Winklepots's Profile
Stat Summary
- Average Rating:3.9
- Helpful Votes:420
- Reviews Submitted:36
- First Review:December 10, 2011
- Most Recent Review:November 26, 2012
- Featured reviews0
Status:
Help Santa find the items he needs on Christmas Eve! Let Holly: A Christmas Tale fill you with the spirit of the season!
Overall rating
4
/
5
13 of 14 found this review helpful
Played Again and Again
PostedNovember 26, 2012
Fun Factor
4
/
5
Visual/Sound Quality
4
/
5
Level of Challenge
3
/
5
Storyline
4
/
5
This time of year, this is my go to holiday game. I've played it so many times; I can usually complete the whole game in a couple of hours. No worries, it will take the first time player much longer.
Is this game overly complicated? No. Is it a bit child-like? Yes. Is it just plain holiday fun? Heck yeah!
Help Holly save Christmas through various puzzles such as HO scenes, jig-saw puzzles, spot the difference and a few varied others. In one, you'll have to select the correct Santa bag for the country he needs to deliver it too based on the bags decor. A previous reviewer complained about the constellation puzzle, and after having solved it numerous times, I will tell you this; place the large stars first (drag and drop to their spot) and as you add more stars, the outline of the reindeer will become more and more prominent, thus making it easier to place all the stars on their correct spots.
No voiceovers and cheery holiday sounding music. Very cartoonish graphics.
This is just one of those games that an adult can sit back and sail through and a child can enjoy a bit of a challenge and some holiday magic. It's not overly challenging, just simple and fun for the whole family.
I recommend this game!
Novelist Edward Grand has found evidence of a terrible tragedy in the city of Rosemount and sets off to investigate!
Overall rating
4
/
5
Put on a Parka and Let's Go!
PostedJune 29, 2012
Winklepots
Skill Level:Expert
Favorite Genre(s):Adventure, Time Management, Hidden Object, Puzzle
Fun Factor
5
/
5
Visual/Sound Quality
5
/
5
Level of Challenge
4
/
5
Storyline
4
/
5
Travel to an icy village in search of your man who's gone missing. Encounter an evil ice witch, make snarky comments about her (my fave part), and help free trapped souls from their human popsicle forms.
There are three modes of game play; I chose to play on advanced which meant only hidden object scenes were sparkly and the hint button was only available during HO scenes. This did make it a challenge to locate items within scenes; all you can do is hover over every inch and hope you find something you need. I did have to use the walk through once because I couldn't find the final gravestone number. I knew I needed it but had no idea where it was after combing through all the scenes again.
I really enjoyed the music, in fact, some of it was really lovely. The HO scenes are crisp so finding objects isn't a problem. The puzzles are easy enough to solve yet still challenging. There are a couple towards the end that left me just clicking around until I solved them. The characters don't talk, and there's no voice overs, so you'll be reading dialogue.
There is a nice mix of puzzles, hidden object (with a few interactive items) and adventure in this game. It all balances out nicely together. I loved that when I found an object, I knew what I was going to do with it and I wasn't left with an entire inventory wondering, "Now where the heck am I supposed to use that?"
I'm giving this game 4.5 out of 5 only because I think it needed voice overs and because I finished the game in a little over 3 hours (there's a timer). Overall, fun game though. Check it out.
Happy Gaming!!
"Let them eat cake! With sprinkles. Everything is better with sprinkles."
I recommend this game!
Spend the greatest vacation ever traveling around Australia, Egypt and China! Dive into unforgettable farming fun!
Overall rating
5
/
5
23 of 28 found this review helpful
Got the Mania, Let's do it Again!!
PostedJune 28, 2012
Winklepots
Skill Level:Expert
Favorite Genre(s):Adventure, Time Management, Hidden Object, Puzzle
Fun Factor
5
/
5
Visual/Sound Quality
5
/
5
Level of Challenge
5
/
5
Storyline
5
/
5
I own the second and third of this series, but I have to say that the third is my favorite! I do think it's kind of funny that the characters decide to take a break from farming to go on vacation, only to travel the world entering farming competitions in different countries. :o)
The different locales is part of the reason this game is so much fun. The graphics, story and music are all great. Sometimes I turn the music volume down just because I've played it so much, the music can get a bit repetitive.
Gameplay: You build up your farm, almost from scratch, each time you go to a new location. Though, you do get to keep any worker power-ups that you purchase. You'll add new animals and crops that tie in with the location. Like camels in Egypt and rice in China. About every 5 levels there is a mini game of finding the lost animals, which they've done in both the previous versions of this game. You can locate hint butterflies to find any animals you've missed. After you've completed the game on normal mode, you then unlock arcade mode which is exactly the same, except that you have far less time to complete each level. There are a couple of levels where timing is absolutely everything, if you ever hope to achieve the elusive expert score.
Hours and hours of fun and like i mentioned in the beginning, a repeat play kind of game. I can't wait until the next one! Highly recommend this one if you love farming and/or time management games.
I recommend this game!
Travel to Red Lake Falls to track down the latest Dark Dimension!
Overall rating
3
/
5
5 of 6 found this review helpful
Not as Good as the Last One, but Okay
PostedJune 27, 2012
Winklepots
Skill Level:Expert
Favorite Genre(s):Adventure, Hidden Object, Time Management, Puzzle
Fun Factor
3
/
5
Visual/Sound Quality
4
/
5
Level of Challenge
4
/
5
Storyline
3
/
5
My rating is more a 3.5 than a 3, but can't award half stars. While I may be a minority with a less than 4 rating, hear me out. I played the demo and really enjoyed it, then purchased the game and almost wished I hadn't.
Pros: There are two levels of game play, normal or advanced; I played on advanced which had no sparkle indications of any kind and the hint was slower to recharge. The graphics/music/sounds were great, although the voice overs don't match up with the talking characters (either too fast or too slow). You'll do each HO scene twice and there are interactive objects to find in all of them. I thought they were clear enough to find, but sometimes it took a bit of thinking to figure out where you needed to interact with items to get the end result. This is a really long game. I didn't do it all in one sitting, so it's hard to tell how long I played, but several hours. Definitely worth the price.
Cons: The puzzles! Don't get me wrong, I love puzzles, and while some of them were easy to complete before the skip button charged, others I ended up having to skip because I couldn't for the life of me figure out what the heck they wanted me to do. The Help button at the top would give instructions, but I found them to be less than helpful and very vague. A diagram or image would have been helpful. If I have to exit a game to find a walk through, I'm just going to skip the puzzle. I hate doing that because I really enjoy them. I did skip one because I didn't want to take the time to solve it. I hate number sliding puzzles. :oP
The other con for me was having several items in my inventory and no idea what to do next. Part of the problem may have been that I played on advanced because sometimes after finding an item, an HO scene would be active, but unless I ran my cursor over it, I had no idea. There are also several areas where the magnifying cursor doesn't change when you run it between two separate areas, thus not knowing there are two separate areas to view, not just one.
The other con for me was having several items in my inventory and no idea what to do next. Part of the problem may have been that I played on advanced because sometimes after finding an item, an HO scene would be active, but unless I ran my cursor over it, I had no idea. There are also several areas where the magnifying cursor doesn't change when you run it between two separate areas, thus not knowing there are two separate areas to view, not just one.
I really wanted to love this game, but ended up only thinking it was okay. I don't really look forward to playing it again as it left me more frustrated than anything. Or maybe next time I'll play on regular so at least I know if I've missed something, because apparently, it's too easy to do. I won't recommend or not with this game, but wanted to add my two cents.
Happy Gaming!
"Just because you don't agree with me, doesn't mean I'm wrong. It means we disagree."
A UFO is rumored to have landed in the small town of Tundel and the mayor is trying to conceal it. Run your own journalistic investigation and learn the truth behind the event!
Overall rating
4
/
5
7 of 8 found this review helpful
Foolishly Fun
PostedJune 25, 2012
Winklepots
Skill Level:Expert
Favorite Genre(s):Adventure, Time Management, Hidden Object, Puzzle
Fun Factor
4
/
5
Visual/Sound Quality
4
/
5
Level of Challenge
4
/
5
Storyline
4
/
5
If you're on the fence about this one, definitely check out the demo because it's really hard to put this one into words. Yeah, it's really that different.
And for those wondering, the "adult theme" is really just potty humor and some partial nudity, very cheeky. ;o)
While you're visiting a town to investigate a UFO rumor, your visit really has nothing to do with it and instead, you wander around town, encountering some pretty "interesting" characters and helping them with their problems by finding items anywhere and everywhere. This is NOT an HO game at all. There are a couple of puzzles, but it's really just a humorous adventure game.
Pros: There is a LOT to do in this game so find a way to keep track right off the bat. Extremely long gameplay. I spent hours and hours and hours playing this one (5+). There's never a dull moment with all there is to do and see and people to meet. By the end of the game, I had completed 119 tasks, though I've read that some forum members had 121. Not sure why there's a variance, but there is more than one way to play this one.
Cons: The walk through is less than helpful, in fact, it's missing a LOT of what to do. I suggest visiting the forums if you get stuck. I had about 6 items in my inventory and not one of them was mentioned in the walk through. I won't spoil the end, but yeah, the end was pretty abrupt and disappointing. It's over so fast that you're left wondering if you missed something. Not sure if that means sequel, but it was all pretty confusing. Some of the sounds in the game are obnoxious, but nothing that turning down the volume won't fix.
After playing it once, I know what I'll do differently next time and that's to keep very very good records of where people are and what they need. It adds up fast and if you don't keep track somehow, you will very easily become lost. I would have given this game 5 stars if it weren't for the ending and for not having better tracking within the game. Was still a very fun game and I recommend checking it out.
I recommend this game!
The Dark Piper unleashes infested rodents into the town of Hamelin! Defeat him before he leaves a trail of destruction all across Europe!
Overall rating
4
/
5
3 of 3 found this review helpful
Wow, That Was a Long Game
PostedJune 19, 2012
Fun Factor
4
/
5
Visual/Sound Quality
5
/
5
Level of Challenge
4
/
5
Storyline
5
/
5
I love Blue Tea Games, so was excited to check this one out. It's the story of an evil Pied Piper who's come to Hamelin to exact his revenge on the town for some wrongdoings, of which you'll find out later.
Pros: The graphics and music are great! The HO scenes are clear and easy enough to find. There are usually a couple of interactive objects you need to find in each HO scene. The few puzzles are not too difficult; I was able to finish most before the skip button had charged. There are three levels of play and you can change the level of difficulty twice during game play before the option locks. Guess they want you to make up your mind. :o) This is a pretty long game. I know it took me at least 4+ hours to complete it. There is also a map that shows you where an HO scene is or objective that needs to be completed.
Cons: I wasn't always sure what/how to use some of the items in my inventory. There are several places with magnifying glasses and some are tasks while most are FYI's but there isn't any way to tell the difference. I've had to return to every single scene and click the hint button only to be told "There's nothing to do here." Your "power" options are not always intuitive to use either; sometimes, in using the hint, I've been left with the thought of, "Yeah, okay, how was I supposed to know that?"
Because this game is so long (and because I didn't play all in one sitting) it was very easy to forget where I saw something or where to use a new found item. So much to remember.
Because this game is so long (and because I didn't play all in one sitting) it was very easy to forget where I saw something or where to use a new found item. So much to remember.
With all that said, I think this is a great game. There are bonus morphing objects to find in the scenes as well, that help your hint to recharge faster. I only found 16/20, so I'm anxious to play again and find the ones I missed. A definite play again for me.
I recommend this game!
Save Oz from the evil Victor Vile! Team up with the Scarecrow, Tinman, and the Lion and use their powers to overcome obstacles!
Overall rating
3
/
5
4 of 5 found this review helpful
Lions and Tigers and Illiterati, Oh My!!
PostedMay 12, 2012
Winklepots
Skill Level:Expert
Favorite Genre(s):Adventure, Hidden Object, Time Management, Puzzle
Fun Factor
4
/
5
Visual/Sound Quality
4
/
5
Level of Challenge
3
/
5
Storyline
5
/
5
I've played the first Fiction Fixers (Wonderland) and hoped that they fixed some of the issues I had with that one. I am happy to say that the graphics are far better than Wonderland. Very clear and crisp. I didn't have any issues with the HO scenes, and in fact, didn't use a single hint the entire game.
I played on Expert, which meant that only HO scenes were indicated and nothing else. Also, hints and skips were slower to charge. You won't need them anyway. There were a couple of well hidden objects, but nothing that couldn't be found and the puzzles were only moderately challenging.
I loved that so much of the original story was incorporated. The slippers were silver, the characters needed green glasses to enter the Emerald City and the way that each character "joined" your crew and each had a special gift to help solve problems with. I do wish that you could pick up items along the way that you know you'll need, rather than backtracking to pick them up later when you have a building task. I did like that it told you when an area was completed, so you didn't have to waste your time in the wrong area.
Why only 3 stars? Well, that's because it took me less than two hours to complete. There is a timer and it tells you at the end of the game how long you've played. Maybe if I had skipped something or played on regular mode, two hours would have been okay, but wanting a challenge and not using hints or skips and playing in under two hours, is a bit disappointing.
Fun/cute game; I think it's a great way to pass the time and take a QUICK trip to Oz, if you only have to pay $2.99. Save your credits though.
I recommend this game!
Create the romance of a lifetime! From the perfect proposal to cutting of the cake, bring this charming adventure to life!
Overall rating
5
/
5
23 of 23 found this review helpful
My Favorite Dream Day
PostedMay 9, 2012
Winklepots
Skill Level:Expert
Favorite Genre(s):Adventure, Time Management, Hidden Object, Puzzle
Fun Factor
5
/
5
Visual/Sound Quality
5
/
5
Level of Challenge
4
/
5
Storyline
5
/
5
Of the whole Dream Day series, this one is by FAR my favorite (and I own almost all of them). It's visually stunning; transporting you to each location through sight as well as sounds. True eye candy. It's a lovely departure from the dark and sinister HO games which tend to dominate on BF.
You'll be involved in planning every aspect of a wedding, from the proposal, to choosing the dress and even going on your own honeymoon vacation at the end. There is also a bonus level you can unlock after completing the game in regular mode. You'll be able to play on expert with a bonus level and no puzzle skips.
There is so much more than just HO scenes. The mini games and puzzles keep things moving and interesting. Clean and fix the fountain, search for almonds in the field, engrave the wedding rings, decorate the cake, make ravioli, find the difference, match two and that's just naming a few of them. Never a dull moment and everything ties into the storyline. There are also items you get to design, like the cake, dress and bouquet.
This game is also a good length and you'll spend a few hours completing it the first time around so that you can replay and unlock the bonus level. This is a game I have repeatedly played and will continue to do so anytime I need something lovely and relaxing. It's challenging enough to keep me entertained, but not frustrated, and who doesn't want to travel to Italy?
If you only buy one of the Dream Days, make sure it's this one.
I recommend this game!
Gardenscapes: Mansion Makeover™
Welcome back to Gardenscapes! Turn the hall into a masterpiece!
Overall rating
4
/
5
8 of 10 found this review helpful
Design and HOS in One
PostedMay 8, 2012
Winklepots
Skill Level:Expert
Favorite Genre(s):Adventure, Time Management, Hidden Object, Puzzle
Fun Factor
4
/
5
Visual/Sound Quality
5
/
5
Level of Challenge
3
/
5
Storyline
4
/
5
Let me preface by saying that I did not play the first Gardenscapes, so I can't compare this one to the first. I can, however, say that if you enjoyed playing Dream Day First Home, you'll probably enjoy this game as well.
Pros: The graphics are well done, the interactive features in the hall and scenes are fun, the HO scenes are well lit and not too hard to find, the game is a decent length (took me around 4 hours to complete) and there are two modes of play - with the timer or without. The butler will also give you tips at the end of each level in case you need any help with gameplay. You can also continue to play the HO scenes after you've finished decorating the hall, in case you'd like to go back and re-design some things.
Cons: Not a game I would play straight through. The HO scenes got redundant fairly quickly and I needed a break after a while, but it was always fun to come back to. I wish there were more design options because sometimes you have to choose between the 3 uglys. :oP
Overall a fun way to pass the time. For the designing HOS lover.
I recommend this game!
Search for a town consumed by fog! Unlock forbidden doors and uncover mysterious items!
Overall rating
5
/
5
1 of 2 found this review helpful
Great IHOG Adventure
PostedMay 6, 2012
Winklepots
Skill Level:Expert
Favorite Genre(s):Adventure, Time Management, Hidden Object, Puzzle
Fun Factor
5
/
5
Visual/Sound Quality
5
/
5
Level of Challenge
5
/
5
Storyline
4
/
5
Pros: Graphics were dark and eerie, great details, voice overs were well done, puzzles were definitely challenging (I skipped 3 out of frustration), the IHO scenes were fun and challenging (because you didn't always know immediately what you needed to interact with) and it was a decent length (took me about 4 hours).
Cons: Music and sounds can get annoying and some are louder than others which meant I had to constantly adjust my volume. The hint is only somewhat helpful. If you're in a scene where something needs to be done, like pulling down a ladder, and you use the hint button, it will highlight the ladder that needs to be pulled down, even though you don't have a tool yet for it. It's more of an FYI than an hint but a hint is wasted nonetheless and you need to wait for it to recharge. It also doesn't help in terms of where you need to be. It won't "direct" you to the area of interest. Which will sometimes lead you to go back through every single scene to see if you can find what you missed.
Overall a great game with plenty of puzzle challenges and HO scenes. The story is interesting enough but I am hoping that the sequel addresses some unanswered questions from the end of this one. I haven't played it yet, so I don't know. If it doesn't, I'll be a little disappointed that I was left a bit hanging.
Will be playing again and will attempt to solve the 3 puzzles I skipped. :oP
Will be playing again and will attempt to solve the 3 puzzles I skipped. :oP