kerisue96's Profile
Stat Summary
- Average Rating:4.3
- Helpful Votes:9
- Reviews Submitted:4
- First Review:December 23, 2017
- Most Recent Review:August 1, 2018
- Featured reviews0
kerisue96's Review History
Can you keep the past from destroying the present?
Overall rating
5
/
5
0 of 3 found this review helpful
Gaming Review: Mystery Case Files: Rewind
PostedAugust 1, 2018
kerisue96
fromCharlotte, NC
Skill Level:Intermediate
Favorite Genre(s):Hidden Object, Puzzle
Fun Factor
5
/
5
Visual/Sound Quality
5
/
5
Level of Challenge
4
/
5
Storyline
5
/
5
From Eipix Entertainment comes another hauntingly beautiful installment to the Mystery Case Files franchise: Rewind.
Rewind masterfully brings back everything we’ve all known and loved about the MCF game series, throwing it all the way back to classics such as Huntsville and Ravenhearst. In Rewind, you play as the ever vigilant and highly intelligent Master Detective, who travels to the Victory Hotel. As expected, this is not your average, ordinary hotel. Upon arrival, you discover that the people from your past cases are trapped there, pulled from their own timelines by one from the evil Dalimar clan. Beat the clock and save the timelines in this MCF thriller of the year!
Ratings (Out of 5)
Fun Factor 5/5
I absolutely adored this game! I don’t think I’ve had this much fun with a Mystery Case Files game, or any HOPA game for that matter, in a long while. The fun I experienced was exciting and kept me on my toes. It elicited the strong urge of just wanting to keep pushing forward until you reached the end, except you never really wanted it to end. With new and old formats and game mechanics implemented, along with challenging puzzles, pretty and complex HOPs, and the heat of time on your heels, Rewind definitely maxes out the fun meter for me.
I absolutely adored this game! I don’t think I’ve had this much fun with a Mystery Case Files game, or any HOPA game for that matter, in a long while. The fun I experienced was exciting and kept me on my toes. It elicited the strong urge of just wanting to keep pushing forward until you reached the end, except you never really wanted it to end. With new and old formats and game mechanics implemented, along with challenging puzzles, pretty and complex HOPs, and the heat of time on your heels, Rewind definitely maxes out the fun meter for me.
Graphics & Sound Quality 5/5
I’ve always loved the way that Mystery Case Files was designed and put together. Despite being dark and dreary and creepy, it’s still so pretty. Each scene I encountered in this game was drawn up perfectly, and all of the colors just popped. This applies to not only still scenes, but cutscenes as well. The sound was also done well. Not too much or too little of one thing or ring. And if, for some odd reason, you wanted to skip over the cinematics and get right into the gameplay, that option was available to you.
I’ve always loved the way that Mystery Case Files was designed and put together. Despite being dark and dreary and creepy, it’s still so pretty. Each scene I encountered in this game was drawn up perfectly, and all of the colors just popped. This applies to not only still scenes, but cutscenes as well. The sound was also done well. Not too much or too little of one thing or ring. And if, for some odd reason, you wanted to skip over the cinematics and get right into the gameplay, that option was available to you.
Level of Challenge 4/5
I played on the recommended intermediate, or Master Detective, level for this one, and I’m definitely pleased with my choices. It had the right amount limitations and hoops you had to jump through in order to progress through the game. They didn’t make it too easy for you, but it also wasn’t ridiculously easy. More challenging in some places, more breezy in others, the game had the perfect formulation of challenges and obstacles that led to a satisfying payout.
I played on the recommended intermediate, or Master Detective, level for this one, and I’m definitely pleased with my choices. It had the right amount limitations and hoops you had to jump through in order to progress through the game. They didn’t make it too easy for you, but it also wasn’t ridiculously easy. More challenging in some places, more breezy in others, the game had the perfect formulation of challenges and obstacles that led to a satisfying payout.
Storyline 5/5
This story was so interesting and complex. It really captured my attention in many different ways. The story tapped into my nostalgia very much so, as it referenced many old games and cases that I had already played in the past, and I loved it. It was exciting, being able to relive the old gems, while still being able to experience something new and fun. And despite the many different storylines that were thrown in from previous games, it wasn’t jumbled and messy in a way that might have come off as annoying. The way it was written made everything flow together in this natural progression, even with all the mess. Yes, it was chaotic, but that fit the premise of the story of this particular game. The chaos almost gave off this vibe of a perfect storm, and I reveled in it. The only draw back I can see with the story in this game, is that if you have yet to play the game’s predecessors, you may have some trouble following along with all of the throwback references that make up what it is all about. But hey, even more reason to go back and play the old ones, right?
Overall Rating 5/5
In my personal opinion, one of the best, if not the best, Mystery Case Files game I’ve ever played. Twists, turns, mystery, intrigue, challenge, fun – you name it, this game has it. There’s really not much else to say other than that this game rocks and you need to go play it. You really do not want to miss out on what this game delivers!
This story was so interesting and complex. It really captured my attention in many different ways. The story tapped into my nostalgia very much so, as it referenced many old games and cases that I had already played in the past, and I loved it. It was exciting, being able to relive the old gems, while still being able to experience something new and fun. And despite the many different storylines that were thrown in from previous games, it wasn’t jumbled and messy in a way that might have come off as annoying. The way it was written made everything flow together in this natural progression, even with all the mess. Yes, it was chaotic, but that fit the premise of the story of this particular game. The chaos almost gave off this vibe of a perfect storm, and I reveled in it. The only draw back I can see with the story in this game, is that if you have yet to play the game’s predecessors, you may have some trouble following along with all of the throwback references that make up what it is all about. But hey, even more reason to go back and play the old ones, right?
Overall Rating 5/5
In my personal opinion, one of the best, if not the best, Mystery Case Files game I’ve ever played. Twists, turns, mystery, intrigue, challenge, fun – you name it, this game has it. There’s really not much else to say other than that this game rocks and you need to go play it. You really do not want to miss out on what this game delivers!
I recommend this game!
Can you and your sister escape the deadly history of Reed Valley?
Overall rating
5
/
5
6 of 9 found this review helpful
Gaming Review: Phantasmat: Deja Vu
PostedAugust 1, 2018
kerisue96
fromCharlotte, NC
Skill Level:Intermediate
Favorite Genre(s):Hidden Object, Puzzle
Fun Factor
5
/
5
Visual/Sound Quality
5
/
5
Level of Challenge
4
/
5
Storyline
5
/
5
From the developers at Eipix Entertainment comes the latest installment of the Phantasmat series: Déjà Vu.
In Déjà Vu, you play as Matthew, the brother to Faith, your sister who has been suffering from terrible nightmares after witnessing the death of her parents in a horrific car accident. All attempts to cure Faith’s nightmares have lead nowhere – no treatments are working and no doctors can help her. Desperate and out of ideas, Matthew and Faith embark on a journey to the small town of Reed Valley, Louisiana, home to a well-known hypnotherapist, Dr. Ryan. But things quickly start to take a dark turn when Faith disappears shortly after seeing Dr. Ryan. Strange things start to happen around this sketchy hypnotherapist’s house and the town of Reed Valley, and it’s up to you to work your way through the deadly secrets and dark apparitions of Phantasmat: Déjà Vu.
Ratings (Out of 5)
Fun Factor 5/5
The last time I played a Phantasmat game, I was left thoroughly disappointed and barely had a lick of fun. Yet, come Phantasmat: Déjà Vu, it’s like the developers made a complete 180 and things came out so much better. They took what worked from previous games and transformed it into something amazingly creepy and intriguing. I really enjoyed the twists that were put on the traditional games we all know and love, while still remaining true to the heart of the game. The fun factor definitely went up all the way to the top. I was completely immersed in this game, loving the story, the atmosphere, the hidden objects, the variety of different puzzles, the animations, interactions, and other playables, just all of it, I loved it. I had so much fun playing this, its dark and twisty elements really keeping me engaged throughout the entirety of the game.
The last time I played a Phantasmat game, I was left thoroughly disappointed and barely had a lick of fun. Yet, come Phantasmat: Déjà Vu, it’s like the developers made a complete 180 and things came out so much better. They took what worked from previous games and transformed it into something amazingly creepy and intriguing. I really enjoyed the twists that were put on the traditional games we all know and love, while still remaining true to the heart of the game. The fun factor definitely went up all the way to the top. I was completely immersed in this game, loving the story, the atmosphere, the hidden objects, the variety of different puzzles, the animations, interactions, and other playables, just all of it, I loved it. I had so much fun playing this, its dark and twisty elements really keeping me engaged throughout the entirety of the game.
Graphics & Sound Quality 5/5
As always, Eipix Entertainment and the Phantasmat franchise does not disappoint when it comes to the graphics and sound quality of the game. The imagery and stage was set up beautifully and was really nice to look at. Each scene was able to hold your gaze for multiple minutes, as there was just so many details and depth to the displays on the screen. I also particularly enjoyed the cutscenes and cinematics that were in this game. Many HOPA games that I have experienced tend to slack off on this area, but not in this one. The soundtrack was mixed with a variety of different tunes, changing scene to scene, really adding to the environment and overall experience. Much work and dedication was put in the making of this game and I definitely noticed and appreciated it. It really does make a difference.
As always, Eipix Entertainment and the Phantasmat franchise does not disappoint when it comes to the graphics and sound quality of the game. The imagery and stage was set up beautifully and was really nice to look at. Each scene was able to hold your gaze for multiple minutes, as there was just so many details and depth to the displays on the screen. I also particularly enjoyed the cutscenes and cinematics that were in this game. Many HOPA games that I have experienced tend to slack off on this area, but not in this one. The soundtrack was mixed with a variety of different tunes, changing scene to scene, really adding to the environment and overall experience. Much work and dedication was put in the making of this game and I definitely noticed and appreciated it. It really does make a difference.
Level of Challenge 4/5
I decided to play this game on the medium, or intermediate, level, basing my decision on how easy I blew through the previous game. While this game is a completely different gem in comparison to its predecessor, I’m still glad I chose to play on the medium level. It offered just enough of a challenge that I needed in order to not get too bored too easily. Some puzzles frustrated me and were ridiculously time-consuming, but other than that, I rather enjoyed the level of challenge that I experienced, and I’m sure that many other players will find something that works best for them as well.
Storyline 5/5
The story in Phantasmat: Déjà Vu definitely exceeded my expectations. It wasn’t boring, I actually cared about what happened to the characters and why I was doing what I was doing to begin with. And the story made sense and left hardly any unanswered questions! The storyline left you with a feeling of fulfillment and achievement, rather than confusion and disappointment. I particularly enjoyed how it didn’t just rely on one type of element to drive the story. It wasn’t just ghosts and hauntings or just a bad man or just a personal issue that needed to be solved. It was a combination of all of these things that gave the story depth and meaning. Hopefully Eipix Entertainment and the Phantasmat franchise will keep doing things like this in future games!
Overall Rating 5/5
Overall, I am extremely pleased with this game. Check all the boxes: gameplay, storyline, graphics, sound, replayability, et cetera – they were all done right. In my opinion, everything about this game hit its mark. Games like this are what get me excited for future games from the developers and the franchise. You DO NOT want to miss out on this thrilling adventure of a game!
I decided to play this game on the medium, or intermediate, level, basing my decision on how easy I blew through the previous game. While this game is a completely different gem in comparison to its predecessor, I’m still glad I chose to play on the medium level. It offered just enough of a challenge that I needed in order to not get too bored too easily. Some puzzles frustrated me and were ridiculously time-consuming, but other than that, I rather enjoyed the level of challenge that I experienced, and I’m sure that many other players will find something that works best for them as well.
Storyline 5/5
The story in Phantasmat: Déjà Vu definitely exceeded my expectations. It wasn’t boring, I actually cared about what happened to the characters and why I was doing what I was doing to begin with. And the story made sense and left hardly any unanswered questions! The storyline left you with a feeling of fulfillment and achievement, rather than confusion and disappointment. I particularly enjoyed how it didn’t just rely on one type of element to drive the story. It wasn’t just ghosts and hauntings or just a bad man or just a personal issue that needed to be solved. It was a combination of all of these things that gave the story depth and meaning. Hopefully Eipix Entertainment and the Phantasmat franchise will keep doing things like this in future games!
Overall Rating 5/5
Overall, I am extremely pleased with this game. Check all the boxes: gameplay, storyline, graphics, sound, replayability, et cetera – they were all done right. In my opinion, everything about this game hit its mark. Games like this are what get me excited for future games from the developers and the franchise. You DO NOT want to miss out on this thrilling adventure of a game!
I recommend this game!
Can you and your friends escape what’s lurking in the mist?
Overall rating
3
/
5
1 of 1 found this review helpful
Gaming Review: Phantasmat: Curse of the Mist
PostedJuly 26, 2018
kerisue96
fromCharlotte, NC
Skill Level:Intermediate
Favorite Genre(s):Hidden Object, Puzzle, Strategy
Fun Factor
2
/
5
Visual/Sound Quality
5
/
5
Level of Challenge
3
/
5
Storyline
2
/
5
I've been a fan of the Phantasmat game series ever since I had the opportunity to play the first one some years back. Overall, I have been pretty happy with the output I have been getting, continuing to purchase new games from the franchise as they are released. The most recent game I have played from this series is Phantasmat: Curse of the Mist.
In Curse of the Mist, the 10th installment to the Phantasmat game series, we follow a group of friends amidst a camping trip gone terribly wrong. A creepy fog rolls in, and in the middle of the night, one of your friends is kidnapped, dragged into this thick and ominous mist. In order to figure out the dark happenings surrounding this deadly mist, you must work through ghoulish woods, mysterious mansions, and abandoned factories. Will you and your friends be able to escape this macabre mist? Or will you all succumb and become apart of the mist yourselves?
Ratings (Out of 5)
Fun Factor 2.5/5
Curse of the Mist wasn't the worst game I've ever experienced, but it definitely wasn't the most fun. I had very little motivation to continue on throughout the game, only completing it out of principle really. The HOPs were all pretty similar and kind of basic, the other puzzles and mini-games following a similar pattern. They were all just alright, borderline subpar. This game struggled to hold my interest as much as I wished it actually had. I have definitely experienced more "fun" out of the other games in the franchise.
Graphics & Sound Quality 5/5
Despite some of the other issues I may have with this game, the graphics and sound quality is not one of them. The cinematics are done nicely. Cutscenes transition in and out of gameplay very well. The soundtrack flows with the overall environment of the game. The imagery and attention to detail were not ignored and held up wonderfully. Check all the boxes in this category, because the developer's did them right.
Level of Challenge 3/5
I'm giving this a middle of the road rating, mainly because I only played this on one difficulty, that being casual. But even on casual difficulty, it was abnormally easy. There wasn't much of a challenge, even to the supposedly more "difficult" puzzles. I flew through the game, only getting stuck on things that literally made no sense towards the progression. It didn't challenge my brain as much as I wish it had.
Storyline 2/5
Ok, I have never been so disconnected from a story in a game in my life. How this all was strung together so messily in the final product, I have no idea. You start off as a member of a group of friends apart of a camping trip gone awry, but then you get dragged into this "mist", trying to figure out why it is there and what caused it to begin with. But we never get any real clear answers in the end? Even the bonus chapter that is available in the Collector's Edition doesn't aid much in the mystery of the story. With the game as a whole being short in general, there was not much room to really even place a nicely developed storyline, which was nothing more than a poorly executed chain of events.
Overall Rating 3/5
Overall, not the best thing to come out of Phantasmat or Eipix Entertainment. After playing this, I'm just left wishing I had a little bit more of everything. More fun, more story, more challenge. Not acutely terrible - I'd recommend playing it if you're interested in completing every game in the series and checking this one off your list.
I recommend this game!
Can you stop the Revenant before it's too late?
Overall rating
4
/
5
2 of 6 found this review helpful
Gaming Review: Mystery Case Files: The Revenant’s Hunt
PostedDecember 23, 2017
kerisue96
fromCharlotte, NC
Skill Level:Intermediate
Favorite Genre(s):Hidden Object, Puzzle
Fun Factor
3
/
5
Visual/Sound Quality
4
/
5
Level of Challenge
4
/
5
Storyline
3
/
5
I’ve been with the Mystery Case Files franchise since I was a kid and stumbled upon the disc version of Ravenhearst – and I can confidently say I loved the series then, and I still love it now.
The Revenant’s Hunt is the most recent installment of the Mystery Case Files series and we are once again journeying as the Master Detective, trying to crack open a case at the request of the Queen of England herself. This mystery brings us to an American town known as Avondel where there have been reports of a dangerous, supernatural creature terrorizing the small community. You’ll have to dig through remnants of the past, as well as the problems of the present, in order to uncover the dark secrets of a fiery car crash from the 1980’s and save the lives of those remaining in Avondel.
Ratings (Out of 5)
Fun Factor 3.5/5
Compared to the other games that this franchise has come out with in the past, The Revenant’s Hunt just really didn’t stand out as amazing. It was a good game and I’d definitely play it again, but I feel like games of the past have engulfed me more. I feel like I have seen similar versions of all of the puzzles before and I was just itching for something new and exciting. I wasn’t bored, per se, but the game as a whole definitely could have packed more of a punch.
Graphics & Sound Quality 4/5
As always, the quality of the graphics that Mystery Case Files produces is A+. No glitches, excellent transitions between cut scenes and gameplay, and beautiful scenery and attention to detail all throughout. The soundtrack for the game was also done well. The only thing that really bothered me about the music was the choice for the exact same soundtrack to be played for each HOP and the tune being some strange, slow and old, melody.
Level of Challenge 4/5
I chose to play on casual and the level of challenge definitely matched pretty evenly with the difficulty level that I chose. The puzzles weren’t too difficult to track and it was easy enough to follow the line of clues. I assume that the other difficulty levels would match with the level of challenge and would suit different players who are on different tiers.
Storyline 3/5
The storyline was decent, but I have definitely heard the story before in some way or another. A group of friends making a deadly mistake back when they are teenagers and having it come back to bite them later in the form of a spirit with a thirst for revenge? We all know the tale. That doesn’t mean the story was bad or hard to follow. It was executed well and rounded up nicely.
Overall Rating 3.5/5
Overall, The Revenant’s Hunt was a fun HOP game and I enjoyed my time playing it. It was a good installment to the Mystery Case Files franchise and I’d definitely recommend it to lovers of the series, as well as lovers of the hidden object puzzle.
I recommend this game!