Penhip's Profile
Stat Summary
- Average Rating:4.8
- Helpful Votes:496
- Reviews Submitted:63
- First Review:March 31, 2012
- Most Recent Review:August 16, 2015
- Featured reviews0
Status:
Answer a distress call at an arctic research lab where scientists have made a chilling discovery!
Overall rating
5
/
5
33 of 42 found this review helpful
ANOTHER FANTASTIC MYSTERY TRACKERS INSTALLMENT!!!
PostedAugust 16, 2015
Penhip
fromBrooklyn, NY
Skill Level:Expert
Favorite Genre(s):Adventure
Fun Factor
5
/
5
Visual/Sound Quality
5
/
5
Level of Challenge
5
/
5
Storyline
5
/
5
Winterpoint Tragedy has all the willing elements of Elephant Games' Mystery Tracker's series. The wonderful gadgets, the special agents (here we have 2), and the incomperable Elf of the Northern Light persuasion. In fact, WT was so great that I played the main and bonus game straight through. The only other MT game that I one nighted was Silent Hollow, a fabulous study into the MT organization itself which I absoultely loved because of it's James Bond quality (the agents, the history, the gadgets, the headquarters, the sabotage ... all the elements that make the spy genre fascinating). While I was hoping that Elephant would decide to explore the James Bond theme within the Trackers organization a bit more thoroughly, I found WT completely entertaining. This said, I am also impressed with Elephant for it's willingness to explore other genre's and their forray into the polar Sci-Fi setting a resounding succcess.
The stroyline consists of a scientific expedition gone awry by the discovery of "The Cold Ones" who are chilling not only for their ability to take over your mind, but also your body, in their ability to morph into any form, and you guessed it... it's taken advantage of at the worst possible moments. Your mission: to save the expedition crew, which includes one of your agents from their mind control and subdue "The Cold Ones". Piece of Cake.... with Elf.
The HO and mini-games are fabulous many consistent with the Northern Lights theme, however, my new favorite are the super puzzles which are a bit more challenging simply because of the lack of outright instruction. They are also a bit more subdued that the first rubic puzzles designed by the MCF team which had me no ryhme or reason (to me at least). But Elephant made them fun to figure out... a huge difference in my book.
The animation, music, voiceovers and overall sound quality were excellent as you would expect from the MT's series. There are morphing objects in each scene as well as in the HO games. And the level of challenge can be adjusted and customized; a custom feature found in most quality games.
The stroyline consists of a scientific expedition gone awry by the discovery of "The Cold Ones" who are chilling not only for their ability to take over your mind, but also your body, in their ability to morph into any form, and you guessed it... it's taken advantage of at the worst possible moments. Your mission: to save the expedition crew, which includes one of your agents from their mind control and subdue "The Cold Ones". Piece of Cake.... with Elf.
The HO and mini-games are fabulous many consistent with the Northern Lights theme, however, my new favorite are the super puzzles which are a bit more challenging simply because of the lack of outright instruction. They are also a bit more subdued that the first rubic puzzles designed by the MCF team which had me no ryhme or reason (to me at least). But Elephant made them fun to figure out... a huge difference in my book.
The animation, music, voiceovers and overall sound quality were excellent as you would expect from the MT's series. There are morphing objects in each scene as well as in the HO games. And the level of challenge can be adjusted and customized; a custom feature found in most quality games.
I thoroughly enjoyed playing WT and would recommend it highly... an abolute must for MT fans!
I recommend this game!
Beyond the sky lies a thrilling adventure... and a deadly threat!
Overall rating
5
/
5
22 of 23 found this review helpful
MAD HEAD GAMES ARE PURE GENIUS!!!
PostedAugust 16, 2015
Penhip
fromBrooklyn, NY
Skill Level:Expert
Favorite Genre(s):Adventure
Fun Factor
5
/
5
Visual/Sound Quality
5
/
5
Level of Challenge
5
/
5
Storyline
5
/
5
Whether it be CADENZA, NEVERTALES and now BEYOND, the latest Mad Head creation in the Sci-Fi genre, these games have one thing in common... they are SMART, ELEGANT, ENTERTAINING, CREATIVE, and ABSOLUTELY BRILLIANT!
The storyline was utterly genius applying theories of Buddhism (compassion, forgiveness, and interconnectedness), and Quantum Physics (concept of "bending time") to highlight the devastaing forces that are destroyng our planet and universe at large. The forces, called "The World Eaters", is a brilliant double entendre for the corruption and attrocities commited against our planet and the environment as well as the utter devastation. greed, and underlying corruption of war itself. There were also some twists and turns in the plot that may surprise you. The genius of a Mad Head production is that intelligent gaming and fun can co-exist seemlessly which (in my opinion) is a playful and powerful medium of social consciousness.
So if you're debating between the SE or CO... I'd go with the CO all the way. Both the main and bonus chapter games were amazing in all the Big Fish rating criteria. I for one will testify to the fact that I played straight through with a smile on my face...the whole time. The CO is definitely worth it!!
The HO games were varied and clear (LOVE THAT!... biggest pet peave is looking for a dot on the screen or an object that looks nothing like it's description). The mini-games were equally fun, entertaining and worthy of it's excellent creators.
The art production is spectacular and the animation supurb. The result is eye catching scenes that are classic Mad Head. My absolute favorite were the retro settings on "Earth", replete with the drive-in's, 50's diners and cars as well as an equally cool collection of retro rockets (one in each scene)... a fun and welcome blast from the past and homage to the "space age" of the late 60's. If you happen to miss any of the rockets... no worries. You will have an opportunity to return to the scenes to win the collectable achievement in the "Extras" section after you finish the game.
The music ranged from original compositions to musical soundtracks that at times reminded me of a country/Sci-Fi version of the "13 Skulls" music providing a wonderful soundtrack to an amazing game.
The acting and voice-overs were also noteworthy. My favorite was a humorous depiction of a rather dramatic/theatrical actor, a bored equally despondent director and a mob-like bouncer that could have walked right out of Cadenza game and into the Beyond during the filming of a Western that was very entertaining. While they were periferal characters, they make a great example of the self-centeredness that often stands in opposition to vital goals such as our collective and sometimes, individual survival.
I sincerely hope Mad Head is considering adding Beyond as a series because it is a spectacular game and genre.. because if you are, I'm all in. You guys "Rock(ed)-it!!!"
The storyline was utterly genius applying theories of Buddhism (compassion, forgiveness, and interconnectedness), and Quantum Physics (concept of "bending time") to highlight the devastaing forces that are destroyng our planet and universe at large. The forces, called "The World Eaters", is a brilliant double entendre for the corruption and attrocities commited against our planet and the environment as well as the utter devastation. greed, and underlying corruption of war itself. There were also some twists and turns in the plot that may surprise you. The genius of a Mad Head production is that intelligent gaming and fun can co-exist seemlessly which (in my opinion) is a playful and powerful medium of social consciousness.
So if you're debating between the SE or CO... I'd go with the CO all the way. Both the main and bonus chapter games were amazing in all the Big Fish rating criteria. I for one will testify to the fact that I played straight through with a smile on my face...the whole time. The CO is definitely worth it!!
The HO games were varied and clear (LOVE THAT!... biggest pet peave is looking for a dot on the screen or an object that looks nothing like it's description). The mini-games were equally fun, entertaining and worthy of it's excellent creators.
The art production is spectacular and the animation supurb. The result is eye catching scenes that are classic Mad Head. My absolute favorite were the retro settings on "Earth", replete with the drive-in's, 50's diners and cars as well as an equally cool collection of retro rockets (one in each scene)... a fun and welcome blast from the past and homage to the "space age" of the late 60's. If you happen to miss any of the rockets... no worries. You will have an opportunity to return to the scenes to win the collectable achievement in the "Extras" section after you finish the game.
The music ranged from original compositions to musical soundtracks that at times reminded me of a country/Sci-Fi version of the "13 Skulls" music providing a wonderful soundtrack to an amazing game.
The acting and voice-overs were also noteworthy. My favorite was a humorous depiction of a rather dramatic/theatrical actor, a bored equally despondent director and a mob-like bouncer that could have walked right out of Cadenza game and into the Beyond during the filming of a Western that was very entertaining. While they were periferal characters, they make a great example of the self-centeredness that often stands in opposition to vital goals such as our collective and sometimes, individual survival.
I sincerely hope Mad Head is considering adding Beyond as a series because it is a spectacular game and genre.. because if you are, I'm all in. You guys "Rock(ed)-it!!!"
I recommend this game!
Is your husband-to-be guilty of betrayal – or even worse?
Overall rating
5
/
5
3 of 3 found this review helpful
ELEGANT and CINEMATIC!!
PostedApril 9, 2015
Penhip
fromBrooklyn, NY
Favorite Genre(s):Adventure, Hidden Object
Current Favorite:
PuppetShow: The Price of Immortality Collector's Edition
(81)Fun Factor
5
/
5
Visual/Sound Quality
5
/
5
Level of Challenge
5
/
5
Storyline
5
/
5
If you love an engaging mystery, great original jazz music and technically sophisticated adventure/ho games, then the CADENZA is a series is tailor made for you!
Starting right at the cinematic opening sequence it is absolutely clear that Kiss of Death is like no other game on the market.
Evoking the drama, mystery and foul-play of film noir tradition coupled with the cool and unmistakable style and sound of jazz, KOD sets itself apart as a game paying homage to the iconic films, musicians and singers of the great 30s and 40s. Frankly, there is no greater compliment I can pay to this game as it all was accomplished with great flair and sophistication.
The wonderful storyline is punctuated by an amazing score that actually functions as a narrative underscoring the plot itself. Once again the player is reminded that KOD is no ordinary game but a genuine experience of the senses.
Like the music itself, this game was very fluid. The mini-games and HO scenes were fantastic but for me they definitely took a back seat to the artistry of animation and the ever beating brilliance of the music and sound quality.
While it's true that the game is shorter than your average fare, I would frankly prefer to play an outstanding shorter game than a whole lot of uninspired redundancy.
As such, I would highly recommend buying the CE for several reasons. One, the bonus game, narrated by our contrite and determinted detective is wonderful and second, the overall quality of the game is so outstanding you're definitely going to want to continue playing.
Thank you for an amazing game and an even greater experience.... I enjoyed every minute.
I think I'm going to listen to some Billie Holiday now, or maybe Ella Fitzgerald or Bessie Smith, and Sara Vaughn D... hmmmm the possibilities are endless... and isn't that just grand!!
I recommend this game!
PuppetShow: The Price of Immortality Collector's Edition
Your friend vanishes after investigating the mysterious Theater of Emotions
Overall rating
5
/
5
25 of 28 found this review helpful
BEST GAME I'VE EVER PLAYED IN WELL.... EVER!!!!!!
PostedMarch 29, 2015
Penhip
fromBrooklyn, NY
Skill Level:Intermediate
Favorite Genre(s):Adventure
Current Favorite:
PuppetShow: The Price of Immortality Collector's Edition
(81)Fun Factor
5
/
5
Visual/Sound Quality
5
/
5
Level of Challenge
5
/
5
Storyline
5
/
5
There is no other way to say this... I WAS COMPLETELY BLOWN AWAY BY THIS GAME! No amount of stars can aptly describe the incredible artistry, imagination, pure innovation, and plain fun that is the latest installment of PuppetShow.
The Price of Immortality is an simply an experience that must not be missed. Halfway through, I noticed I was playing the game VERY slowly. I do this when something is just exceptional... and I simply don't want it to end. Until I realized that I could play it all over again... which I did. It was just that good... really.
But hey... download the demo and see for yourself. For me, this game was pure genius... WOW... JUST WOW!!
THE Price of Immortality has set the bar VERY HIGH... and I LOVED EVERY MINUTE!!
I recommend this game!
A murder mystery party turns deadly in real life!
Overall rating
5
/
5
7 of 8 found this review helpful
AN OUTSTANDING 5 STAR GAME!!!!!
PostedMarch 15, 2015
Penhip
fromBrooklyn, NY
Favorite Genre(s):Adventure, Hidden Object
Fun Factor
5
/
5
Visual/Sound Quality
5
/
5
Level of Challenge
5
/
5
Storyline
5
/
5
Adventure Gamers who are fans of the whodunit genre are going to be over the moon with Dead Reckoning: Brassfield Manor. Others who just enjoy an extraordinary HO/Adventure game are in for a fabulous treat.
Once again EPIX has hit it our of the park with BN making Dead Reckoning one of my favorite new series on the market today.
Let’s start with the rating essentials:
The graphics are supurb and beautifully rendered, clear, and vivid… a genuine pleasure to explore scenes.
The sound quality was flawless as is the lip syncing and animation which is done with actors. This style lends itself perfectly to the storyline as each gamer meets and interacts with each suspect.
The pacing is seemless and engaging capturing a rhythm that is unique to this genre of storytelling.
The storyline itself is in the classic whodunit Agatha Christie tradition as a billionaire is murdered on the eve of his annual murder mystery party The irony of his demise is certainly not lost as the “game’s host” quickly becomes the victim of his own scheme and the party becomes the scene of an actual murder investigation. The self-referentiality is not lost as the storyline encapsulates a game within a game.
In what is now a great Dead Reckoning tradition, the gamer is quickly provided with a “Truth/Lie” detector as each alibi is tested against the visual evidence within the scene becoming a fantastic HO variation.
These findings are them compiled in your own detective folder where you are able to keep track of each suspect, their relationship to the victim, and alibi. Each alibi continues to be tested as you find actual evidence throughout the game that either corroborates or refutes the suspect’s story. The evidence you find is also stored in your detective folder for easy access and on-going investigation throughout the game as you narrow down your list of suspects.
The HO scenes were absolutely fabulous. The first mini HO scene is actually introduced as you examine the victim’s body and look for evidence by means of their physical description.
The other HO scenes and mini-games were equally creative as EIPEX continues to explore out of the box means to deliver innovative, varied, and engaging games and puzzles. This includes Boxed items with actual games, and mini-games within HO scenes which I think can be brilliant if further developed, tons of collectables, morphing objects.
The other HO scenes and mini-games were equally creative as EIPEX continues to explore out of the box means to deliver innovative, varied, and engaging games and puzzles. This includes Boxed items with actual games, and mini-games within HO scenes which I think can be brilliant if further developed, tons of collectables, morphing objects.
I can’t say enough about this game, so suffice it to say that I bought it 10 minutes into the demo. And if you want all the extras including a great bonus game the CE is absolutely worth it. There were times when I laughed out loud because it was JUST THAT GOOD.
Brassfield Manor is an absolutely delightful play on the whodunit genre served up in style by EIPEX. YOU GUYS ARE AMAZING!!
P.S. Have you considered starting a gaming line and series for adult players... more games in the True Fear tradition? Love those games with warnings!
I recommend this game!
Ice giants are attacking citizens as a deadly blizzard arrives.
Overall rating
4
/
5
1 of 1 found this review helpful
A COLD GAME IN ONE OF THE MOST BRUTAL OF WINTERS... YIKES!
PostedMarch 7, 2015
Penhip
fromBrooklyn, NY
Favorite Genre(s):Adventure, Hidden Object
Fun Factor
5
/
5
Visual/Sound Quality
5
/
5
Level of Challenge
5
/
5
Storyline
4
/
5
I won't lie... I wanted to go to Fiji while I played this game or as close to the equator as humanly possible. It's cold in New York and this game aptly represents how I feel like when I go outside every day... a human popsicle. Burrrrr!!!!!
Like the first Mystery of the Ancients, the male protagonist is keeping a secret. A pretty big one. His wife and BFF, our heroine, have no idea of his true identity as an Ice Prince and his now delusional father (it was just too cold to remain sane any longer) wants him back in his clutches at any cost. So our herioine not only has to save her BFF but she has to put the pieces of this terribly cold puzzle together and rescue everyone in the process including the deluded King who at heart is a swell guy.
The game itself has all the elements of a 5 star game, good graphics, fun special effects, varied and creative HOS and Mini-Games, yet it does not have that magical quality inherent in those break out games that have an undeniable WOW factor.
But as far as a new release, it's absolutely worth playing. But by all means, be the judge yourself.
I recommend this game!
A famous painter finds herself in over her head!
Overall rating
4
/
5
2 of 2 found this review helpful
SLOW... BUT EVENTUALLY DOES PICK UP
PostedMarch 7, 2015
Penhip
fromBrooklyn, NY
Favorite Genre(s):Adventure, Hidden Object
Fun Factor
4
/
5
Visual/Sound Quality
5
/
5
Level of Challenge
5
/
5
Storyline
3
/
5
I have to admit that I am not a big fan of the "Off the Record" series. I found the first to be spare (vibe-wise) as well as incredibly slow paced... just had difficulty getting into it. As a matter of fact, I got 3/4 into the CE and just stopped playing, altogether which is rare for me. Tried to go back several times thinking it was just a fluke, but the same thing happened.
Unfortunately, the second installment is very similar stylistically. While the story line has promise, the pacing of the game at the onset is very slow. For me at least, beginnings are significant as they quickly establish the tone and overall 'spirit' of the game. While the pacing does pick up in Art of Deception, it never achieves the excitement of a mystery that is meant to be laden in betrayal, deception and intrigue.
What is remarkable about the game are the beautiful graphics and the much appreciated technical advances made that have been made in the gaming world seen in recent releases. I particularly enjoyed the utilization of plus items as an another puzzle opportunity, rather than an item that merely requires completion or modification. The mini-games and HO scenes are fun, varied and clear to see while still challenging to find (which is great). And Pixie die a great job with this.
But here's a question for you... Have you ever found yourself clicking incessently to find a microscopic speck in a scene that is necessary to move forward in the game? Chances are if you're an adventure/HO fan, you've come across this phenomenon at least once. Some players may enjoy this approach and find it challenging. After all, there must be a reason why developers continue to do it. Personally, I find looking for a miniscule dot in an entire scene disruptive not only to game flow, but a surefire path to lossing interest and investment in the game itself (particularly if done repetitively).
AOD is NOT by any means in this category. Here, for example, you are tasked with finding a tube of paint in each scene (not necessary for game advancement). Mostly all are visible with the exeption of a few tubes that were so impossibly tiny that I knew a clickfest was inevitable if I chose to continue playing. I know... definitely a pet peeve. Clicking cramps are just wrong.
But again, there is much that Pixie got absoutely right with this game. It's definitely worth a try. For me, it ultimately did not have that WOW quality that separates a good game from a spectacular one. But make up your own mind. It's definitely worth a try.
I recommend this game!
You've been asked to cover a highly anticipated competition in New York City when something goes terribly wrong. Can you escape the world of illusions?
Overall rating
5
/
5
1 of 2 found this review helpful
LOVE THE PSYCHO MAGICIAN!
PostedMarch 5, 2015
Penhip
fromBrooklyn, NY
Favorite Genre(s):Adventure
Fun Factor
5
/
5
Visual/Sound Quality
5
/
5
Level of Challenge
5
/
5
Storyline
5
/
5
It's like Houdini on acid or your average every day incredibly insane illusionist. The result... a great game where just about anything goes and does. After all, who can predict what a narcisstic illusionist with a god complex will do next? And this quickly becomes the driving force of the game. What peril must you escape next?
The graphics are vivid and vibrant. The mini-games and HO scenes are varied are also great fun.
Had a great time... Thanks developers for another great game!
I recommend this game!
For years, Barton Mansion sat abandoned, a haunting reminder of an obsession gone wrong. But something sinister still lurked there...and it's stirring.
Overall rating
5
/
5
11 of 12 found this review helpful
LOVED ROCKY... SO MUCH!!!
PostedMarch 5, 2015
Penhip
fromBrooklyn, NY
Favorite Genre(s):Adventure
Fun Factor
5
/
5
Visual/Sound Quality
5
/
5
Level of Challenge
5
/
5
Storyline
5
/
5
This is definitely a 5 star game. The graphics, varied HO scenes, and mini-games are stellar. And the storyline... priceless! I kept thinking of those home improvement shows on TV where homeowners become obsessed with their house and renovations are a skip in the park and everything gets wrapped up with a bow in half an hour. Yeah right!! I loved the developers equating construction with a Dark Dimension because let me tell you, it certainly feels that way when you're in knee deep in debris and can not see your way out of the dust and mess. I've even heard of renovation support groups! I kid you not. I live in New York. But I digress... This game made me laugh out loud. I thought it was an excellent tongue and cheek commentary on the renovation trend that continues to captivate and sweep America by storm. If you ask me those shows are dangerous. Can you tell I've been traumatized by contractors?
The other plus of this game was Rocky, the cutest illustrated Siberian Husky ever. Let me tell you I wanted to buy this dog any and every comfort imaginable. The Dancing Rocky was fabulous. Do yourself a favor and get this dog a stereo.. it's a trip.
Great game... thank you for a wonderful time. Keep them coming!!
I recommend this game!
Dark Tales™: Edgar Allan Poe's The Mystery of Marie Roget Collector's Edition
A newlywed is threatened, and supernatural forces are afoot!
Overall rating
5
/
5
0 of 1 found this review helpful
DUPIN IS BACK AND BETTER THAN EVER!!
PostedMarch 5, 2015
Penhip
fromBrooklyn, NY
Favorite Genre(s):Adventure
Fun Factor
5
/
5
Visual/Sound Quality
5
/
5
Level of Challenge
5
/
5
Storyline
5
/
5
The Edgar Allan Poe Series is a classic and Dupin is definitely a character with noteriety in the Adventure game world. This installment was great fun. I know other gamers commented on the the mini games not being challenging enough but I actually enjoyed them. Sometimes I just like to enjoy the game itself without dwelling on the puzzle solving and the Poe series has established itself to the point where, I, at least, want to know what Dupin does next.
Fantastic character development!
Great Series!!
Marie Roget is another winner!
I recommend this game!