Kirbmeister's Profile
Stat Summary
- Average Rating:3.1
- Helpful Votes:91
- Reviews Submitted:16
- First Review:December 31, 2012
- Most Recent Review:February 25, 2016
- Featured reviews0
As an agent of the Alliance, you’ve been given a mission to destroy an ancient artifact known as the Spear of Destiny. In the wrong hands, it could help conquer the world.
Overall rating
5
/
5
6 of 6 found this review helpful
This Games's Features Puts Most CE Games To Shame
PostedFebruary 25, 2016
Kirbmeister
fromMore Features Than Most CE Games Try It!
Skill Level:Expert
Favorite Genre(s):Hidden Object, Adventure
Fun Factor
5
/
5
Visual/Sound Quality
5
/
5
Level of Challenge
4
/
5
Storyline
5
/
5
Being an individual who is fascinated with the history of WWII, I was familiar with the story of how the leaders of certain governments were totally committed to finding "paranormal" or "magical" rituals and objects in order to help them prevail in this conflict. The story of the Spear of Destiny is one which long predates the 1930s and 1940s, but it was in fact searched for with great effort during the war. I was a bit disappointed with the actual amount of WWII history in the storyline. The developers used the Spear as just another "quest object" set against the backdrop of the war. Some of the backgrounds seemed "mythological" and at some times appeared as if they may have been designed originally for another game with WWII elements added. That being said, the graphics are excellent and the quest is as entertaining as any out there. What is most appealing about this game are the special features usually found only in CE versions. These include collectibles and achievements. The game play is fluid, the HOS are challenging and the puzzles are varied and require some thought. I tried very hard to find all of the collections and was distraught when at the end, I had missed three objects along the way. This is a quest game, however, it is unique in it's subject matter. I enjoyed it all the way through. I hope that WWII with it's huge number of fascinating true stories makes it's way into many more games in the future.
I recommend this game!
Is Martha really a werewolf - or has she been wrongly accused?
Overall rating
3
/
5
2 of 3 found this review helpful
This Game Clears the Fence....But Barely
PostedFebruary 17, 2016
Kirbmeister
fromWorld traveled but staying in Alabama, U.S.A.
Skill Level:Expert
Favorite Genre(s):Hidden Object, Adventure
Fun Factor
3
/
5
Visual/Sound Quality
3
/
5
Level of Challenge
3
/
5
Storyline
2
/
5
This game had the potential to be a really excellent game. Unfortunately, it seems to have been shortchanged. The story line is worn, (Werewolf), the game play shows signs of laziness or inattention and the soundtrack is tedious with continuous wolf howls every time your character is outside. You play of course as "Detective", wow that is new. You are investigating a series of animal attacks which some believe are due to wolves and some blame on a werewolf. One unique feature which is totally botched is your ability to investigate a new character with your magnifying glass and make determinations concerning that person based on physical clues you see. This is rendered stupid. For example when you look at an elderly gentleman hanging upside down in a snare intended for a wolf and by simply looking at his face you determine his age, health and the fact he will die in twenty minutes. That is some great detecting. Yet you are not smart enough to have a pocket knife in order to cut him down and save his life. This is basically a mini HOS disguised as something new. There is another feature known as the "Analyzer". This allows you to place "Unknown Objects" into it to determine what they are. You are asked a series of questions which you either get right the first time or you keep on until you do get them right. There is no reward for getting it correct or any penalty for not. You get it right in the end which is simply a waste of time in a new way. Another sign of time wasting is the use of two "keys" to open a lock. Instead of just one medallion to place in a chest, you need a medallion and a gem, (you get the idea). This game is good enough to rate a purchase ON SALE, but barely. It is too good to overlook, but not good enough to get excited about. If you love the wolf theme you may get more out of it. As it is, the newer ideas the developers attempted just add a burden and do not provide any benefit to the player.
I recommend this game!
Use your Hidden Object skills to track down and stop the notorious Sweeney Todd! Find crucial clues to piece together the mystery.
Overall rating
2
/
5
6 of 6 found this review helpful
Who Could Like This Game?
PostedSeptember 17, 2015
Kirbmeister
fromWorld traveled but staying in Alabama, U.S.A.
Skill Level:Expert
Favorite Genre(s):Hidden Object, Adventure
Fun Factor
2
/
5
Visual/Sound Quality
3
/
5
Level of Challenge
2
/
5
Storyline
3
/
5
I came to this game late. No one will probably ever read this because this is the second review written this year. But for my own sake, I must say this.
What is good about this game? Well, if you like HOS, you are in luck. That is about all there is in this game. There are a lot of them. That's all that is good.
What is bad about this game? Well, let me start with stealing the soundtrack from the musical to introduce every major scene. A musical HOG? There is an annoying policeman who comments continuously throughout the game. Irritating you until you mute the game. There are no characters in the game, except in cinematics. You wander around the dark streets of London by yourself, (except for THE VOICE). The HOS are dark, the items are not to scale, a thimble is larger than a "parasol" and many items are microscopic and difficult to see. Items are mislabeled. A large ceramic vessel with "ears"\handles is NOT a bottle. The map does not help you determine where you need to do your work, although it does allow you to jump, (only because you cannot move back and forth between scenes without it).The "Help" button does nothing except pick objects in a HOS. The game has no flow, no rhythm and is BORING. Of hundreds of HO games, this is in a class all it's own. LOW CLASS. That is not even all that is bad.
I was amazed at the high rating, until I really looked at the reviews. Only three were less than two years old. Games have come a long way. There were only slightly more than thirty reviews in nearly four years. That means not a lot of people have commented on this game. Most people who dislike a game do not bother to write a review. I did.
I don't recommend this game.
Nightmares from the Deep: The Siren's Call
Face off against Davy Jones and his nightmares from the deep!
Overall rating
5
/
5
1 of 1 found this review helpful
An Enjoyable Mix of History, Folklore, Pirates and Mermaids
PostedSeptember 15, 2015
Kirbmeister
fromWorld traveled but staying in Alabama, U.S.A.
Skill Level:Expert
Favorite Genre(s):Hidden Object, Time Management
Fun Factor
5
/
5
Visual/Sound Quality
5
/
5
Level of Challenge
4
/
5
Storyline
4
/
5
After playing either the complete or demo version of hundreds of HO games, I only write a review on games I find above average, extremely poor or that contain some unique element not normally found in other games. I found that this game does the following extremely well:
Continues and Improves on a Successful Series - This is a continuation of the story of the Curator of a Nautical Museum and her daughter involved in the world of Pirate history and folklore. Although some elements, particularly puzzles may be repackaged, in general this game is unique and the best of the rest of the series is improved upon. Read other reviews for more background story.
Handles a "Fantasy" Theme - Mixing historical Pirates and modern life creates an imaginary environment which although fictional, is presented in a believable manner and contains real historical elements. Fantasy is not my favorite genre, however, this game makes it real enough to enjoy your trip.
Handles Cinematics and the Required Delivery of a Backstory - I normally skip almost all cinematics if I am able to because they are usually boring and long. In most games they are often a screen pan or a zoom in or out of a static image. In this game, they are active, visually striking and rival some enjoyable, (although older) video games. Many of this game's cinematics are interactive requiring the player to contribute to the scene to reach it's completion. You also have the option to Skip them. The requisite background story is delivered through the common use of journals/diaries of various characters, but also an interaction with a shriveled sea creature with sad eyes, guarding a chest. Throughout the game you collect tokens which when delivered to the creature, prompt him to tell a small amount of the backstory. Each of his story additions as well as the journal entries are short and may be skipped. The delivery of the tokens is a necessary part of completing the game, watching the clips is not.
Handles Character Dialogue - Listening to the characters may be skipped, but even more appealing is that if you can read faster than they speak, you can click on the screen and advance the dialogue. This allows you to get the information you need without waiting as a character drones slowly on.
Requires the Player to Perform More Realistic Actions - Putting a key near a lock does not automatically open the object. You must insert the key, turn the key and push the handle to open a door. Using a tool like a screwdriver requires removing each screw individually. Breaking an object with an ax or a hammer, etc. requires that you strike the object more than one time.
With evil villains, heroes and heroines, vibrant scenes, a fantastic tale and a "fishy" love story, this game has something for every HO gamer. It is presented in an immersive manner and moves along without creating boredom. It certainly gained a place on my list of favorite HO games.
I recommend this game!
Stop the disaster caused by the Sky Kingdom and save the day!
Overall rating
3
/
5
4 of 5 found this review helpful
A Scavenger Hunt At A Locksmith Convention
PostedSeptember 8, 2015
Kirbmeister
fromWorld traveled but staying in Alabama, U.S.A.
Skill Level:Expert
Favorite Genre(s):Puzzle, Hidden Object
Fun Factor
3
/
5
Visual/Sound Quality
3
/
5
Level of Challenge
2
/
5
Storyline
2
/
5
This game could have been great, it isn't. Some will love the graphic quality of the game which is "special". Some will love the use of the "Jack and the Beanstalk" story line. But if you love locks and keys, you MUST have this game.
After playing completely or playing the demo of over 400 HO games, I wrote a list of the actions you will find in EVERY HO game. The top of that list was using a key to unlock something. From real keys for doors, drawers, chests and padlocks to crests, medallions, gems, bas relief pieces, lockets and all manner of inserts this game has them all. And that is about all. At least 85% of the actions you take in the demo involve finding keys, opening objects where you find keys to open other objects. Even the HO scenes when you complete them reward you with what else, another key.
No climbing ropes, fighting evil, building spaceships or even hammering a nail. Nope finding keys and using keys. You do get to plant a couple of beans. I know many will love it for various reasons, but I can not recommend a game so devoted to one type of game play. If you think every locked object is like a beautifully wrapped present and you can't wait to open it. BUY THIS GAME NOW ! If you like a variety of action, it may not be for you.
I don't recommend this game.
Do you have the courage to stop the inquisitor?
Overall rating
4
/
5
4 of 7 found this review helpful
Give the Demo a Try - Game is Better Than Rating
PostedSeptember 8, 2015
Kirbmeister
fromWorld traveled but staying in Alabama, U.S.A.
Skill Level:Expert
Favorite Genre(s):Hidden Object, Time Management
Fun Factor
4
/
5
Visual/Sound Quality
4
/
5
Level of Challenge
3
/
5
Storyline
5
/
5
I always read the low rated reviews first. Many complained about the lack of extras for a C.E. version. I agree with this. I wish this were packaged as a non C.E. game. Some complained it was "Old School". Well some of the games I still enjoy the most fit that description. There may be some new twists that HO games use now, however, that alone does not make a good game. I can still enjoy a HO game if it delivers the necessities, which this game does.
What I did like was what I thought was a great story line and believable characters. The villain reminds me of Scrooge, a personal hero of mine. The guard is a smarta** and the others feel and act true to form. The graphics are realistic, cohesive and true to the period. There is not a lot of fantasy, voodoo, magic and fairy tale in the game.
The bottom line is you may find it traditional in some of its components, but I don't see that as automatically bad. It is disappointing as a C.E. and I won't buy it until it is at a great sale price. But, you owe it to yourself to play the demo, give the game a chance and make up your own mind.
Don't dismiss it due to the rating. The highest rated game I played last month (a 4.9), was a stinker in my opinion. Be your own judge.
I recommend this game!
Reunite the Dragon and Phoenix Kingdoms to stop the evil witch!
Overall rating
3
/
5
4 of 4 found this review helpful
Saw the Super High Rating, Expected Greatness, Didn't Happen
PostedSeptember 5, 2015
Kirbmeister
fromWorld traveled but staying in Alabama, U.S.A.
Skill Level:Expert
Favorite Genre(s):Hidden Object, Time Management
Fun Factor
3
/
5
Visual/Sound Quality
3
/
5
Level of Challenge
2
/
5
Storyline
2
/
5
This is the first review of this game written in over a year. Should you happen to stumble across it here is my analysis. BFG stuck it in as a "Game I Would Love" selection.I saw the 4.9 star rating and immediately played the demo. I was dumbfounded. There was nothing about this game that merits such a superior rating. I went back to read some of the reviews and realized that the game was released over three years ago. A lot has happened in gaming since then. Nearly all of the praise was years old. I suppose back then it may have seemed great, but today only average. The graphics are rustic, the plot line predictable the game play is average at best, and the HOs and puzzles are on the easy side. If you are a fan of fantasy themes you may like this game, however, so many better ones are out now that I cannot see why anyone would bother to purchase this game now. I have games that are several years old which when I purchased them, I thought they were the best games ever. When I go back and replay them now, I feel disappointed. This is that type of game.
I don't recommend this game.
A man has gone missing in the town of Rockshire, but the townspeople deny he was ever there. What dark secret are they hiding?
Overall rating
3
/
5
9 of 11 found this review helpful
I Cannot See What All the Excitement Is About
PostedAugust 17, 2015
Kirbmeister
fromWorld traveled but staying in Alabama, U.S.A.
Fun Factor
3
/
5
Visual/Sound Quality
3
/
5
Level of Challenge
3
/
5
Storyline
2
/
5
I admit this review comes after only playing the demo. I suppose it is possible that the game gets better if you play it entirely. It that is true the designers should consider putting some of their best work up front. As it stands, this is a completely average game. Since others have covered it in detail, I will be brief.
1. Too many "forced" cinematics at the beginning. I am not a fan of them to begin with and to be unable to stop them is a visual hijacking.
2. Story line is a total retread. Used dozens of times with minor twists.
3. Game play and HOs not original.
2. Story line is a total retread. Used dozens of times with minor twists.
3. Game play and HOs not original.
Basically, if you have played 30 to 40 HO games, you must have seen all of this before. If you have played hundreds, you are just wondering if this is really a "New" game. It is too good to rate a two or to not recommend it, because some will like it. However, if you are experienced in the genre, spend your money elsewhere.
I recommend this game!
Find a kidnapped teenage girl and save yourself in Enigmatis: The Ghosts of Maple Creek, a fun Hidden Object Puzzle Adventure game!
Overall rating
3
/
5
1 of 1 found this review helpful
I REALLY wanted to like this game more. Ends up in the middle of the pack.
PostedAugust 17, 2015
Kirbmeister
fromWorld traveled but staying in Alabama
Skill Level:Expert
Favorite Genre(s):Hidden Object, Time Management
Fun Factor
3
/
5
Visual/Sound Quality
3
/
5
Level of Challenge
3
/
5
Storyline
3
/
5
I played the demo after seeing the popularity of this game on the BF website. Although the graphics have the look of a rustic painting style which I was not overly fond of, the game had good initial game play. I was especially interested in the addition of the "Evidence" feature. I purchased the game and only then did I discover the games shortcomings, which were not that evident in the demo. There are nearly 50 different "areas" where you travel to collect clues, search HOs and solve puzzles. That does not include the 10 or so extra sites you pass through as a navigational puzzle which are not seen after completion of that puzzle. The HO scenes use some clever techniques to disguise objects. Those players not used to using the Hint button may find themselves doing so.
The additional investigation feature proved to be interesting. Often you play as a "Detective" in HO games, but rarely do you have to assemble clues on suspects, victims, murder weapons or crime sites. This part was good.
What killed the entire fun for me was the fact that although this game has a map which indicates where actions exist, you cannot simply click on that site and go there. No interactive map means you spend a mind numbing amount of time clicking the back and forth arrow to navigate around. It is torture to move to one end of the map, collect an item, move to the other end, use the item, collect another and find you must return to an area right next to the one where you started. Basically the game just makes you run around to eat up time.
I am going to recommend this game with this Warning. You will need patience if you want to complete it. The bad map design drags what should be an above average game down to mediocrity.
I recommend this game!
A stay at a peaceful hotel turns into a nightmare when a witch from the Twilight World takes your daughter!
Overall rating
2
/
5
7 of 7 found this review helpful
I Really Tried To Give It A Chance - Just Nothing For Me
PostedAugust 14, 2015
Kirbmeister
fromWorld traveled but staying in Alabama
Skill Level:Expert
Favorite Genre(s):Hidden Object, Time Management
Fun Factor
2
/
5
Visual/Sound Quality
2
/
5
Level of Challenge
2
/
5
Storyline
2
/
5
I read the other reviews in order to see what people thought was good about this game. Some commented on it being for children which was my first thought when I saw the graphics. They looked like a combination of cutouts from magazines placed on drawings from a seventh grade art class. The people who thought these graphics were great, must like a different environment than me.
When the game used three of the most overused tactics in the HO game world in the first scene, I was even more distraught. Pick lock with paper clip or similar item. Douse fire to get object and pacify animal to get out of your way.
In addition, my "daughter" who convinced me to stay at this witch hotel to begin with sat on the bed with a non-changing stupid grin on her face while I worked the room for clues until the witch finally came along and knocked her out. Thank goodness.
I just could not find enough to this game to even finish the demo. Children may like it. But maybe I am just being nice.