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:
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!
Can you save the world from an ancient magic?
Overall rating
5
/
5
114 of 198 found this review helpful
‘ROAMIN’ IN THE ‘GLOAMIN’ ON THE LOOKOUT FOR NESSIE
PostedJune 22, 2019
sunnyglow
fromPoor Merlin! He was not the best mentor to Morgan. He paid the price! “Owl” bet he is “wiser” now and wished he had given a “hoot” about her sibling rivalry with King Arthur.
Skill Level:Expert
Fun Factor
5
/
5
Visual/Sound Quality
5
/
5
Level of Challenge
4
/
5
Storyline
5
/
5
REVIEW BASED UPON THE ENTIRE GAME:
5 Chapters Plus a Bonus Chapter – Strategy Guide: 37 Pages
5 Chapters Plus a Bonus Chapter – Strategy Guide: 37 Pages
OPINION: Laddies and Lassies! You will be ‘roamin’ in the ‘gloamin’ as you, a young student, head off to the Scottish countryside. This is my favorite series from EIPIX, and I found this game a vast improvement from the previous ones. The story is a clever patchwork of myths, weaving the ones surrounding “Nessie,” the Loch Ness monster with those of King Arthur and his “enchanting” sister, Morgan Le Fay. Play a young student under the tutelage of Master Colin, a tutor who believes in “hands on” education. The pace is excellent with a wide array of interactive activities.
The graphics are colorful and portray a bucolic image of a bygone era of Scotland. To add to the pastoral imagery is a flute which sits at the side of inventory bar. This gimmicky flute is used to summon animals when their help is needed. It lights up and provides a picture puzzle to be solved. I hate gimmicks in games; however, the eleven (11) puzzles which accompany the use of the flute are creatively designed. Each puzzle has puzzle pieces which must be maneuvered by using the four (4) keys of the flute, creating an image of the animal involved. Each puzzle is unique and non-repetitive.
There is only one collectible, owls. Most are easy to locate. There are morphing objects within most of the HOP scenes, some which I found a little difficult to locate. There are no morphing objects within the scenes of the game. Upon completion of the game, return to the scenes in search of souvenirs, which are wooden animal statues. Many of the souvenirs are cleverly hidden within the scenes requiring an intensive search by opening doors, cabinets, and other items to locate many of them. At the end of the game there are puzzles and HOP scenes which can be replayed along with the Skipping Stones game provided with the HOP scenes.
There are eighteen (18) HOP scenes, with some of those being mini-HOP scenes. Most of the scenes are lists of items, silhouette, or matching pairs. They are standard fare seen in most games. There is one FROG scene and one storybook scene in the demo. Most of the scenes are set in junk piles. They are decent; however, I found none very interactive or exceptional in design. The Skipping Stones game can be played in lieu of the scenes.
There are twenty-seven (27) puzzles within the game. There are twenty-six (26) which can be replayed. The puzzles are ones seen in most games. They include a maze puzzle, a unique matching puzzle using a myriad of clock hands, and several rotating rings and moving tiles puzzles. There is one logic puzzle which I enjoyed in the demo which requires matching potions with ingredients according to given clues. Most of the puzzles are of middle difficulty. I found none which were extremely easy nor terribly difficult.
MECHANICS:
• Four (4) levels of play including a customized version.
• Thirteen (13) achievements – some with 3 parts
• Collect thirty-eight (38) signs (owls)
• Collect twelve (12) morphing objects within the HOP scenes
• Collect thirty (30) souvenirs (wooden animals)
• Gimmicky flute to summon animals (Play a puzzle when used)
• Eight (8) wallpapers along with concept art, music and video sequences
• Replay twenty-six (26) puzzles and twelve (12) HOP scenes
• Skipping Stones game available at the end of the game.
• Thirteen (13) achievements – some with 3 parts
• Collect thirty-eight (38) signs (owls)
• Collect twelve (12) morphing objects within the HOP scenes
• Collect thirty (30) souvenirs (wooden animals)
• Gimmicky flute to summon animals (Play a puzzle when used)
• Eight (8) wallpapers along with concept art, music and video sequences
• Replay twenty-six (26) puzzles and twelve (12) HOP scenes
• Skipping Stones game available at the end of the game.
BONUS CHAPTER: It is a prequel. Join Vanessa (Nessie) from the main game in her quest to locate the Stone of Gormire. It is a long chapter and I found the story and graphics equal in quality to the main game. To me, it is well-worth the price of a collector’s edition designation. There are five (5) puzzles and four (4) HOP scenes in this chapter. Continue to collect the collectibles within this chapter.
SPOILERS: HERE ARE SOME OF THE PUZZLES AFTER DEMO:
A. Mathematical puzzle. Move numbered pegs between four columns so that the sum of the numbers on each of the 4 columns equals the given number for each column.
B. Matching puzzle. Move a series of clock hands on a circle so that each pair of hands point to the same symbol.
C. *Flute puzzle. Assembly/Switch puzzle. Using the 4 notes of a flute, switch pieces of an image of a beaver until the image is restored. (There are 11 of this type of assembly puzzle within the game)
D. Maze puzzle. Pull a key through a maze to an opening at the other end
E. Rotating rings puzzle. Using arrows, rotate 5 rings to match colored orbs with their outside frame.
BONUS CHAPTER:
F. Logic puzzle. On a 6 x 6 grid light all tokens. Clicking on a token will light all the other tokens surrounding it and vice versa.
G. *Flute puzzle. Using 4 notes on the flute, rotate pieces to restore the image of a squirrel.
H. Moving bars puzzle. Move bars to create a path for a token to move from left to an opening at the right of the screen.
B. Matching puzzle. Move a series of clock hands on a circle so that each pair of hands point to the same symbol.
C. *Flute puzzle. Assembly/Switch puzzle. Using the 4 notes of a flute, switch pieces of an image of a beaver until the image is restored. (There are 11 of this type of assembly puzzle within the game)
D. Maze puzzle. Pull a key through a maze to an opening at the other end
E. Rotating rings puzzle. Using arrows, rotate 5 rings to match colored orbs with their outside frame.
BONUS CHAPTER:
F. Logic puzzle. On a 6 x 6 grid light all tokens. Clicking on a token will light all the other tokens surrounding it and vice versa.
G. *Flute puzzle. Using 4 notes on the flute, rotate pieces to restore the image of a squirrel.
H. Moving bars puzzle. Move bars to create a path for a token to move from left to an opening at the right of the screen.
I recommend this game!
Can you stop an evil entity from taking over in time?
Overall rating
3
/
5
66 of 128 found this review helpful
A SHADOW OF PREVIOUS GAMES FROM THIS DEVELOPER
PostedJune 15, 2019
sunnyglow
fromLocation: The Shadow Realm. Is this game the shadow of things to come? This game is a shadow of previous games within this series.
Skill Level:Expert
Fun Factor
3
/
5
Visual/Sound Quality
4
/
5
Level of Challenge
2
/
5
Storyline
5
/
5
REVIEW BASED UPON THE ENTIRE GAME:
5 Chapters Plus a Bonus Chapter – Strategy Guide: 41 Pages
5 Chapters Plus a Bonus Chapter – Strategy Guide: 41 Pages
OPINION: With a story set against the backdrop of earthquakes, I found this game neither a groundbreaking nor an earthshaking one! I have played better games from this developer. This latest entry from the series is decent; however, it does not approach the creative excellence demonstrated in other games by this developer. It is a short, mediocre game; however, both the main game and the bonus chapter have immersive stories with an ample amount of activities to provide a decent pace. For me, the demo is the best part of the game with the rest of the game falling flat - lacking creative design for both the puzzles and the HOP scenes. With its nonchallenging puzzles and conventional HOP scenes, this game should appeal to those who like an easy-breezy game.
With a few exceptions, I was disappointed by the HOP scenes. There are only twenty (20) within the entire game. The scenes from the demo are more creatively designed than those after the demo. Most of the scenes are either lists of items or silhouette. Most are searches set in junk piles with items unrelated to game’s theme. There are a few scenes which I found creatively designed. In one of the silhouette scenes, there is a search for items in an ice cream truck used to create three (3) luscious ice cream delights. In another beautiful scene, there is a search for bouquets of flowers within a greenhouse. There are also a couple of searches which provide three (3) different scenes in which to locate items. I wish there more scenes like these; I found most of the HOP scenes very boring.
There are twenty-eight (28) puzzles, six (6) of which are the same matching puzzle tied to a gimmicky lamp used in the game. This lamp puzzle consists of matching only two (2) sets of symbols. Just ridiculous! I found it boring and filler for the game. Most of the other puzzles are easy - some which I would hardly call puzzles. One of my biggest complaints about Mad Head games is that you cannot replay the puzzles, only the HOP scenes. With a larger number of puzzles than HOP scenes, I wish Mad Head would provide the option to replay some of the puzzles.
The collectibles consist of morphing objects and the same swirls seen in every Mad Head game. I found both easy to locate. At the end of the game, the player can return to the scenes from the game to locate treasures which consist of some object inserted within the scenes. They are easy to locate – a little too easy for my taste. Most of the treasures practically jump out at you!
MECHANICS:
• Five (5) levels of play including a customized version.
• Ten (10) achievements – five (5) with 3 parts.
• Collect thirty-six (36) morphing objects and forty-five (45) swirls There is an indicator to indicate if there is one in the scene and if it has been collected
• Return to the scenes and collect twenty-one (21) treasures at the end of the game.
• Gimmicky lamp to get rid of negative energy. Play a matching puzzle to use it.
• Four (4) wallpapers along with concept art and music selections
• Replay seventeen (17) HOP scenes
• Ten (10) achievements – five (5) with 3 parts.
• Collect thirty-six (36) morphing objects and forty-five (45) swirls There is an indicator to indicate if there is one in the scene and if it has been collected
• Return to the scenes and collect twenty-one (21) treasures at the end of the game.
• Gimmicky lamp to get rid of negative energy. Play a matching puzzle to use it.
• Four (4) wallpapers along with concept art and music selections
• Replay seventeen (17) HOP scenes
STORY: Since childhood, the disappearance of the mining town of Harrowstead has fascinated you. Now, you, Thea, as an adult, have joined a writing team to investigate and write a book about what happened at that locale. Upon receiving an urgent call from a member of your writing team, you are off to investigate similar incidents happening at the neighboring town of Windton. An earthquake has unleashed a monster who feeds upon the hopes and fears of its victims. A special lamp from the past should shine some light on the situation and help you in your quest to defeat this monster from the Shadow Realm.
BONUS CHAPTER: It is sequel. Your writing team has finally published a best seller, a book about Harrowstead. Now that the book is completed, Riley has returned to work as an investigator. When a mother contacts Riley about the disappearance of her son, Kevin, he finds himself back at a mansion where remnants of the Shadow Realm still exist. In this chapter play both Riley and Kevin, the missing boy. As Riley, try to help Kevin escape from the Shadow Realm. There are four (4) HOP scenes and four (4) puzzles. Continue to collect the morphing objects and swirls. Instead of a lamp, this chapter has a gimmicky camcorder which is used to see shadows within the mansion. I found this chapter to be of the same quality as the main game
SPOILERS: HERE ARE SOME OF THE PUZZLES AFTER THE DEMO:
A. Switch puzzle. Switch and rotate four bus signs on a pole according to given clues on the pole itself. Every sign must be situated in the proper location and direction on the pole.
B. Lamp puzzle. Match up two sets of symbols. (Used 6 times in the game)
C. Matching puzzle. Using arrows, rotate and adjust the size of symbols on each of 4 sides of a lantern so they match up with their given slots. Increase and decrease the size until all fit into the slots.
D. Logic puzzle. Cut 5 boards with a saw - choosing the proper spot which will not break the saw nor destroy the blades
E. Matching puzzle. Match images beneath leaves
F. Connection puzzle. (1) Connect geometrically shaped crystals in the proper sequence. (2) Connect game characters in the proper sequence.
BONUS CHAPTER:
G. Assembly puzzle. Create a path to lead a king to his crown by inserting path segments into the grid, following given instructions.
H. Assembly puzzle. Place mirror shards into the proper location to restore the mirror.
B. Lamp puzzle. Match up two sets of symbols. (Used 6 times in the game)
C. Matching puzzle. Using arrows, rotate and adjust the size of symbols on each of 4 sides of a lantern so they match up with their given slots. Increase and decrease the size until all fit into the slots.
D. Logic puzzle. Cut 5 boards with a saw - choosing the proper spot which will not break the saw nor destroy the blades
E. Matching puzzle. Match images beneath leaves
F. Connection puzzle. (1) Connect geometrically shaped crystals in the proper sequence. (2) Connect game characters in the proper sequence.
BONUS CHAPTER:
G. Assembly puzzle. Create a path to lead a king to his crown by inserting path segments into the grid, following given instructions.
H. Assembly puzzle. Place mirror shards into the proper location to restore the mirror.
I recommend this game!
Can you save the Heavenfall campers from a malevolent force in time?
Overall rating
4
/
5
112 of 158 found this review helpful
A SHORT STAY AT SUMMER CAMP TO EARN A DETECTIVE’S “BADGE”
PostedJune 13, 2019
sunnyglow
fromLocation: At summer camp scouting around for monsters to earn a detective’s “badge!”
Skill Level:Expert
Fun Factor
4
/
5
Visual/Sound Quality
4
/
5
Level of Challenge
3
/
5
Storyline
5
/
5
REVIEW BASED UPON THE ENTIRE GAME:
4 Chapters Plus a Bonus Chapter – Strategy Guide: 45 Pages
4 Chapters Plus a Bonus Chapter – Strategy Guide: 45 Pages
OPINION: Summer is here and what better way to spend an evening than camping with the chimeras? Instead of listening to campfire story, this game will entrap you into the story itself. Although not my favorite series from Elephant Games, the mildly scary theme captured my interest. For me, this is the best game of the series thus far. Although a short game, it has a well-written story along with some creatively designed HOP scenes and puzzles. There are not many puzzles within this game. With most of those being nonchallenging, this is an easy breezy game which should appeal to adults and children alike.
There are three collectibles - statues, puzzle pieces, and photos. I found the puzzle pieces well-hidden; however, I found the statues and photos easy to locate. I enjoyed the secret room final puzzle. It is more of a HOP scene than a puzzle. Search through all the scenes from the game searching for six (6) items. The number to locate of each item increases as you continue the search. You are timed in this final puzzle.
There are an equal number of HOP scenes and puzzles. There are only twenty-one (21) HOP scenes. The HOP scenes are standard fare - lists of items and silhouette scenes with some interactivity. There is also a matching pairs scene. The final scene in the main game consists of rotating 3 rings to create the items to be removed. Usually the final scene in most games is a puzzle; however, the final scene from the bonus chapter is a HOP scene.
There are only twenty (20) puzzles. Although they are creatively designed, there are not many of them. They are variations of ones seen in other games. I was somewhat disappointed by the lack of puzzles, especially the lack of any challenging ones. However, I realize there are some who do not like puzzle-laden games. My favorite was a maze puzzle in which the player must traverse a foggy maze (which remains foggy throughout playing it) searching for keys to open other parts of the maze - arriving at a chest with a special key.
MECHANICS:
• Four (4) levels of play including a customized version.
• Twenty-three (23) achievements.
• Collect twenty-six (26) morphing objects (characters from the game)
• Collect forty-eight (48) puzzle pieces to create four (4) jigsaw puzzles played after the game.
• Collect twelve (12) photos of monsters
• Twelve (12) wallpapers along with concept art and music selections
• Replay thirteen (13) mini-games and twelve (12) HOP scenes.
• Secret puzzle within the secret room consisting of searching for a specific number of six (6) morphing items within the scenes from the game.
• Twenty-three (23) achievements.
• Collect twenty-six (26) morphing objects (characters from the game)
• Collect forty-eight (48) puzzle pieces to create four (4) jigsaw puzzles played after the game.
• Collect twelve (12) photos of monsters
• Twelve (12) wallpapers along with concept art and music selections
• Replay thirteen (13) mini-games and twelve (12) HOP scenes.
• Secret puzzle within the secret room consisting of searching for a specific number of six (6) morphing items within the scenes from the game.
OVERVIEW/STORY: Detective! Pack up your camping gear and head out to summer camp! While there, you will be able to participate in your own scary campfire story! An ancient evil has been released by the camp counselors. The result is that monsters have been released as well and the counselors along with you are trapped within this camp. You will earn your detective badge dealing with these monsters and the evil entity behind them. Locate the cause of the monsters and send them packing before the campers arrive at camp!
BONUS CHAPTER: It is a sequel. Summer camp has ended with the camp becoming a nature reserve. However, an evildoer is stealing the magic from Black Lake by kidnapping plants and animals to collect this magic. With the help of Astrid and a fairy, return the magic back to this camp. Unlike the main game, this chapter is of decent size for a bonus chapter. There are six (6) HOP scenes and six (6) puzzles. I like the story behind this chapter. I found the puzzles better than in the main game as well.
BONUS CHAPTER: It is a sequel. Summer camp has ended with the camp becoming a nature reserve. However, an evildoer is stealing the magic from Black Lake by kidnapping plants and animals to collect this magic. With the help of Astrid and a fairy, return the magic back to this camp. Unlike the main game, this chapter is of decent size for a bonus chapter. There are six (6) HOP scenes and six (6) puzzles. I like the story behind this chapter. I found the puzzles better than in the main game as well.
SPOILERS: HERE ARE A FEW OF THE TWENTY (20) MINI-GAMES FROM THE GAME:
A. Assembly puzzle. Combine four (4) symbols which, when combined, create a given larger symbol 3X Puzzles increase in difficulty.
B. Matching/Alignment puzzle. Move 6 fish, each attached to a fish line, so that each one is in the row with its matching colored token. Moving one fish line affects the others.
C. Rotating tiles puzzle. Rotate hexagon shaped pieces to create a picture.
D. Sequence puzzle. On 5 rows with stars – use arrows at the side to move each row of stars so that each column has the number of stars indicated on a given code.
E. Switch puzzle. Switch pictures so that each one is placed in the location on the grid which contains the items shown at the top of the column and side of the row in which it is placed.
BONUS CHAPTER:
F. Maze puzzle. Traverse a foggy maze searching for keys along the way to open other parts of the maze. Your journey will take you to a chest with a special key.
G. Checkers puzzle. On a triangular shaped grid which contains triangles, remove the triangles by jumping over each other until only one remains.
B. Matching/Alignment puzzle. Move 6 fish, each attached to a fish line, so that each one is in the row with its matching colored token. Moving one fish line affects the others.
C. Rotating tiles puzzle. Rotate hexagon shaped pieces to create a picture.
D. Sequence puzzle. On 5 rows with stars – use arrows at the side to move each row of stars so that each column has the number of stars indicated on a given code.
E. Switch puzzle. Switch pictures so that each one is placed in the location on the grid which contains the items shown at the top of the column and side of the row in which it is placed.
BONUS CHAPTER:
F. Maze puzzle. Traverse a foggy maze searching for keys along the way to open other parts of the maze. Your journey will take you to a chest with a special key.
G. Checkers puzzle. On a triangular shaped grid which contains triangles, remove the triangles by jumping over each other until only one remains.
I recommend this game!