Heather_G's Profile
Stat Summary
- Average Rating:4.1
- Helpful Votes:663
- Reviews Submitted:127
- First Review:November 21, 2011
- Most Recent Review:June 6, 2021
- Featured reviews0
Status:
Help Mary save her friend Lora’s wedding! Lora’s inheritance has been stolen, and now Mary must crack the case and catch the crook!
Overall rating
3
/
5
Not what I'd hoped for.
PostedMarch 14, 2013
Heather_G
fromIndiana
Skill Level:Intermediate
Favorite Genre(s):Adventure, Hidden Object, Marble Popper, Large File, Match 3, Puzzle
Fun Factor
2
/
5
Visual/Sound Quality
3
/
5
Level of Challenge
2
/
5
Storyline
3
/
5
This was a bit of a strange game. First, although it does have a story, it really isn't an adventure at all. You go from one hidden object scene to some text dialog, a mini puzzle, then straight into the next HOS.
It looks like the developers could only afford two 3D rendered models, so they reused the female for several other characters by just changing the hair and clothes. Two would be on-screen at the same time so it was a little confusing. There were only two men and you didn't see much of either, and never together, so it wasn't as distracting.
There is no voice-over, but the text was not overly-long and well-translated (if it was not originally in English). The graphics and colors were nice, there wasn't much sound or music, and you can play in a couple of difficulty modes.
The puzzles were very easy. The tasks were often so ludicrous I couldn't get into the story at all.
The hidden objects were clear, but a few were mis-named ("sprayer" turned out to be a can of aerosol paint, and "pliers" were cuticle nippers). Also, something I really hate in a HOS, there were more than one of an object that appeared on the list, so you might find what you thought was THE bird and clickety-click only to find out they wanted you to click a different bird. There is a mis-click penalty, which is irritating because the cursor doesn't change over some items you have to move in a scene in order to find needed objects, so you have to click blindly (and wait out the penalty) or use the hints.
Unless you pick it up as a daily deal, or you're really hard up for something easy to play, I'd pass this one by.
I don't recommend this game.
Defeat the witch for the last time with the help of your trusty Fairy sidekick and a brand new friend you recently met!
Overall rating
3
/
5
2 of 2 found this review helpful
Decent game but the CE is SOOO not worth the extra bucks.
PostedMarch 14, 2013
Heather_G
fromIndiana
Skill Level:Intermediate
Favorite Genre(s):Adventure, Hidden Object, Marble Popper, Large File, Match 3, Puzzle
Fun Factor
3
/
5
Visual/Sound Quality
4
/
5
Level of Challenge
2
/
5
Storyline
3
/
5
I liked the game well enough but the helper characters often steered me to a puzzle I didn't have the necessary items or knowledge to solve, so as far as hints go, they weren't very helpful.
The CE had a built-in guide, but it was very poor, very general and missed steps here and there that you really needed to know about.
There were no morphing or secret collectables, no awards, the wallpapers were tinted a drab blue-gray rather than the bright colors in the actual game, so I would never use them. The five songs wouldn't play on my PC, and they were just Twinkle-Twinkle, Rock-a-bye Baby, etc. The concept art was interesting, and there was a teaser for a third installment, but those were the only extras I liked aside from the bonus chapter.
Speaking of... The bonus chapter did not advance the story whatsoever except to hint about the prince's odd behavior. The whole thing was unlocking some creatures from paintings and "cleansing" areas of the witch's castle.
The main game was fun, colorful, and long so I would definitely recommend the SE, but I can't say the CE was worth the extra money.
I don't recommend this game.
In this adventurous romance, outwit powerful villains and break an evil curse inflicted upon your love, Hari, while saving your best friend’s life!
Overall rating
5
/
5
7 of 7 found this review helpful
If you want the rest of the story...
PostedFebruary 24, 2013
Heather_G
fromIndiana
Skill Level:Intermediate
Favorite Genre(s):Adventure, Hidden Object, Marble Popper, Large File, Match 3
Fun Factor
4
/
5
Visual/Sound Quality
4
/
5
Level of Challenge
4
/
5
Storyline
4
/
5
Tiger Eye: The Sacrifice does continue where Tiger Eye: The Riddle Box left off, but with less interaction between Hari and Dela. It does have a satisfying conclusion, and both games follow the book fairly well. If you'd like to know the whole story, however (with a LOT more details--nudge, nudge, wink-wink), read the book by Marjorie M. Liu entitled just Tiger Eye. It covers both games. This was her first novel, but she's written several more in this series, although the main characters are different. I loved both games, but truly enjoyed the book and highly recommend it.
Find mystery, magic, and romance in this Hidden Object game! Play as Dela Reese and escape China with the love of your life.
Overall rating
5
/
5
2 of 2 found this review helpful
If you want the rest of the story...
PostedFebruary 24, 2013
Heather_G
fromIndiana
Skill Level:Intermediate
Favorite Genre(s):Adventure, Hidden Object, Large File, Match 3, Marble Popper
Fun Factor
5
/
5
Visual/Sound Quality
5
/
5
Level of Challenge
4
/
5
Storyline
5
/
5
Tiger Eye: The Sacrifice does continue this story, but with less interaction between Hari and Dela. It does have a satisfying conclusion, and both games follow the book fairly well. If you'd like to know the whole story, however (with a LOT more details--nudge, nudge, wink-wink), read the book by Marjorie M. Liu entitled just Tiger Eye. It covers both games. This was her first novel, but she's written several more in this series, although the main characters are different. I loved both games, but truly enjoyed the book and highly recommend it.
I recommend this game!
Explore the Nightingale Theater, which was ravaged by a devastating fire 40 years ago, and uncover a dark mystery!
Overall rating
5
/
5
A Visual Feast
PostedJanuary 28, 2013
Heather_G
fromIndiana
Skill Level:Intermediate
Favorite Genre(s):Adventure, Hidden Object, Marble Popper, Large File, Match 3
Fun Factor
5
/
5
Visual/Sound Quality
5
/
5
Level of Challenge
4
/
5
Storyline
4
/
5
Another absolutely beautiful game by Blue Tea. The graphics are intricate and colorful, the music is unobtrusive and often quite lovely. The characters in the story--and there is a pretty good story--become more complex and interesting as the game progresses.
This is largely an adventure game with fragmented object scenes that construct lavishly beautiful items. There are a few hidden object scenes as well.
I loved the morphing objects, but be warned, they don't always appear the first time you visit a scene. You may have to return to a location later in the game to find them.
Although the game world is limited to one old theater, it's a big complex with lots of hallways, rooms, different levels, etc. so feels like a pretty big world.
I'm very experienced but not necessarily an expert and it took me four and a half hours of solid play, and it felt like I really got my money's worth and then some.
Kudos to the folks at Blue Tea Games. I can't wait for more games like this one, perhaps even a true adventure type?
I recommend this game!
An evil villain is luring people to his beautiful mansion and preparing them for a terrible ritual. Can you keep your head on the shoulders?
Overall rating
4
/
5
1 of 1 found this review helpful
Disturbing but well-crafted adventure.
PostedJanuary 20, 2013
Heather_G
fromIndiana
Skill Level:Intermediate
Favorite Genre(s):Adventure, Hidden Object, Marble Popper, Large File, Match 3
Fun Factor
4
/
5
Visual/Sound Quality
5
/
5
Level of Challenge
5
/
5
Storyline
4
/
5
This is not a hidden object game, but not overly tough for an adventure game. Because it's similar to the look and feel of recent hidden object adventures, it might be a nice intro to the genre for hidden object gamers.
The graphics are lush but soft, like vibrant pastel paintngs. The voice-overs, with the exception of the girl, are pretty good. The music fits the tense mood of the story without being obtrusive.
The strategy guide comes up quickly and keeps your place. I didn't use the hints, so can't comment on that feature. I played in the advanced mode, which is the middle of three levels of difficulty, and got a good 5-6 hours out of the game plus over an hour in the bonus chapter.
For those considering the standard edition, there are no collectable objects or awards in the collector's edition and the ending of the main game is neatly wrapped up, although it leaves the door open for a sequel. The bonus chapter adds only a little to the story, with a similarly wrapped up ending, also open to a possible sequel. The collector's version adds four songs, several wallpapers, a screen saver, some concept art, and the ability to replay the mini-games and puzzles.
I knew going in that this game had some disturbing elements but didn't think it would bother me. There is some seriously creepy stuff that did make me a little uncomfortable--I think because it was a little too life-like. Hats off to the developers for realism! This is not a game for children.
ERS is a top-notch game house and this one is another feather in their cap. I'm so glad to see them, and Big Fish Games, offering some high quality adventure titles!
I recommend this game!
Journey: The Heart of Gaia
After being kidnapped, Liz must free the Underworld from the tyranny of Scartaris Umbra.
Overall rating
5
/
5
3 of 3 found this review helpful
Impressive, beautiful adventure game!
PostedJanuary 20, 2013
Heather_G
fromIndiana
Skill Level:Intermediate
Favorite Genre(s):Adventure, Hidden Object, Marble Popper, Large File, Match 3
Fun Factor
5
/
5
Visual/Sound Quality
5
/
5
Level of Challenge
5
/
5
Storyline
4
/
5
First off, this is a true adventure game--not a hidden object scene to be found.
The hand-drawn graphics are a visual feast with wonderful color. The characters are fairly interesting, the puzzles are varied and challenging with a few that were easier. I played in advanced mode and got over eight hours of play which I consider a good value for my money.
There are voice-overs sometimes, that are well done, and when you have dialog to read, it's kept brief so you're not slogging through pages of text.
Really a treat and one of the best games I've played from the Big Fish site. Don't miss this one if you like adventure games, or games with eye candy graphics!
I recommend this game!
Christmas Tales: Fellina's Journey
Find Santa’s magic star and stop the gruesome Icy Elf from ruining Christmas for everyone on the planet in Christmas Tales: Fellina’s Journey!
Overall rating
3
/
5
1 of 1 found this review helpful
Mixed bag.
PostedJanuary 9, 2013
Heather_G
fromIndiana
Skill Level:Intermediate
Favorite Genre(s):Adventure, Hidden Object, Marble Popper, Large File, Match 3
Fun Factor
3
/
5
Visual/Sound Quality
4
/
5
Level of Challenge
2
/
5
Storyline
2
/
5
As holiday HOGs go, this isn't a bad one, but it has its highs and lows.
Pros:
Very pretty locations with fesitve lights, decorations and snow, including some animated movement in most locations.
Very pretty locations with fesitve lights, decorations and snow, including some animated movement in most locations.
Beautiful music--among the best of any game I've played.
Somewhat interactive HO scenes.
Two difficulty levels. I played using the harder option.
Cons:
One of the worst hint systems I've ever seen. It just repeats what you already know you must do from your task list. No clue HOW to accomplish the task or where to look or go next.
One of the worst hint systems I've ever seen. It just repeats what you already know you must do from your task list. No clue HOW to accomplish the task or where to look or go next.
Cut scenes stuttered along at a crawl with the audio rendered to nothing but staccato blips. Granted, my PC is a little long in the tooth, but met or exceeded the game's requirements.
Poor translation to English which makes the dialog so stilted you can't really immerse yourself in the story, and the names of objects in the HO scenes was often strange (a stalk of wheat was labeled a "spikelet"), or mispelled.
Very short. Even playing in Expert mode, I was done in two hours.
Neutral:
Very little adventure here, and minimal story. Really just one hidden object scene after another. I know some fishies love this kind of thing, but I'm an old adventure gamer and like a little more exploring and solving.
Very little adventure here, and minimal story. Really just one hidden object scene after another. I know some fishies love this kind of thing, but I'm an old adventure gamer and like a little more exploring and solving.
It's pretty, with lovely music, so if you can overlook the cons, and pick it up as a daily deal, it's a nice little game to get into the spirit of Christmas.
I recommend this game!
The kingdom suffers under an evil witch's curse! Help Princess Vita unravel her land's mysteries and liberate the kingdom!
Overall rating
2
/
5
2 of 3 found this review helpful
Non-standard, glitchy adventure with a few HOS.
PostedNovember 3, 2012
Heather_G
fromIndiana
Skill Level:Intermediate
Favorite Genre(s):Adventure, Hidden Object, Marble Popper, Large File, Match 3
Fun Factor
2
/
5
Visual/Sound Quality
2
/
5
Level of Challenge
3
/
5
Storyline
2
/
5
This was a strange one. Yes, the storyline is better suited to children, especially little girls who are into princesses. It is more adventure than HO, but I'm an avid adventure gamer so am used to games that don't give much indication as to what to do next. That said, this game has some big holes in it. There are puzzles without reasonable explanation--as in one that never offered key information and had to be solved by trial and error. I played on the hardest setting (there are three).
You do all of your movement on a map, basically--an overhead view of the area with little detail. Only when you reach a location you can enter do you get a better view of the room from eye level. Sparkles tell you where the doors are, and often are the only indication that a "door" exists because they are frequently on windows, a painting, or just some spot on the wall.
Hints are not always very helpful, sometimes conflicting with what the characters wanted my to do, and I had a rough time figuring out where to go and what to do next.
My PC easily met the game's requirements, but locked up three different times, requiring a three-finger-salute to get out and restart the game.
I also agree with other reviewers about the grainy quality of the graphics. It's only a problem in the few hidden object scenes, but there were plenty of items that I could not see against the background because they were small, and colored/textured just like what was behind it.
If you're interested in trying an adventure game, this is NOT a good introduction to the genre even for a crossover.
I can't say I recommend this game.
I don't recommend this game.
Overall rating
4
/
5
1 of 1 found this review helpful
Older, but still pretty, fun, and fast!
PostedOctober 17, 2012
Heather_G
fromIndiana
Skill Level:Intermediate
Favorite Genre(s):Adventure, Hidden Object, Large File, Match 3, Marble Popper, Puzzle
Fun Factor
5
/
5
Visual/Sound Quality
5
/
5
Level of Challenge
4
/
5
Storyline
1
/
5
Although it's a bit long in the tooth, this marble shooter has everything I look for: smooth, quick responsiveness, crisp, colorful graphics, music/sound that doesn't drive me nuts, just a few simpe power-ups, and interesting layouts.
Where Atlantis Sky Patrol is just a tad easy, and Zuma has proven impossible for me to beat (just the very last level, darn it!!), Crabby is just right. There are a few layouts that get hairy, but with a bit of practice and a few extra lives, you can beat the game.
There are six levels with five boards each, so 30 rounds. I believe you only see each layout twice, so not a lot of repeats. You can zip between two perches in some layouts. Power-ups include: extra life, reverse, slow down, remove all along one straight shot, blow up a big section along the path. You see the next color coming and can switch between the current color and the next one up, at will.
If you like Zuma, Sky Patrol, Bird's Town, Sparkle, or the like, don't pass this one by. It's a slick little game that's fun to play.
I recommend this game!