Favorite Genre(s):Hidden Object, Adventure, Large File, Word, Mahjong, Brain Teaser
Fun Factor
5/ 5
Visual/Sound Quality
5/ 5
Level of Challenge
5/ 5
Storyline
5/ 5
BASED ON THE FIRST 3 CHAPTERS OF THE ACTUAL GAME - 8 CHAPTERS PLUS A BONUS CHAPTER
As a detective, you are going to be “digging up” some nuggets of information in a case involving a missing husband. This game boasts an amazing NEW FEATURE - THE ABILITY TO CHOOSE THE DIFFICULTY OF THE MINI-GAMES WITHIN THE MENU! There are an equal amount of puzzles and HOP scenes. You may opt to play a Match-3 game in lieu of the HOP scene. The graphics are realistic, the VO’s are nicely done.
There is a helper in this game, a panda, (you do not have to name him, dress him nor decorate a room for him) which is used 3 times in the demo. Also, you do not “pick him up” to use his services - he does his activities automatically and quickly so that he does not slow down the pace of the game. You will also locate some “pictures” which, when matched up to the scenes, indicate the location of “hidden objects” and clues within boxes to help you in solving this case.
Besides the main game, there are two additional games provided. The three games are : “Lost Miner,” “Sister’s Spell,” and “Eternal Love.”
PUZZLES: The puzzles are very well done and the best part of the game. You have the ability to choose the difficulty of the puzzles as well. The puzzles include variations of sliding tile puzzles, matching puzzles, switching puzzles, manual dexterity puzzles, and sequential puzzles. There is also one multi-step puzzle in the demo. AFTER THE DEMO: SO AWESOME: Multi-step puzzle sequence with some moderately difficult puzzles, a logic problem and a balance puzzles.
HOP SCENES: I felt this was the weakest part of the game with principally lists of items to locate. There is not as much creativity here. The HOP scenes are puzzle-like and interactive. In the demo I encountered one multi-step scene, which included a silhouette sequence. There are two instances where the HOP scenes opens up into a puzzle scene. Scenes are reused in locating inventory items. AFTER THE DEMO: Continued use of interactive lists.
LEVELS: Casual, Advanced, Hardcore, Custom Hints 10 to 500 seconds Skip 10 to 500 seconds NOTE: YOU HAVE THE OPTION THE MENU TO MAKE THE MINI-PUZZLES HARDER OR EASIER! There is also an option for penalties for random clicking in the HOP scenes
INVENTORY: Puzzle-like and interactive
GRAPHICS: Realistic, sharp images, nicely done.
EXTRAS: Map is provided at the beginning of the game Helper – a Panda– He acts more like an inventory item – he behaves himself, sits quietly, does not wave nor grunt, and, best of all, he automatically does his duty quickly. You do not need to “pick him up” to use him in the game. Now that is my kind of helper! BEWARE: The little fluff ball will snarl at you if you “poke” him. 21 Achievements Collect 72 Crystals Usual wallpaper, movies, replay of HOP scenes and puzzles Strategy guide – 68 pages
HERE ARE THE DETAILS (SPOILERS) FOR THOSE WANT MORE INFO ON THE HOP SCENES AND PUZZLES IN THE GAME IN SEQUENCE
HOP SCENES: The HOP scenes are interactive and puzzle-like. You have the option to play a Match 3 game instead. Most are interactive lists. A. Multi-step HOP scenes. Assemble a ladder by locating pieces and rope to build it, followed by a silhouette sequence, ending with an inventory item B. List of items to locate followed by a puzzle C, D, E. List of items to locate resulting in an inventory item AFTER THE DEMO: More of the same - interactive lists of items
PUZZLES: A Multi-step puzzle. Matching disks followed by a variation of a switching tiles puzzle to create a picture B. Variation of a manual dexterity puzzle. Trace 3 symbols to defeat an attacker C. Variation of a sequence puzzle. Find the right sequence to light a series of lanterns D. Variation of a moving tiles puzzle to create a picture E. Variation of matching puzzle to remove floor boards following by a HOP scene with a list of items ending with an inventory item F. Variation of a moving tiles combined with a switch puzzle. Move colored glass segments into the correct location G. Variation of a switch puzzle. Switch colored tokens so that the color of the tokens are switched from top to bottom and vice versa. H. Variation of a sliding tile puzzle. Move tiles to form a picture.
AFTER THE DEMO: AWESOME PUZZLES
I Variation of a sliding tile puzzle – create a picture J. Variation of switch puzzles combined with matching puzzle- symbols on ends of stones must match up in a continuous circle K. Variation of a logic problem – figure out when a king died using numbers on a pyramid L. Variation of a sliding tiles puzzle – create a picture by moving slats up and down to create the picture. M. Variation of a balance puzzle – flip hourglasses so that the sand reaches the bottom on each at the same time
I recommend this game!
+241points
317of393voted this as helpful.
Invasion: Lost in Time
Complete dangerous missions amid dazzling landscapes of prehistoric Earth and alien worlds. Can you complete these thrilling puzzles in order to return home?
Overall rating
5/ 5
139 of 188 found this review helpful
VACATION TO EGYPT ON A 5 STAR TIME TRAVEL EXPEDITION
PostedAugust 3, 2015
sunnyglow
fromWhiling away time skipping back-and-forth playing this game and working under a time crunch
Favorite Genre(s):Hidden Object, Adventure, Large File, Word, Mahjong, Brain Teaser
Fun Factor
5/ 5
Visual/Sound Quality
5/ 5
Level of Challenge
5/ 5
Storyline
5/ 5
What is happening in the field of archaeology? Anachronisms are popping up all over the world! Enter the realm of quantum physics and time travel. I LOVE this game! To me, this game is an outstanding SE. It is puzzle intense and the puzzles are cleverly done with the addition of a logic problem, not normally in the games on this site. The HOP scenes include some creative multi-step ones. There are no VO’s but the graphics are amazing. There is also a Bonus level in this game and achievements.
You will be skipping back-and-forth through time in this game beginning in Egypt. Such a great game. Hopefully we will see more games from this dev! This is a brilliantly designed game!
HERE ARE MORE DETAILS (AKA SPOILERS) FOR THOSE WHO WISH MORE INFORMATION ON THE GAME:
HOP SCENES: The HOP scenes are very creative with varieties of matching, using a telescope to locate items (very innovative), multi-step ones (locating shapes to open a list of items – used twice in the demo).
PUZZLES: There are more puzzles than HOP scenes. The puzzles are excellent. There were several moving tiles puzzles to recreate photos, Match 3 game, mini-logic problem (which I have never seen in any game before), variation of a tanagram puzzle using gems, variation of a checkers game In which you cover up all spaces with gems, spot the differences, variation of pipe puzzle – connecting circuits (used twice), manual dexterity puzzle – shoot the scorpions
LEVELS: 2 – Casual and Hard
EXTRAS: Map - Provided at beginning of the game Bonus game: Replay of puzzles plus some additional new ones such as Find 5 16 Achievements
BEST PART OF THE GAME: TARGET PRACTICE WITH THE SCORPIONS! THEY ACTUALLY SHRIEK AS THEY TAKE THEIR FINAL JOURNEY TO THE UNDERWORLD. LET ANUBIS DEAL WITH THESE LITTLE STINGERS! LOL
I recommend this game!
+90points
139of188voted this as helpful.
Maze: Subject 360 Collector's Edition
From the makers of the Rite of Passage series comes a ground-breaking new series that's as creepy as it gets.
Overall rating
5/ 5
421 of 515 found this review helpful
OUT OF A DREAM AND INTO YOUR LIFE – A GAME TO “A-MAZE” YOU AND MAY CAUSE YOU TO “SCREAM” WITH DELIGHT
PostedAugust 1, 2015
sunnyglow
fromStaying awake and playing this game in the dark under the shadow of the full moon to avoid my own “dream come true.”
Favorite Genre(s):Hidden Object, Adventure, Large File, Word, Mahjong, Brain Teaser
Fun Factor
5/ 5
Visual/Sound Quality
5/ 5
Level of Challenge
5/ 5
Storyline
5/ 5
AN ADULT HORROR GAME! REVIEW BASED ON THE FIRST 2 CHAPTERS OUT OF 4 CHAPTERS PLUS A BONUS CHAPTER
Where am I? You have just checked into Peaceful Hill Hotel; however, like the old song “Hotel California,” - “you can check-out any time you like, but you can never leave!” This is a well-crafted creep fest. It is puzzle-heavy (with some multi-step puzzles) and HOP lite. The graphics are dark and the game reminded me of the movie “Saw.” (And you will encounter a few of these as well) You will have to choose between two actions in this game – not making the right choice can lead to dire circumstances. You will not want to “fall asleep” in this game. The game will keep time of how long you played.
You, as Subject 360, must match wits with a demonic “angelic” looking child. If you give her what she wants you will receive sanctuary and she will fulfill your every wish. Actually you have no choice. You will either bow down to her or be purged and burned down. After the demo – the theme changes slightly and encompasses the town.
If you like horror films, you will LOVE this game! A “fear factor” seeps throughout this game through the dark atmosphere, demonic child, dream sequences and creepy dolls. You might want to play this in the dark for the ultimate effect of creepiness. Some of us from a gaming forum have been anticipating the release of this game! IT IS SUCH A WELL CRAFTED FRIGHT FEST! It will definitely keep you on edge
LEVELS: Test Subject, Escapee, Chosen, Free will Hints: 15 to 90 seconds. Skips: 15 to 90 seconds
HOP SCENES: There are more puzzles than HOP scenes. They are interactive and somewhat puzzle-like. They include theme related lists, cryptic sentences, elimination (locate the same item until they are removed from the scene). After the demo, the HOP scenes included lists and matching objects within the scene
PUZZLES: They vary in difficulty and very well-done. They include multi-step puzzles including variations of balance puzzles (move dials until the exact numbers can be situated on each dial), moving tile puzzles, timed puzzles, pipe puzzle, maze puzzle. After the demo they included a lock pick puzzle, matching puzzle, and a storybook replacement puzzle
INVENTORY: Puzzle-like and interactive
GRAPHICS: Dark and creepy. The scene is a dilapidated building which oozes decay and terror. I LOVED the revised verse for “Jingle Bells” I need to remember these lyrics for this Yuletide season! Such a creepy “nightmare” of a town LOL
EXTRAS GOODIES:
Map - Get a hand drawn map has you play the game. Later you receive another map to use You receive your time in playing the game Strategy guide – 34 pages plus 11 pages for the Bonus Chapter 15 Achievements Collect 44 Swirling symbols 19 morphing objects in HOP scenes Dreamcatcher to catch all the horrible dreams in this game Creepy dolls abound.
HERE ARE THE DETAILS (AKA SPOILERS) FOR THOSE WHO WISH MORE INFORMATION ON THE HOP SCENES AND PUZZLES:
HOP SCENES: A. Theme related list. Locate items to uncover ribbon to put on a present you put into your inventory B. Sentences used with items to be located in BOLD letters to receive a final inventory items C. Find the same item until they are all gone from the HOP scene D. Theme related list. Locate items resulting in final inventory item
AFTER THE DEMO:
E. List of items to locate within literally a “junk pile” – so amusing devs! F. Matching with theme related items which go together
PUZZLES. Creative. At times you will need to choose between two actions – be correct or face the consequences! A. Multi-step puzzle. First - You must locate three items with a room and interact with them to receive three numbers which, in the correct sequence, opens up a door. As you locate them you interact with them to cause their image on a door of a safe to light up. First item- images are used on a phone Second - Move dials to a green area on pressure valves- moving one affects the others Third – remove vents on two fans AWESOME B. Variation of a moving tiles puzzle - move tiles to release inventory item C. Variation of a switch puzzle. Switch items until they glow green D. Time puzzled - try to survive with a series of puzzles – Multi-step puzzle including a variation of a pipe puzzle in which you must close a circuit in time or you will die! E. Maze puzzle to get out of the "maze." You play it in the dark
AFTER THE DEMO:
F. Lock pick puzzle. Move tumblers in a lock in a certain sequence G. Storybook in which you must replace items into scenes into the correct location H. Variation of a matching puzzle – match wires on a car
Thanks dev for another use for duct tape to add to my list – sealing holes in a gas can LOL
I recommend this game!
+327points
421of515voted this as helpful.
Sea of Lies: Tide of Treachery Collector's Edition
Can you find and catch the notorious Sea Ripper?
Overall rating
5/ 5
241 of 312 found this review helpful
WHAT SECRET “LIES” AT THE BOTTOM “OF” A “SEA” VOYAGE TO A MYSTERIOUS ISLAND?
PostedJuly 30, 2015
sunnyglow
fromGetting my sails ready to go on a seafaring mystery adventure
Favorite Genre(s):Hidden Object, Adventure, Strategy, Word, Mahjong, Brain Teaser
Fun Factor
5/ 5
Visual/Sound Quality
5/ 5
Level of Challenge
5/ 5
Storyline
5/ 5
REVIEW BASED ON THE FIRST THREE CHAPTERS OF THE ACTUAL GAME - 6 CHAPTERS PLUS A BONUS CHAPTER
Ship ahoy! Off on a “mystery cruise,” you, as Miss Hope, are called in to investigate why ships have been missing off the coast of St. Margaret Island. With ghosts, storms, smuggling, and the presence of an associate of the “Sea Ripper,” this game has more twists and turns than the Bermuda Triangle. It will keep you guessing in this “whodunit.” To me, the best part of this game were the puzzles. They are well-crafted and there are a few slightly tricky ones, including a 3-dimensional maze puzzle. I LOVE THIS GAME
HOP SCENES: The HOP scenes are variable and multi-step with a variation of silhouette, item lists, and cryptic clues. Most of the HOP scenes are lists of items. You may play a theme-related Match 3 game instead
PUZZLES: THE BEST PART OF THE GAME! They vary in difficulty and include variations of sliding tiles puzzles, Simon Says, jigsaw puzzle, and a maze puzzle. My absolute favorite was a variation of a 3-dimensional maze puzzle. I also oved a navigation puzzle within the actual game.
LEVELS: Casual, Hard, Advanced, Custom Hints 10 to 120 seconds Skips 10 to 400 seconds There is an option for penalties for error in the HOP scenes
INVENTORY: Creative and puzzle-like
GRAPHICS: Beautiful and “seaworthy.” They are realistic as usual for this dev. There are some video sequences as well
EXTRAS:
Map - Map is provided as you play the game 12 Achievements Collect 44 very large globes which practically jump out at you Collect Souvenirs Strategy guide 33 pages for the game - 6 pages for the Bonus game Usual replay of puzzles and HOP scenes, music and movies
CHAPTER 3: Ahoy mateys! You better don your pirate hat for this chapter. The game gets better in this chapter. I love the puzzles which I will replay.
HERE ARE THE DETAILS (SPOILERS) FOR THOSE WANT MORE INFO ON THE HOP SCENES AND PUZZLES
HOP SCENES: All are multi-step scenes. You can play a theme-related Match 3 game instead. A. List of items to locate followed by a cryptic clue followed by another list of clues followed by a final cryptic clue to receive an inventory item B. List of items to locate followed by a cryptic clue for an inventory item C. Silhouette of a certain number of the same item used to create an item which is used to open up two lists of items to find within the same scene ending with a silhouette of with a final item to add to your inventory D. Mini-HOP scene - Silhouette of items to be found to locate an inventory item E. List of items to locate resulting in an inventory item
AFTER THE DEMO: Not as many HOP scenes.
F. Silhouette scene followed by a cryptic clue to receive an inventory item
PUZZLES: Vary in difficulty and extremely well-done. There are some favorites here A. Variation of sliding tiles puzzle. Match each tile to the proper place on a picture. EASY B. Variation of sliding tiles puzzle. Move mermaids to the correct position to turn off water EASY C. Variation of a sliding tile game. Designate a starting point for a tile to move to cover all sections of a board without retracing your steps. 3X increasing in difficultly with each level INCREASING IN DIFFICULTY FROM EASY TO MODERATELY DIFFICULT D. Variation of a sliding tile game. Move ships so that their shadows match the background when illuminated. SLIGHTLY TRICKY - INVOLVING SEVERAL ARROWS E. A variation of Simon Says - Press arrows in correct sequence to open a cabinet. EXTREMELY EASY - you are given the directions F. Variation of jigsaw puzzle in the inventory in which you match two pieces at a time to create stationery. G. Create a bomb following easy directions VERY EASY H. Variation of a maze puzzle helping a pirate get his treasure AWESOME 3 DIMENSIONAL MAZE NOT TOO DIFFICULT IF YOU FOLLOW THE ARROWS TO THE CIRCLES It slides, moves up and down - opens new parts of the maze - moves sideways.
AFTER THE DEMO: Puzzles get much better.
I. Map puzzle/manual dexterity puzzle – Lead boats to safety among the reefs. EASY J. Variation of a moving tile puzzle to create a picture on a dart board. EASY K. Variation of a pipe puzzle. Move cogs so their lines match up EASY
I recommend this game!
+170points
241of312voted this as helpful.
Amulet of Dreams
Help Aiden save the Magic Kingdom and his friend from a dark sorcerer that has enslaved a magical realm.
Overall rating
5/ 5
77 of 102 found this review helpful
AN SE WHICH IS IN A UNIVERSE OF ITS OWN - BEAUTIFUL WITHOUT PARALLEL
PostedJuly 28, 2015
sunnyglow
fromAwaiting to transport myself to an alternate universe to meet my "doppelganger."
Favorite Genre(s):Hidden Object, Adventure, Large File, Word, Mahjong, Brain Teaser
Fun Factor
5/ 5
Visual/Sound Quality
5/ 5
Level of Challenge
5/ 5
Storyline
5/ 5
This SE sees a wonderful "transformation" from the usual BFG fare for SE games. You play super friend Aiden to the rescue of Allison who is transforming into someone else. This is a well-crafted SE gem and hopefully we will see more from this dev. It is well worth a coupon. It is a short game but enjoyable to play This is truly a case of quality over quantity.
There is only one level of play. The graphics are beautiful and colorful. There are VO's in this game. The HOP scenes are puzzle-like and interactive. They are multi-step in which silhouettes of items must be replaced sequentially within the scene in an interactive way. The puzzles are awesome! I encountered a clock puzzle which was a cross between a HOP scenes and a puzzle. There are several variations of moving tile puzzles and a Simon Says puzzle involving a piano, All the puzzles were excellent!
Within the game you will receive and amulet and collect tiles to move through alternate universes. This is a FANTASTIC, BEAUTIFULLY CRAFTED GAME!
I recommend this game!
+52points
77of102voted this as helpful.
Beyond: Light Advent Collector's Edition
Beyond the sky lies a thrilling adventure... and a deadly threat!
Overall rating
5/ 5
301 of 382 found this review helpful
"A HUNKA HUNKA BURNING LOVE" (ALIEN STYLE) FOR A GAME WHICH IS OUT OF THIS WORLD
PostedJuly 25, 2015
sunnyglow
fromRockin 'n' rollin the night away playing this game.
Favorite Genre(s):Puzzle, Hidden Object, Adventure, Large File, Word, Brain Teaser
Fun Factor
5/ 5
Visual/Sound Quality
5/ 5
Level of Challenge
5/ 5
Storyline
5/ 5
Flying saucers and ETS! Rock 'n' roll back to the 1950's to flying saucers and a beautiful space age love story about two interconnected mind mates - Nix and Diana battling the World Eaters whose goal is to annihilate Earth. Ala Spock - It is "crystal" clear that you, as Diana, better use a "mind meld" with Nix or Earth is doomed! This game has it all - beautiful graphics, wonderful storyline, creative HOP scenes, and am AWESOME puzzles varying in difficulty.
I LOVE THIS GAME! Such a GREAT GAME! I cannot wait to play the entire game. It has been a long time since we have had a decent sci- fi game. If you are a sci-fi fan or love the 50's, Elvis, rock 'n' roll, drive-in movies, UFOS, or aliens - this game is a must-have
HOP SCENES: Puzzle-like and interactive. They include silhouette, lists of items to locate, specific amount of a certain item
PUZZLES: Puzzles are well-done and vary in difficulty. There are variations of physics puzzles, dexterity puzzles (driving a motorcycle), matching puzzles, maze puzzles, Simon Says. Some of the puzzles require a sequence of three (3) scenes each increasing in difficulty.
LEVELS: Stargazer, Astronomer, Cosmologist, Physicists (Custom) Hints 15 to 90 seconds Skips 15 to 90 seconds The game also indicates the amount of time you play in the game
INVENTORY:
GRAPHICS : Awesome - sci fi imagery. So beautiful and "crystal clear." Some of the scenes reminded me of the movie "Tomorrowland" or "Avatar."
EXTRAS:
Map - Map is given to you as you play the game - star memory You receive a Star memory bracelet and collect crystals to use it to restore memories You receive a walkie talkie you use throughout the game Strategy guide
HERE ARE THE DETAILS (SPOILERS) FOR THOSE WANT MORE INFO ON THE HOP SCENES AND PUZZLES:
HOP SCENES: Variable and all well-done. A. Mini-HOP scene. Silhouette items to locate to create a lens casing for a telescope B. List items to locate C. Silhouette of parts of symbols uncovering crystals which create a bridge D. Find a certain amount of a specific item - fire works E. List of items to locate - open up several doors and cabinets to locate the items AWESOME F. Silhouette - As you locate items - uncover crystals which create a memory crystal device
PUZZLES: Vary in difficulty. Some require multiple plays increasing in difficulty A. Set the coordinates on a telescope. 3 times MODERATE DIFFICULTY SO AWESOME! B. Drive a motorcycle - turn when you click the green space on a navigation bar EASY C. Variation of matching puzzle - connect nodes between batteries. EASY TO MODERATELY DIFFICULT D. Variation of a maze - get past guards Choose between 3 settings 3 levels - each level increasing in difficulty AWESOME LOVED THIS PUZZLE. EASY TO MODERATELY DIFFICULT AS YOU ADVANCE THROUGH THE SCENES E. Variation of Simon says with symbols 3 levels. which increase in difficulty as you proceed through the levels. There are many keys with the same symbol MODERATELY DIFFICULT DUE TO THE COMPLEXITY OF THE SYMBOLS
"CARL" - The adorable "geeky nerd."
Carl is an adorable "geeky nerd" with a nasal voice - donning an awesome "bow tie" which makes this game humorous as well. He also has some awesome quotes from this game.
HERE ARE A FEW CHOICE "CARLISMS" "I'm about to flip from excitement. Best night EVER!" " I believe my glasses make me look refined and elegant - and my mom agrees:" "I'd give my whole comic book collection to be there" "I could go dating but who would solve all the problems? " And, of course Carl could go dating but he still waiting for that special "her" to call him back. Sorry Carl - I hope so - but that may be light years away
+220points
301of382voted this as helpful.
Dead Reckoning: The Crescent Case Collector's Edition
A carnival is no laughing matter when a murderer strikes.
Overall rating
4/ 5
171 of 226 found this review helpful
A "CRUISE" AROUND THIS "CARNIVAL" FINDS IT MISSING SOME 5 STAR ENTERTAINMENT
PostedJuly 23, 2015
sunnyglow
fromPostponing my plans to "cruise" around this "carnival" until a later date.
Favorite Genre(s):Hidden Object, Adventure, Large File, Word, Brain Teaser
Fun Factor
4/ 5
Visual/Sound Quality
5/ 5
Level of Challenge
3/ 5
Storyline
4/ 5
It is the late 1920's and you play a detective off to investigate a series of murders at the carnival. Is this déjà vu? Didn't we play a similar game by this same dev two weeks ago? This game is a cookie cutter version of that game - "Dance Macabre - Thin Ice." The murder investigation employs the same procedures. The HOP scenes and puzzles are similar to those from that game. The only difference between the games is that the murder scene changes from an ice rink to a carnival. I played "Danse Macabre - Thin Ice" two weeks ago and I have no intention of playing a "mini-me" game. This is a decent game; however, not that spectacular. I will probably purchase as an SE or at a discounted price.
PUZZLES: Use a forensic kit to uncover clues about the victim, followed by a check for clues on the suspects to see if they are lying or telling the truth. The exact procedures used in "Danse Macabre: Thin Ice." Most of the puzzles are easy but there were two which were moderately difficult. The standard puzzles are variations of balance/weight puzzle, pipe puzzle, assembly puzzle, spot the difference puzzle (which is ridiculously easy - involving finding differences in disguises for a clown)
HOP SCENES: The same multiple-step HOP scenes seen in past games. They include silhouette, placement of items into the scenes, lists of items, cryptic clues. You can play a bubble shooter game in lieu of some of the HOP scenes.
LEVELS: P.I. Detective, Inspector, Custom Hints 10 to 120 seconds Skips 10 to 400 seconds There is the ability for penalties for random clicking plus ability for sparkles in the customized version
INVENTORY: Puzzle-like and interactive as usual for this dev.
GRAPHICS : Cartoon-like . with some video sequences
EXTRAS:
Map - Map is provided as you play the game Evidence board for collecting info on the suspects 12 Achievements Collect 39 Scales Usual replay of puzzles and HOP scenes, music, movies, pictures, souvenirs, bubble shooter game Strategy guide
HERE ARE THE DETAILS (SPOILERS) FOR THOSE WHO WISH MORE INFORMATION ON THE HOP SCENES AND PUZZLES:
HOP SCENES: You can opt to play a bubble shooter in lieu of some of the HOP scenes A. Multi- step. Chemical process creating acid. Silhouettes of items, which, when located, are returned to the scene to produce hydrochloric acid to dissolve a lock B. Multi-step. Silhouettes of items. Before removing them, you must locate a piece from the object and replace it before you can remove it. C. Multi-step Lists of items to locate followed by cryptic clues to locate your inventory items
PUZZLES: A. Use items in a forensic kit to uncover clues about the murder victims containing a thermometer, tongue depressor, tweezers - some are used and some are not B. Using a series of items determine if people are lying or telling the truth C. Variation of a balance/weight puzzle. Play a ring toss game so that the number on the bottle plus the numbers on the rings equal 10. You only have a specific number of rings and must use all rings to solve. EASY to MODERATELY DIFFICULT D. Variation of a pipes puzzle. Match up identical tokens on a wheel using pipes to connect them. You must match up one token at a time, so there are four sequences in this puzzle. Various solutions - EASY E. Variation of an assembly puzzle. Interactive - Provide items which are located within the scene for members of the carnival. You perform these sequentially to move on to the next part of the puzzle As you move from one member to another you receive pieces of a jigsaw puzzle - picture EASY (Actually a cross between a puzzle and a HOP scene) F. Variation of Spot the Differences Choose correct items to create a clown face in disguise 3X RIDICULOUSLY EASY
Why the 4 star rating for a 5 star dev?
1. Although a cookie cutter game - it is still better than many other CE games 2. However.... this game is lacking the creativity and innovation we expect for a 5 star rating 3. Some of the puzzles are ridiculously easy. The "Clown disguise" puzzle is extremely easy 4. There are not many puzzles and the HOP scenes are a rehash of those from the previous games by this dev.
I recommend this game!
+116points
171of226voted this as helpful.
Shrouded Tales: Revenge of Shadows Collector's Edition
Adventure into the unknown to save a city from evil!
Overall rating
5/ 5
205 of 277 found this review helpful
THIS "MAGIC KINGDOM" WILL KEEP YOU SPELLBOUND
PostedJuly 18, 2015
sunnyglow
fromThe magic of a bright summer day has me under its spell. The allure of fun and sun is calling me this weekend!
Favorite Genre(s):Hidden Object, Adventure, Large File, Word, Mahjong, Brain Teaser
Fun Factor
5/ 5
Visual/Sound Quality
5/ 5
Level of Challenge
5/ 5
Storyline
5/ 5
REVIEW BASED ON THE FRIST 3 CHAPTERS OF THE ACTUAL GAME - 5 CHAPTERS PLUS A BONUS CHAPTER
You play a fledgling heroine to the rescue from an evil wizard in the city of Volarden . This is a game full of magic with spells generated by a powerful amulet. This is a DECENT game - well worth the discounted price. The graphics are cartoon-like; the story is engaging ; the game is well-paced with many activities.
INVENTORY: Puzzle-like - Must use inventory items and amulet spells in the HOP scenes
HOP SCENES: All are interactive lists of items with the exception of one silhouette in the demo - which is used to provide your amulet of power. You must use items in your inventory and abilities from your amulet in the scenes.
PUZZLES: Most vary from easy to moderately difficult. Most are variations of switch puzzles physics puzzles, slide puzzles, manual dexterity puzzles, painting puzzle, moving tiles puzzle, maze puzzle. Quite a variety of puzzles and difficultly levels as well! Each time you receive a new ability - you must play a variation of a switch puzzle which becomes more difficult with each ability you receive.
LEVELS: Casual ( Sparkles, No penalties for HOP scenes), Advanced (Sparkles, Penalties for HOP scenes), Expert (No Sparkles and Penalties for HOP scenes) No ability to customize the game.
EXTRAS:
Map 20 Achievements Collect 5 spells to add to your amulet to give you abilities - Electra (energy) Germina (Green thumb to grow plants) Restora (repairs broken objects) , Combusta (creates a flame to ignite). Strategy guide - 56 PAGES Collect 30 Runes Soundtrack - Art - Mini games - HOP scenes
This what I call a "CE-lite" game, and like most "lite" refreshments - it has some of the "taste" of a CE game but missing some ingredients and " extras" (razzle-dazzle- WOW moments) to make it a true CE. You cannot customize your game and the graphics are one-dimensional. However, there is an "enchanting" element to this game. The variety of activities make it an interesting game. You go back and forth between the city and the alternate world of Shadows! It definitely keeps you hopping.
HERE ARE THE DETAILS (SPOILERS) FOR THOSE WANT MORE INFO ON THE HOP SCENES AND PUZZLES:
HOP SCENES: All the same except for the first one. All are interactive lists of items to find with the exception of the first one in the demo which is a silhouette to create your magic amulet. A HOP lover's dream
PUZZLES: You must use your inventory items in the HOP scenes. A. Variation of a physics puzzle - crossing lines. Rotate lines so that they pass through every blue star 3 X - increasing in difficulty EASY TO MODERATE DIFFICULTY B. Variation of a switch puzzle. Switch red tokens with blue ones. EASY C. Variation of a switch puzzle. throughout the game. Change face tiles from red to yellow using copper tokens which change the colors of the tiles. It is used to provide your amulet with abilities EASY TO MODERATE DIFFICULTY D. Variation of a slide puzzle. Move magnets to push gems into matching slots Manual dexterity game. I FOUND THIS GAME A LITTLE TRICKY USING THE MAGNETS
AFTER THE DEMO:
E. Variation of a painting puzzle. Paint squares on a circular mosaic so that no two colors touch each other. MODERATELY DIFFICULT F. Variation of a moving tile game - moving locks out of the way to get a key EASY to MODERATELY DIFFICULT G. Variation of moving tiles puzzle - Place planets in correct order - including our LOVEly planet - Puto EASY H. Variation of a maze puzzle MODERATELY DIFFICULT
I recommend this game!
+133points
205of277voted this as helpful.
Shadow Wolf Mysteries: Tracks of Terror Collector's Edition
Can werewolves be cured, or will one family’s curse continue?
Overall rating
5/ 5
208 of 309 found this review helpful
A BEASTLY DELIGHT WHICH SHOULD TRANSFORM INTO A HOWLING SUCCESS ONE OF THIS DEV'S BEST GAMES
PostedJuly 16, 2015
sunnyglow
fromFeeling the "curse" of hunger pangs for a great game to play, cannot wait to attack and sink my teeth into this game.
Favorite Genre(s):Hidden Object, Adventure, Large File, Word, Mahjong, Brain Teaser
Fun Factor
5/ 5
Visual/Sound Quality
5/ 5
Level of Challenge
5/ 5
Storyline
5/ 5
REVIEW ON FIRST 4 CHAPTERS OF THE ACTUAL GAME - 6 CHAPTERS PLUS A BONUS CHAPTER
You are a detective to the rescue, called in by Count De Lupe to protect his son Pierre from a family curse. I LOVE THIS BEASTLY DELIGHT! It is fairly graphic and a little gruesome but not scary! The story, the graphics, the pace, the voice-overs, the puzzles and HOP scenes are all EXCELLENT! The story is a retelling of the curse of the werewolf. I purchased this game immediately.
AFTER THE DEMO: The story becomes more intriguing involving another character not in the demo. Everything is not as it seems and there is deceit and intrigue. The games GETS BETTER. The puzzles are "beastly" good in this game. There is a chess puzzle which is devilish!
HOP SCENES: Puzzle-like with some multi-step scenes. The scenes are varied with variations of silhouettes, storybook sequences, lists of items to locate, sentences with items written in BOLD LETTERS. They are much better than I have seen from this dev.
PUZZLES: The BEST part of the game to me. There are more puzzles than HOP scenes. So well-crafted and vary in difficulty. They include variations of moving tile puzzles, dexterity puzzles which require skill with hand movements, rotating rings puzzles, sliding tiles puzzles, switch puzzles, Simon Says puzzles, a maze, chess puzzle. After killing each werewolf you must use a magnifying glass to obtain 5 clues about the werewolf.
LEVELS: Casual, Advanced, Hard, Custom Hints 5 to 200 seconds Skips 5 to 200 seconds
INVENTORY: Interactive with many puzzle-like activities
GRAPHICS : Beautifully created. Just gorgeous graphics including the guys Good looks run in that family!
EXTRAS:
• Map is provided as you play the game • TATTOO on your arm which allows you to remove the carcasses of the werewolves and send them to the Great Beyond • 11 Achievements • Collect articles about fictitious creatures from around the world - Sasquatch, Wendigo, Loch Ness Monster, Mongolian Death Worm, Beast of Dean, Dingonek, Beast of Gévaudan, The Tatzelwurm, the Kraken. AWESOME I had never heard of some of these myths • Usual Music, Wallpaper - Games - Art • Strategy guide - HAS 47 PAGES
HERE ARE THE DETAILS (SPOILERS) FOR THOSE WANT SPECIFIC INFO ON THE HIOP SCENES AND PUZZLES:
HOP SCENES: A. Silhouette items from a story book (2 Mini HOP scenes) Same book used twice B. List of items to locate from a cabinet C. Silhouette items in a cabinet. Combine items before they can be released from the list D. EXCELLENT MULTI STEP HOP SCENE. Find inventory items listed in a sentence in BOLD letters, followed by a scene requiring you to put items back into the scene followed again by finding inventory items in BOLD letters
AFTER THE DEMO:
E. Mini- HOP scene - Locate a certain amount of one item. F. Mini- HOP scene Another scene where you locate a certain amount of one item. G. List of items which require interactivity
PUZZLES: A. Variation of a Moving tile puzzle to open a satchel EASY B. Dexterity puzzle - trace a symbol without touching the sides followed by using a magnifying glass to observe clues (to me, more of a mini-HOP scene) EASY BUT MORE SKILL ORIENTED D. Variation of a rotating rings puzzle/physics puzzle involving ratio proportion with marbles - move marbles to the bottom of a grid MODERATE DIFFICULT TO DIFFICULT E. Variation of sliding tiles puzzle - aligning pins so that bars can be drug into a lock MODERATE DIFFICULT F. Variation of a switch puzzle - move statues to correct locations according to pictures MODERATE DIFFICULT G. Variation of Simon Says using gems around a picture frame EASY H. Dexterity puzzle - trace 3 symbols without touching sides - followed by using a magnifying glass to observe clues (a mini HOP scenes) EASY
After you kill each werewolf you must locate 5 clues about the werewolf by using a magnifying glass
AFTER THE DEMO:
H. Variation of spot the difference. Remove flowers using stencils. MODERATE DIFFICULTY I. Chess puzzle - remove knights from the board by having werewolves jump over them - knights with shields must be jumped over twice - FIENDISHLY DIFFICULT - AWESOME J. Maze puzzle. You must find your way out of a maze. AWESOME K. Variation of a sliding tile puzzle - create a mosaic
Always remember: "Even a man who is pure at heart, and says his prayers by night, may become a wolf when the wolfbane blooms and the autumn moon is bright." Ala Hammer Films LOL
I recommend this game!
+107points
208of309voted this as helpful.
Subliminal Realms: The Masterpiece Collector's Edition
Albert's worst nightmare becomes reality when a creature from his grim paintings kidnaps his family. What does she want?
Overall rating
3/ 5
122 of 213 found this review helpful
IT IS "THE SATUR-'DAY' OF THE JACKAL" - "FATHER'S LITTLE HELPER" - FLYING IN FOR AN ENCORE IN A LESS THAN PICTURE PERFECT GAME
PostedJuly 11, 2015
sunnyglow
fromI have the choice between working until noon or playing this game Easy choice - I choose working
Favorite Genre(s):Hidden Object, Adventure, Large File, Mahjong, Brain Teaser
Fun Factor
3/ 5
Visual/Sound Quality
4/ 5
Level of Challenge
3/ 5
Storyline
2/ 5
Out of nightmare and into your life comes a monster from a dark painting and this game! You must save your family from the clutches of a monster who just wants you to apply just enough paint to make her look beautiful. Flying in today for Saturday's popcorn cruncher, is the "return of the jackal" Yes - he is returning as your helper with a little more pizzazz. This time he flies and talks throughout the entire game. This game is an artist's delight dealing with drawing and painting. You will need to "brush" up on your art skills with all the painting and sketching in this game. The pace of the game seems to drag with both the addition of the helper and painting sequences. The HOP scenes were repetitious and boring.. I got tired of painting items to continue in the game. No Muse could inspire me to continue on in this game.
HOP SCENES: Boring! Somewhat interactive and puzzle-like. The HOP scenes are predominantly lists of items to locate; however, there is one silhouette sequence and one FROG with jigsaw pieces of a painting. Do they get better? I am not interested in finding out - EVER!
PUZZLES: The puzzles are the best part of the game varying from easy to moderately difficult . There are variations of spot the difference puzzles , several switch puzzles, moving tile puzzles, and way too many attempts for you to display your artistic genius by painting and sketching. You also get to play "Save the Princess" which is a fairly decent puzzle.
LEVELS: Casual, Normal, Expert, Custom
INVENTORY: Somewhat interactive. Fairly old-school. No WOW factor here.
GRAPHICS : One-dimensional and cartoon-like
EXTRAS:
• Map - Map is given to you at the start of the game • 13 Achievements • Collect 30 slides • Strategy guide - 7 Chapters plus a Bonus chapter with a secret game • Paint brushes - You paint throughout the game - So time consuming and to me - slowed down the game • A flying jackal for a helper. He talks to you through the entire game. His voice, to me, is annoying.
3 STAR RECOMMENDATION: I recommend this game for those who like very casual games, painting and drawing, helpers in games, games with basic HOP scenes. This game has some decent puzzles but personally , it is not worth the effort to plod through all the painting, cutesy helper activities, and boring HOP scenes. It was torture for me to just complete the demo.