sunnyglow's Profile
Stat Summary
- Average Rating:4.3
- Helpful Votes:80,084
- Reviews Submitted:821
- First Review:November 27, 2011
- Most Recent Review:June 27, 2025
- Featured reviews0
Status:
Can you stop townspeople from turning into crystal in time?
Overall rating
2
/
5
88 of 172 found this review helpful
THE PLAGUE OF ST. GERMAIN
PostedMay 16, 2019
sunnyglow
fromIt is now crystal clear this series will be plagued by more encore appearances by St. Germain. I wonder if staring at this dwarf while playing the game would cause him to turn to stone, then crumble and go away!
Skill Level:Expert
Fun Factor
2
/
5
Visual/Sound Quality
4
/
5
Level of Challenge
3
/
5
Storyline
2
/
5
OPINION: Get prepared for some surprises in this game including one small irritation as well! The only thing worse than the occasional slow pace I experienced playing the demo was the “pièce de résistance,” the dwarf, St. Germain. Surprise! His re-emergence dwarfs any other faults this game may possess. Cleverly, AMAX hid his irritating presence until the very end of the demo. St. Germain is immortal and so is his insidious presence in AMAX games!
On the plus side, the game is beautifully illustrated (sans one dastardly dwarf). Although the story is a little strange to me, I would have purchased it. I play games for the activities, so the story most times is inconsequential. However, St. Germain is such an annoying presence with his grunting and insidious presence, it destroyed my desire to continue with the game.
The HOP scenes are somewhat creatively designed. There are quite a few mini-HOP scenes in the demo which require searching for a small number of some item. There are also some multiple step ones with searches using two different formats. There is a variety of types including matching, search and replace, lists of items, and silhouette. Most are interactive.
The nine (9) minigames from the demo are on the easier side. There is one mini game which can be played in either an “casual” or “hard” mode. It appears that there are quite a few picture puzzles within the game. At the end of the demo there are three consecutive ones each presented in a different format. One involves switching puzzle pieces; a second involves rotating circles to match the picture; and a third is a slat puzzle in which slats are moved up-and-down and sideways to restore an image.
Puzzles pieces are also collected throughout the game for a picture puzzle available upon completion of the game. Most are easy to locate within the scenes. Not being a big fan of jigsaw and picture puzzles, this was another feature which made the game less appealing.
MECHANICS:
• Four (4) levels of play including a customized version.
• Ten (10) achievements.
• Collect fifty-two (52) morphing puzzles pieces
• Receive a casket in which to place crystals
• Six (6) wallpapers along with five (5) screensavers, concept art, music and video sequences
• Replay thirteen (13) HOP scenes and thirteen (13) minigames
• Ten (10) achievements.
• Collect fifty-two (52) morphing puzzles pieces
• Receive a casket in which to place crystals
• Six (6) wallpapers along with five (5) screensavers, concept art, music and video sequences
• Replay thirteen (13) HOP scenes and thirteen (13) minigames
SPOILERS: HERE ARE THE MINIGAMES FROM THE DEMO:
A. Switch puzzle. Switch 4 horses so each is in the appropriate slot.
B. Sequence puzzle. Remove swords attached to 4 shields so none remain. Removing them from one shield affects the other 3.
C. Sliding tiles puzzle. Slide tokens on a circular grid until all are placed next to an associated image.
D. Tracing puzzle. Move a marble through a symbol without touching the sides.
E. Match-3 game. In 10 movies get the specific number of colored drops indicated by removing them by 3’s. Drops can be switched.
F. Choice between Casual and Hard. Sequence puzzle. Repeat a sequence give on 4 tokens to knock put an evildoer. 3X
Three (3) Consecutive picture puzzles
G. Switch puzzle. Switch pieces on a grid to restore an image
H. Rotating disks. Rotate disks with parts of an image so that the image is restored.
I. Slats puzzle. Move slats vertically and horizontally to restore an image.
B. Sequence puzzle. Remove swords attached to 4 shields so none remain. Removing them from one shield affects the other 3.
C. Sliding tiles puzzle. Slide tokens on a circular grid until all are placed next to an associated image.
D. Tracing puzzle. Move a marble through a symbol without touching the sides.
E. Match-3 game. In 10 movies get the specific number of colored drops indicated by removing them by 3’s. Drops can be switched.
F. Choice between Casual and Hard. Sequence puzzle. Repeat a sequence give on 4 tokens to knock put an evildoer. 3X
Three (3) Consecutive picture puzzles
G. Switch puzzle. Switch pieces on a grid to restore an image
H. Rotating disks. Rotate disks with parts of an image so that the image is restored.
I. Slats puzzle. Move slats vertically and horizontally to restore an image.
I don't recommend this game.
Can your love overcome a grudge that spans a thousand years?
Overall rating
3
/
5
96 of 169 found this review helpful
A GAME WHICH HAS A BEASTLY TRANSFORMATION AFTER THE DEMO
PostedMay 9, 2019
sunnyglow
fromSheepishly, I must admit this game is not “owl” that ” baa-d;” however, it is still “bearly” worth a hoot!
Skill Level:Expert
Fun Factor
3
/
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: 34 Pages
5 Chapters Plus a Bonus Chapter – Strategy Guide: 34 Pages
OPINION: Surprises await you in this game! The biggest surprise is that the quality and content are transformed after the demo. The story is a variation of Shakespeare’s “Romeo and Juliet.” Star-crossed lovers (in this case the sun and moon) are shapeshifters, transforming into the respective animals of their feuding clans during opposite times of the day. The game is beautifully illustrated, a must-have for fairy tale lovers. Although there are animals within the game, there are no helpers.
Nevertheless, I found the game boring and the demo not representative of the actual game. I found the game rather short with few activities. Like the characters, the game itself transforms from a puzzle-intense game with few HOP scenes to the reverse after the demo. There are only twenty (20) mini-games in the entire game, including the bonus chapter. Half of those mini-games are in the demo. I was disappointed by the lack of puzzles and difficulty of the puzzles, most being extremely easy.
There are only nineteen (19) HOP scenes and most are lists of items which are minimally interactive. Nevertheless, there are two which I found creatively designed. In one scene, pages within books must be flipped to create the images to be removed. In another, items are searched for within a series of books and then replaced back into the books in the proper location. I wish this developer had more of these types of scenes.
There is a sidebar on the left side of the screen to indicate the number of collectibles which are remaining within that scene. All the scenes have two of each collectible (sheep and morphing objects). The sheep collected unlock five additional sheep at the end of the game. All are easy to locate. Throughout the game the player alternates between playing the two cursed lovers, Jacob and Alison. I recommend this game for those who like easy breezy games which are puzzle-lite or those who enjoy searching for lists of items in standard HOP scenes. I purchased this game and then regretted it.
MECHANICS:
• Four (4) levels of play including a customized version.
• Ten (10) achievements – each with 3 parts.
• Collect fifty-six (56) sheep used to unlock 5 additional sheep at the end (2 per each scene)
• Collect fifty-six (56) morphing objects (2 per each scene)
• Eight (8) wallpapers along with four (4) screensavers, concept art, music and video sequences
• Replay thirteen (13) HOP scenes and fourteen (14) mini-games
• As Alison you get an owl which grants you magical abilities - Defense, Owl attack, Owl agility
• As Jacob you get a bear which grants you magical ability - Strength, Bear sight, Bear wisdom
• Ten (10) achievements – each with 3 parts.
• Collect fifty-six (56) sheep used to unlock 5 additional sheep at the end (2 per each scene)
• Collect fifty-six (56) morphing objects (2 per each scene)
• Eight (8) wallpapers along with four (4) screensavers, concept art, music and video sequences
• Replay thirteen (13) HOP scenes and fourteen (14) mini-games
• As Alison you get an owl which grants you magical abilities - Defense, Owl attack, Owl agility
• As Jacob you get a bear which grants you magical ability - Strength, Bear sight, Bear wisdom
OVERVIEW/STORY: A curse has been placed upon two Scottish lovers, Alison and Jacob, each from two feuding clans - the Owl Clan and the Bear Clan. Alison is transformed into an owl at night and Jacob is transformed into a bear during the day. In a tag-team effort, play both Alison and Jacob. Learn the history of the feud between the two clans. The Amulet of Oblivion is behind this curse. Is their love strong enough to defeat this curse?
BONUS CHAPTER: It is a prequel. Play Douglas of the Owl Clan. Upon giving your wife, Ayla, the Amulet of Oblivion, she is transformed into an owl. When she is imprisoned in the amulet you follow close behind. Locate your wife and escape the clutches of Vivian, who has made both of you her prisoners. The chapter has four (4) mini-games and six (6) of the most boring HOP scenes I have ever played. All the scenes are lists of items. I feel this chapter is not a worthy addition to a collector’s edition game.
SPOILERS: HERE ARE SOME OF THE MINI-GAMES AFTER THE DEMO:
A. Search and replace puzzle. Search for 12 items out of place. Use an arrow to change the scene from front to back. Then place the items back into the scene in the appropriate location.
B. Switch puzzle. Switch and rotate disks to restore an image.
C. Logic puzzle. Arrange six pictures based on given clues so that love/hate relationships are established between the pictures
D. Weights and balances puzzle. Place weights by size onto a balance according to clues given so that both sides are equal. The largest weights must be at the bottom.
BONUS CHAPTER:
E. Mathematical puzzle. Move numbers on a 4 x 4 grid so that each row equals 34. (Just played the same puzzle last week).
F. Switch puzzle. Switch paintings so that each is in the proper location.
G. Matching puzzle. Match up owls in cages hidden behind curtains. Owls change position if you make a mistake.
B. Switch puzzle. Switch and rotate disks to restore an image.
C. Logic puzzle. Arrange six pictures based on given clues so that love/hate relationships are established between the pictures
D. Weights and balances puzzle. Place weights by size onto a balance according to clues given so that both sides are equal. The largest weights must be at the bottom.
BONUS CHAPTER:
E. Mathematical puzzle. Move numbers on a 4 x 4 grid so that each row equals 34. (Just played the same puzzle last week).
F. Switch puzzle. Switch paintings so that each is in the proper location.
G. Matching puzzle. Match up owls in cages hidden behind curtains. Owls change position if you make a mistake.
I recommend this game!
There is a shadow hanging over New York City and time is running out.
Overall rating
5
/
5
149 of 252 found this review helpful
BREAK OUT OF THE PLAGUE OF MEDIOCRE GAMES – UNMASK ONE OF THE BEST GAMES THIS YEAR
PostedMay 4, 2019
sunnyglow
fromKudos to Five-BN Games! This is a fantastic sci-fi fantasy game! Presently, I am stuck at the city water towers. Just hoping I can complete the timed escape puzzle without getting caught!
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 Game – Strategy Guide: 52 pages
5 Chapters Plus a Bonus Game – Strategy Guide: 52 pages
OPINION: What a fantastic game! This is a superb action-packed sci-fi delight! It is a very long game and well-worth the price. I seldom replay games; however, this is one which I feel is worthy of replaying. This game has a few surprises concerning the storyline. The plot is not disclosed until after the demo. The graphics are cartoon-like with some magnificent scenes of St. Patrick’s Cathedral in New York City. I found it a game of middle-difficulty. There are two types of collectibles; many are well-hidden within the scenes. Most scenes have a morphing object and one of the five (5) collectibles.
The game is puzzle-intense. There are forty-four (44) well-crafted puzzles within the game. This is not an easy-peasy game. Codes are not written down and placed in the inventory for reference in playing puzzles. The player must either write down or memorize the codes. The puzzles have well-written directions which is not always the case in many HOP games. They are explicit and easy to follow. I loved the timed escape puzzle. This is one of the most creative puzzles I have played this year. You must search for items to help you escape while avoiding guards.
There are only thirteen (13) HOP scenes. Nevertheless, the HOP scenes are some of the best I have played this year, and some have puzzles within the scenes. The HOP scenes are interactive. Most are silhouette and lists of items. However, many of the scenes require searching for an item and then using it within the scene to uncover more items from the list. There are puzzles within some of the HOP scenes. Throughout the game, there are instances where a specific number of some item must be searched within several scenes.
My favorite chapter is the one in which Laura must help an elderly woman organize and clean up her apartment. I felt this part of the game was creatively designed with plenty of puzzle-like activities included. With a fantastic story, a good pace, interactive and creatively designed HOP scenes along with well-designed puzzles, this is one game you will not want to miss!
MECHANICS:
• Four (4) levels of play including a customized version.
• Twenty-two (22) achievements.
• Collect thirty-one (31) morphing objects
• Collect 9 feathers, 6 vinyl records, 10 medallions, 7 shamrocks and 9 figurines of St. Patrick
• Eleven (11) wallpapers along with concept art, music and video sequences
• Replay thirteen (13) mini-games
• For each collection of the collectibles completed – a new puzzle, a mosaic puzzle is added.
• Collect all the morphing objects to receive another 20 levels of a bonus mini-game.
• Twenty-two (22) achievements.
• Collect thirty-one (31) morphing objects
• Collect 9 feathers, 6 vinyl records, 10 medallions, 7 shamrocks and 9 figurines of St. Patrick
• Eleven (11) wallpapers along with concept art, music and video sequences
• Replay thirteen (13) mini-games
• For each collection of the collectibles completed – a new puzzle, a mosaic puzzle is added.
• Collect all the morphing objects to receive another 20 levels of a bonus mini-game.
OVERVIEW/STORY: As a member of the Order of the White Stone, you, Laura, investigate cases involving the supernatural. When you are kidnapped, you find yourself an amusement park. There you learn that there is an outbreak of a deadly disease. Meet Travis, a scientist who informs you that he developed a powerful antidote for this disease and was kidnapped as well. As you prepare to help Travis reformulate this antidote, you soon discover you are being deceived. The truth is being masked – hidden from you. Now, you must learn the reality of this situation and take steps to rectify it.
BONUS CHAPTER: Return to the past during the construction of St. Patrick’s Cathedral. In the catacombs beneath the newly constructed cathedral are ruins from an ancient civilization. Members from the Order are now missing beneath this cathedral. You, as one of the Order’s members must locate them, one of which is your own daughter. The chapter is long with seven (7) mini-games and three (3) HOP scenes. Collect the ten (10) emblems from the Order within this chapter. I found this chapter similar in quality to the main game.
SPOILERS: HERE ARE SOME OF THE MINI-GAMES AFTER THE DEMO:
A. Maze puzzle. Choose the correct paths to get through a ventilation system. No map is given – simply trial and error in this puzzle.
B. Sequence puzzle. On a grid – turn off all lights. Clicking on a light will either turn it on if it is off or the inverse – turning it off if it is on.
C. Clock puzzle. Set the time. Move hands of a clock to set the time as per clues seen within the game. There are 3 latches to open which require three different times.
D. Mathematical/Switch puzzle. Switch numbers in each of four rows so that each row adds up to 34.
E. Matching puzzle. Place cubes with colors on four sides into a box so that each cube has contiguous colors with the cubes next to it
F. Timed puzzle. Escape/maze puzzle. Within the time allotted get to a designated location (water tanks) while avoiding guards in your path. Interact with the scenes to locate necessary items. Excellent and one of the best puzzles to come out this year.
BONUS CHAPTER:
G. Mathematical/Connection puzzle. On a number grid, connect numbers so each set adds up to 15 and all the numbers are used.
H. Alignment puzzle. On a grid with planets, move the planets so all align in a specific position on the grid. Moving one planet affects the others.
I. Switch puzzle. Switch the positions of blue and red tokens on a grid. Tokens can move only by jumping over another token or to an empty space. (In HOP scene)
B. Sequence puzzle. On a grid – turn off all lights. Clicking on a light will either turn it on if it is off or the inverse – turning it off if it is on.
C. Clock puzzle. Set the time. Move hands of a clock to set the time as per clues seen within the game. There are 3 latches to open which require three different times.
D. Mathematical/Switch puzzle. Switch numbers in each of four rows so that each row adds up to 34.
E. Matching puzzle. Place cubes with colors on four sides into a box so that each cube has contiguous colors with the cubes next to it
F. Timed puzzle. Escape/maze puzzle. Within the time allotted get to a designated location (water tanks) while avoiding guards in your path. Interact with the scenes to locate necessary items. Excellent and one of the best puzzles to come out this year.
BONUS CHAPTER:
G. Mathematical/Connection puzzle. On a number grid, connect numbers so each set adds up to 15 and all the numbers are used.
H. Alignment puzzle. On a grid with planets, move the planets so all align in a specific position on the grid. Moving one planet affects the others.
I. Switch puzzle. Switch the positions of blue and red tokens on a grid. Tokens can move only by jumping over another token or to an empty space. (In HOP scene)
I recommend this game!
Whenever heroes gather, villains are sure to follow...
Overall rating
5
/
5
105 of 185 found this review helpful
S.H.R.I.N.E. FOR AGENTS - (Super Heroes’ Resolve Is Never Ending)
PostedMay 2, 2019
sunnyglow
fromLocation - Alternate reality. Owning that “athletic watch” displayed in the bonus chapter, I am searching online for information on how to set the watch so I too can hop back-and-forth between alternate realities.
Skill Level:Expert
Fun Factor
5
/
5
Visual/Sound Quality
5
/
5
Level of Challenge
5
/
5
Storyline
5
/
5
OPINION: I love this new series.. Family drama queen Anna Gray along with her sidekick father, Richard, are two of my favorite HOP game characters. The story contributes to making this a fantastic game. The story begins with the three detectives given assignments in different locations which eventually weave into one central plot as the game progresses. The variety of locations and activities provide a fast pace and keep the player engaged. Although the game is short with fewer HOP scenes and puzzles than in most games, it is well-designed and kept my interest.
There are twenty-six (26) HOP scenes, nine (9) of which are mini-HOP scenes. The mini-HOP scenes contain between four (4) to eight (8) items which need to be located sequentially, one item at a time. The items are easy to locate within those scenes. The other scenes are either lists of items or silhouette. I was somewhat disappointed in the HOP scenes. There is little creative design demonstrated by these scenes. Most are junkpiles and not very interactive. Nevertheless, the mini-games are excellent. There are twenty (20) of them within the game. They vary in difficulty. There are some multiple-step ones. And although the HOP scenes are less than stellar, the mini-games and story behind this game make up for the lackluster HOP scenes. There are three collectibles which I found easy to locate.
MECHANICS:
• Four (4) levels of play including a customized version.
• Eighteen (18) Achievements.
• Collect thirty (30) morphing objects
• Collect fourteen (14) morphing figurines of the characters
• Collect twenty (20) puzzle pieces creating screensavers
• Twelve (12) wallpapers along with concept art and music
• Replay fifteen (15) HOP scenes and twelve (12) mini-games
• Secret room played at the end to search for additional morphing items.
• Eighteen (18) Achievements.
• Collect thirty (30) morphing objects
• Collect fourteen (14) morphing figurines of the characters
• Collect twenty (20) puzzle pieces creating screensavers
• Twelve (12) wallpapers along with concept art and music
• Replay fifteen (15) HOP scenes and twelve (12) mini-games
• Secret room played at the end to search for additional morphing items.
OVERVIEW/STORY: Join the 3 super sleuths, Anna Gray, James Blackthorne, and Agent Brown as they tag team to solve another case. This time, the nefarious group S.H.R.I.N.E. is causing havoc. Operation Darkest Night is underway, a nefarious plan orchestrated by the mastermind of this group who will stop at nothing, even defying time and space, to succeed with his plans. Along for the ride is Anna’s ghostly father, Vincent, who, in this game, may wish he had remained in the afterlife.
BONUS CHAPTER: It is a sequel. S.H.R.I.N.E. has been attacked and the super detectives are back on the case sans Anna Gray. Anna Gray is on vacation – or is she? Mysteriously, she is seen within the chapter, lurking in the background. Discover the story behind “Anna Gray” and her mysterious appearance within this chapter. Also, rescue members of S.H.R.I.N.E. as you travel to another dimension. This is a long chapter. It is decent addition to the game. A surprise announcement is made at the end of this chapter concerning “Anna Gray.” There are six (6) HOP scenes and five (5) mini-games in this chapter. Continue searching for all three collectibles. I found the chapter consistent with the quality of the main game and worthy the collector’s edition designation.
SPOILERS: HERE ARE SAMPLES OF THE MINI-GAMES AFTER THE DEMO:
A. 3-Part Mini-game. Move a car through a maze. (1) Assembly puzzle. Place segments of a track into position to lead a car to its destination. (2) Switch puzzle. Switch 4 geometric shapes on 4 dials so each dial has the same 4 geometric shapes. (3) Connection puzzle. Rotate and connect colored wires, connecting them from one end to the other. If you make any mistakes you must restart- even replaying the puzzles. Excellent mini-game!
B. Paint-by-number. Color segments of a map by matching symbols on each segment with a given guide. Click on the sections of the map until they turn the proper color.
C. Connect-the-dots. Connect all dots within a maze grid without retracing steps.
BONUS CHAPTER
D. 2-part mini-game. (1) Connection puzzle. Connect segments of a mechanism with circuits. (2) Sequence puzzle. Press buttons on the circuits in sequential order to activate a bridge.
E. Maze puzzle. Go through a maze using a flashlight, referring to a map displayed on the screen. The map will remain dark until you uncover paths which will be remain displayed once discovered.
B. Paint-by-number. Color segments of a map by matching symbols on each segment with a given guide. Click on the sections of the map until they turn the proper color.
C. Connect-the-dots. Connect all dots within a maze grid without retracing steps.
BONUS CHAPTER
D. 2-part mini-game. (1) Connection puzzle. Connect segments of a mechanism with circuits. (2) Sequence puzzle. Press buttons on the circuits in sequential order to activate a bridge.
E. Maze puzzle. Go through a maze using a flashlight, referring to a map displayed on the screen. The map will remain dark until you uncover paths which will be remain displayed once discovered.
I recommend this game!
Can you uncover the paranormal activity haunting the mall?
Overall rating
5
/
5
106 of 188 found this review helpful
SHOP TILL YOU DROP (OUT OF SIGHT) WITHIN THIS MALL
PostedApril 27, 2019
sunnyglow
fromLocation? At the mall. If I don’t return, it’s probably because I shopped till I dropped – out of sight!
Skill Level:Expert
Fun Factor
5
/
5
Visual/Sound Quality
5
/
5
Level of Challenge
5
/
5
Storyline
5
/
5
REVIEW BASED ON THE ENTIRE GAME
5 Chapters Plus a Bonus Chapter – Strategy Guide: 42 Pages
5 Chapters Plus a Bonus Chapter – Strategy Guide: 42 Pages
OPINION: I love this series, and this is another fantastic addition to it. Although the main game and bonus game deal with elements of the paranormal; the fright factor is minimal. Nevertheless, there are some creepy moments within the game. The graphics include dimly-lit scenes set in the eerily quiet night-time setting at a mall. Creepy mannequins come to life and pop up unexpectedly adding a scare factor. This is a fast-paced game with plenty of activities set against the backdrop of a well-written story. The story masks the identity of the evildoer until the end.
The main game is rather short; however, the bonus chapter is long. There are twenty-two (22) HOP scenes and twenty-three (23) puzzles. There are three (3) collectibles and most are well-hidden within the scenes. The HOP scenes are the usual lists of items, silhouette, storybook, and matching. Most are interactive. I was impressed with one creatively designed HOP scene. This search-and-replace HOP scene is set on a 3-dimensional cube. The cube must be rotated, items located and then returned to the proper location on one of the four scenes constituting the cube. There are some fantastic puzzles within this game. I found none challenging, with most of middle difficulty.
MECHANICS:
• Four (4) levels of play including a customized version.
• Twenty-one (21) achievements
• Collect 12 statuettes of characters in the game.
• Collect twenty-seven (27) eyes to open three (3) additional HOP scenes in the Secret Room
• Collect twenty-seven (27) morphing objects
• Ten (10) wallpapers along with a screensaver, concept art, and music selections.
• Replay thirteen (13) puzzles and thirteen (13) HOP scenes
• Twenty-one (21) achievements
• Collect 12 statuettes of characters in the game.
• Collect twenty-seven (27) eyes to open three (3) additional HOP scenes in the Secret Room
• Collect twenty-seven (27) morphing objects
• Ten (10) wallpapers along with a screensaver, concept art, and music selections.
• Replay thirteen (13) puzzles and thirteen (13) HOP scenes
OVERVIEW/STORY: Rick Rogers, paranormal detective, returns in another creepy tale. In this case, he is working undercover as a security guard to investigate nighttime paranormal activity at a mall. Security guards are being driven mad after only spending one night at this mall. Mannequins are coming to life along with other inexplicable events. Some evil entity is behind this and will taunt you throughout the game. Shall we play this game? If you do, you better play to win!
BONUS CHAPTER: It is a sequel. It is a month since the mall case was closed. More paranormal activity has returned to haunt this mall. Ghosts are everywhere within the mall, being summoned by an artifact., As Rick Rogers, you must find the cause of this ghostly activity and send these souls back to the afterlife. This is a long chapter with six (6) HOP scenes and seven (7) puzzles. In some ways I feel this chapter is better than the main game. I like the heart-wrenching story from this chapter better than the one from the main game. Continue to search for the collectibles within this chapter.
BONUS CHAPTER: It is a sequel. It is a month since the mall case was closed. More paranormal activity has returned to haunt this mall. Ghosts are everywhere within the mall, being summoned by an artifact., As Rick Rogers, you must find the cause of this ghostly activity and send these souls back to the afterlife. This is a long chapter with six (6) HOP scenes and seven (7) puzzles. In some ways I feel this chapter is better than the main game. I like the heart-wrenching story from this chapter better than the one from the main game. Continue to search for the collectibles within this chapter.
SPOILERS: HERE ARE SOME OF THE PUZZLES AFTER THE DEMO:
A. Weights and balances puzzle. Place weights on two sides of a scale so each side is balanced with the other.
B. The Eyes Have it! Sliding tiles puzzle. Slide eyes along paths until they are all placed in the proper position as per a given code.
C. Cool Motorcycle Dude! Guide a motorcycle through the streets of a city by using arrows to avoid obstacles in its path. Only 3 collisions are allowed.
D. Matching puzzle. Match up thematically related items by uncovering hexagons with images upon them. If you make a mistake in matching, the previous matches return
E. Assembly puzzle. Make a key according to a given diagram. Use a drill with two different bits to create the indentations. Use arrows to adjust the height of the indentations and to move the drill right or left.
BONUS CHAPTER:
F. Match-3 puzzle. Match up 2 or more like-colored gems to remove them. You must play until you capture the given number for each of 3 colored gems. You only have 17 moves.
G. Assembly puzzle. Move three knobs on a projector to restore an image. Moving one piece of the picture affects the others. Moving the pieces increases or decreases the size. 3X
H. Domino puzzle. Place family-oriented dominoes end-to-end so images match at the ends or with an image above the given domino.
B. The Eyes Have it! Sliding tiles puzzle. Slide eyes along paths until they are all placed in the proper position as per a given code.
C. Cool Motorcycle Dude! Guide a motorcycle through the streets of a city by using arrows to avoid obstacles in its path. Only 3 collisions are allowed.
D. Matching puzzle. Match up thematically related items by uncovering hexagons with images upon them. If you make a mistake in matching, the previous matches return
E. Assembly puzzle. Make a key according to a given diagram. Use a drill with two different bits to create the indentations. Use arrows to adjust the height of the indentations and to move the drill right or left.
BONUS CHAPTER:
F. Match-3 puzzle. Match up 2 or more like-colored gems to remove them. You must play until you capture the given number for each of 3 colored gems. You only have 17 moves.
G. Assembly puzzle. Move three knobs on a projector to restore an image. Moving one piece of the picture affects the others. Moving the pieces increases or decreases the size. 3X
H. Domino puzzle. Place family-oriented dominoes end-to-end so images match at the ends or with an image above the given domino.
I recommend this game!
Can you uncover the origins of a dangerous ancient artifact in time?
Overall rating
5
/
5
194 of 284 found this review helpful
A HIDDEN EXPEDITION WHICH UNCOVERS AN EXCITING GAME
PostedApril 25, 2019
sunnyglow
fromLocation? Under the sea with mermaid Arielle searching for Roman treasure. Although it is past Easter, I am “egg-specially” interested in locating the eggs from this 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 ENTIRE GAME
4 Chapters Plus a Bonus Chapter – Strategy Guide: 37 Pages (This is a long game)
4 Chapters Plus a Bonus Chapter – Strategy Guide: 37 Pages (This is a long game)
OPINION: What a fantastic game! It is a fast-paced, action-packed adventure. This is a long game with a well-written story blending fantasy with historical facts. Travel to various regions of the Mediterranean including Italy, Sicily, Cairo, and France. The game has some breathtaking underwater scenes and some beautiful ones set in Cairo. There are fact cards which provide trivia on a variety of subjects.
The collectible is a turtle which is rather hard to miss in most scenes. There are morphing objects within the HOP scenes. Upon finishing the game, there are souvenirs to be collected within the scenes from the game. My only complaint is the gimmicky tool kit provided and the alignment puzzle which must be played to access the tools within it. Three circles must be aligned using a slider bar before the tool is released. The tools are used often and by the end of the game, I was tired to aligning those three circles to retrieve the needed tool.
There are an equal number of HOP scenes and mini-games. There are twenty (20) HOP scenes and twenty-one (21) mini-games. Most of the HOP scenes are lists of items or silhouette. There are a few multiple-step ones. There is a rebus scene, some storybook scenes, and some matching scenes. The puzzles are variations of ones seen in other games. They range in difficulty and style. I found none challenging – most being of moderate difficulty.
OVERVIEW/STORY: As Dr. Walter, an expert in Roman antiquities, you are called in to investigate a dig site in Pompeii. After discovering an amethyst encrusted trident, venture to various parts of the world to discover its history. Watch your back, however, as a nefarious criminal follows your every step throughout your travels.
MECHANICS:
• Four (4) levels of play including a customized version.
• Thirteen (13) achievements (some with 3 parts).
• Collect fact cards providing a potpourri of information concerning various topics
• Collect thirty-nine (39) turtles (Easy to locate) You can return to scenes at the end to search for them if you miss them within the scene.
• Collect fourteen (14) morphing objects within HOP scenes
• Collect twenty-one (21) souvenirs at the end of the game by returning to the scenes. (Some are well-hidden)
• Eight (8) Wallpapers along with concept art, music and video sequences
• Tool kit to help with the excavation. Align three circles before using the items.
• Replay fourteen (14) HOP scenes and sixteen (16) mini-games
• Thirteen (13) achievements (some with 3 parts).
• Collect fact cards providing a potpourri of information concerning various topics
• Collect thirty-nine (39) turtles (Easy to locate) You can return to scenes at the end to search for them if you miss them within the scene.
• Collect fourteen (14) morphing objects within HOP scenes
• Collect twenty-one (21) souvenirs at the end of the game by returning to the scenes. (Some are well-hidden)
• Eight (8) Wallpapers along with concept art, music and video sequences
• Tool kit to help with the excavation. Align three circles before using the items.
• Replay fourteen (14) HOP scenes and sixteen (16) mini-games
BONUS CHAPTER: Return to 200 B.C. You, as the Roman emissary, Agrippina, are shipwrecked off the cost of Hispania. You are saved by the commander, Cornelius; however, now this crazed soldier wants to become a god, controlling “Neptune’s children.” As foretold by the gods, you are the only one who can stop him and save the Roman Empire. Continue to collect turtles in this chapter along with the morphing objects. There are four HOP scenes and four (4) mini-games within this chapter. The graphics are incredibly beautiful. I found this an excellent addition to the game.
SPOILERS: THESE ARE SOME OF THE MINI-GAMES AFTER THE DEMO:
A. Checkers puzzle. On a grid, switch the locations of two sets of tokens with 7 tokens in each set. Tokens jump over each other to move
B. Sequence puzzle. (Played 3 times in the game). Move 3 prongs of a trident so that all reach the bottom. Moving one affects the others.
C. Matching puzzle. Rotate 5 pentagons with numbers on each side around a center pentagon. The numbers on the center pentagon must match those on each pentagon abutting it.
D. Connection puzzle. Connect like-colored sockets by filling in spaces which connect them. Wires cannot cross each other. Each color has a specific number of spaces which can be used to connect them.
BONUS CHAPTER:
E. Rotating tiles puzzle. On a grid with five (5) triangles with three pieces for each one, rotate and move the pieces so each triangle has pieces which match up in color There is a middle section, a pentagon which collects and rotates the pieces and in which you must assemble the triangles.
F. Connection puzzle. On a grid, move tokens with triangles on them to create paths so that all the triangles are connected.
G. Rotating tiles puzzle. On a grid rotate squares with path segments on them so that five tokens can move to their appropriate spot at the bottom of the grid as per a given code.
B. Sequence puzzle. (Played 3 times in the game). Move 3 prongs of a trident so that all reach the bottom. Moving one affects the others.
C. Matching puzzle. Rotate 5 pentagons with numbers on each side around a center pentagon. The numbers on the center pentagon must match those on each pentagon abutting it.
D. Connection puzzle. Connect like-colored sockets by filling in spaces which connect them. Wires cannot cross each other. Each color has a specific number of spaces which can be used to connect them.
BONUS CHAPTER:
E. Rotating tiles puzzle. On a grid with five (5) triangles with three pieces for each one, rotate and move the pieces so each triangle has pieces which match up in color There is a middle section, a pentagon which collects and rotates the pieces and in which you must assemble the triangles.
F. Connection puzzle. On a grid, move tokens with triangles on them to create paths so that all the triangles are connected.
G. Rotating tiles puzzle. On a grid rotate squares with path segments on them so that five tokens can move to their appropriate spot at the bottom of the grid as per a given code.
I recommend this game!
My Brother Rabbit is a beautifully drawn adventure set in a surreal world that mixes reality with a child’s imagination
Overall rating
5
/
5
147 of 221 found this review helpful
A BREATHTAKING FAIRY TALE – AN AWARD-WINNING CLASSIC
PostedApril 20, 2019
sunnyglow
fromCongratulations to Artifex Mundi on an award-winning game! This game demonstrates an excellence in gaming few developers achieve. Hopefully there will be more games like this from this developer’s own studios in the future.
Skill Level:Expert
Fun Factor
5
/
5
Visual/Sound Quality
5
/
5
Level of Challenge
5
/
5
Storyline
5
/
5
This game is a classic, a masterpiece! Its story is set in a fairy tale kingdom depicted with breathtaking cartoon-like graphics! The story is a heart touching tale of an older brother dealing with his little sister’s illness. He enters a fantasy world to cope with the fear he feels for his sister. In this world he is a rabbit, carrying his sister from location-to-location attempting to save her life in the only way he, as a child, can envision – in a world of fantasy where the impossible can become possible.
In the world of gaming, the impossible has become the possible for Artifex Mundi as well – a new style of HOP game. This game is what I consider a hybrid – combining the elements from a standard HOP game with those of an adventure game. It is a point-and-click adventure in which it is necessary to examine scenes to uncover necessary items or uncover areas which need to be acted upon. There is NO dialogue – rather actions and puzzles are indicated with visual references. The game itself is one ingenious large puzzle, requiring logic to deduce what actions are necessary to proceed within the game.
There is no strategy guide; however, there is a hint button to help you with the game. You can replay four (4) search and seek HOP scenes which require searching for parts to create four (4) whimsical machines which make noises as parts are added. There are other quasi-HOP searches in which a specific number of an item must be located to proceed in the game. Unlike most HOP games, different scenes must be searched to locate all the items. Some are well-hidden within those scenes. At times the player must complete some puzzle to gain access to them as well.
There are twenty-five (25) puzzles within the game. Most range from easy to medium difficulty. Unfortunately, you cannot replay the puzzles from this game. This is one aspect of this game I wish BFG had provided. The puzzles are thematic, and most are of middle difficulty. However, I found none terribly difficult. Puzzles can be skipped in this version of this game.
One nice feature provided by BFG is a digital copy of the artwork which can be downloaded. There are three (3) wallpapers along with a soulful, melodic soundtrack. I do hope this developer will continue to create more games from their own studios. This game is a perfect example of why they stand out in comparison to other game developers. This is an award-winning game not to be missed!
SPOILERS: HERE ARE SAMPLES OF THE PUZZLES WITHIN THE GAME
A. Connection puzzle. Connect two like colored tokens without crossing lines with other connections between tokens
B. Rotating tiles puzzle. Rotate three rings so that 3 different colored critters are situated on their same colored ring.
C. Sequence puzzle. Press on crystals to repeat a given sequence as to when they light up. 3X
D. Matching puzzle. Match up like symbols by clicking on germs to portray the symbols.
E. Jigsaw puzzle. Create a picture by placing pieces into their proper locations.
F. Pipe puzzle. Connection puzzle. Connect pipes so they allow water to flow from one end to the other.
G. Sequence puzzle. Remove mushrooms from a grid in the proper sequence until all are removed. Moving one affects the others.
H. Gear puzzle. Connect gears within a grid so they mesh with each other.
I. Tangram puzzle. Place irregular pieces into a grid so that all fit and mesh within a grid.
J. Mathematical puzzle. Turn keys on a circular grid by moving 3 spaces clockwise or two spaces counterclockwise until all keys are turned.
K. Connection puzzle. Connect pots with spouts so that the spouts connect to allow fluid to be transferred.
L. Domino puzzle. Place beetles with dots on their backs and fronts so that beetles next to each other match up with the number of dots on either the back or front with the beetle next to it.
B. Rotating tiles puzzle. Rotate three rings so that 3 different colored critters are situated on their same colored ring.
C. Sequence puzzle. Press on crystals to repeat a given sequence as to when they light up. 3X
D. Matching puzzle. Match up like symbols by clicking on germs to portray the symbols.
E. Jigsaw puzzle. Create a picture by placing pieces into their proper locations.
F. Pipe puzzle. Connection puzzle. Connect pipes so they allow water to flow from one end to the other.
G. Sequence puzzle. Remove mushrooms from a grid in the proper sequence until all are removed. Moving one affects the others.
H. Gear puzzle. Connect gears within a grid so they mesh with each other.
I. Tangram puzzle. Place irregular pieces into a grid so that all fit and mesh within a grid.
J. Mathematical puzzle. Turn keys on a circular grid by moving 3 spaces clockwise or two spaces counterclockwise until all keys are turned.
K. Connection puzzle. Connect pots with spouts so that the spouts connect to allow fluid to be transferred.
L. Domino puzzle. Place beetles with dots on their backs and fronts so that beetles next to each other match up with the number of dots on either the back or front with the beetle next to it.
FINAL TRIBUTE TO ARTIFEX MUNDI: In 2013, I played my favorite game by this developer, “Nightmares from the Deep: The Siren’s Call.” I was in awe of that game at the time with its beautiful graphics, wondrous activities, and beautiful storyline. Although now somewhat dated, to me, it is a classic and still one of my favorite games. Now years later, I am experiencing the same awe I felt back then. I do believe this game will become a classic as well. Thank you for reminding me that, although they may be rare, there are still some fantastic games being developed out there in the gaming world!
I recommend this game!
Can you stop a mad mayor and his destructive robots?
Overall rating
5
/
5
125 of 213 found this review helpful
ESCAPE IRON ROCK IN A GAME YOU WON’T WANT TO ESCAPE
PostedApril 18, 2019
sunnyglow
fromThis game provides a new method for ice removal which could see an explosion in the use of hair spray. With a lighter and a can of hair spray you can create your own flame thrower, removing not only ice but everything else in the area as well.
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: 41 Pages
3 Chapters Plus a Bonus Chapter – Strategy Guide: 41 Pages
OPINION: Although this is not my favorite series from this developer, I found this game one of the better ones within this series. The story behind the game is a sci-fi delight with a twist of suspense. The graphics contain sci-fi elements and there are gadgets galore within this game. I found the game somewhat short, but creatively designed. There is some traveling back-and-forth between scenes; however, it is not excessive. I found the pace decent with plenty of activities. This is a great easy breezy game for those who love this series.
There are an equal number of HOP scenes and mini-games – twenty-two (22) of each. There is a variety of styles for the HOP scenes, but most of the scenes are lists of items and silhouette. Nevertheless, there are matching, storybook, and pattern scenes as well. There are few multiple-step ones with two different styles of scenes. They are somewhat interactive. There are a couple of scenes which I found creatively designed, including one which requires searching for items to build a hairdryer.
The mini-games vary in style, but most are thematic and easy with a few which are moderately difficult. There are some which are multiple-step as well. I enjoyed the puzzles, especially the nonogram (griddler) puzzle, which is not seen in many HOP games.
ELF RETURNS: For those who are dog lovers, Elf returns. Nevertheless, he is used sparingly within the game. He is used to retrieve needed items. I feel this game would stand on its own merit without this gimmicky pooch; however, I know there is a huge fan base for Elf. It is a personal preference; however, I would prefer to see helpers and other gimmicks removed from these games.
MECHANICS:
• Four (4) levels of play including a customized version.
• Twenty-three (23) achievements.
• Collect thirty (30) postcard pieces for three (3) postcards
• Collect twenty-seven (27) morphing objects
• Collect twelve (12) gemstones and minerals
• Eight (8) wallpapers along with concept art and music.
• Helper Elf returns to retrieve items.
• Replay thirteen (13) mini-games and fourteen (14) HOP scenes contained in a Secret Room.
• Four (4) levels of play including a customized version.
• Twenty-three (23) achievements.
• Collect thirty (30) postcard pieces for three (3) postcards
• Collect twenty-seven (27) morphing objects
• Collect twelve (12) gemstones and minerals
• Eight (8) wallpapers along with concept art and music.
• Helper Elf returns to retrieve items.
• Replay thirteen (13) mini-games and fourteen (14) HOP scenes contained in a Secret Room.
STORY/OVERVIEW: Grab your hard hat as you enter the sparsely populated mining town, Iron Rock. After crash landing your plane, you are off to locate a missing agent. The few inhabitants of this burg possess special abilities provided by the special properties of Eternal Iron. There are hidden secrets in this town and a masked mayor who keeps its inhabitants under surveillance, using robots to imprison them within its borders. Now you must not only locate the missing agent, but also must tackle this mayor and plan your escape.
BONUS CHAPTER: It is a sequel. As Rachel, a new trainee for the Mystery Trackers, return to Iron Rock. The Dark Trackers have invaded this town and are up to their usual nefarious activities. When your mentor, Agent Shade, becomes injured, it will be up you to save her and stop the Dark Trackers from their dastardly deeds. The chapter is of decent length. There are six (6) HOP scenes and five (5) mini-puzzles. Collectibles continue to be collected within the chapter. However, alas! Elf disappears and is no where to be seen!
SPOILERS: HERE ARE A FEW OF THE PUZZLES AFTER THE DEMO:
A. Tracing puzzle. Move a chip on a grid to recreate a mirror image of a given image
B. Multiple step. (1) Mathematical puzzle. Decipher a code based on mathematical principles (2) Logic puzzle. Press on squares on a 4 x 4 grid so that all squares are changed from green to blue. Pressing a square will change the color of the ones in the same row and column as the square (3) Sequence puzzle. Press on lights so all are lit. Lighting one affects the others.
C. Sequence puzzle. On a clock, push on “fingers” which move the clock hand either three spaces clockwise or two spaces counterclockwise to light all numbers on the clock.
D. Nonogram puzzle. Push in numbers on a grid so that the number of squares pushed equals the number listed at the top of the columns and rows.
E. Multiple step. (1) Bullseye. Zap psychic rays with your super-duper psychic ray device. (2) Rope puzzle. Untangle lines so they don’t cross each other.
BONUS CHAPTER:
F. Connection puzzle. Create a path from the town hall to a house by creating a path by clicking arrows. You cannot retrace your steps.
G. Maze puzzle. Plot steps before moving through a set of mazes. Use arrows at the top. There are a specific number of moves to traverse through each maze. 3X
B. Multiple step. (1) Mathematical puzzle. Decipher a code based on mathematical principles (2) Logic puzzle. Press on squares on a 4 x 4 grid so that all squares are changed from green to blue. Pressing a square will change the color of the ones in the same row and column as the square (3) Sequence puzzle. Press on lights so all are lit. Lighting one affects the others.
C. Sequence puzzle. On a clock, push on “fingers” which move the clock hand either three spaces clockwise or two spaces counterclockwise to light all numbers on the clock.
D. Nonogram puzzle. Push in numbers on a grid so that the number of squares pushed equals the number listed at the top of the columns and rows.
E. Multiple step. (1) Bullseye. Zap psychic rays with your super-duper psychic ray device. (2) Rope puzzle. Untangle lines so they don’t cross each other.
BONUS CHAPTER:
F. Connection puzzle. Create a path from the town hall to a house by creating a path by clicking arrows. You cannot retrace your steps.
G. Maze puzzle. Plot steps before moving through a set of mazes. Use arrows at the top. There are a specific number of moves to traverse through each maze. 3X
I recommend this game!
Can you stop an ancient legend from coming to life?
Overall rating
1
/
5
136 of 227 found this review helpful
A GAME WITH THAT (BOW) WOW FACTOR
PostedApril 11, 2019
sunnyglow
fromLocation? An ark. In attempt to win the “Gamer of the Year” award, I am doing my “good deed” by designing and building an ark to pick up all “cutesy” animals and those doggone (an appropriate adjective) animal helpers from this and future HOP games..
Skill Level:Expert
Fun Factor
2
/
5
Visual/Sound Quality
3
/
5
Level of Challenge
1
/
5
Storyline
1
/
5
5 Chapters Plus a Bonus Chapter
OPINION: This is a fantastic game for animal lovers (including dog aficionados) and children. It is an easy breezy game with simplistic puzzles. This game does not appeal to me. There is no “wow factor” (in this case, more of a “bow wow” factor) within the demo to entice me to purchase it. For me, this is the worst game to appear this year. Just dreadful!
I found the demo boring and too mawkish for my taste. The story is absurd, appearing as if the writers stitched various unrelated themes together to create a venue in which to toss in a menagerie of animals. The game is set in Iceland, but the background music seems to have an Irish lilt to it. Oh well! Iceland and Ireland have similar spellings, so why not interchange the music well? The graphics feature many animals and animal images throughout
The extremely easy mini-games, gimmicky glasses, dog helper, and all sorts of animals scurrying about turned me off from playing this game. Since there are only two HOP scenes in the demo, it is hard to ascertain their quality. However, one of those is a junkpile with a list of items and the other is a storybook scene. I found the design of both lacking. Hopefully, there will be better games in the future from this developer. After some time without “game helpers,” I hope this game is not a portend of “cutesy” helpers making a comeback in future HOP games!
OVERVIEW/STORY: Welcome to Iceland! Your daughter Willow has always loved animals. Now, she has been nominated for the Person of the Year award for designing and building an animal shelter. You planned to attend the ceremony; however, upon arrival, you discover her missing and her apartment ransacked. She and others have been kidnapped. Adding to the chaos is the imminent eruption of a local volcano. Could it be these disappearances are somehow tied to this volcano? As an investigative journalist, you are off to rescue your daughter while dealing an ineffective town bureaucracy and hidden secrets involving the disappearances.
MECHANICS:
• Four (4) levels of play including a customized version.
• Fifteen (15) achievements.
• Collect fifty-four (54) birds and morphing objects. There is an indicator bar at the left which indicates how many of the collectibles are within the scene.
• Six (6) Wallpapers and five (5) screensavers along with concept art, music and video sequences
• “Helper” dog to dig holes, act cute and provide that “sigh” factor.
• Portfolio in which to keep evidence.
• Gimmicky glasses with a ruby lens to disclose the truth.
• There is a replay of some of the HOP scenes and mini-games
• Four (4) levels of play including a customized version.
• Fifteen (15) achievements.
• Collect fifty-four (54) birds and morphing objects. There is an indicator bar at the left which indicates how many of the collectibles are within the scene.
• Six (6) Wallpapers and five (5) screensavers along with concept art, music and video sequences
• “Helper” dog to dig holes, act cute and provide that “sigh” factor.
• Portfolio in which to keep evidence.
• Gimmicky glasses with a ruby lens to disclose the truth.
• There is a replay of some of the HOP scenes and mini-games
SPOILERS: HERE ARE THE MINI-GAMES FROM THE DEMO:
A. Logic puzzle. On a vending machine, click on items which relate to a given image.
B. Matching puzzle. Choose between photos to answer questions.
C. Switch puzzle. Switch 4 pieces on five photos to restore the photos.
D. Switch puzzle. Switch pieces of animal medallions so they are restored according to the image of an animal beneath them.
E. Match-3 puzzle. Remove specified tiles from the grid while matching up 3 or more gems of the same color. Play more than one scene. You have a specific number of moves for each scene.
B. Matching puzzle. Choose between photos to answer questions.
C. Switch puzzle. Switch 4 pieces on five photos to restore the photos.
D. Switch puzzle. Switch pieces of animal medallions so they are restored according to the image of an animal beneath them.
E. Match-3 puzzle. Remove specified tiles from the grid while matching up 3 or more gems of the same color. Play more than one scene. You have a specific number of moves for each scene.
I don't recommend this game.
Can you stop a dangerous game from taking more lives?
Overall rating
5
/
5
135 of 216 found this review helpful
AHOY! POKER PLAYERS WANTED ON THE “DECK” ABOARD THIS SHIP
PostedApril 4, 2019
sunnyglow
fromIt’s in the cards! Domini continues to deal award-winning games!
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: 47 pages
5 Chapters Plus a Bonus Chapter – Strategy Guide: 47 pages
OVERVIEW: Sail off into a soul-wrenching adventure as you, detective, board a casino ship, the Princess Lolita. Your friend has been invited by the ship’s owner, William Gladstone, with you as her sleuthing companion. Don’t forget to pack your paranormal skills in your suitcase. You are going to need them in this game! Players will ante up more than money playing cards on this voyage. Ahoy! All poker players on deck! – a deck of cards that is.
OPINION: Domini has hit the jackpot with this game! Again, Domini Games has dealt us another winning game flush with those extras that other developers do not provide in their games. The story behind the game is well-written. This is a fast-paced game with top-notch HOP scenes, mini-games, and collectibles. The developer uses different formats for each HOP scene instead of the repetitive lists of items alternated with silhouette scenes used in other developer’s games. The graphics well-depict a casino environment. My only complaint is the overuse of neon green and purple. Perhaps these colors are now a trademark of this developer’s games; however, I would love to see this developer utilize other color schemes within their games.
MECHANICS:
• Four (4) levels of play including a customized version.
• Eighteen (18) achievements.
• Collect fourteen (14) morphing cards, sixty (60) chips and fifteen (15) cocktails. There is an indicator bar to indicate if there is an item within a scene. Easy to locate
• Chips collected can be used to purchase items for a VIP room
• Ten (10) wallpapers along with concept art, music and video sequences
• Choice between “Hard” or "Easy" puzzles in the menu
• Gimmicky phone on the inventory bar which is a hotline to the spirit world.
• Replay fifteen (15) mini-games and eighteen (18) HOP scenes.
• Four (4) levels of play including a customized version.
• Eighteen (18) achievements.
• Collect fourteen (14) morphing cards, sixty (60) chips and fifteen (15) cocktails. There is an indicator bar to indicate if there is an item within a scene. Easy to locate
• Chips collected can be used to purchase items for a VIP room
• Ten (10) wallpapers along with concept art, music and video sequences
• Choice between “Hard” or "Easy" puzzles in the menu
• Gimmicky phone on the inventory bar which is a hotline to the spirit world.
• Replay fifteen (15) mini-games and eighteen (18) HOP scenes.
BONUS CHAPTER: This chapter is another story involving your friend, Virginia. While visiting her on the set of a new film, “The Puppet Witch,” a spirit hiding within an old doll is released. This spirit, a puppeteer, is out to cause havoc by trying to resurrect his wife, Greta. Now, using your paranormal abilities, you must stop him. The story is decent; however, I found the theme identical to the one in the main game. There are eight (8) mini-games and five (5) HOP scenes. Continue searching for collectibles within the chapter. I found the quality equal to that of the main game.
HOP SCENES: There are eighteen (18) scenes in the game. They are varied, creatively designed, and interactive. There is a Match-3 puzzle which can be played in lieu of the scene. I love the scenes which have sliders at the top and along the side used to move silhouettes to matching items within the scene. Other scenes include rebus clues, spot-the-differences, storybook, and replacement.
MINI-GAMES: There are thirty-five (35) mini-games. Most can be played in either a “hard” or “easy” mode. Although this designation can be set in the menu, the difficulty of a puzzle can be changed while playing the puzzle.
SPOILERS: HERE ARE SOME OF THE MINI-GAMES AFTER THE DEMO:
A. Switch puzzle. Switch the location of 4 bottles on the left with 4 on the right using a middle grid with paths to move the bottles.
B. Physics puzzle. Adjust the angles of 8 valves regulating steam, to push a ball through a maze.
C. Connection puzzle. Place flowers on a grid so that the petals of the flowers connected with branches are the same.
D. Physical puzzle. Move a car down the road avoiding obstacles within its path using left and right arrows. If you hit anything you start over.
E. Beat the computer. Domino puzzle. Place dominoes on a grid. If your end matches that of your opponent, you capture that domino. Continue until all are used and you have more dominoes than your opponent.
F. Let’s play war! Card puzzle. Play against the computer. Play to win cards from your opponent. Play until one of you gets the most cards.
G. Ye Old Queens 8 Chess Puzzle. Place stars on a grid on a chess-like grid so no star is in the same row or column as another star.
BONUS CHAPTER:
H. Assembly puzzle. Using a planchette from a Ouija Board, choose symbols which comprise a symbol in the middle of the board. 4X
I. Assembly puzzle. Dress dolls with the proper attire.
J. Matching puzzle. Match up keys with their proper keyhole.
B. Physics puzzle. Adjust the angles of 8 valves regulating steam, to push a ball through a maze.
C. Connection puzzle. Place flowers on a grid so that the petals of the flowers connected with branches are the same.
D. Physical puzzle. Move a car down the road avoiding obstacles within its path using left and right arrows. If you hit anything you start over.
E. Beat the computer. Domino puzzle. Place dominoes on a grid. If your end matches that of your opponent, you capture that domino. Continue until all are used and you have more dominoes than your opponent.
F. Let’s play war! Card puzzle. Play against the computer. Play to win cards from your opponent. Play until one of you gets the most cards.
G. Ye Old Queens 8 Chess Puzzle. Place stars on a grid on a chess-like grid so no star is in the same row or column as another star.
BONUS CHAPTER:
H. Assembly puzzle. Using a planchette from a Ouija Board, choose symbols which comprise a symbol in the middle of the board. 4X
I. Assembly puzzle. Dress dolls with the proper attire.
J. Matching puzzle. Match up keys with their proper keyhole.
I recommend this game!