pennmom36's Profile
Stat Summary
- Average Rating:3.7
- Helpful Votes:358,445
- Reviews Submitted:4724
- First Review:December 10, 2012
- Most Recent Review:July 6, 2025
- Featured reviews0
Status:
Can you save the world of Spirits from a dangerous adversary?
Overall rating
3
/
5
155 of 180 found this review helpful
IF YOU LIKE REPETITIVE & OBVIOUS TASKS, LOOK NO FURTHER
PostedMay 13, 2021
pennmom36
fromBestiaries are a text compiled by an unknown author & consists of 48 sections, each dealing with 1 creature, plant, or stone & linked to a biblical text The stories are based on facts of natural science as accepted by a Physiologus-translation-Naturalist
Skill Level:Expert
Fun Factor
3
/
5
Visual/Sound Quality
3
/
5
Level of Challenge
2
/
5
Storyline
2
/
5
Completed Game approximately 4.0 Hours
(including completion of all puzzles & CE Bonus Chapter)
24 Main Game Scene Locations +7 CE Bonus Chapter
Difficulty Range: Beginner
(including completion of all puzzles & CE Bonus Chapter)
24 Main Game Scene Locations +7 CE Bonus Chapter
Difficulty Range: Beginner
At this point, I feel like I'm just playing Domini games out of desperation because Big Fish rarely offers HOPA games nowadays. There are a ton of new, or new to the genre developers that would give anything to get their foot in the door (or is it "throw a fin" in the pond?) to create amazing HOPAs, they just lack funding. So why not take a chance with them? It would be a win-win situation, new competition would certainly spur the Domini-ant developers to be more creative plus we'd get fresh blood games with creative concepts!
How many times must we endure the same game? Yes, it's the same game because the tasks are always the same from game to game. I know I'll need to scoop out an object from the bottom of every fountain, I know every pile of leaves needs to be removed with some sort of tool, I know there will be a big ole pile of recently disturbed soil that someone thought would go unnoticed, I know I'll need to use a "heavy object" to pound nails with...and it will probably involve placing boards on a broken bridge or rungs of a ladder and probably both! I know the second I see a bookshelf that I'm gonna need to find 2 books to open a secret cache...not 1 book, not 3! I know there will be some sort of mysterious green ooze encasing a much-needed emblem, an object just out of reach that requires some type of MacGyver rig, some sort of purple fog to disperse, gauntlets or gloves required to move thorny branches, and I'll probably have to sew them first. I know that some statue or mannequin with be holding on to an object for dear life until I replace his limbs or adorned jewelry as if it had a soul. It's not about knowing what I need for all these tasks, it's the fact that no one bothers to think outside the box. I know every single person reading this knows exactly what I'm talking about...but did you know that every single task I just mentioned was a task from Chapter One in this game?
Gadgets/Helper:
This game is centered around the Guardians of Harmony and a Beastiary Book to banish the beasts that are conveniently conjured by the Spirits of nature...and always at key moments that prevent you from ending the game quickly and calling it a day tee-hee. The Beastiary Book is used 6 times during the main chapters only; to destroy freaks of nature such as a FireFox or a Gargoyle Batman. Before the book can un-conjure the conjuring, you'll have to complete a mini-game that varies with each beast. I actually enjoyed most of the associated puzzles!
This game is centered around the Guardians of Harmony and a Beastiary Book to banish the beasts that are conveniently conjured by the Spirits of nature...and always at key moments that prevent you from ending the game quickly and calling it a day tee-hee. The Beastiary Book is used 6 times during the main chapters only; to destroy freaks of nature such as a FireFox or a Gargoyle Batman. Before the book can un-conjure the conjuring, you'll have to complete a mini-game that varies with each beast. I actually enjoyed most of the associated puzzles!
Audio/Video Quality:
Domini usually does well in this department, especially after ditching the over-abundance of Purple, and Green hues. Once again, the scenes themselves are fairly uninteresting which is incredible given the fact that the plot's theme was a perfect opportunity to wow us with incredible scenery and exotic flora and fauna!
Domini usually does well in this department, especially after ditching the over-abundance of Purple, and Green hues. Once again, the scenes themselves are fairly uninteresting which is incredible given the fact that the plot's theme was a perfect opportunity to wow us with incredible scenery and exotic flora and fauna!
Collectibles & Morphing Objects (CE Version Only):
The collectibles are always the same in Domini games, they just have different names and they are never interesting! There are 15 Morphing Jodac's Inventions, 15 Spirited Potions, a gazillion Missing Notes, 70 Zoom Zone Coins of varying amounts that are used to purchase 15 Laboratory Items. Why not give us options on each decoration, such as different styles or color choices, or where to place them in the room? At least make the decorations more interesting, who cares about a pile of herbs sitting on a table or red drapes that remind everyone of a funeral home? I guess that would require some effort on the developer's part, so new options are unlikely!
The collectibles are always the same in Domini games, they just have different names and they are never interesting! There are 15 Morphing Jodac's Inventions, 15 Spirited Potions, a gazillion Missing Notes, 70 Zoom Zone Coins of varying amounts that are used to purchase 15 Laboratory Items. Why not give us options on each decoration, such as different styles or color choices, or where to place them in the room? At least make the decorations more interesting, who cares about a pile of herbs sitting on a table or red drapes that remind everyone of a funeral home? I guess that would require some effort on the developer's part, so new options are unlikely!
Hidden Object Scenes:
There are 13 Hidden Object Scenes +5 in the CE Bonus Chapter and an alternate Match 3 Game available. This is a terrible Match 3 game that doesn't allow you to make consecutive matches quickly because you have to wait for all tiles to stop falling before you can make the next match which kind of defeats the purpose of a Match 3 game?? The Hidden Object Scenes vary in style, such as Interactive List Finds, Silhouetted Shape in multiples X3, Matching Pairs, Keywords in Sentence Finds, and a Slider variation where you align Silhouettes with Clues. If only Domini would add a skip button feature to their boring HO scenes!
There are 13 Hidden Object Scenes +5 in the CE Bonus Chapter and an alternate Match 3 Game available. This is a terrible Match 3 game that doesn't allow you to make consecutive matches quickly because you have to wait for all tiles to stop falling before you can make the next match which kind of defeats the purpose of a Match 3 game?? The Hidden Object Scenes vary in style, such as Interactive List Finds, Silhouetted Shape in multiples X3, Matching Pairs, Keywords in Sentence Finds, and a Slider variation where you align Silhouettes with Clues. If only Domini would add a skip button feature to their boring HO scenes!
Mini-Games:
There are 21 Mini-Games +6 in the CE Bonus Chapter, 6 of which are associated with The Beastiary Gadget. You can choose to play them in an Easy or Hard difficulty mode and you can choose which mode to have them start out in the Custom Setting (you can still switch between modes for each individual game) The puzzles weren't bad, and some of them were variations of older puzzles and they were enjoyable to play because they seemed new. The mini-games were the only feature that made this game bearable to endure, I actually enjoyed some of the Beastiary associated puzzles such as fragging chains of colored orbs to their matching slots, move a glowing orb to its destination by moving it to empty slots & clicking a button to reveal alternate slots, connect all bats with a continuous line (horizontal & vertical lines only) or capturing your opponent's tokens by touching or jumping them.
There are 21 Mini-Games +6 in the CE Bonus Chapter, 6 of which are associated with The Beastiary Gadget. You can choose to play them in an Easy or Hard difficulty mode and you can choose which mode to have them start out in the Custom Setting (you can still switch between modes for each individual game) The puzzles weren't bad, and some of them were variations of older puzzles and they were enjoyable to play because they seemed new. The mini-games were the only feature that made this game bearable to endure, I actually enjoyed some of the Beastiary associated puzzles such as fragging chains of colored orbs to their matching slots, move a glowing orb to its destination by moving it to empty slots & clicking a button to reveal alternate slots, connect all bats with a continuous line (horizontal & vertical lines only) or capturing your opponent's tokens by touching or jumping them.
Bonus Chapter (CE Version Only)
Phyllis has been summoned by King Astis to restore the balance of nature after the kingdom's flora begins to mutate out of control. Naturally, a hooded figure is always one step ahead of you, thwarting your every move! This is a typical above-average-length chapter spanning over 7 scene locations, where you will probably get a case of Deja vu. The tasks are nearly identical to those within the first chapter...find and place a saddle & reins on a horse-find a tool to remove crystals-find & use a fishing rod-use a heavy object to hammer nails...seriously? There are 6 additional Mini-Games and 5 Hidden Object Scenes, and you will continue your search for the final 4 Morphing Jadoc's Inventions, 4 Spirited Potions, and 7 Zoom Zone Coins of varying amounts that are used to purchase the final uninteresting Laboratory Decorations.
Phyllis has been summoned by King Astis to restore the balance of nature after the kingdom's flora begins to mutate out of control. Naturally, a hooded figure is always one step ahead of you, thwarting your every move! This is a typical above-average-length chapter spanning over 7 scene locations, where you will probably get a case of Deja vu. The tasks are nearly identical to those within the first chapter...find and place a saddle & reins on a horse-find a tool to remove crystals-find & use a fishing rod-use a heavy object to hammer nails...seriously? There are 6 additional Mini-Games and 5 Hidden Object Scenes, and you will continue your search for the final 4 Morphing Jadoc's Inventions, 4 Spirited Potions, and 7 Zoom Zone Coins of varying amounts that are used to purchase the final uninteresting Laboratory Decorations.
Collector's Edition Extra's: (CE version only)
15 Wallpapers, 16 Concept Art Pictures, 5 Music Soundtracks, 26 Movie Video Cutscenes, 33 Achievements (the same achievements offered in all of their games) 20 Replayable Mini-Games, 18 Replayable Hidden Object Scenes, 15 Morphing Jodac's Inventions, 15 Spirited Potions, a gazillion Missing Notes, 70 Zoom Zone Coins of varying amounts to purchase 15 Laboratory Items, 4 Main Chapters, a Bonus Chapter, and a Built-In Strategy Guide. Come join the fun at my new forum & reconnect with old friends at thewoodsforum.boards.net
15 Wallpapers, 16 Concept Art Pictures, 5 Music Soundtracks, 26 Movie Video Cutscenes, 33 Achievements (the same achievements offered in all of their games) 20 Replayable Mini-Games, 18 Replayable Hidden Object Scenes, 15 Morphing Jodac's Inventions, 15 Spirited Potions, a gazillion Missing Notes, 70 Zoom Zone Coins of varying amounts to purchase 15 Laboratory Items, 4 Main Chapters, a Bonus Chapter, and a Built-In Strategy Guide. Come join the fun at my new forum & reconnect with old friends at thewoodsforum.boards.net
I don't recommend this game.
Join the Hudson’s for their next journey as they take off to the great white north!
Overall rating
3
/
5
83 of 95 found this review helpful
THEY HAVE ADDED NEW HO VARIANTS!
PostedMay 12, 2021
pennmom36
fromJe ne maîtrise pas la langue française, mais je peux parler canadien hein
Skill Level:Expert
Fun Factor
3
/
5
Visual/Sound Quality
3
/
5
Level of Challenge
3
/
5
Storyline
3
/
5
Finally, something has changed! They have added a few different HO variants, Mirror Reflections where the words are mirrored as well as the screen (as it would be reading the word "ambulance" in a rearview mirror), and Spot the Difference. I love "spot the differences" scenes but ONLY when they make subtle changes to the scenery, which isn't the case here. All you have to do is click on objects that have been added to the scene and in this case, the objects are huge and hard to miss!
One of the biggest reasons I don't feel the need to purchase these games lately is because the items never change position when you replay the levels, which is a requirement to earn the necessary stars to unlock the next level in order to progress, therefore, it can get boring quickly. Sometimes they add a couple of new objects to the repeated scenes, but all the objects are in the same position every time you replay the game.
You can play in 3 different modes, a Relaxed Untimed Mode, 10-Minute Timed Mode, or a 3-Minute Timed Mode to complete each level. You will earn a single star on each HO location and the next location requires 2-3 stars to unlock it. The Hidden Object Modes change each time you replay a scene, between Listed Item, Silhouetted Shapes, Scrambled Letter Modes, and the two new variants, Mirror Reflection and Spot the Differences. Because the objects themselves never move, you can basically guess at the objects by the time you roll around to the silhouetted shapes, and scrambled letters and get 99% of them right!
Each scene has a Lazy Turtle to discover (once you find him he won't appear when you replay the same scene in a different mode) There are trivia facts before visiting each location as well. I STILL think the developers need to use their Lazy Turtle Logo versus the cheap plastic turtle because this developer's Lazy Turtle Logo is one of the coolest logos I've seen. He's an adorable "lazy" turtle wearing a sombrero and leaning up against a palm tree. If they used a semi-transparent image of this logo and hid it in each scene it would be much more challenging to spot, which is the point of a hidden collectible that isn't on the list! (free advertising never hurts either!)
Anyone else think it's creepy that the daughter packed mom & dad suitcases for their latest vacation?
The Hudson Family's trip locations include:
~Ontario, Algonquin Provincal Park
~Vancouver
~Victoria, British Columbia
~Toronto
~Quebec City
~Toronto, The Distillery District
~Toronto, Toronto Harbor
~Alberta, Lake Minnewanka
~Vancouver, Whistler
~Toronto, Chinatown
~Alberta, Train Trip
~Vancouver, Gastown
~Quebec, Ice Hotel
~SGang Gwaay, British Columbia
~New Brunswick, Hopewell Rocks Park
~Ontario, Algonquin Provincal Park
~Vancouver
~Victoria, British Columbia
~Toronto
~Quebec City
~Toronto, The Distillery District
~Toronto, Toronto Harbor
~Alberta, Lake Minnewanka
~Vancouver, Whistler
~Toronto, Chinatown
~Alberta, Train Trip
~Vancouver, Gastown
~Quebec, Ice Hotel
~SGang Gwaay, British Columbia
~New Brunswick, Hopewell Rocks Park
Mini-Games Available:
~Jigsaw
~Forest Solitaire
~Travel Cards (Matching Card Pairs)
~Winter Animals (Restore picture puzzle)
~Canada Cities (Word Search)
~Jigsaw
~Forest Solitaire
~Travel Cards (Matching Card Pairs)
~Winter Animals (Restore picture puzzle)
~Canada Cities (Word Search)
I'm really glad this developer is making changes, but the bottom line is that the objects are huge and not so "hidden" Because the objects never move position from one variant to another, the HO's are super easy to spot. Join us at my new forum for series lists and so much more thewoodsforum.boards.net
Springtime Mahjongg 2 brings the lovely sights and sounds of this incredible season to your PC!
Overall rating
2
/
5
32 of 36 found this review helpful
THE CLASSIC MODE WAS REALLY BORING BUT THE PARADE MODE WAS SLIGHTLY BETTER
PostedMay 11, 2021
pennmom36
fromNothing new here other than they uncomplicated the directions and took away the 3rd variant.
Skill Level:Expert
Fun Factor
2
/
5
Visual/Sound Quality
2
/
5
Level of Challenge
2
/
5
I didn't have any issues with the game playing but there were several instances where I had to click 2 matching tiles several times to get them to remove when playing the Classic variant, but I didn't have this issue while playing the Parade mode which simply requires you to click a single tile that matches the tiles shown at the top. The Parade variant was much more interesting because you had to remove the tiles shown at the top before they reached the end of the board.
You can choose your Resolution preference, 14 different Mahjongg tilesets including a Themed, Traditional, a Domino Style tile, and a Playing Card Style. There is a 3D view available and an Auto-Zoom feature to enable as well. The Mahjong games are available in a Casual, Normal, or Untimed Mode and require a specific number of Bonus Symbols (earned after each successful level) to unlock preceding levels.
You can choose your Resolution preference, 14 different Mahjongg tilesets including a Themed, Traditional, a Domino Style tile, and a Playing Card Style. There is a 3D view available and an Auto-Zoom feature to enable as well. The Mahjong games are available in a Casual, Normal, or Untimed Mode and require a specific number of Bonus Symbols (earned after each successful level) to unlock preceding levels.
There are only 2 Different Mahjong Categories available, Parade Mahjongg and Classic Mahjongg. You can earn up to 3 Bonus Symbols per level, the first star or bird is awarded for not using the hint, undo, redo, or mix features excessively, the second for clearing all tiles, and the third for completing the game within Par.
They did uncomplicate this version when compared to the first game, Summertime Mahjongg, but unless you really love Mahjong, there's nothing offered here to make this game worth purchasing. Please join us on my new forum at thewoodsforum.boards.net
I don't recommend this game.
A scheming businessman threatens Mary and John’s restaurant!
Overall rating
1
/
5
3 of 3 found this review helpful
LOOKS THE SAME AS THE OTHER TWO?
PostedMay 9, 2021
pennmom36
fromAt least try to make it appear that something has changed!
Skill Level:Expert
Fun Factor
1
/
5
Visual/Sound Quality
1
/
5
Level of Challenge
1
/
5
Storyline
1
/
5
New Graphics, Same Layout. New Foods (sort of) Same Tasks. New Story, Same Plot. New Achievement Names, Same Achievements. New Bonus Names, Same Bonuses. Basically, this is the same game as the last two in the series...and why do I have to do all the work while John just stands there?
I also don't appreciate having to "wait hand and foot" on customers who seem to have an attitude (and alligator arms) The customers get angry quickly on all the diner dash type of games by this developer, why would I want to play a game with angry hotheads, or with people that leave poor tips no matter how quickly they are served? We may as well have a Waitress Attitude option to make it an even playing field, such as a "refusal to serve" or "here's the door, don't let it hitcha in the..." option, that oughta make things more interesting!
This is a Point & Click, Time Management game where you serve customers for tips. You simply click the customer to give them a menu when they arrive and then click on the items they order, (pictured items are shown in their thought bubble) and re-click the customer to deliver those food items (exactly as pictured) The good news is that you don't have to drag anybody or anything, an annoying feature some TM games incorporate. When the $ sign appears, you click the customer a final time to accept payment and then scan the cursor over the coins to receive the tips they apparently throw on the ground for you to fetch. (Coins? I don't think a few coins add up to a 20% tip!?!) Each customer has a Green Smiley over their head which turns Yellow, and eventually, Red if the service is too slow because they are hotheads with no respect for servers. Their patience level also directly affects the amount of tip they are willing to leave, with either Gold, Silver, or Bronze Coins. The "Expert" Goal amount is shown before the start of each level, and there are Bonus Goals available (but not required) which are shown at the bottom, such as collecting money from three consecutive customers simultaneously.
As you progress, the Menu items increase and become more complex. The tips you earn are used to purchase Upgrades from the Shop, such as more trays or ovens to fry them up a steak in a pan. You can also purchase upgrades to speed up Mary, increase wait time moods, etc.
There are 60 Levels and 12 Trophy Achievements to earn.
The Collector's Edition Extra's include 10 "who cares about cartoon images" Concept Art Pictures, 5 Music Soundtracks, Bonus Levels that are kept under lock and key until you purchase the game? and a Walkthrough Strategy Guide, none of which make this game worthy of twice the price. Join me on my new forum thewoodsforum.boards.net
The Collector's Edition Extra's include 10 "who cares about cartoon images" Concept Art Pictures, 5 Music Soundtracks, Bonus Levels that are kept under lock and key until you purchase the game? and a Walkthrough Strategy Guide, none of which make this game worthy of twice the price. Join me on my new forum thewoodsforum.boards.net
I don't recommend this game.
A scheming businessman threatens Mary and John’s restaurant!
Overall rating
1
/
5
40 of 47 found this review helpful
WERE'S THE "NEW" CHALLENGE?
PostedMay 9, 2021
pennmom36
fromIs there a different challenge here or is it just a new title as usual?
Skill Level:Expert
Fun Factor
1
/
5
Visual/Sound Quality
1
/
5
Level of Challenge
1
/
5
Storyline
1
/
5
New Graphics, Same Layout. New Foods (sort of) Same Tasks. New Story, Same Plot. New Achievement Names, Same Achievements. New Bonus Names, Same Bonuses. Basically, this is the same game as the last two in the series...and why do I have to do all the work while John just stands there?
I also don't appreciate having to "wait hand and foot" on customers who seem to have an attitude (and alligator arms) The customers get angry quickly on all the diner dash type of games by this developer, why would I want to play a game with angry hotheads, or with people that leave poor tips no matter how quickly they are served? We may as well have a Waitress Attitude option to make it an even playing field, such as a "refusal to serve" or "here's the door, don't let it hitcha in the..." option, that oughta make things more interesting!
This is a Point & Click, Time Management game where you serve customers for tips. You simply click the customer to give them a menu when they arrive and then click on the items they order, (pictured items are shown in their thought bubble) and re-click the customer to deliver those food items (exactly as pictured) The good news is that you don't have to drag anybody or anything, an annoying feature some TM games incorporate. When the $ sign appears, you click the customer a final time to accept payment and then scan the cursor over the coins to receive the tips they apparently throw on the ground for you to fetch. (Coins? I don't think a few coins add up to a 20% tip!?!) Each customer has a Green Smiley over their head which turns Yellow, and eventually, Red if the service is too slow because they are hotheads with no respect for servers. Their patience level also directly affects the amount of tip they are willing to leave, with either Gold, Silver, or Bronze Coins. The "Expert" Goal amount is shown before the start of each level, and there are Bonus Goals available (but not required) which are shown at the bottom, such as collecting money from three consecutive customers simultaneously.
As you progress, the Menu items increase and become more complex. The tips you earn are used to purchase Upgrades from the Shop, such as more trays or ovens to fry them up a steak in a pan. You can also purchase upgrades to speed up Mary, increase wait time moods, etc.
There are 60 Levels and 12 Trophy Achievements to earn.
The Collector's Edition Extra's include 10 "who cares about cartoon images" Concept Art Pictures, 5 Music Soundtracks, some Bonus Levels that's kept a secret unless you buy the game, and a Walkthrough Strategy Guide, none of which make the CE version worthwhile so if you really like this series, opt for this SE version! Let's talk, join me at my new forum thewoodsforum.boards.net
The Collector's Edition Extra's include 10 "who cares about cartoon images" Concept Art Pictures, 5 Music Soundtracks, some Bonus Levels that's kept a secret unless you buy the game, and a Walkthrough Strategy Guide, none of which make the CE version worthwhile so if you really like this series, opt for this SE version! Let's talk, join me at my new forum thewoodsforum.boards.net
I don't recommend this game.
A frantic distress signal uncovers a mysterious disappearance at Misthill!
Overall rating
1
/
5
42 of 46 found this review helpful
ELF'S VOICE HAS BEEN FORGOTTEN!
PostedMay 8, 2021
Fun Factor
1
/
5
Visual/Sound Quality
1
/
5
Level of Challenge
1
/
5
Storyline
1
/
5
Completed Game approximately 4.5 hours
(including completion of all mini-games & CE Bonus Chapter)
17 Main Game Scene Locations +8 Bonus Chapter
Difficulty Range: Beginner
(including completion of all mini-games & CE Bonus Chapter)
17 Main Game Scene Locations +8 Bonus Chapter
Difficulty Range: Beginner
Okay, I get that Elf isn't a part of this new "young blood" Mystery Trackers team, but Elf has been around for 95% of these games and I love him, he's family. I liked the newer modern look of the inventory bar but everything else was just plain boring, I just can't get into these new characters, don't abandon everything that made Mystery Trackers what it is...or should I say was? If you want to change this series, go backward! Go back to your roots and make a game as incredible as The Void, Raincliff, or Black Isle, because these earlier editions were incredible! And while I'm at it, don't forget to add the Morphing Objects that were like they were in the earlier days of your career, back when your fans loved Elephant Games. I've said this before, no one came close to your level of graphics back then, we immediately knew we were playing an Elephant Game from the first scene, the atmosphere was always creepy, always crisp, and ALWAYS fantastic. Now I can't see anything special, can anyone else? Please listen to our reviews, our Voices should NOT be Forgotten!
Helper/Gadget:
There are no helpers, Elf doesn't exist in this game, he's not an option or even mentioned...worse decision of all time!
There are no helpers, Elf doesn't exist in this game, he's not an option or even mentioned...worse decision of all time!
Morphing Objects/Collectibles: (CE version only)
There are ZERO Morphing Objects, how's that working out for sales? There are 12 Collectibles (because 13 would be excessive, right?) that belong to the detectives...how'd they show up in places they just arrived at? Some of the Zoom Zones have a Jigsaw Puzzle Piece that allows you to complete a single Screensaver. Looks like we just have to accept that less is more nowadays?
There are ZERO Morphing Objects, how's that working out for sales? There are 12 Collectibles (because 13 would be excessive, right?) that belong to the detectives...how'd they show up in places they just arrived at? Some of the Zoom Zones have a Jigsaw Puzzle Piece that allows you to complete a single Screensaver. Looks like we just have to accept that less is more nowadays?
Hidden Object Scenes:
There are 14 Hidden Object Scenes +6 in the CE Bonus Chapter. Nothing special here folks, most items can be clicked on correctly without having to look at the list! There are Interactive List Finds, Pattern Swatch Finds, Silhouetted Shape Finds, Keywords in Sentence Finds, and Find & Replace HO's. There are several Zoom Zone HO's as well, lots of Zoom Zone HO's?!!
There are 14 Hidden Object Scenes +6 in the CE Bonus Chapter. Nothing special here folks, most items can be clicked on correctly without having to look at the list! There are Interactive List Finds, Pattern Swatch Finds, Silhouetted Shape Finds, Keywords in Sentence Finds, and Find & Replace HO's. There are several Zoom Zone HO's as well, lots of Zoom Zone HO's?!!
Mini-Games:
There are 12 Mini-Games +8 in the CE Bonus Chapter. These were either super simple puzzles, or puzzles that took a long time to complete because...well because they were lengthy, certainly not because they were difficult.
There are 12 Mini-Games +8 in the CE Bonus Chapter. These were either super simple puzzles, or puzzles that took a long time to complete because...well because they were lengthy, certainly not because they were difficult.
Bonus Chapter (Collector's Edition version only)
REDO! The dashing trio returns to Misthill College, didn't we just do this? There are 8 Scene Locations in this average-length chapter which has 8 Mini-Games and 6 Hidden Object Scenes. You will continue your search for the remaining 8 Puzzle Pieces and 2 lousy Collectibles.
REDO! The dashing trio returns to Misthill College, didn't we just do this? There are 8 Scene Locations in this average-length chapter which has 8 Mini-Games and 6 Hidden Object Scenes. You will continue your search for the remaining 8 Puzzle Pieces and 2 lousy Collectibles.
Collector's Edition Extra's
5 Wallpapers because 6 is over the top, 1 Jigsaw Puzzle Screensaver, 4 Music Soundtracks, 10 Achievements, 12 Replayable Mini-Games, 14 Replayable Hidden Object Scenes (within the Secret Room) 24 Zoom Zone Jigsaw Puzzle Pieces, an Expedition Room where you search for missed collectibles. Ironic, weren't they lost, to begin with? An Archive Room, 5 Main Chapters +Bonus Chapter, and a Built-In Strategy Guide. Come join us at my new forum! thewoodsforum.boards.net
5 Wallpapers because 6 is over the top, 1 Jigsaw Puzzle Screensaver, 4 Music Soundtracks, 10 Achievements, 12 Replayable Mini-Games, 14 Replayable Hidden Object Scenes (within the Secret Room) 24 Zoom Zone Jigsaw Puzzle Pieces, an Expedition Room where you search for missed collectibles. Ironic, weren't they lost, to begin with? An Archive Room, 5 Main Chapters +Bonus Chapter, and a Built-In Strategy Guide. Come join us at my new forum! thewoodsforum.boards.net
I don't recommend this game.
A frantic distress signal uncovers a mysterious disappearance at Misthill!
Overall rating
1
/
5
11 of 14 found this review helpful
NO ELF=NO STARS!
PostedMay 8, 2021
Fun Factor
1
/
5
Visual/Sound Quality
1
/
5
Level of Challenge
1
/
5
Storyline
1
/
5
Completed Game approximately 4.5 hours
(including completion of all mini-games & CE Bonus Chapter)
17 Main Game Scene Locations +8 Bonus Chapter
Difficulty Range: Beginner
(including completion of all mini-games & CE Bonus Chapter)
17 Main Game Scene Locations +8 Bonus Chapter
Difficulty Range: Beginner
Okay, I get that Elf isn't a part of this new "young blood" Mystery Trackers team, but Elf has been around for 95% of these games and I love him, he's family. I liked the newer modern look of the inventory bar but everything else was just plain boring, I just can't get into these new characters, don't abandon everything that made Mystery Trackers what it is...or should I say was? If you want to change this series, go backward! Go back to your roots and make a game as incredible as The Void, Raincliff, or Black Isle, because these earlier editions were incredible! And while I'm at it, don't forget to add the Morphing Objects that were like they were in the earlier days of your career, back when your fans loved Elephant Games. I've said this before, no one came close to your level of graphics back then, we immediately knew we were playing an Elephant Game from the first scene, the atmosphere was always creepy, always crisp, and ALWAYS fantastic. Now I can't see anything special, can anyone else? Please listen to our reviews, our Voices should NOT be Forgotten!
Helper/Gadget:
There are no helpers, Elf doesn't exist in this game, he's not an option or even mentioned...worse decision of all time!
There are no helpers, Elf doesn't exist in this game, he's not an option or even mentioned...worse decision of all time!
Morphing Objects/Collectibles: (CE version only)
There are ZERO Morphing Objects, how's that working out for sales? There are 12 Collectibles (because 13 would be excessive, right?) that belong to the detectives...how'd they show up in places they just arrived at? Some of the Zoom Zones have a Jigsaw Puzzle Piece that allows you to complete a single Screensaver. Looks like we just have to accept that less is more nowadays?
There are ZERO Morphing Objects, how's that working out for sales? There are 12 Collectibles (because 13 would be excessive, right?) that belong to the detectives...how'd they show up in places they just arrived at? Some of the Zoom Zones have a Jigsaw Puzzle Piece that allows you to complete a single Screensaver. Looks like we just have to accept that less is more nowadays?
Hidden Object Scenes:
There are 14 Hidden Object Scenes +6 in the CE Bonus Chapter. Nothing special here folks, most items can be clicked on correctly without having to look at the list! There are Interactive List Finds, Pattern Swatch Finds, Silhouetted Shape Finds, Keywords in Sentence Finds, and Find & Replace HO's. There are several Zoom Zone HO's as well, lots of Zoom Zone HO's?!!
There are 14 Hidden Object Scenes +6 in the CE Bonus Chapter. Nothing special here folks, most items can be clicked on correctly without having to look at the list! There are Interactive List Finds, Pattern Swatch Finds, Silhouetted Shape Finds, Keywords in Sentence Finds, and Find & Replace HO's. There are several Zoom Zone HO's as well, lots of Zoom Zone HO's?!!
Mini-Games:
There are 12 Mini-Games +8 in the CE Bonus Chapter. These were either super simple puzzles, or puzzles that took a long time to complete because...well because they were lengthy, certainly not because they were difficult.
Bonus Chapter (Collector's Edition version only)
REDO! The dashing trio returns to Misthill College, didn't we just do this? There are 8 Scene Locations in this average-length chapter which has 8 Mini-Games and 6 Hidden Object Scenes. You will continue your search for the remaining 8 Puzzle Pieces and 2 lousy Collectibles.
There are 12 Mini-Games +8 in the CE Bonus Chapter. These were either super simple puzzles, or puzzles that took a long time to complete because...well because they were lengthy, certainly not because they were difficult.
Bonus Chapter (Collector's Edition version only)
REDO! The dashing trio returns to Misthill College, didn't we just do this? There are 8 Scene Locations in this average-length chapter which has 8 Mini-Games and 6 Hidden Object Scenes. You will continue your search for the remaining 8 Puzzle Pieces and 2 lousy Collectibles.
Collector's Edition Extra's
5 Wallpapers because 6 is over the top, 1 Jigsaw Puzzle Screensaver, 4 Music Soundtracks, 10 Achievements, 12 Replayable Mini-Games, 14 Replayable Hidden Object Scenes (within the Secret Room) 24 Zoom Zone Jigsaw Puzzle Pieces, an Expedition Room where you search for missed collectibles. Ironic, weren't they lost, to begin with? An Archive Room, 5 Main Chapters +Bonus Chapter, and a Built-In Strategy Guide. Come join us at my new forum! thewoodsforum.boards.net
5 Wallpapers because 6 is over the top, 1 Jigsaw Puzzle Screensaver, 4 Music Soundtracks, 10 Achievements, 12 Replayable Mini-Games, 14 Replayable Hidden Object Scenes (within the Secret Room) 24 Zoom Zone Jigsaw Puzzle Pieces, an Expedition Room where you search for missed collectibles. Ironic, weren't they lost, to begin with? An Archive Room, 5 Main Chapters +Bonus Chapter, and a Built-In Strategy Guide. Come join us at my new forum! thewoodsforum.boards.net
I don't recommend this game.
Can you keep this bewitching case from becoming your last?
Overall rating
4
/
5
79 of 88 found this review helpful
IS GRANDMA GOING TO THE DARK SIDE?
PostedMay 7, 2021
pennmom36
fromLeaps & bounds better than the recent games by the other 2 developers, but less effort was put into this game as previous games...has me worried!
Skill Level:Expert
Fun Factor
4
/
5
Visual/Sound Quality
4
/
5
Level of Challenge
4
/
5
Storyline
4
/
5
Completed Game a little over 6.0 Hours
(including completion of all puzzles & Bonus Chapter)
18 Main Game Scene Locations +6 CE Bonus Chapter
Difficulty Range: Beginner-Intermediate
I didn't think GrandMa put forth as much effort in this game as they did the previous game Morbid Obsession. With that being said, the storyline was very interesting even though you will probably figure out the plot from the first opening cutscene. There aren't really any surprises and the gameplay is the same ole, same ole...but still better and less cookie-cutter than the other two major developers have been offering lately.
Gadgets/Helpers/Outcome Option:
There are no helpers, well technically, the Fox helps you. In true GrandMa Studios fashion, there is an infamous Amulet Gadget that is used to search for hidden Symbols.
(including completion of all puzzles & Bonus Chapter)
18 Main Game Scene Locations +6 CE Bonus Chapter
Difficulty Range: Beginner-Intermediate
I didn't think GrandMa put forth as much effort in this game as they did the previous game Morbid Obsession. With that being said, the storyline was very interesting even though you will probably figure out the plot from the first opening cutscene. There aren't really any surprises and the gameplay is the same ole, same ole...but still better and less cookie-cutter than the other two major developers have been offering lately.
Gadgets/Helpers/Outcome Option:
There are no helpers, well technically, the Fox helps you. In true GrandMa Studios fashion, there is an infamous Amulet Gadget that is used to search for hidden Symbols.
Collectibles & Morphing Objects (CE version only)
There are 48 Collectible Envelopes, one simple, and one morphing, as well as 20 Zoom Zone Jigsaw Puzzle Pieces that allow you to assemble a Jigsaw Puzzle once all pieces have been collected. You must find all of the collectibles to unlock the Secret Chapter "The Source" which is a Mini-game, but if you missed a collectible or jigsaw piece, you can return to the scene by going to the CE "Collectible" tab in the Extra's menu where you can click on any of the collectibles or jigsaws that you missed, to be taken to the scene where you can search for the missed collectible or jigsaw...Thank you Granny...this is how it should be!
There are 48 Collectible Envelopes, one simple, and one morphing, as well as 20 Zoom Zone Jigsaw Puzzle Pieces that allow you to assemble a Jigsaw Puzzle once all pieces have been collected. You must find all of the collectibles to unlock the Secret Chapter "The Source" which is a Mini-game, but if you missed a collectible or jigsaw piece, you can return to the scene by going to the CE "Collectible" tab in the Extra's menu where you can click on any of the collectibles or jigsaws that you missed, to be taken to the scene where you can search for the missed collectible or jigsaw...Thank you Granny...this is how it should be!
Hidden Object Scenes:
There are 13 Main Hidden Object Scenes and several Zoom Zone Mini-HOPs +2 in the CE Bonus Chapter. There is an alternate Match 3 game but this is the second worse Match 3 games in HOPA history, (right behind the big D-games) The tiles are round marbles which I actually liked, but there were hardly any matches available, I literally had to stare intently to find a simple Match 3, and there certainly wasn't an opportunity for any match larger than a Match 4! Because there were no large matches, I didn't get any bonuses or power-ups...assuming they were even available, which I highly doubt. So the really cool round and colorful marbles were just kind of pointless and not fun when you can't find the smallest of matches!!! As for the Hidden Object Scenes, there are Interactive List Finds, Multiples of the Same Object, and Silhouetted Shape Finds. There is also an Amulet-associated HOP where you are tasked with finding Hidden Symbols using the Amulet.
There are 13 Main Hidden Object Scenes and several Zoom Zone Mini-HOPs +2 in the CE Bonus Chapter. There is an alternate Match 3 game but this is the second worse Match 3 games in HOPA history, (right behind the big D-games) The tiles are round marbles which I actually liked, but there were hardly any matches available, I literally had to stare intently to find a simple Match 3, and there certainly wasn't an opportunity for any match larger than a Match 4! Because there were no large matches, I didn't get any bonuses or power-ups...assuming they were even available, which I highly doubt. So the really cool round and colorful marbles were just kind of pointless and not fun when you can't find the smallest of matches!!! As for the Hidden Object Scenes, there are Interactive List Finds, Multiples of the Same Object, and Silhouetted Shape Finds. There is also an Amulet-associated HOP where you are tasked with finding Hidden Symbols using the Amulet.
Mini-Games:
There are 17 Mini-Games +9 in the CE Bonus Chapter. Some, but not all of the puzzles have an Easy or Hard difficulty mode option available. The mini-games were doable on the first attempt in most cases and for the most part, were fun although they are the usual GrandMa Studios mini-games. The mini-games include arranging weights on a clock to equal the various times shown, swapping tiles to create an image, navigating maps by placing directional arrows, connecting dots, retracing shapes, and of course, lock mechanism puzzles galore.
There are 17 Mini-Games +9 in the CE Bonus Chapter. Some, but not all of the puzzles have an Easy or Hard difficulty mode option available. The mini-games were doable on the first attempt in most cases and for the most part, were fun although they are the usual GrandMa Studios mini-games. The mini-games include arranging weights on a clock to equal the various times shown, swapping tiles to create an image, navigating maps by placing directional arrows, connecting dots, retracing shapes, and of course, lock mechanism puzzles galore.
Bonus Chapter: (CE version only)
"The Cracks" turns back the hands of the clock as you play Ursula trying to help Wolf hide the grimoire for safekeeping. This is an average-length chapter that takes place over 8 Scene Locations with an additional 9 Mini-Games, 2 Hidden Object Scenes. You will continue collecting the remaining Collectible Envelopes and the final Jigsaw Puzzle Pieces as well. GrandMa does allow you to return to the scenes to pick up any missed collectibles or Jigsaw Pieces which is required to open the Hidden Chapter entitled The Source, which is basically a Mini-Game.
"The Cracks" turns back the hands of the clock as you play Ursula trying to help Wolf hide the grimoire for safekeeping. This is an average-length chapter that takes place over 8 Scene Locations with an additional 9 Mini-Games, 2 Hidden Object Scenes. You will continue collecting the remaining Collectible Envelopes and the final Jigsaw Puzzle Pieces as well. GrandMa does allow you to return to the scenes to pick up any missed collectibles or Jigsaw Pieces which is required to open the Hidden Chapter entitled The Source, which is basically a Mini-Game.
Collector's Edition Extra's:
10 Wallpapers, 10 Concept Art Pictures, 23 Movie Cutscene Videos, 8 Music Soundtracks ♪, 9 Replayable Mini-Games♙, 12 Replayable Hidden Object Scenes, 12 Achievements, 48 Collectible Objects (1 simple, 1 morphing per scene) 20 Zoom Zone Jigsaw Puzzle Pieces (used to assemble a Jigsaw Puzzle) 5 Main Chapters (The Shards) +Bonus Chapter (The Cracks) a Hidden Chapter/Mini-Game (The Source) and a Built-In Strategy Guide. You can find my series lists and so much more at my new forum, won't you join us! thewoodsforum.boards.net
10 Wallpapers, 10 Concept Art Pictures, 23 Movie Cutscene Videos, 8 Music Soundtracks ♪, 9 Replayable Mini-Games♙, 12 Replayable Hidden Object Scenes, 12 Achievements, 48 Collectible Objects (1 simple, 1 morphing per scene) 20 Zoom Zone Jigsaw Puzzle Pieces (used to assemble a Jigsaw Puzzle) 5 Main Chapters (The Shards) +Bonus Chapter (The Cracks) a Hidden Chapter/Mini-Game (The Source) and a Built-In Strategy Guide. You can find my series lists and so much more at my new forum, won't you join us! thewoodsforum.boards.net
I recommend this game!
Paint by Numbers is back with a colorful new set of puzzles! With this series, painting has never been easier!
Overall rating
4
/
5
25 of 39 found this review helpful
LOVE THE COLORS & THE BACKGROUNDS!
PostedMay 5, 2021
Fun Factor
4
/
5
Visual/Sound Quality
4
/
5
Level of Challenge
4
/
5
Storyline
4
/
5
Someone's listening because the new vivid color options are way better! I've also noticed that some of the images allow you to paint the background as well which makes the completed picture more interesting. There are still some really boring images and none of the images shown in the BF synopsis are available in the demo with the exception of the first house image. I really wish they would allow you to choose any of the pictures to color in any order, but at least there is an option to change the background colors.
There are 64 images available but you are forced to finish the first level before moving on to the next. Why do I have to finish one level before proceeding? If you won't let the player see what's in store for them they may not purchase the game based upon the images presented in the demo, you should at least place some interesting pictures on the first level!
There are 64 images available but you are forced to finish the first level before moving on to the next. Why do I have to finish one level before proceeding? If you won't let the player see what's in store for them they may not purchase the game based upon the images presented in the demo, you should at least place some interesting pictures on the first level!
They also made the cursor tip slightly smaller and less bulky and you can now drag the cursor to fill in the colors on the entire board as long as you don't let go of the mouse button. In other words, as long as you left-click & hold before dragging a color, only the current number will be filled in, all other numbers will be ignored until you release the mouse button. This is a painting game...so it would be nice to have some actual paintbrush tip options (options is the keyword here as in more than one)
There is also a Hint button that will point to any missed areas of the current color, without penalty if you don't feel like swiping over the whole board to catch missed areas.
There's not a whole lot to have to figure out, it's about as uncomplicated and basic as it gets. Paint By Numbers is a computer version of Oil or Colored Pencil Paint by Numbers, and actually closer to the real thing than the Pixel Art versions. Each area has a number and you simply chose the corresponding color bubble from the palette (also numbered) on the right side, left-click to fill in all the numbers with the correct color.
There is a Slider Bar that allows you to zoom in & out as well as a "fit" tab. You can also move the entire page around by right-clicking and dragging. There is a slider bar that allows you to change the color of the background, which now includes a full-color scale.
I'm finally seeing a little bit of progress, and I'm finally able to play these games in the full-screen mode now that they have added my resolution, so Paint by Numbers is finally looking promising! Won't you please join us on my new forum? thewoodsforum.boards.net ☯
I recommend this game!
Complete challenging solitaire puzzles and help a couple escape a zombie infestation!
Overall rating
1
/
5
88 of 94 found this review helpful
ANYONE ELSE GET EXCITED OVER THE TITLE ONLY TO BE DISAPPOINTED THAT IT'S THE SAME GAME BY THE USUAL DEVELOPER?
PostedMay 4, 2021
pennmom36
fromThe only Zombie story you'll get in this game is when you read the above synopsis!
Skill Level:Expert
Fun Factor
1
/
5
Visual/Sound Quality
1
/
5
Level of Challenge
1
/
5
Storyline
1
/
5
For a brief moment, I was excited to see a Zombie-themed Solitaire game offered today. That excitement quickly waned when I realized that it was just another ordinary solitaire game by the same developer, "stuck on the eighth floor" It seems BF is running out of decent games when they have to offer 3 solitaire games by this developer in a single month, and for the first time in history they haven't even offered a CE on Saturday's! Surely there are other developers who would love to have their game released on BF besides the handful of developers currently presented. There are literally thousands of developers and dozens of genres out there but all we get lately are 3rd rate, solitaire games, match 3 games, mosaic games that are crossing the threshold of 50 games in the series, an occasional HOPA, and a Time Management game that are hit-or-miss kind of games. What about Adventure Games, Platformer Games, Word Games, Real-time Strategy games, Shooter Games, RPGs, Open-World, Action-Adventure, Survival Games, Sandbox Games, and more importantly, Escape the Room and Puzzle-Adventure games? We never get a variety to choose from, all we get are the same few genres in the same series by the same developers. It used to be exciting to wake up to see a brand new game, now everyone just says "oh, it's just another game by..."
This particular developer mass-produces these games with little thought or consideration to the quality of the game or its features. Reviewers state over and over that they want to be able to remove all cards, not just the special cards, but they never bother to offer Solitaire games that will please "we the people" because that would require changing something besides the title and background!
Once again, there are 9 uninteresting Card Graphic Themes to choose from and 3 Font sizes (traditional, themed, and large font). The music isn't bad, but yes, it too is the same, not to mention that at times the music pauses and you're left with an awkward silence. Once again, nothing changed with these features!
As usual, the game begins with a tutorial in Newbie Mode which allows you to replay any level. After completing the tutorial or opting out by clicking on the tutorial X, you can choose the Professional Mode which only allows you to play the entire 10 level pack. These are the same level layouts as all of their other numerous solitaire games, sometimes they switch the order or the levels, sometimes they don't. Have you ever noticed that the first level's tutorial always makes you choose the worse possible cards instead of the chain that would remove more cards? You know how to play this game if you've ever played a game by this developer so click the X on the tutorial to choose the best scenario of cards on level one. Have you ever noticed that the first level can be completed by removing every single card in an attempt to make the player believe that this is how the entire game will be...that's just not the case! Have you ever noticed that level 5 of every solitaire game they offer, requires you to replay the level 10-15 times to beat it, which takes up nearly the entire demo? It's because nothing ever changes!
This is a Higher/Lower style Solitaire game (of course it is) where the only goal is to remove all of the Gold Cards. Once the gold cards have been collected, you will earn the maximum amount of points and the game ends even if other regular cards remain. You don't have a choice to continue playing at this point, it's game over! If you remove all gold cards you'll get a perfect score and the points of that level are added to the next level similar to bowling scores. You must earn the required amount of points to unlock the next location and there are 20 Locations with 10 levels per location. Yup, still the same feature!
When you remove cards with a Flower you will receive either +499 points, a Joker, a Shuffle, or Mulligan (undo) and you can buy Jokers, Shuffles, and Mulligans within the Shop with the points you have earned, at a ridiculous price point of 2500-8000-5000. Lucky us, they decided to add several more bonus cards per level which translates to an agonizing game interruption because the game freezes to show you what you have just won. Surprise, there are no surprises!
Once again, this game states that there are Achievements to earn, but I've yet to earn one, but then again, I never buy them anymore, therefore, I never play further than the demo because I have no desire to waste money on a game that has nothing new to offer, and never gives me the option to continue playing after removing all Gold Cards. I refuse to even use a PCC.
When and if they decide to change something other than the title and occasionally the background graphics, I may consider buying them, but only if they make an option that allows me to remove all of the cards, not just the Gold Cards. Until they bother to change something, anything...I will continue giving them a single star, I'd give them ZERO stars if I could! Come join me on my new forum thewoodsforum.boards.net
I don't recommend this game.