meshes with the piece opposite it on a grid.
B. Assembly puzzle. Click on 3 runes which, when combined, create a symbol at the right of the grid.
C. Maze puzzle. Rotate a center disk to create paths for 3 scarabs to reach their matching colored slot on the opposite end. Increases in difficulty with each scarab.
D. Domino puzzle. A variation in which the player places pieces onto a circular grid so that abutting pieces match. Use arrows to maneuver pieces.
E. Jigsaw puzzle. Fit boards together so they mesh to create a bridge.
BONUS CHAPTER:
F. Escape puzzle. Move down a ladder while avoiding police spotlights. Use two buttons to control both the movement going down the ladder and the police spotlights
G. Maze puzzle. Maneuver through a maze while dealing with obstacles in the path. Collect items to destroy those obstacles.
B. Assembly puzzle. Click on 3 runes which, when combined, create a symbol at the right of the grid.
C. Maze puzzle. Rotate a center disk to create paths for 3 scarabs to reach their matching colored slot on the opposite end. Increases in difficulty with each scarab.
D. Domino puzzle. A variation in which the player places pieces onto a circular grid so that abutting pieces match. Use arrows to maneuver pieces.
E. Jigsaw puzzle. Fit boards together so they mesh to create a bridge.
BONUS CHAPTER:
F. Escape puzzle. Move down a ladder while avoiding police spotlights. Use two buttons to control both the movement going down the ladder and the police spotlights
G. Maze puzzle. Maneuver through a maze while dealing with obstacles in the path. Collect items to destroy those obstacles.
I recommend this game!
Can you stop a dangerous band of criminals from destroying the city?
Overall rating
2
/
5
118 of 179 found this review helpful
LISTEN TO A VOICE OF REASON OR PAY THE PIPER IN THIS GAME!
PostedJuly 20, 2019
sunnyglow
fromAs Nerida states at the end of the game - “We all need a voice of reason in our lives – just sometimes.” Just wish I listened to that inner voice of reason before purchasing this game!
Skill Level:Expert
Fun Factor
2
/
5
Visual/Sound Quality
4
/
5
Level of Challenge
4
/
5
Storyline
2
/
5
REVIEW BASED UPON THE ENTIRE GAME
4 Chapters Plus a Bonus Chapter – Strategy Guide: 41 pages – Time: 6 Hours
4 Chapters Plus a Bonus Chapter – Strategy Guide: 41 pages – Time: 6 Hours
OPINION: Detective! When your girlfriend, Rachel, goes out of town, be prepared to rescue her sister, Nerida, from the misguided Piper and his gal pal, Caroline. Get prepared for a sleeper – in this case, one which will lull you to sleep! Being lured by the story and musical theme of the Piper, I purchased this game. After playing past the first half of the game, I regretted my decision. As with many of their other games, this developer put all the goodies in the first half of the game. As the game progressed it became snail-paced and boring!
Although the puzzles and HOP scenes are creatively designed, there are not enough of them to keep a player engaged. Most of the activity consists of running to-and-fro throughout the scenes searching for an inventory item to be used in yet another scene. These time-consuming activities (AKA time filler) combined with a confusing story and lack of dialogue made playing the game intolerable. The game is so boring I found myself nodding off a few times while playing it. This game also gave me the impression that it was hastened through without being fully completed. The last chapter is poorly constructed and missing the quality of the other chapters. On a positive note, however, the graphics from the scenes in the chapter dealing with Chinatown are beautifully designed.
Although the puzzles and HOP scenes are creatively designed, there are not enough of them to keep a player engaged. Most of the activity consists of running to-and-fro throughout the scenes searching for an inventory item to be used in yet another scene. These time-consuming activities (AKA time filler) combined with a confusing story and lack of dialogue made playing the game intolerable. The game is so boring I found myself nodding off a few times while playing it. This game also gave me the impression that it was hastened through without being fully completed. The last chapter is poorly constructed and missing the quality of the other chapters. On a positive note, however, the graphics from the scenes in the chapter dealing with Chinatown are beautifully designed.
The collectibles are musical notes and there are morphing objects as well. However, at the end of the game – Poof! The morphing objects disappear from the game. It appears that the game was finished without these objects being added to the last chapter and the bonus chapter as well. At the end there are souvenirs to be collected by returning to the previous scenes from the game. I found all the collectibles easy to locate.
There are an equal number of HOP scenes and puzzles, twenty (20) of each. The HOP scenes in the beginning chapters are superb. There are some creatively designed scenes. In the early chapters, the scenes are thematic with the use of musical notes and instruments. I found two (2) scenes in the game creatively designed. One scene contains several drawers must be opened to locate items. This must be done while avoiding a waterfall which travels from left to right throughout the scene. Those drawers must be opened quickly, and items must be located before the waterfall interrupts the search. Another scene has the player hitting drums and cymbals to open musical notes which must be matched up with given silhouettes of them. Nevertheless, the last half of the game only contains straight lists of items, most scenes being junk piles.
I feel the puzzles are more creatively designed than the HOP scenes. They vary in style and difficulty, with none being challenging. Most are variations of ones seen in other games. On the plus side, most of the puzzles and HOP scenes can be replayed which is not available in other games.
MECHANICS:
• Four (4) levels of play including a customized version.
• Twelve (12) achievements.
• Collect thirty-three (33) signs (musical notes to create a sheet of music)
• Collect sixteen (16) morphing objects
• Collect twenty-one (21) souvenirs at the end of the game
• Replay eighteen (18) HOP scenes and eighteen (18) puzzles.
• Eight (8) wallpapers along with concept art, music and video sequences
• Twelve (12) achievements.
• Collect thirty-three (33) signs (musical notes to create a sheet of music)
• Collect sixteen (16) morphing objects
• Collect twenty-one (21) souvenirs at the end of the game
• Replay eighteen (18) HOP scenes and eighteen (18) puzzles.
• Eight (8) wallpapers along with concept art, music and video sequences
BONUS CHAPTER: It is a sequel. Play Nerida in this chapter and help her locate her voice which was stolen from her within the theater. Also, help free the girls from the main game who are still imprisoned within the theater . There are five (5) HOP scenes and five (5) puzzles. All the HOP scenes are lists of items set in junk piles. Continue collecting the signs but not the morphing objects. Like the main game, this chapter has little dialogue and has a lot of time filler in running to-and-fro searching for inventory items. To me, this chapter is not worthy of a collector’s edition designation.
SPOILERS: HERE ARE SOME OF THE PUZZLES AFTER THE DEMO:
A. Physical puzzle. Using a homemade hairspray flame thrower (don’t try this at home), create a flame which is larger than the water snakes being directed toward you.
B. Sequence puzzle. Click on family portraits in the proper order to place them in the proper position as they proceed on a moving track to a wall.
C. Picture puzzle. Switch puzzle. Switch slats so that a photograph is restored. 2X One photo has vertical slats and the other has horizontal slats.
D. Picture puzzle. Rotate triangular pieces to restore a picture of fish.
E. Mathematical puzzle. Tune a pipa (Chinese lute) by completing mathematical equations. Use an arrow to enter the proper answer into a number counter.
F. Matching puzzle. Match up keys with their proper spots on a grid.
BONUS CHAPTER:
G. Connection puzzle. On each segment of two cylinders, match up symbols to they have a continuous connection from one end to the other.
H. Matching puzzle. Connected colored tips to tangled wires. Follow the path the wires take to match up the colored tip with the same colored wire.
I. Sequence puzzle. Repeat a sequence of lighted buttons on a coffee machine. 3X
B. Sequence puzzle. Click on family portraits in the proper order to place them in the proper position as they proceed on a moving track to a wall.
C. Picture puzzle. Switch puzzle. Switch slats so that a photograph is restored. 2X One photo has vertical slats and the other has horizontal slats.
D. Picture puzzle. Rotate triangular pieces to restore a picture of fish.
E. Mathematical puzzle. Tune a pipa (Chinese lute) by completing mathematical equations. Use an arrow to enter the proper answer into a number counter.
F. Matching puzzle. Match up keys with their proper spots on a grid.
BONUS CHAPTER:
G. Connection puzzle. On each segment of two cylinders, match up symbols to they have a continuous connection from one end to the other.
H. Matching puzzle. Connected colored tips to tangled wires. Follow the path the wires take to match up the colored tip with the same colored wire.
I. Sequence puzzle. Repeat a sequence of lighted buttons on a coffee machine. 3X
I don't recommend this game.
Can you stop a criminal you can’t always see?
Overall rating
5
/
5
144 of 223 found this review helpful
UNCOVERING THE HEART OF LONDON IN A GAME WHICH STOLE MY HEART
PostedJuly 18, 2019
sunnyglow
fromAlthough some may sing “I Left My Heart in San Francisco,” I left mine behind the scenes in London – within this game!
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: 52 pages - Time: 7 hours (It is a long game)
4 Chapters Plus a Bonus Chapter – Strategy Guide: 52 pages - Time: 7 hours (It is a long game)
OPINION: Detective! Escape to the magical world of the Secret City to defeat a power-hungry crime boss out to steal an artifact, the Heart of London. This fantastic game will steal your heart as well! It is a long game from a developer who provides those extras other developers do not. For me, this is the best game of the series so far.
The story behind the game is well-written. It is action-packed with plenty of activities to keep a good pace throughout. The graphics well-portray the two worlds – that of magic and that of humans. Those signature colors for the developer, neon green and vivid purple, once more make an encore performance, adding a touch of surrealism. Although I realize this is their trademark, I do wish my favorite developer would branch out (just a little) to include some other color schemes. For me, the game is well-worth the price of a collector’s edition. Although not my favorite series from this developer; this game stole my heart!
Three are three (3) collectibles in the game. I found most easy to locate. As in all this developer’s games, there is an indicator for the collectibles on the top of the inventory bar. It lights up when a collectible is within a scene. The player can replay some mini-games and HOP scenes. Surprisingly there are more HOP scenes to replay than puzzles. I do wish it was the opposite. There are many of the puzzles I would like to replay but they are not offered.
There are eighteen (18) HOP scenes and all can be replayed. They are creatively designed. There is a variety of them. One of my favorites is one with famous London landmarks. Locate those landmarks based on description of them. Returning are the scenes which have sliders which align silhouettes of the items with the items themselves before they are removed. There is a beautiful one set in clouds in which ravens must be located using a light to see through the clouds. If a player does not wish to play a scene, there is a Match-3 game which can be played instead.
There are thirty-three (33) mini-games,fifteen(15) of which can be replayed. Most have the option to be played in either an “easy” or “hard” mode. This designation can be set in the menu as well; however, if a player changes their mind, the difficulty can be changed while playing the puzzle. Nevertheless, there are puzzles which do not have this designation. The puzzles are well-designed.
MECHANICS:
• Four (4) levels of play including a customized version.
• Eighteen (18) achievements.
• Collect fifteen (15) morphing photos
• Collect fifteen (15) Secret City artifacts
• Collect fifty-one (51) coins to purchase items to decorate evildoer Mortymer’s office
• Fourteen (14) wallpapers along with concept art, music and cut scenes
• Replay eighteen (18) HOP scenes and fifteen (15) mini-games
• Eighteen (18) achievements.
• Collect fifteen (15) morphing photos
• Collect fifteen (15) Secret City artifacts
• Collect fifty-one (51) coins to purchase items to decorate evildoer Mortymer’s office
• Fourteen (14) wallpapers along with concept art, music and cut scenes
• Replay eighteen (18) HOP scenes and fifteen (15) mini-games
BONUS CHAPTER: Learn the story behind the founding of the Secret City. Play a Lakrian during the time when the magical beings were at war with each other. When a human, King Wilhelm invades the magical kingdom, you realize that you must unite all the magical beings residing there. Defeat the spirit of Discord, Guillian and search for Heart of Consent to restore peace. This is a long chapter with eight (8) mini-games and five (5) HOP scenes. The chapter is well-worth the extra price of a collector’s edition. I found the quality of the game consistent with that of the main game.
SPOILERS: HERE ARE SOME OF THE MINI-GAMES AFTER THE DEMO: (E/H denotes puzzles which have “easy” and “hard” modes of play).
A. E/H. Matching puzzle. Rotate gears with symbols on them so that adjoining symbols match between gears and on the grid itself. Rotating a gear affects the others.
B. E/H. Picture puzzle. Rotate circular picture parts to restore an image within a book. 4X
C. Matching puzzle. Play keys on a piano as per a given sheet of music.
D. E/H Lockpick puzzle. Move 2 lockpicks (one on the top and one on the bottom of a grid) across the grid by moving tumblers up and down to create a path for both. Switch between the two lockpicks to get them across the grid.
E. E/H. Maze puzzle. Take a carriage through the park while avoiding obstacles in your path.
F. E/H Domino puzzle. Lay domino pieces with two symbols on the ends within a grid so that symbols on the ends match up with each other.
G. E/H. Connection puzzle. Rotate triangles containing images of pipe pieces imprinted on them, so that all the pipe pieces connect. Rotating one affects the others.
H. Logic puzzle. Paint an image of a portal so that no 2 adjoining sections are the same color
BONUS CHAPTER:
I. Rotating tiles puzzle. On a grid, rotate stars so that connectors between the stars are the same color. The connectors change color and reflect the color of the star next to them.
J. Maze puzzle. Use a stethoscope to traverse a maze within a safe. Use 4 arrows to direct the path.
K. Connection puzzle. Connect two suns (one on top and another at the bottom of a grid) while avoiding moon tokens which will restart the game. All squares with sunbeams must be connected
L. Switch puzzle. Switch royal emblems from hints given on a 5 x 5 grid until each emblem is in the proper position. Use scraps of paper with the emblems on them to discover where each is to be placed. You can only switch emblems which are next to each other.
B. E/H. Picture puzzle. Rotate circular picture parts to restore an image within a book. 4X
C. Matching puzzle. Play keys on a piano as per a given sheet of music.
D. E/H Lockpick puzzle. Move 2 lockpicks (one on the top and one on the bottom of a grid) across the grid by moving tumblers up and down to create a path for both. Switch between the two lockpicks to get them across the grid.
E. E/H. Maze puzzle. Take a carriage through the park while avoiding obstacles in your path.
F. E/H Domino puzzle. Lay domino pieces with two symbols on the ends within a grid so that symbols on the ends match up with each other.
G. E/H. Connection puzzle. Rotate triangles containing images of pipe pieces imprinted on them, so that all the pipe pieces connect. Rotating one affects the others.
H. Logic puzzle. Paint an image of a portal so that no 2 adjoining sections are the same color
BONUS CHAPTER:
I. Rotating tiles puzzle. On a grid, rotate stars so that connectors between the stars are the same color. The connectors change color and reflect the color of the star next to them.
J. Maze puzzle. Use a stethoscope to traverse a maze within a safe. Use 4 arrows to direct the path.
K. Connection puzzle. Connect two suns (one on top and another at the bottom of a grid) while avoiding moon tokens which will restart the game. All squares with sunbeams must be connected
L. Switch puzzle. Switch royal emblems from hints given on a 5 x 5 grid until each emblem is in the proper position. Use scraps of paper with the emblems on them to discover where each is to be placed. You can only switch emblems which are next to each other.
I recommend this game!
Can you stop a buried past from destroying your world?
Overall rating
3
/
5
96 of 151 found this review helpful
A BRIEF OUT OF THIS WORLD ADVENTURE
PostedJuly 13, 2019
sunnyglow
fromAt the Moonsouls Academy searching for missing HOP scenes and puzzles. With so few of both, I bet some of them got quarantined and pulled from the game when a deadly disease broke out among the Custodians in the bonus chapter.
Skill Level:Expert
Fun Factor
2
/
5
Visual/Sound Quality
5
/
5
Level of Challenge
2
/
5
Storyline
4
/
5
REVIEW BASED UPON THE ENTIRE GAME
5 Chapters Plus a Bonus Chapter – Strategy Guide: 30 pages (A very short game – Time: less than 4 hours)
5 Chapters Plus a Bonus Chapter – Strategy Guide: 30 pages (A very short game – Time: less than 4 hours)
OPINION: Enter a portal for a brief out of this world adventure. Being an aficionada of sci-fi games, I purchased this game because Mad Head produces outstanding ones. That said, after starting this game, I found myself in a world of disappointment. For me, it is too short to be considered a collector’s edition game. It is a case of quality over quantity. The game is well-designed with creative puzzles and HOP scenes – there are just not enough of them! The whole game with the bonus chapter is shorter than many standard edition games. Although I hate to say this, there are fewer HOP scenes and puzzles than in some developers’ survey games. I played the entire game in less than four (4) hours.
Despite its brevity, the game has a well-written sci-fi story and is beautifully illustrated. It also has a good pace. There are more HOP scenes than puzzles within this game. Nevertheless, as stated, there are not many of either one. There are only sixteen (16) HOP scenes and thirteen (13) puzzles within the entire game. Since there are so few, I listed ALL the puzzles which appear after the demo.
Although both are well-designed, I feel the HOP scenes are better designed than the puzzles. There are also mini-HOP scenes searching for a small number of some item. Most are lists of items (with some interactivity), and silhouette. However, there are some matching and some pattern scenes in which the player must locate items based solely on a fragment of the item. Their settings are beautifully illustrated including a matching one with colorful mushrooms and another silhouette scene with elaborate bottles. I feel these scenes are exquisite.
Returning are the collectibles seen in all other Mad Head games - swirls and morphing objects. There are morphing objects within the HOP scenes as well. At the end of the game, return to the scenes and search for treasures which are new objects inserted into the scenes. Most of the collectibles are easy to locate; however, there were some I found a little difficult to find. You can replay all the HOP scenes; however, you cannot replay the puzzles. Again, I wish this developer would provide a replay of the puzzles.
MECHANICS:
• Fiver (5) levels of play including a customized version.
• Eleven (11) achievements – most with 3 parts
• Collect nineteen (19) swirls
• Collect thirty-two (32) morphing objects (Within both the scenes and HOP scenes)
• Collect twenty-eight (28) treasures at the end of the game. Return to the game scenes to locate them.
• Four (4) wallpapers along with concept art, music and video sequences
• Gimmicky Moonsouls glove. An all-purpose glove to help with various tasks.
• Replay sixteen (16) HOP scenes
• Eleven (11) achievements – most with 3 parts
• Collect nineteen (19) swirls
• Collect thirty-two (32) morphing objects (Within both the scenes and HOP scenes)
• Collect twenty-eight (28) treasures at the end of the game. Return to the game scenes to locate them.
• Four (4) wallpapers along with concept art, music and video sequences
• Gimmicky Moonsouls glove. An all-purpose glove to help with various tasks.
• Replay sixteen (16) HOP scenes
BONUS CHAPTER: It is a sequel. Play Chief Shard of the Custodians. When the Custodians destroy a weapon left by the robot, Nal’dax , it unleashes a deadly disease infecting the population. Return to Priora, to the Moonsouls Academy to locate an antidote for the disease. It is a short chapter and to me, not worth the price of the collector’s edition. There are only two (2) puzzles and three (3) HOP scenes within the chapter. I completed the chapter in less than a half-hour. Continue to collect the collectibles within this chapter.
SPOILERS: THESE ARE “ALL” THE PUZZLES FROM THE ENTIRE GAME AFTER THE DEMO:
A. Tracing puzzle. Using a lathe, copy and cut a given pattern. Rotate the pattern and the molding material until the pattern is transposed.
B. Mathematical puzzle. Using 3-liter and 5-liter containers, fill and transfer liquid between the two containers until 4 liters of liquid is obtained.
C. Rotating tiles puzzle. Rotate triangular-shaped tokens to move a marble from the top to bottom of a triangular grid, while avoiding one triangle.
D. Switch puzzle. Switch pieces in both an outer and inner ring as per given instructions.
E. Switch puzzle. On a grid, create a path for a token to move to an end point by switching directional tokens.
F. Assembly puzzle. Choose 3 symbols which would create a larger one an evildoer is holding.
BONUS CHAPTER:
G. Interactive puzzle. Interact with a console by moving items and pushing buttons, until it looks like that on a diagram.
H. Assembly puzzle. Create molecules by placing pieces of it into the proper location on a grid. 2X Increases in difficulty
B. Mathematical puzzle. Using 3-liter and 5-liter containers, fill and transfer liquid between the two containers until 4 liters of liquid is obtained.
C. Rotating tiles puzzle. Rotate triangular-shaped tokens to move a marble from the top to bottom of a triangular grid, while avoiding one triangle.
D. Switch puzzle. Switch pieces in both an outer and inner ring as per given instructions.
E. Switch puzzle. On a grid, create a path for a token to move to an end point by switching directional tokens.
F. Assembly puzzle. Choose 3 symbols which would create a larger one an evildoer is holding.
BONUS CHAPTER:
G. Interactive puzzle. Interact with a console by moving items and pushing buttons, until it looks like that on a diagram.
H. Assembly puzzle. Create molecules by placing pieces of it into the proper location on a grid. 2X Increases in difficulty
I don't recommend this game.
Can you stop a powerful foe from taking over Paris?
Overall rating
5
/
5
161 of 261 found this review helpful
ENJOY A “SPIRITED” PARISIAN ADVENTURE – ONE OF THE BEST GAMES OF THE YEAR
PostedJuly 11, 2019
sunnyglow
fromLocation? Enjoying a wonderful “spirited” trip through Paris! Glad to leave England and the Red Queen behind.
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
5 Chapters Plus a Bonus Chapter – Strategy Guide: 50 pages - Time: 8 Hours
5 Chapters Plus a Bonus Chapter – Strategy Guide: 50 pages - Time: 8 Hours
OPINION: You, young Hawkes, are off on a “spirited” Parisian adventure! “Très magnifique” EIPIX! What a fantastic game and one which merits an editor’s choice designation. It is a long game which took me over eight (8) hours to play. To me, this is the best of the series so far, and much better than the previous ones. Although the game is long, it is fast paced with plenty of activities to keep a player’s interest. Hopefully other developers will look at this game, one which demonstrates gaming excellence. Hopefully, we will see more games of this quality in the future.
The story and the graphics beautifully portray Victorian era France. The developer has added some interesting historical information to spice up the game. Each chapter is lengthy as you investigate three (3) Parisian locations in any order you wish. EIPIX has added this option to this game as in the previous ones. Enjoy a “spirited” romp in a Parisian cemetery, wandering through a maze of tombs. Then, engage in the “ups-and-downs” (of which there are many) within the Eiffel Tower with a final stop at Notre Dame and the surrounding neighborhood, enjoying the various ghostly sights and “smells” permeating throughout the streets. Pursue and stop an evildoer from opening a portal to the spirit world to harness its energy.
There are three collectibles within the game. Collect signs in most of the scenes and morphing objects within the HOP scenes. The signs are easy to locate; however, the morphing objects I found somewhat difficult to find. At the end of the game return to the scenes from the game and collect chickens - perhaps to prepare “Coq au Vin” (Chicken in wine sauce)?”
There are more mini-games and HOP scenes which can be replayed than in most other games. There are gimmicky glasses used to see ghosts; however, they are not used very much in the game. I dislike animals and helpers within games; however, I enjoyed the antics of the monkey (which you must feed to get the little rascal to help you) and the pitiful gargoyle in the bonus chapter (one who suffers from a poor self-image). These two add a little comic relief to the game.
MINI-GAMES: There are fifty-one (51) mini-games! Incredible! They vary in difficulty from extremely easy to slightly difficult. They are creatively designed, with explicit directions (often lacking in some of this developer’s games). For me, that is a welcome improvement. There are a variety of puzzles as well. I loved the puzzle-like set-up within the chapter dealing with the graveyard. It is not designated as a puzzle; however, the graveyard is set up as a maze/logic puzzle. As the player wanders the graveyard, he/she must choose the route to take based on given cryptic clues. This is a unique, creatively designed chapter.
HOP SCENES: There are thirty-five (35) HOP scenes (from what I could count). Most contain a morphing object; nevertheless, they are not present in all the HOP scenes. Most of the scenes are multiple-step and most are interactive. These are the most creative scenes I have seen from this developer. There is a variety of different styles of scenes including cryptic clues, matching, rebus clues, along with the usual lists of items and silhouette.
MECHANICS:
• Four (4) levels of play including a customized version.
• Fifteen (15) achievements.
• Collect thirty-five (35) signs
• Collect twenty-five (25) morphing objects within the HOP scenes
• Collect ten (10) souvenirs (chickens) – at the end of the game (maybe for “Coq au vin?”)
• Nine (9) wallpapers along with concept art, music and video sequences
• Replay twenty-six (26) minigames and twenty-five (25) HOP scenes
• Gimmicky glasses (received after the demo) to see spirits. Not used much in the game.
• Fifteen (15) achievements.
• Collect thirty-five (35) signs
• Collect twenty-five (25) morphing objects within the HOP scenes
• Collect ten (10) souvenirs (chickens) – at the end of the game (maybe for “Coq au vin?”)
• Nine (9) wallpapers along with concept art, music and video sequences
• Replay twenty-six (26) minigames and twenty-five (25) HOP scenes
• Gimmicky glasses (received after the demo) to see spirits. Not used much in the game.
BONUS CHAPTER: It is a sequel. After a receiving a message of distress from the spiritualist, Madame Anne, young Hawkes returns to her shop which has been ransacked. Investigate the cause and stop the havoc. It displays the same quality of the main game and, for me, it is worthy of a collector’s edition designation. Continue to collect the signs within the scenes from the game and morphing objects within the HOP scenes. There are five (5) minigames and seven (7) HOP scenes.
SPOILERS: HERE ARE JUST A FEW OF THE FIFTY-ONE (51) MINI-GAMES -ALL ARE AFTER THE DEMO:
A. Switch puzzle. Flip tiles with birds upon them on a 3 x 3 grid so that there are no two of the same bird on the grid. Each slot has 3 possible images.
B. Assembly puzzle. On a watch with 5 hands with emblems upon them, set each hand to the number on a clock as indicated on tombstones with matching emblems.
C. Sequence puzzle. Move marbles (with numbers and pictures on them) along paths to their proper slots on a round, clock-shaped grid.
D. A note-worthy puzzle. Bulls-eye puzzle. As musical notes descend upon frets of a violin, click on them. Failure to click on them at the proper moment will result in restarting the puzzle.
E. Connection puzzle. Help your bud, the monkey, climb a tower by connecting tower pieces. After he retrieves a water bucket, connect another set of pieces of a tower for him to return and give you the bucket.
F. Matching puzzle. Match up Morse Code symbols to decipher a message.
G. Tangram puzzle. Rotate and place pieces of a flag onto a parachute so each piece fits into the proper location.
H. Assembly puzzle. Choose a left hand and a right hand which, when combined, create 4 shadow animals.
I. Using arrows, move barrels and boxes out of the way to create a path.
J. Rope a ghost. Rope puzzle. Untangle a rope filled with ghosts so the lines do not cross each other.
BONUS CHAPTER:
K. Assembly puzzle. Place all given stones into position until a wall is completely covered with no gaps.
L. Picture puzzle. Place pieces of a gargoyle back into position to restore the poor creature including his cold stone heart!
B. Assembly puzzle. On a watch with 5 hands with emblems upon them, set each hand to the number on a clock as indicated on tombstones with matching emblems.
C. Sequence puzzle. Move marbles (with numbers and pictures on them) along paths to their proper slots on a round, clock-shaped grid.
D. A note-worthy puzzle. Bulls-eye puzzle. As musical notes descend upon frets of a violin, click on them. Failure to click on them at the proper moment will result in restarting the puzzle.
E. Connection puzzle. Help your bud, the monkey, climb a tower by connecting tower pieces. After he retrieves a water bucket, connect another set of pieces of a tower for him to return and give you the bucket.
F. Matching puzzle. Match up Morse Code symbols to decipher a message.
G. Tangram puzzle. Rotate and place pieces of a flag onto a parachute so each piece fits into the proper location.
H. Assembly puzzle. Choose a left hand and a right hand which, when combined, create 4 shadow animals.
I. Using arrows, move barrels and boxes out of the way to create a path.
J. Rope a ghost. Rope puzzle. Untangle a rope filled with ghosts so the lines do not cross each other.
BONUS CHAPTER:
K. Assembly puzzle. Place all given stones into position until a wall is completely covered with no gaps.
L. Picture puzzle. Place pieces of a gargoyle back into position to restore the poor creature including his cold stone heart!
I recommend this game!
Accompany Mary Jane and Jack on a swashbuckling hidden object adventure!
Overall rating
3
/
5
81 of 155 found this review helpful
AHOY MATEYS! TAKE A CARIBBEAN CRUISE WITH PIRATES OF THE CARIBBEAN
PostedJuly 6, 2019
sunnyglow
fromLocation – In the Caribbean, navigating this game. Wasting away again in Margaritaville, searching for that lost old “salt.”
Skill Level:Expert
Fun Factor
3
/
5
Visual/Sound Quality
5
/
5
Level of Challenge
3
/
5
Storyline
4
/
5
REVIEW BASED UPON THE ENTIRE GAME – Time: 6 Hours (with bonus chapter)
6 Chapters Plus a Bonus Chapter – Strategy Guide: 74 Pages
6 Chapters Plus a Bonus Chapter – Strategy Guide: 74 Pages
OPINION: Ahoy mateys! Sail away on a swashbuckling Caribbean adventure in search of a missing captain, Mason Owens, and a legendary ship, The Cursed Rose. This is a game which may appeal to wannabe pirates who dream of sailing the seven seas. The story is well-written with some seaworthy graphics! Join the tag team, Mary Jane Owens, the captain’s daughter, and her sidekick, Jack, a seaman, as they deal with an evildoer. With a flip of a coin, switch between these two players throughout the game.
For the most part, I found this a decent game and a vast improvement for Cordelia Games. This game maintains an even keel – a nice pace, keeping the player’s interest as it sails from one harrowing event to another. Nevertheless, there are times when this game gets stuck in the doldrums. A game which is as lengthy as this one, needs a variety of activities to keep it afloat – to maintain a player’s interest. In my opinion, there are not enough activities within this game to maintain a fast pace. The game is also bogged down at times by the numerous potions and medicines which must be created. For me, searching from scene-to-scene to collect supplies which then must be measured, chopped, ground, and mixed drags down the pace of the game. In my opinion, these activities do not belong in a pirate adventure game.
There is only one collectible, morphing compasses. Many are easy to locate, but a few are well-hidden, being especially difficult to locate since they appear and disappear within the scenes. There are two gimmicks within the game, a lockpick set and a magic compass. In my opinion, neither of these devices added anything to the game.
There are only sixteen (16) HOP scenes in the game along with eight (8) mini-HOP scenes. I was disappointed by the HOP scenes. Most of the scenes are lists of items or silhouette lacking creativity with little or no interactivity. Most are set in junkpiles. Most of the mini-HOP scenes are silhouette scenes in which six (6) items must be located. There is one scene from the game I feel is creatively designed. One of the scenes features a wall with Maya hieroglyphs. The player searches for pieces and shapes from that wall. I wish the developer had included more creative scenes like this one.
There are twenty-eight (28) minigames. In my opinion, they are more creatively designed than the HOP scenes. They vary in style and difficulty; however, most are easy. Most are ones seen in other games, including some which are classics in the world of puzzles. There are six (6) picture puzzles, each presented in a different format. Surprisingly, there are puzzle-like activities throughout the game which are not considered as puzzles by this developer. This is evidenced by the puzzle-like activities associated with the use of the lockpicks. When a lockpick Is used, a bar removal puzzle pops up. These bars must be removed in sequential order based on how the bars are interconnected with each other. They increase in difficulty as the game progresses.
MECHANICS:
• Four (4) levels of play including a customized version.
• Twenty-two (22) achievements.
• Collect thirty-two (32) morphing compasses
• Six (6) wallpapers along with concept art, cutscenes, and music sequences
• Gimmicky lockpick set which sits at the side of the inventory bar. Sequence puzzle pops up when used.
• Gimmicky magical compass.
• Tag team between Mary Jane and Jack
• Replay eleven (11) HOP scenes and twenty-three (23) minigames
• Twenty-two (22) achievements.
• Collect thirty-two (32) morphing compasses
• Six (6) wallpapers along with concept art, cutscenes, and music sequences
• Gimmicky lockpick set which sits at the side of the inventory bar. Sequence puzzle pops up when used.
• Gimmicky magical compass.
• Tag team between Mary Jane and Jack
• Replay eleven (11) HOP scenes and twenty-three (23) minigames
BONUS CHAPTER: It is named “Troubled Waters.” It is a prequel explaining how Jack and Mary Jane met. When Mary Jane has her bag stolen, Jack is off to recover it for her, chasing a thief throughout a seafaring port. I found the title apropos for this chapter. The extra chapter is troubling. I found this chapter NOT worth the extra price of the collector’s edition. It is very short with not much of a story behind it. It seems to have been tacked on at last minute. There are no collectibles within this chapter. The lockpick returns in this game but not the magic compass. There are only four (4) HOP scenes and four (4) minigames.
SPOILERS: HERE ARE SOME OF THE MINIGAMES AFTER THE DEMO:
A. Switch puzzle. Place 4 pictures into the proper location based upon the shadows on the wall in which they are located.
B. Ye Olde Sleight of Hand trick. A ball is placed under one of 3 cups (5 cups in the second part). After they are shuffled, figure out which one contains the ball. 2X
C. Logic puzzle. In a honeycomb grid, entrap an octopus by creating a wall to surround it before it reaches the edge of the grid.
D. Rotating tiles puzzle. On a grid, push a center button to rotate 10 tiles until all the tiles match the ones next to them in the grid.
E. Connection puzzle. Loop a rope around nails on a grid, tracing a pattern completely without retracing steps.
F. Map puzzle. Follow directions by proceeding to stops along the way to a temple using the least number of steps possible
G. Picture puzzle. Rotate triangular pieces to restore an image.
H. Balance puzzle. Cross a plank moving arrows left and right to keep you from falling into the water.
BONUS CHAPTER:
I. Switch puzzle. Switch tokens on a map so that each one relates to the item next to it on the map.
J. Rotating rings puzzle. Rotate 4 rings so that each of 5 fireflies have a path to the center of the rings.
B. Ye Olde Sleight of Hand trick. A ball is placed under one of 3 cups (5 cups in the second part). After they are shuffled, figure out which one contains the ball. 2X
C. Logic puzzle. In a honeycomb grid, entrap an octopus by creating a wall to surround it before it reaches the edge of the grid.
D. Rotating tiles puzzle. On a grid, push a center button to rotate 10 tiles until all the tiles match the ones next to them in the grid.
E. Connection puzzle. Loop a rope around nails on a grid, tracing a pattern completely without retracing steps.
F. Map puzzle. Follow directions by proceeding to stops along the way to a temple using the least number of steps possible
G. Picture puzzle. Rotate triangular pieces to restore an image.
H. Balance puzzle. Cross a plank moving arrows left and right to keep you from falling into the water.
BONUS CHAPTER:
I. Switch puzzle. Switch tokens on a map so that each one relates to the item next to it on the map.
J. Rotating rings puzzle. Rotate 4 rings so that each of 5 fireflies have a path to the center of the rings.
I recommend this game!
Can you help three souls escape a deadly amusement park?
Overall rating
5
/
5
206 of 267 found this review helpful
A ROLLER COASTER RIDE THROUGH TIME! - ONE OF THE BEST GAMES OF THE YEAR
PostedJune 27, 2019
sunnyglow
fromKudos to AMAX! With this game they have gone back in time and resurrected those elements which produce a quality game.
Skill Level:Expert
Fun Factor
5
/
5
Visual/Sound Quality
5
/
5
Level of Challenge
5
/
5
Storyline
5
/
5
REVIEW BASED UPON THE ENTIREGAME:
4 Chapters Plus a Bonus Chapter – Strategy Guide: 57 Pages (This is a very long game)
4 Chapters Plus a Bonus Chapter – Strategy Guide: 57 Pages (This is a very long game)
OPINION: Fasten your seatbelts and prepare for long, fast-paced roller coast ride of adventure, hurtling from one time period to another! This is a long ride as well – one which took me over six (6) hours to play. It is packed with creatively designed HOP scenes and puzzles. The bonus chapter is lengthy, jam-packed with activities as well. This game is reminiscent of the quality experienced in HOP games from the past. This is one of the best games AMAX has created in some time. The stories within the main game and bonus chapter are excellent. The graphics are superb. This is one game not to miss. AMAX has resurrected itself with this little masterpiece.
There is only one collectible, a morphing skull. I found some difficult to locate. They don’t morph from another object; instead, they appear and disappear within the scene. You can replay some of the puzzles and minigames. Thankfully there are no collectible coins to purchase items. Skulls are collected and then exchanged to open fragments of the park. There are minimal animal sounds in the game. There is one instance of wolves howling toward the end of the game, but that is the only instance I heard animal noises.
MECHANICS:
• Four (4) levels of play including a customized version.
• Fifteen (15) achievements.
• Collect twenty-six (26) morphing skulls which are exchanged to open fragments of the park.
• Fourteen (14) wallpapers along with seven (7) screensavers, concept art, music and video sequences
• Replay eleven (11) minigames and thirteen (13) HOP scenes
• Fifteen (15) achievements.
• Collect twenty-six (26) morphing skulls which are exchanged to open fragments of the park.
• Fourteen (14) wallpapers along with seven (7) screensavers, concept art, music and video sequences
• Replay eleven (11) minigames and thirteen (13) HOP scenes
HOP SCENES: It is difficult to ascertain what AMAX considers a HOP scene. I counted twenty-two (22) standard HOP scenes and fourteen (14) mini-HOP scenes (ones in which there is a small number of items collected). Most of the scenes are lists of items or silhouette. However, they are highly interactive and some of the scenes have puzzles within them. There is a great deal of creative design demonstrated in the HOP scenes.
For me, one of the most unique scenes is a silhouette one in which a small number of items are removed and placed within their silhouettes. After removing the items, only one remains, the inventory item. My favorite scene was in the bonus chapter. In that scene, symbols on Death’s cloak are collected one-by-one as shown within a medallion.
MINIGAMES: There are an amazing fifty-six (56) puzzles within this game! Just incredible! Some of the puzzles have the option to be played in either a “casual” or “hard” mode. There are a wide variety of puzzle types as well. Most of the puzzles range from easy to middle difficulty. I was pleasantly surprised to see a Rube-Goldberg puzzle as well as a brand new puzzle I have never seen before.
HOP SCENE/PUZZLE HYBRID: There is a hybrid (combination of a HOP scene with a series of puzzles) which I found creatively designed and unique. This hybrid includes five (5) puzzles within a HOP scene and is featured within the bonus chapter. The scene uses a map to plot a course through the woods. The player searches for symbols as he plots his way through this forest. With each stop, the player plays a puzzle set within the wooded scene.
OVERVIEW/STORY: As the chosen one, you are off to an amusement park to battle an evil spirit, Obsidian. He is searching for three (3) souls to release him from this less than fun-filled park. Return to the past to change history and free these souls this entity needs to return to the real world.
BONUS CHAPTER: It is another story set within the amusement park. Play a detective who receives a letter from a widow whose husband was killed in an explosion at the amusement park. Return to the past to battle Obsidian once more and stop the incident. There are twenty-one (21) puzzles and seven (7) HOP scenes with two (2) more which I consider mini-HOP scenes. Continue collecting skulls within the chapter. I found this chapter well-worth the additional cost for the collector’s edition. This chapter is very long and is as lengthy as some other developers’ games.
SPOILERS: HERE ARE SOME OF THE MINI-GAMES AFTER THE DEMO:
A. Switch puzzle. Switch adjacent tumblers on a lock until each tumbler has two halves which mesh with each other.
B. Sequence puzzle. Choose the fins on a fish in proper sequence so all open at the same time. Moving one affects the others.
C. Tracing puzzle. Drag an orb through 3 pieces of rope without touching sides.
D. Rube-Goldberg puzzle
1. Casual/Hard. Maze puzzle. Create a path for a boat to reach its designated point. Boat continues moving until it hits an obstacle
2. Assembly puzzle. Choose symbols which, when combined, create another given symbol.
3. Casual/Hard. Same as #1. Maze puzzle. Create a path for a boat to reach its designated point. Boat continues moving until it hits an obstacle
E. Marble shooting puzzle. Shoot colored marbles onto a moving grid matching up 3 or more of the same color which are then removed. Clear the board of marbles
BONUS CHAPTER
F. Ye old stacking puzzle. Move four (4) disks on a pole to a center pole on top of a skeleton’s head using a middle pole to store them as they are moved. Larger disks cannot be placed on top of smaller disks.
G. Strategy puzzle. On a grid, move each token the number of spaces equaling the number written upon it. Every space on the grid will be occupied and if you have no place to move, you must start over. (New puzzle)
B. Sequence puzzle. Choose the fins on a fish in proper sequence so all open at the same time. Moving one affects the others.
C. Tracing puzzle. Drag an orb through 3 pieces of rope without touching sides.
D. Rube-Goldberg puzzle
1. Casual/Hard. Maze puzzle. Create a path for a boat to reach its designated point. Boat continues moving until it hits an obstacle
2. Assembly puzzle. Choose symbols which, when combined, create another given symbol.
3. Casual/Hard. Same as #1. Maze puzzle. Create a path for a boat to reach its designated point. Boat continues moving until it hits an obstacle
E. Marble shooting puzzle. Shoot colored marbles onto a moving grid matching up 3 or more of the same color which are then removed. Clear the board of marbles
BONUS CHAPTER
F. Ye old stacking puzzle. Move four (4) disks on a pole to a center pole on top of a skeleton’s head using a middle pole to store them as they are moved. Larger disks cannot be placed on top of smaller disks.
G. Strategy puzzle. On a grid, move each token the number of spaces equaling the number written upon it. Every space on the grid will be occupied and if you have no place to move, you must start over. (New puzzle)
I recommend this game!