LunaNik's Profile
Stat Summary
- Average Rating:2.8
- Helpful Votes:12,435
- Reviews Submitted:670
- First Review:November 2, 2012
- Most Recent Review:August 19, 2020
- Featured reviews0
Status:
Can you stop history from repeating itself?
Overall rating
1
/
5
31 of 45 found this review helpful
1½ stars...predictable story, easy and tedious gameplay
PostedOctober 15, 2016
LunaNik
fromSeriously one of the most boring games I've ever played. Unless you like grade school level jigsaw puzzles, don't bother.
Skill Level:Expert
Favorite Genre(s):Adventure, Card & Board, Hidden Object, Large File, Puzzle, Strategy, Word
Fun Factor
1
/
5
Visual/Sound Quality
3
/
5
Level of Challenge
1
/
5
Storyline
1
/
5
I made it through 23 minutes of the demo before quitting. The storyline was childish and one-dimensional.
I encountered two HO scenes and both were illogical:
• One interactive list in which the interactions were inane because the scene was a junk pile of broken and scattered objects that no sane person would keep.
• One progressive silhouette that wasn't really progressive. Some of the actions failed to lead to further actions and, thus, made no sense within the progression toward the goal.
• One interactive list in which the interactions were inane because the scene was a junk pile of broken and scattered objects that no sane person would keep.
• One progressive silhouette that wasn't really progressive. Some of the actions failed to lead to further actions and, thus, made no sense within the progression toward the goal.
The puzzles were all either ridiculously easy, even on the "hard" setting, or just plain annoyingly tedious.
• A jigsaw puzzle of three concentric circles. Rotate the circles to complete the picture; rotating one circle may affect others. Really? An eight-year-old could figure this one out!
• Another jigsaw puzzle: swap the triangles to complete the picture. Another one for children.
• Yet another jigsaw puzzle! Rotate the squares to complete the picture; rotating one square may affect others. While this one presented more of a challenge, since it was the third jigsaw puzzle in a row, it was just irritating.
• Rotate the cylinders to match the given clue; rotating one may affect others. (Are you sensing a trend here?)
• A jigsaw puzzle of three concentric circles. Rotate the circles to complete the picture; rotating one circle may affect others. Really? An eight-year-old could figure this one out!
• Another jigsaw puzzle: swap the triangles to complete the picture. Another one for children.
• Yet another jigsaw puzzle! Rotate the squares to complete the picture; rotating one square may affect others. While this one presented more of a challenge, since it was the third jigsaw puzzle in a row, it was just irritating.
• Rotate the cylinders to match the given clue; rotating one may affect others. (Are you sensing a trend here?)
And this is where I quit. Twenty minutes of jigsaw puzzles and "moving one thing affects other things." Get a new programmer, because this repetitive gameplay is dull.
As I look through my master list of games, I see I've only purchased one game by this dev...and I rated it two stars. I can see why, if this is emblematic of their style.
I don't recommend this game.
Uncover your grandfather's true identity and restore his legacy!
Overall rating
3
/
5
31 of 42 found this review helpful
3½ stars...improved puzzles, confused story, easy HOs, too many shaped objects!
PostedOctober 15, 2016
LunaNik
fromThis box needs a shaped item to unlock it. So I find the appropriately shaped item and unlock the box to find...another shaped item. *smh* No. Enough. STAHP.
Skill Level:Expert
Favorite Genre(s):Adventure, Card & Board, Hidden Object, Large File, Puzzle, Strategy, Word
Fun Factor
3
/
5
Visual/Sound Quality
4
/
5
Level of Challenge
3
/
5
Storyline
2
/
5
REVIEW BASED ON completed demo
I CURRENTLY OWN 508 computer games.
PROLOGUE
Eipix steps up its game with some challenging puzzles in “Legacy of the Guardians.” Unfortunately, the bulk of this episode of “Amaranthine Voyage” is spent wading through lengthy cutscenes, clicking through endless conversations with NPCs, and waiting for the lagging cursor to catch up. In addition, the storyline was convoluted and confusing.
Eipix steps up its game with some challenging puzzles in “Legacy of the Guardians.” Unfortunately, the bulk of this episode of “Amaranthine Voyage” is spent wading through lengthy cutscenes, clicking through endless conversations with NPCs, and waiting for the lagging cursor to catch up. In addition, the storyline was convoluted and confusing.
ONCE UPON A TIME ★★
Eve Glover has inherited her grandfather’s house, and is busy discovering its secrets when she’s interrupted by a strange sphere erupting from the lily pond. It’s a communication from the realm of Arden requesting her help. It seems that their solution to endless war has backfired on them; the logical Chalice has decided that Arden’s own people are at fault, and determined that eliminating them is the only solution. It’s up to Eve to take on the role her grandfather once held—Guardian of Arden—and stop the Chalice, especially since Earth’s future is linked to Arden’s.
Eve Glover has inherited her grandfather’s house, and is busy discovering its secrets when she’s interrupted by a strange sphere erupting from the lily pond. It’s a communication from the realm of Arden requesting her help. It seems that their solution to endless war has backfired on them; the logical Chalice has decided that Arden’s own people are at fault, and determined that eliminating them is the only solution. It’s up to Eve to take on the role her grandfather once held—Guardian of Arden—and stop the Chalice, especially since Earth’s future is linked to Arden’s.
PLAY THE GAME ★★★
Adventure mode is about 90% finding regular keys and shaped items that act as keys to unlock a variety of doors, boxes, and chests…only to find another key/shaped item. (LoC: low. FF: low.)
Adventure mode is about 90% finding regular keys and shaped items that act as keys to unlock a variety of doors, boxes, and chests…only to find another key/shaped item. (LoC: low. FF: low.)
HO scenes, as usual, vary in presentation but are simple, since none of the objects are actually hidden. The best one is a silhouette progressive find-and-use with two different scenes. Others include rebuses followed by a list, interactive list in three scenes, and list followed by silhouettes. Each HO scene contains a morphing object. (LoC: low to medium. FF: low to medium.) If you prefer, you can play “bubble shoot” instead. However, I found this rendition of “bubble shoot” to be poorly designed. The bubble immediately available is barely visible, being dim in color with only half of it showing. Meanwhile, the “next in line” bubble is brightly colored and wholly visible. This tends to make you think that the “next in line” bubble is the one you're shooting, invariably messing up the game.
The puzzles are the only shining star in this game, but they’re few and far between.
• On a grid, there are a number of movable tiles. Each drops two gems into the empty squares, bypassing already-filled squares. Strategize the order in which to move the tiles so that all empty squares are filled with gems. (LoC: high. FF: high.)
• There are three concentric circles, each containing four colored tokens. In the center is a blank spot, while just outside the circle are indicators showing which color goes where. Rotate the circles and use the blank spot to line up the colored token in the correct places. (LoC: high. FF: high.)
• To activate the medallion, play three increasingly difficult levels of “pipes” to connect the energy to the black holes by rotating the hexagons. The configuration of the pipe on each hexagon remains invisible until you hover over it. (LoC: medium. FF: medium.)
• A number of orbs are labeled with directional arrows. The goal is to click on only one of them to initiate a chain reaction that destroys all the orbs. (LoC: medium. FF: medium. This one should have had multiple levels of increasing difficulty.)
• To use the medallion as a weapon, play a ridiculously easy “match the pairs” with only six symbols. (LoC: low. FF: low.)
• On a grid, there are a number of movable tiles. Each drops two gems into the empty squares, bypassing already-filled squares. Strategize the order in which to move the tiles so that all empty squares are filled with gems. (LoC: high. FF: high.)
• There are three concentric circles, each containing four colored tokens. In the center is a blank spot, while just outside the circle are indicators showing which color goes where. Rotate the circles and use the blank spot to line up the colored token in the correct places. (LoC: high. FF: high.)
• To activate the medallion, play three increasingly difficult levels of “pipes” to connect the energy to the black holes by rotating the hexagons. The configuration of the pipe on each hexagon remains invisible until you hover over it. (LoC: medium. FF: medium.)
• A number of orbs are labeled with directional arrows. The goal is to click on only one of them to initiate a chain reaction that destroys all the orbs. (LoC: medium. FF: medium. This one should have had multiple levels of increasing difficulty.)
• To use the medallion as a weapon, play a ridiculously easy “match the pairs” with only six symbols. (LoC: low. FF: low.)
SIGHTSEEING ★★★★
The NPCs are the brights spots, graphically. The appearance of Arden’s citizens successfully walks the line between human and alien, at once seeming familiar and foreign. Scenery is incredibly atmospheric, with reflective flares and light bows, mist, glancing sunbeams, haloes around ambient light, and the like. The color palette is soothing and beautiful. There is, however, a lack of texture, in my opinion. Animation is smooth with a high frame rate.
The NPCs are the brights spots, graphically. The appearance of Arden’s citizens successfully walks the line between human and alien, at once seeming familiar and foreign. Scenery is incredibly atmospheric, with reflective flares and light bows, mist, glancing sunbeams, haloes around ambient light, and the like. The color palette is soothing and beautiful. There is, however, a lack of texture, in my opinion. Animation is smooth with a high frame rate.
SOUNDBOARD ★★★★
The music is varied and nicely accents both the changing scenery and the action. Voiceovers have appropriate affect. Game sounds are effective yet not intrusive. Environmental sounds were just ok, tending to be mostly associated with actions rather than ambient sound.
The music is varied and nicely accents both the changing scenery and the action. Voiceovers have appropriate affect. Game sounds are effective yet not intrusive. Environmental sounds were just ok, tending to be mostly associated with actions rather than ambient sound.
TOOLBOX & MECHANICS ★★★★
Inventory locks and include plus items. Map indicates available actions and objectives, and transports. I don’t recall whether there’s a journal, but there’s no annoying helper. I can’t decide whether to rate the medallion as a gimmick; the first puzzle is excellent, but the second is a throwaway. Navigation is intuitive and hotspots are adequate in size and placement. I did find the interface to be quite cluttered, with too many tiny icons stuffed into a too small area.
Inventory locks and include plus items. Map indicates available actions and objectives, and transports. I don’t recall whether there’s a journal, but there’s no annoying helper. I can’t decide whether to rate the medallion as a gimmick; the first puzzle is excellent, but the second is a throwaway. Navigation is intuitive and hotspots are adequate in size and placement. I did find the interface to be quite cluttered, with too many tiny icons stuffed into a too small area.
BUGS & BOTHERS
No technical difficulties with Mac OS 10.11.6. But there is an extensive cursor lag after every cutscene, conversation, scene change, and action that is exceedingly annoying and jarred me out of immersion.
No technical difficulties with Mac OS 10.11.6. But there is an extensive cursor lag after every cutscene, conversation, scene change, and action that is exceedingly annoying and jarred me out of immersion.
OOH! PIECE OF CANDY ★★★★★
• Bonus Chapter - Eve goes back to Arden as another artifact rears its ugly head.
• Strategy Guide - Yes.
• Collectibles - “Symbols” that stand out like a sore thumb.
• Morphing Objects - Only in the HO scenes.
• Replay HO Scenes - Yes, 13 of them.
• Replay Puzzles - Yes, 18 of them.
• Performance Achievements - Yes. Honestly, I’m over these. Most of them, you earn by just playing the game. Others are dubious, like completing a HOS in less than a minute…like that’s a challenge! I feel I deserved one for making it through the demo without falling asleep.
• Developer’s Portfolio - Wallpapers, concept art, soundtracks, videos.
• Other - Revisit the scenes to collect souvenirs for your Souvenir Room. Play more “bubble shoot,” if you crave self-frustration.
• Bonus Chapter - Eve goes back to Arden as another artifact rears its ugly head.
• Strategy Guide - Yes.
• Collectibles - “Symbols” that stand out like a sore thumb.
• Morphing Objects - Only in the HO scenes.
• Replay HO Scenes - Yes, 13 of them.
• Replay Puzzles - Yes, 18 of them.
• Performance Achievements - Yes. Honestly, I’m over these. Most of them, you earn by just playing the game. Others are dubious, like completing a HOS in less than a minute…like that’s a challenge! I feel I deserved one for making it through the demo without falling asleep.
• Developer’s Portfolio - Wallpapers, concept art, soundtracks, videos.
• Other - Revisit the scenes to collect souvenirs for your Souvenir Room. Play more “bubble shoot,” if you crave self-frustration.
EPILOGUE - Overall Rating: (22 total ★) ÷ 6 = 3.6 ★ (rounded to ★★★½)
Given the flood of games being released, I’ll no longer recommend a game unless I rate it at least four stars, so I can’t recommend this one. Its only redeeming feature is the few challenging puzzles, and you have to slog through a zillion cutscenes and conversations and suffer horrible cursor lag to get to them. My advice to Eipix is to continue gameplay development in this direction, but work on storylines, because this one was a mess.
Given the flood of games being released, I’ll no longer recommend a game unless I rate it at least four stars, so I can’t recommend this one. Its only redeeming feature is the few challenging puzzles, and you have to slog through a zillion cutscenes and conversations and suffer horrible cursor lag to get to them. My advice to Eipix is to continue gameplay development in this direction, but work on storylines, because this one was a mess.
RECOMMENDED BY THIS DEV (★★★★ or above, based on my rating at game’s release)
As always, compare your system specs with the game requirements before purchasing. And happy gaming!
from this series: The Living Mountain CE, The Shadow of Torment CE, Winter Neverending CE
from the Dark Parables series: The Swan Princess and the Dire Tree CE
from the Myths of the World series: Black Rose CE
From the Off the Record series: Linden Shades
From the Sea of Lies series: Mutiny of the Heart CE
As always, compare your system specs with the game requirements before purchasing. And happy gaming!
from this series: The Living Mountain CE, The Shadow of Torment CE, Winter Neverending CE
from the Dark Parables series: The Swan Princess and the Dire Tree CE
from the Myths of the World series: Black Rose CE
From the Off the Record series: Linden Shades
From the Sea of Lies series: Mutiny of the Heart CE
I don't recommend this game.
Crime Secrets: Crimson Lily is a captivating blend of hidden object challenges, puzzle solving and daring detective work.
Overall rating
3
/
5
28 of 35 found this review helpful
3½ stars...excellent storyline, some gameplay innovation
PostedOctober 12, 2016
LunaNik
fromThe story is paramount. Challenging, fun gameplay is next.
Skill Level:Expert
Favorite Genre(s):Adventure, Card & Board, Hidden Object, Large File, Puzzle, Strategy, Word
Fun Factor
3
/
5
Visual/Sound Quality
3
/
5
Level of Challenge
3
/
5
Storyline
5
/
5
REVIEW BASED ON completed demo
I CURRENTLY OWN 508 computer games.
PROLOGUE
Crime Secrets: Crimson Lily has both high points and low points. The storyline is extremely well-written and developed. There’s a unique approach to clue-gathering. It’s visually lovely, and the voice acting is professional. However, the gameplay is fairly easy. Still, I feel it’s a worthy sale, DD, or PCC purchase based on the riveting storyline which kept me immersed throughout the demo.
Crime Secrets: Crimson Lily has both high points and low points. The storyline is extremely well-written and developed. There’s a unique approach to clue-gathering. It’s visually lovely, and the voice acting is professional. However, the gameplay is fairly easy. Still, I feel it’s a worthy sale, DD, or PCC purchase based on the riveting storyline which kept me immersed throughout the demo.
ONCE UPON A TIME ★★★★★
After a slew of cases which you’ve finally put to rest, you deserve a vacation! As you’re about to arrive at a secluded mountain resort for some R&R, a police cruiser passes you amidst the snowstorm, nearly running you off the road. Just as you regain control, you have to swerve again to avoid some idiot standing in the middle of the road. When you come to, both police officer and idiot are gone, leaving only their vehicles. Yours, of course, is a loss, so you’re off on foot to the resort.
After a slew of cases which you’ve finally put to rest, you deserve a vacation! As you’re about to arrive at a secluded mountain resort for some R&R, a police cruiser passes you amidst the snowstorm, nearly running you off the road. Just as you regain control, you have to swerve again to avoid some idiot standing in the middle of the road. When you come to, both police officer and idiot are gone, leaving only their vehicles. Yours, of course, is a loss, so you’re off on foot to the resort.
When you arrive, you discover the body of the police officer inexplicably frozen solid. Both the guests and the employees of the resort seem to be a shady lot, and the clues you’re uncovering certainly point to a multi-layered plot that lead you to wonder who the bad guys really are. Let’s hope you can solve this one without becoming a corpsicle!
PLAY THE GAME ★★★
Adventure mode consists most of the usual suspects: locked doors, gates, and boxes; items dropped through grates; rusty this and that; broken zipper pulls; busted pipes; mechanisms that are missing parts or are broken; etc. There is a bit of innovation in incorporation some things we haven’t seen before. (LoC: low to medium. FF: low to medium.)
Adventure mode consists most of the usual suspects: locked doors, gates, and boxes; items dropped through grates; rusty this and that; broken zipper pulls; busted pipes; mechanisms that are missing parts or are broken; etc. There is a bit of innovation in incorporation some things we haven’t seen before. (LoC: low to medium. FF: low to medium.)
HO Scenes are all minimally interactive list where most objects are in plain sight, but there aren’t many of them. (LoC: low. FF: low.)
Puzzles are mostly familiar and include:
• A repeating puzzle to find clues that consists of an obscured list of items. Move your cursor around the screen to locate the clues and clear the list. Each item becomes a tile. Then, put the tiles in chronological order to reveal what happened at the crime scene. (LoC: low to medium. FF: medium.)
• To unlock the toolbox, slide the key from start to finish, visiting each hole in the maze only once. (LoC: low. FF: low.)
• Arrange the hotel room keys correctly in the grid by matching their tags with the emblems along the top and left of the grid. (LoC: medium. FF: medium.)
• Open the safe by turning the dial left or right, using the given combination. (LoC: low. FF: low.)
• On a grid, connect the like-colored wheels by drawing lines between them. Lines may not cross each other, and you must use up all spots on the grid. Three levels of increasing difficulty. (LoC: low to medium. FF: low to medium.)
• Slide the bars horizontally and vertically to create a path for the left half of the heart to reach the right half. (LoC: low. FF: low.)
• A repeating puzzle to find clues that consists of an obscured list of items. Move your cursor around the screen to locate the clues and clear the list. Each item becomes a tile. Then, put the tiles in chronological order to reveal what happened at the crime scene. (LoC: low to medium. FF: medium.)
• To unlock the toolbox, slide the key from start to finish, visiting each hole in the maze only once. (LoC: low. FF: low.)
• Arrange the hotel room keys correctly in the grid by matching their tags with the emblems along the top and left of the grid. (LoC: medium. FF: medium.)
• Open the safe by turning the dial left or right, using the given combination. (LoC: low. FF: low.)
• On a grid, connect the like-colored wheels by drawing lines between them. Lines may not cross each other, and you must use up all spots on the grid. Three levels of increasing difficulty. (LoC: low to medium. FF: low to medium.)
• Slide the bars horizontally and vertically to create a path for the left half of the heart to reach the right half. (LoC: low. FF: low.)
SIGHTSEEING ★★★
The graphics are not fantastic, but not awful. Scenery has a distinct foreground and background, appearing as two separate layers, rather than blending into a unified scene. In close-up, the textures are lovely, but the shading is unrealistic. NPCs are drawn well, but don’t move in a lifelike manner. And animation is not altogether realistic, but somewhat flattened. The color palette is beautiful.
The graphics are not fantastic, but not awful. Scenery has a distinct foreground and background, appearing as two separate layers, rather than blending into a unified scene. In close-up, the textures are lovely, but the shading is unrealistic. NPCs are drawn well, but don’t move in a lifelike manner. And animation is not altogether realistic, but somewhat flattened. The color palette is beautiful.
SOUNDBOARD ★★
The music is ok, unobtrusive but not noteworthy. Environmental sounds should have been more prevalent. Voiceovers are excellent.
The music is ok, unobtrusive but not noteworthy. Environmental sounds should have been more prevalent. Voiceovers are excellent.
TOOLBOX & MECHANICS ★★★★★
Inventory locks and includes plus items. The map indicates available actions and transports. The journal notes objectives. There are no helpers or silly gimmicks. Navigation is intuitive and hotspots are adequate in size and placement.
Inventory locks and includes plus items. The map indicates available actions and transports. The journal notes objectives. There are no helpers or silly gimmicks. Navigation is intuitive and hotspots are adequate in size and placement.
BUGS & BOTHERS
No technical difficulties, lags, or annoyances with Mac OS 10.11.6.
No technical difficulties, lags, or annoyances with Mac OS 10.11.6.
OOH! PIECE OF CANDY
There are collectibles! Find hidden snowflakes and origami. I have no idea whether collecting them all unlocks bonus content.
There are collectibles! Find hidden snowflakes and origami. I have no idea whether collecting them all unlocks bonus content.
EPILOGUE - Overall Rating: (18 total ★) ÷ 5 = 3.6 ★ (rounded to ★★★½)
It’s not perfect, but the storyline is terrific. It really draws you in and makes you wonder who the real villain is. I recommend this one if it’s on sale, offered as a DD, or you have a PCC.
It’s not perfect, but the storyline is terrific. It really draws you in and makes you wonder who the real villain is. I recommend this one if it’s on sale, offered as a DD, or you have a PCC.
RECOMMENDED BY THIS DEV (★★★★ or above, based on my rating at game’s release)
I didn’t recognize the second dev that came up before the title screen, so I’ll recommend games by the first dev that came up. As always, check your system requirements, as some of these may be older games.
I didn’t recognize the second dev that came up before the title screen, so I’ll recommend games by the first dev that came up. As always, check your system requirements, as some of these may be older games.
from the Enigmatis series:
The Ghosts of Maple Creek, The Mists of Ravenwood CE
The Ghosts of Maple Creek, The Mists of Ravenwood CE
from the Time Mysteries series:
The Final Enigma
The Final Enigma
One-Offs:
Abyss: The Wraiths of Eden
Clockwork Tales: Of Glass and Ink CE
Dark Arcana: The Carnival
Abyss: The Wraiths of Eden
Clockwork Tales: Of Glass and Ink CE
Dark Arcana: The Carnival
Can you escape your fate as a human experiment, or will you comply?
Overall rating
4
/
5
19 of 25 found this review helpful
4½ stars...Compliance Test #1: Buy this game!
PostedOctober 8, 2016
LunaNik
fromMemo to other devs: THIS is how it's done, folks. Creative, well-written story. Challenging gameplay. Madhead rules!
Skill Level:Expert
Favorite Genre(s):Adventure, Card & Board, Large File, Puzzle, Strategy, Time Management, Word
Fun Factor
5
/
5
Visual/Sound Quality
5
/
5
Level of Challenge
5
/
5
Storyline
5
/
5
REVIEW BASED ON completed game + bonus game + extras
I CURRENTLY OWN 508 computer games.
PROLOGUE
Madhead has created a worthy sequel to “Subject 360,” and an excellent psychological horror for the month of Halloween. THIS is how storytelling in a game is done. It pulls you in and refuses to let you go.
Madhead has created a worthy sequel to “Subject 360,” and an excellent psychological horror for the month of Halloween. THIS is how storytelling in a game is done. It pulls you in and refuses to let you go.
ONCE UPON A TIME ★★★★★
You play the role of Liz, a demolitions expert, who accompanies her supervisor in a final walkthrough of the Gehenna Building before it’s demolished. Once you’ve entered the building, though, things change.Your supervisor is whisked away in the elevator before you can join him, and the doors and windows are automatically locked and barred before you can go get help.
You play the role of Liz, a demolitions expert, who accompanies her supervisor in a final walkthrough of the Gehenna Building before it’s demolished. Once you’ve entered the building, though, things change.Your supervisor is whisked away in the elevator before you can join him, and the doors and windows are automatically locked and barred before you can go get help.
A rogue A.I. called S.A.R.A. is in control of the building, and she informs you that you are the newest “Resident,” and that “compliance tests” will begin immediately. Can you break free from S.A.R.A.’s control, find your supervisor, and escape the building? Or will you be trapped, forced to endure a computer’s sadistic domination games?
PLAY THE GAME ★★★★★
Adventure mode will challenge and frighten you, because parts of the building are in utter darkness…and the darkness has denizens. You receive night-vision goggles which sometimes help and sometimes reveal terrors. You’ll be trying to work your way to the 50th floor, and there’s only one elevator…controlled by S.A.R.A. There’s lots of creative use of inventory items, as well as situations that require you to make a decision as to how to proceed. (LoC: medium to high. FF: high.)
Adventure mode will challenge and frighten you, because parts of the building are in utter darkness…and the darkness has denizens. You receive night-vision goggles which sometimes help and sometimes reveal terrors. You’ll be trying to work your way to the 50th floor, and there’s only one elevator…controlled by S.A.R.A. There’s lots of creative use of inventory items, as well as situations that require you to make a decision as to how to proceed. (LoC: medium to high. FF: high.)
HO Scenes are not only varied, but also challenging. While there are some interactive lists, quite a few of the scenes present abstract terms you must interpret to find the correct object. For example, the word might be “friendship” and the object in the scene a sculpture of two people shaking hands. (LoC: medium to high. FF: high.) Presentations include:
• Find the highlighted words in the narrative.
• Find an replace objects in the scene.
• Silhouetted list.
• Rebuses.
• Find and use in the scene.
Each scene includes a morphing object.
• Find the highlighted words in the narrative.
• Find an replace objects in the scene.
• Silhouetted list.
• Rebuses.
• Find and use in the scene.
Each scene includes a morphing object.
Puzzles are a mix of familiar and original and range from fairly simple to truly challenging. They include:
• Create lines between two or more like-colored circles. The lines can be horizontal, vertical, or diagonal, but cannot cross circles of a different color. Three levels of increasing difficulty; all require strategic planning. (LoC: medium to high. FF: high.)
• Four tokens must be moved to their goals. Slide the tokens and use the rotating inner circle to change their orientation. (LoC: medium. FF: medium.)
• Plug cables into the board so that one is adjacent to each computer chip. Each row and column has a required number of cables, and cables may not be plugged next to one another. (LoC: high. FF: high.)
• A number of photos are arrayed on a display board; each has its own sliding track. Slide each photo to its correct spot, making sure you don’t block the movement of the other photos. This is another one that requires strategy. (LoC: medium. FF: high.)
• Of course, there are a number of simple, familiar puzzles, but not a lot. One jigsaw to assemble the torn pieces of a newspaper article. One slider puzzle where you must maneuver the damaged blocks into one corner to reveal what’s behind them. A version of “water jars” where you must ensure the central display has four energy units, using the left and right displays to move the energy around. (LoC: low to medium. FF: low to medium.)
• Create lines between two or more like-colored circles. The lines can be horizontal, vertical, or diagonal, but cannot cross circles of a different color. Three levels of increasing difficulty; all require strategic planning. (LoC: medium to high. FF: high.)
• Four tokens must be moved to their goals. Slide the tokens and use the rotating inner circle to change their orientation. (LoC: medium. FF: medium.)
• Plug cables into the board so that one is adjacent to each computer chip. Each row and column has a required number of cables, and cables may not be plugged next to one another. (LoC: high. FF: high.)
• A number of photos are arrayed on a display board; each has its own sliding track. Slide each photo to its correct spot, making sure you don’t block the movement of the other photos. This is another one that requires strategy. (LoC: medium. FF: high.)
• Of course, there are a number of simple, familiar puzzles, but not a lot. One jigsaw to assemble the torn pieces of a newspaper article. One slider puzzle where you must maneuver the damaged blocks into one corner to reveal what’s behind them. A version of “water jars” where you must ensure the central display has four energy units, using the left and right displays to move the energy around. (LoC: low to medium. FF: low to medium.)
SIGHTSEEING ★★★★★
The environments are beautifully realistic, with proper shadowing and depth of field. Graphics up close have amazing texture and dimension. NPCs move in a lifelike manner and lip synch. Animation is smooth with a high frame rate.
The environments are beautifully realistic, with proper shadowing and depth of field. Graphics up close have amazing texture and dimension. NPCs move in a lifelike manner and lip synch. Animation is smooth with a high frame rate.
SOUNDBOARD ★★★★★
The music is perfect for the game…lots of “horror movie” soundscapes with only a couple thematic pieces. I thought it added to immersion. Environmental sounds are decent, and voiceovers are excellent.
The music is perfect for the game…lots of “horror movie” soundscapes with only a couple thematic pieces. I thought it added to immersion. Environmental sounds are decent, and voiceovers are excellent.
TOOLBOX & MECHANICS ★★★★
Inventory locks open and includes plus items. Map is fully interactive and transports. Artistically, it’s appropriate, being a blueprint of the building with pop-up screenshots of the actual scenes. A tablet is the journal, and it notes clues and provides a list of objectives. There are no adorable helpers. You also have the night-vision goggles, which are not gimmicky but integral to the storyline. Navigation is intuitive and hotspots are adequately sized and placed.
Inventory locks open and includes plus items. Map is fully interactive and transports. Artistically, it’s appropriate, being a blueprint of the building with pop-up screenshots of the actual scenes. A tablet is the journal, and it notes clues and provides a list of objectives. There are no adorable helpers. You also have the night-vision goggles, which are not gimmicky but integral to the storyline. Navigation is intuitive and hotspots are adequately sized and placed.
BUGS & BOTHERS
No technical difficulties with Mac OS 10.11.6, but there was a bit of a lag between actions, and between cutscenes and the resumption of gameplay (for which I’m subtracting a star from the “Toolbox & Mechanics” section.)
No technical difficulties with Mac OS 10.11.6, but there was a bit of a lag between actions, and between cutscenes and the resumption of gameplay (for which I’m subtracting a star from the “Toolbox & Mechanics” section.)
OOH! PIECE OF CANDY ★★★★
• Bonus Chapter - Uncover Dr. Menning’s horrendous plot in this related storyline that takes you back to the Gehenna Project’s inception.
• Strategy Guide - Yes, but I didn’t use it.
• Collectibles - The usual angular spirals, most of which are easy to see.
• Morphing Objects - Only in the HO scenes.
• Replay HO Scenes - Yes.
• Replay Puzzles - No. Automatic one-star deduction from this section.
• Performance Achievements - Yes.
• Developer’s Portfolio - Wallpapers and soundtracks only.
• Other - A super-HO scene and a jigsaw puzzle. I would rather have been able to replay the puzzles.
• Bonus Chapter - Uncover Dr. Menning’s horrendous plot in this related storyline that takes you back to the Gehenna Project’s inception.
• Strategy Guide - Yes, but I didn’t use it.
• Collectibles - The usual angular spirals, most of which are easy to see.
• Morphing Objects - Only in the HO scenes.
• Replay HO Scenes - Yes.
• Replay Puzzles - No. Automatic one-star deduction from this section.
• Performance Achievements - Yes.
• Developer’s Portfolio - Wallpapers and soundtracks only.
• Other - A super-HO scene and a jigsaw puzzle. I would rather have been able to replay the puzzles.
EPILOGUE - Overall Rating: (28 total ★) ÷ 6 = 4.6 ★ (rounded to ★★★★½)
I definitely recommend “The Broken Tower” if you like psychological horror, a well-written story, and challenging gameplay.
I definitely recommend “The Broken Tower” if you like psychological horror, a well-written story, and challenging gameplay.
RECOMMENDED BY THIS DEV (★★★★ or above, based on my rating at game’s release)
Also from this series: Subject 360 CE
from the Cadenza series: Music Betrayal & Death CE, Havana Nights CE
from the Dark Realm series: Queen of Flames CE, Princess of Ice CE, Lord of the Winds CE
from the Nevertales series: The Beauty Within CE, Shattered Image CE, Hidden Doorway CE
from the Rite of Passage series: The Perfect Show, Child of the Forest CE, Hide and Seek CE
Also from this series: Subject 360 CE
from the Cadenza series: Music Betrayal & Death CE, Havana Nights CE
from the Dark Realm series: Queen of Flames CE, Princess of Ice CE, Lord of the Winds CE
from the Nevertales series: The Beauty Within CE, Shattered Image CE, Hidden Doorway CE
from the Rite of Passage series: The Perfect Show, Child of the Forest CE, Hide and Seek CE
I recommend this game!
Epistory immerses you in an atmospheric action/adventure game where you play a girl riding a giant fox who fights an insectile corruption from an origami world.
Overall rating
5
/
5
86 of 90 found this review helpful
Epistory? I think you mean "Epic Story." (And gameplay. And graphics. And music.)
PostedOctober 3, 2016
LunaNik
fromWhile I would love a gigantic triple-tailed red fox as a steed, I'm pretty sure my two loyal pups would not be happy about it.
Skill Level:Expert
Favorite Genre(s):Adventure, Card & Board, Hidden Object, Large File, Puzzle, Strategy, Word
Fun Factor
5
/
5
Visual/Sound Quality
5
/
5
Level of Challenge
5
/
5
Storyline
5
/
5
REVIEW BASED ON full demo
I CURRENTLY OWN 506 computer games (or will, as soon as I buy this one).
PROLOGUE
While we sometimes are lucky enough to see games that are innovative and unique in one area—either game design, gameplay mechanics, graphics, storyline, or sound design—it is a rarity to encounter a game that is innovative and unique in every single one of those areas. This one’s a classic.
While we sometimes are lucky enough to see games that are innovative and unique in one area—either game design, gameplay mechanics, graphics, storyline, or sound design—it is a rarity to encounter a game that is innovative and unique in every single one of those areas. This one’s a classic.
ONCE UPON A TIME ★★★★★
You’re a child of the forest, and you’ve spent your life nurturing the plants and animals, accompanied by your steed, an awesome triple-tailed red fox. One day, a fiery meteor falls from the sky, bringing with it a hostile insectile force that seeks to destroy the peace of the forest. It’s up to you to use your creativity and inspiration to defeat the enemies and save the denizens of the forest.
You’re a child of the forest, and you’ve spent your life nurturing the plants and animals, accompanied by your steed, an awesome triple-tailed red fox. One day, a fiery meteor falls from the sky, bringing with it a hostile insectile force that seeks to destroy the peace of the forest. It’s up to you to use your creativity and inspiration to defeat the enemies and save the denizens of the forest.
PLAY THE GAME ★★★★★
The controls take some getting used to. While you can use the arrow keys to move, the game suggests you use the E, F, J, and I keys to better facilitate the typing you’ll need to do. And I second the suggestion, having tried it both ways.
The controls take some getting used to. While you can use the arrow keys to move, the game suggests you use the E, F, J, and I keys to better facilitate the typing you’ll need to do. And I second the suggestion, having tried it both ways.
The world will unfold bit by bit around you. A voice narrates, and pertinent portions of the story are actually imprinted on the landscape. This isn’t merely an artistic affectation; it actually helps you navigate. Actions are taken by typing. You’ll need to regrow plants, eradicate obstacles, and defeat enemies. The words you must type appear above the areas that need attention, and they become gradually more complex as the game progresses.
Additionally, there are puzzles to figure out to gain access to some areas of each level. For example, one requires that you navigate over a series of symbols in a particular order, but the clue you require is obscured. So you have to determine how to reveal the clue by interacting with the environment.
Overall, the level of challenge ranges from medium to high, and the fun factor is phenomenal.
SIGHTSEEING ★★★★★
The graphics completely blew me away. The world is displayed isometrically in a series of squares, and it develops before your eyes from pieces of newspaper that fold, twist, and crumple into the forms of the landscape, then gain color. At the beginning, you can choose the monitor resolution and graphics level. I choose the highest resolution and “fantastic” graphics, and the detail was truly amazing.
The graphics completely blew me away. The world is displayed isometrically in a series of squares, and it develops before your eyes from pieces of newspaper that fold, twist, and crumple into the forms of the landscape, then gain color. At the beginning, you can choose the monitor resolution and graphics level. I choose the highest resolution and “fantastic” graphics, and the detail was truly amazing.
The animation was consistently smooth with a high frame rate. Everything was beautifully dimensional, as if you were using Google Maps in the “bird’s eye view” format. Shadows, light, and textures were all stunning.
SOUNDBOARD ★★★★★
The music is exactly the kind of ambient soundscape that I believe is the perfect backdrop for gaming. It’s alternately haunting, comforting, eerie, serene…and always zen. The only voiceover is the narrator, and her voice is beautifully warm and smooth, as well as appropriately emotive. Environmental sounds were awesome, and game sounds were arcade-like. Pew pew!
The music is exactly the kind of ambient soundscape that I believe is the perfect backdrop for gaming. It’s alternately haunting, comforting, eerie, serene…and always zen. The only voiceover is the narrator, and her voice is beautifully warm and smooth, as well as appropriately emotive. Environmental sounds were awesome, and game sounds were arcade-like. Pew pew!
TOOLBOX ★★★★★
The tab keys functions as your “pause the game” button, as well as allowing you to access the map for the level you’re on, and showing you which upgrades you’re eligible for (and have already purchased with the in-game earned points system). Some of the upgrades include:
• an upgrade that moves the enemy you hit away from you
• an upgrade that allows you to type all words associated with a multiple-word enemy without having to wait for the first word to activate
• an upgrade that reveals things on the map
• an upgrade that speeds up the pace of your fox
…and much more.
The tab keys functions as your “pause the game” button, as well as allowing you to access the map for the level you’re on, and showing you which upgrades you’re eligible for (and have already purchased with the in-game earned points system). Some of the upgrades include:
• an upgrade that moves the enemy you hit away from you
• an upgrade that allows you to type all words associated with a multiple-word enemy without having to wait for the first word to activate
• an upgrade that reveals things on the map
• an upgrade that speeds up the pace of your fox
…and much more.
BUGS & BOTHERS
No technical difficulties, lags, or annoyances with Mac OS 10.11.6.
No technical difficulties, lags, or annoyances with Mac OS 10.11.6.
OOH! PIECE OF CANDY ★★★★★
Surprisingly, there are collectibles! I discovered two treasure chests that were really well-hidden and, when opened, revealed collectible fragments. Maybe there’s more candy?
Surprisingly, there are collectibles! I discovered two treasure chests that were really well-hidden and, when opened, revealed collectible fragments. Maybe there’s more candy?
EPILOGUE - Overall Rating: (36 total ★) ÷ 6 = ★★★★★
In general, I’m not a fan of platform games for the computer (although I love them for game consoles). I also usually don’t care for the isometric design, because it’s difficult to get used to the controls since “up” is no longer “up.” However, Epistory is so original in all its elements, such a treat for the senses, and so much fun that I do highly recommend it.
In general, I’m not a fan of platform games for the computer (although I love them for game consoles). I also usually don’t care for the isometric design, because it’s difficult to get used to the controls since “up” is no longer “up.” However, Epistory is so original in all its elements, such a treat for the senses, and so much fun that I do highly recommend it.
RECOMMENDED BY THIS DEV (★★★★ or above, based on my rating at game’s release)
Since this is a new dev, I have no other recommendations. I hope to see many more innovative, beautiful, and unique games from them in the future! Happy gaming, fishies!
Since this is a new dev, I have no other recommendations. I hope to see many more innovative, beautiful, and unique games from them in the future! Happy gaming, fishies!
I recommend this game!
Can you stop the fiery witch before it’s too late?
Overall rating
2
/
5
34 of 54 found this review helpful
Another inept, unprepared "detective" called to a town where everything's broken...yawn
PostedSeptember 29, 2016
LunaNik
fromBe honest. How many zipper tabs have you broken in your entire life? Have you EVER used a glass shard as a knife? Would you pour oil on a rusty hinge and expect it to magically work?
Skill Level:Expert
Favorite Genre(s):Adventure, Card & Board, Hidden Object, Large File, Puzzle, Strategy, Word
Fun Factor
1
/
5
Visual/Sound Quality
3
/
5
Level of Challenge
1
/
5
Storyline
1
/
5
REVIEW BASED ON full demo
I CURRENTLY OWN 505 computer games.
PROLOGUE
I downloaded this game without much hope. I’ve played two of the previous four episodes and found the storylines nonsensical and the gameplay much too easy. Sadly, that was the case again. It seems to be the hallmark of this series.
I downloaded this game without much hope. I’ve played two of the previous four episodes and found the storylines nonsensical and the gameplay much too easy. Sadly, that was the case again. It seems to be the hallmark of this series.
ONCE UPON A TIME ★
You play the role of a stereotypical casual game detective—unprepared and unable to improvise—who arrives without flashlight, notepad, camera, or multitool to investigate the case of a woman having nightmares. (Logical Lacuna #1: Normally, people having nightmares see a neurologist or psychiatrist. This woman calls a detective.)
You play the role of a stereotypical casual game detective—unprepared and unable to improvise—who arrives without flashlight, notepad, camera, or multitool to investigate the case of a woman having nightmares. (Logical Lacuna #1: Normally, people having nightmares see a neurologist or psychiatrist. This woman calls a detective.)
The ghost of a witch who was burned at the stake is haunting—for want of a better word—this woman because she is the first person born in 500 years with witchy potential, and the witch wants to train her for revenge. (Logical Lacuna #2: The witch can affect the material world—she sets a number of things on fire—so it’s not clear why she needs a living person.)
Apparently, the townspeople have dark secrets, but none were revealed during the demo, except their monks weren’t exactly monastic; they kept talking about their descendants. I spent my time following people around, fixing broken stuff, waiting for pop-ups to go away, collection a bazillion different collectibles (which just distracted from the game), and…
PLAY THE GAME ★★
Adventure mode consists of all the usual suspects: the broken zipper pull, the rusty hinges that magically clear up with oil, using a glass shard to cut things, putting out fires, prying up boards inexplicable nailed in strange places, fitting shaped objects into matching indentations, looking for collectibles in several different categories, and using the “psychic glasses” to view scenes from the past. (LoC: low. FF: low.)
Adventure mode consists of all the usual suspects: the broken zipper pull, the rusty hinges that magically clear up with oil, using a glass shard to cut things, putting out fires, prying up boards inexplicable nailed in strange places, fitting shaped objects into matching indentations, looking for collectibles in several different categories, and using the “psychic glasses” to view scenes from the past. (LoC: low. FF: low.)
HO Scenes included interactive list and multiples of silhouettes. None of the items were actually hidden, just tossed into the general junk pile of the scene. (LoC: low. FF: low.)
Puzzles, with two exceptions, were extremely easy even on the “hard” setting. Honestly, I can't even imagine what the "easy" setting was like. Was there a "click here to solve puzzle" button?
• Slide bar-shaped pieces vertically and horizontally to clear a path for the chain. (LoC: low. FF: low.)
• Swap pieces in a circular jigsaw with wedge-shaped pieces. (LoC: low. FF: low.)
• Match four pairs of symbols on an amulet. (LoC: low. FF: low.)
• Pick a lock using two hairpins, each of which has three positions. You don’t have to figure out a combination of the two hairpins, just which position the green one should be in, then the blue one, etc. (LoC: low. FF: low.)
• Swap circles (only with adjacent ones) to complete the painting. (LoC: low. FF: low.)
• Two concentric circles contain tokens which must be matched in pairs; only the inner circle’s tokens are swapped. Inside the inner circle are the paths you must used, which can be rotated. Swap token, rotating the paths as needed, until all inner tokens match the outer tokens to which they relate. (LoC: medium. FF: medium.)
• Rotate square pieces of a jigsaw until the picture is complete. Rotating one square may affect others. (LoC: low. FF: low.)
• Following the given clue, swap the heads of the statues until each is in its correct place. (LoC: low. FF: low.)
• On a grid filled with three types of symbols, move the rows and columns to make a row or column all of one type of symbol, whereupon it will disappear. Clear the grid, saving the skull symbols for last. (LoC: high. FF: high.) MORE LIKE THIS, PLEASE!
• Slide bar-shaped pieces vertically and horizontally to clear a path for the chain. (LoC: low. FF: low.)
• Swap pieces in a circular jigsaw with wedge-shaped pieces. (LoC: low. FF: low.)
• Match four pairs of symbols on an amulet. (LoC: low. FF: low.)
• Pick a lock using two hairpins, each of which has three positions. You don’t have to figure out a combination of the two hairpins, just which position the green one should be in, then the blue one, etc. (LoC: low. FF: low.)
• Swap circles (only with adjacent ones) to complete the painting. (LoC: low. FF: low.)
• Two concentric circles contain tokens which must be matched in pairs; only the inner circle’s tokens are swapped. Inside the inner circle are the paths you must used, which can be rotated. Swap token, rotating the paths as needed, until all inner tokens match the outer tokens to which they relate. (LoC: medium. FF: medium.)
• Rotate square pieces of a jigsaw until the picture is complete. Rotating one square may affect others. (LoC: low. FF: low.)
• Following the given clue, swap the heads of the statues until each is in its correct place. (LoC: low. FF: low.)
• On a grid filled with three types of symbols, move the rows and columns to make a row or column all of one type of symbol, whereupon it will disappear. Clear the grid, saving the skull symbols for last. (LoC: high. FF: high.) MORE LIKE THIS, PLEASE!
SIGHTSEEING ★★★
The graphics were a mix of phenomenal and not that great. Cutscene animation was superb, but in-game animation was extremely pixellated. Background scenery was extremely well done—including forced perspective, palette choices, depth of field, and light and shadow—but items in the scene had a cut-and-pasted appearance as if they didn’t fit the background. They appear to have been rendered separately with different light sources, then added to the scene, making the overall impressing jarring.
The graphics were a mix of phenomenal and not that great. Cutscene animation was superb, but in-game animation was extremely pixellated. Background scenery was extremely well done—including forced perspective, palette choices, depth of field, and light and shadow—but items in the scene had a cut-and-pasted appearance as if they didn’t fit the background. They appear to have been rendered separately with different light sources, then added to the scene, making the overall impressing jarring.
HO scenes had a similar cut-and-pasted look. However, puzzle close-ups had beautiful surfaces and textures, and the map was a work of art in and of itself. NPCs were well-rendered and mostly moved in a lifelike manner. Lip synching was decent. Lastly, the morphing objects were not done well; the morphing was obvious, as each object changed quickly and into something that didn’t resemble it in shape or color.
SOUNDBOARD ★★
The music was sporadic; there was a lot of silence during the demo. I noticed because I was startled a couple times when the music suddenly started up. I honestly didn’t take much notice of whether it was appropriate or enjoyable, just that it was mostly missing. Same for environmental sounds. Voiceovers were ok; the witch was ridiculously melodramatic.
The music was sporadic; there was a lot of silence during the demo. I noticed because I was startled a couple times when the music suddenly started up. I honestly didn’t take much notice of whether it was appropriate or enjoyable, just that it was mostly missing. Same for environmental sounds. Voiceovers were ok; the witch was ridiculously melodramatic.
TOOLBOX ★★★
Lockable inventory with plus items and indicators for morphing objects and tarot cards. Absolutely stunning, fully interactive transporter map. Journal for tasks and notes, which wasn’t necessary since pop-ups notify you with annoying regularity every time you make a move. Psychic glasses which allow you to see and interact with past events, which I found gimmicky. Lastly, there’s a spellbook with a skull on its cover for which you have to collect pages. So, three things to collect.
Lockable inventory with plus items and indicators for morphing objects and tarot cards. Absolutely stunning, fully interactive transporter map. Journal for tasks and notes, which wasn’t necessary since pop-ups notify you with annoying regularity every time you make a move. Psychic glasses which allow you to see and interact with past events, which I found gimmicky. Lastly, there’s a spellbook with a skull on its cover for which you have to collect pages. So, three things to collect.
BUGS & BOTHERS
No technical difficulties, lags, or annoyances with Mac OS 10.11.6.
No technical difficulties, lags, or annoyances with Mac OS 10.11.6.
OOH! PIECE OF CANDY ★★★
• Bonus Chapter - Yes. See the vague description above.
• Strategy Guide - You won’t need it.
• Collectibles - Tarot cards for a bonus game (and 36 annoying pop-ups) and pages for your spellbook.
• Morphing Objects - Torture devices for your chamber of horrors (and 15 more annoying pop-ups).
• Replay HO Scenes - No, and this should be a must for all CEs. Automatic one-star deduction from this section.
• Replay Puzzles - No, and this is also a must for all CEs. Automatic one-star deduction from this section.
• Performance Achievements - Yes (and 33 more annoying pop-ups).
• Developer’s Portfolio - Wallpapers, soundtrack, concept art.
• Bonus Chapter - Yes. See the vague description above.
• Strategy Guide - You won’t need it.
• Collectibles - Tarot cards for a bonus game (and 36 annoying pop-ups) and pages for your spellbook.
• Morphing Objects - Torture devices for your chamber of horrors (and 15 more annoying pop-ups).
• Replay HO Scenes - No, and this should be a must for all CEs. Automatic one-star deduction from this section.
• Replay Puzzles - No, and this is also a must for all CEs. Automatic one-star deduction from this section.
• Performance Achievements - Yes (and 33 more annoying pop-ups).
• Developer’s Portfolio - Wallpapers, soundtrack, concept art.
EPILOGUE - Overall Rating: (14 total ★) ÷ 6 = 2.3 ★ (rounded to ★★)
I’m rounding down because my lowest ratings were in storyline and gameplay. It’s a mystery why this series does as well as it does. This is the third of five that I’ve tried, and all the stories have been as irrational as this one. The only part of this worth playing was the last puzzle I described, and the demo ended halfway through it. It’s a NO from me.
I’m rounding down because my lowest ratings were in storyline and gameplay. It’s a mystery why this series does as well as it does. This is the third of five that I’ve tried, and all the stories have been as irrational as this one. The only part of this worth playing was the last puzzle I described, and the demo ended halfway through it. It’s a NO from me.
RECOMMENDED BY THIS DEV (★★★★ or above, based on my rating at game’s release)
I have no recommendations from this dev. I’ve only purchased Labyrinths of the World: Changing the Past CE, and I rated it ★★. However, if you like a good versus evil theme involving witches, I do recommend the following games:
I have no recommendations from this dev. I’ve only purchased Labyrinths of the World: Changing the Past CE, and I rated it ★★. However, if you like a good versus evil theme involving witches, I do recommend the following games:
from the Witches’ Legacy series:
The Charleston Curse (2012), Hunter and the Hunted CE (2014)
The Charleston Curse (2012), Hunter and the Hunted CE (2014)
from the Nightmare Adventures series:
The Witch’s Prison (2010), The Turning Thorn (2016)
The Witch’s Prison (2010), The Turning Thorn (2016)
One-Offs
Spirit Walkers: Curse of the Cypress Witch
Spirit Walkers: Curse of the Cypress Witch
I don't recommend this game.
Can you escape the mirrored world to save your love?
Overall rating
2
/
5
26 of 37 found this review helpful
Stranded Storyline: Doppelgänger Gameplay
PostedSeptember 27, 2016
LunaNik
fromWell, there is a white queen, but it ain't Wonderland.
Skill Level:Expert
Favorite Genre(s):Adventure, Card & Board, Hidden Object, Large File, Puzzle, Strategy, Word
Fun Factor
1
/
5
Visual/Sound Quality
2
/
5
Level of Challenge
1
/
5
Storyline
1
/
5
REVIEW BASED ON full demo
I CURRENTLY OWN 505 computer games.
PROLOGUE
In the first episode of this series, The Prisoner, we had to enter the nightmares of a child to resolve her fears. Since I rated that game four stars back in 2013, I had hopes that this sequel would be at least as entertaining. Unfortunately, the absence of a storyline and simplistic gameplay dashed my hopes.
In the first episode of this series, The Prisoner, we had to enter the nightmares of a child to resolve her fears. Since I rated that game four stars back in 2013, I had hopes that this sequel would be at least as entertaining. Unfortunately, the absence of a storyline and simplistic gameplay dashed my hopes.
ONCE UPON A TIME ★
You’re about to marry the love of your life, Ryan, when your mirror twin forces an exchange, abandoning you in the desolate, surreal mirror world and taking your place at Ryan’s side. Apparently, the ancestral framed mirror that belonged to your grandfather was also a portal.
You’re about to marry the love of your life, Ryan, when your mirror twin forces an exchange, abandoning you in the desolate, surreal mirror world and taking your place at Ryan’s side. Apparently, the ancestral framed mirror that belonged to your grandfather was also a portal.
To make matters more confusing, the harlequin dolls that belonged to your younger sister, who died in a childhood accident, are in the mirror world. They’re animated and insist on following you around and advising you. Just to add to the chaos, there exists a Queen of this mirror world whose counsel you must seek if you are to return to the real world. And if you don’t hurry, your memories will fade away and you’ll wander, lonely and alone, within the confines of the mirror world.
(Note: It may sound like I actually know what’s going on, but I don’t. Very little of the storyline was advanced during the demo. No idea how the sister or her dolls relates to the story, why there’s a Queen of the mirror world, what Alex’s grandfather was doing with a mirror portal, or how her mirror twin came to be. I just wandered, lonely and alone…lol.)
PLAY THE GAME ★
Adventure mode consists of discovering a problem, then finding its solution within a few steps. (The infamous, “I need a screwdriver…Hey, look! A screwdriver!” repeated ad nauseum.) I get that some fishies consider this “relaxing gameplay,” and I would agree…if the storyline was well-written and the exposition well-developed. That’s not the case here. (LoC: low. FF: low.)
Adventure mode consists of discovering a problem, then finding its solution within a few steps. (The infamous, “I need a screwdriver…Hey, look! A screwdriver!” repeated ad nauseum.) I get that some fishies consider this “relaxing gameplay,” and I would agree…if the storyline was well-written and the exposition well-developed. That’s not the case here. (LoC: low. FF: low.)
HO Scenes varied in presentation but were “unhidden object scenes,” in that the objects were all in plain sight. I encountered spot the differences, find the words in the narrative (interactive), find objects that reveal fragments, silhouettes, place objects in the scene, and interactive list. (LoC: low. FF: low to medium.)
Puzzles were not groundbreaking or difficult.
• Using directional arrows that rotate after each turn, light up each square of the grid maze without backtracking. (LoC: low. FF: low.)
• Seven keys on a piano are colored like the rainbow. The overall sequence will flash, then fade back to white keys. Correctly play the rainbow in order. (LoC: low. FF: low.)
• Click four pieces of sheet music until they match the given clue. (LoC: low. FF: low.)
• Repair the glass door, which is a basic jigsaw puzzle. The pieces are animated, but stop moving once you click on them. No rotation is necessary. (LoC: low. FF: low.)
• Level 1: On a piece of fabric, separate the roses from the leaves using only three lines. Level 2: A pattern of threads has straight pins at its interstices. Following the threads, light up all the pins without backtracking. (LoC: low. FF: low.)
• Using directional arrows that rotate after each turn, light up each square of the grid maze without backtracking. (LoC: low. FF: low.)
• Seven keys on a piano are colored like the rainbow. The overall sequence will flash, then fade back to white keys. Correctly play the rainbow in order. (LoC: low. FF: low.)
• Click four pieces of sheet music until they match the given clue. (LoC: low. FF: low.)
• Repair the glass door, which is a basic jigsaw puzzle. The pieces are animated, but stop moving once you click on them. No rotation is necessary. (LoC: low. FF: low.)
• Level 1: On a piece of fabric, separate the roses from the leaves using only three lines. Level 2: A pattern of threads has straight pins at its interstices. Following the threads, light up all the pins without backtracking. (LoC: low. FF: low.)
SIGHTSEEING ★★
I found the graphics outdated. Cutscene animation was two-dimensional with a “walk like an Egyptian” appearance. The frame rate was low and movement was more stop-motion than true animation. NPCs were well-drawn but had a cardboard cutout appearance; they had limited facial expressions and body movements, and did not lip synch.
I found the graphics outdated. Cutscene animation was two-dimensional with a “walk like an Egyptian” appearance. The frame rate was low and movement was more stop-motion than true animation. NPCs were well-drawn but had a cardboard cutout appearance; they had limited facial expressions and body movements, and did not lip synch.
The static backgrounds were beautifully drawn but flat. There was no depth of field; objects further away were as crisp and clear as objects in the immediate foreground, giving every scene an unrealistic, flattened look. Similarly, items up close lacked appropriate detail and texture. Things that should have been reflective were not, for example. Lastly, in many places, shadows were missing, overly sharp when compared to the light casting them, or angled oddly.
SOUNDBOARD ★★
The music tended to be repetitive, and abruptly cut off then restarted with every change of scene. Environmental sounds were lacking, except for sounds relating to actions I took. Game sounds were unobtrusive, and voiceovers were just ok.
The music tended to be repetitive, and abruptly cut off then restarted with every change of scene. Environmental sounds were lacking, except for sounds relating to actions I took. Game sounds were unobtrusive, and voiceovers were just ok.
TOOLBOX ★★★★
Lockable inventory panel with plus items. It never overfilled during the demo, so I can’t speak to how the arrows work (one item at a time or one page at a time). Fully interactive transport map that shows interconnected screenshots of the actual scenes. No journal. Not one, but two annoying “helpers” that interrupt whenever they feel like it. No gimmicks like “mystical amulets” that generate repeating mini-games.
Lockable inventory panel with plus items. It never overfilled during the demo, so I can’t speak to how the arrows work (one item at a time or one page at a time). Fully interactive transport map that shows interconnected screenshots of the actual scenes. No journal. Not one, but two annoying “helpers” that interrupt whenever they feel like it. No gimmicks like “mystical amulets” that generate repeating mini-games.
BUGS & BOTHERS
No technical difficulties, lags, or annoyances with Mac OS 10.11.6.
No technical difficulties, lags, or annoyances with Mac OS 10.11.6.
OOH! PIECE OF CANDY ★★
• Bonus Chapter - “Help a family member battle inner demons.” No, thanks.
• Strategy Guide - You won’t need it.
• Collectibles - Wine glasses. They’re all oversized and in plain sight.
• Morphing Objects - Nope.
• Replay HO Scenes - No.
• Replay Puzzles - No.
• Performance Achievements - Yes, a baker’s dozen.
• Developer’s Portfolio - Wallpapers, soundtracks, and sketches.
• Other - That’s all, folks.
• Bonus Chapter - “Help a family member battle inner demons.” No, thanks.
• Strategy Guide - You won’t need it.
• Collectibles - Wine glasses. They’re all oversized and in plain sight.
• Morphing Objects - Nope.
• Replay HO Scenes - No.
• Replay Puzzles - No.
• Performance Achievements - Yes, a baker’s dozen.
• Developer’s Portfolio - Wallpapers, soundtracks, and sketches.
• Other - That’s all, folks.
EPILOGUE - Overall Rating: (12 total ★) ÷ 6 = ★★
Once again, I’m forced to make the same complaints: undeveloped storyline and simplistic gameplay. I must sound like a broken record at this point, but these games are coming across like déjà joué. (That’s the strange feeling that you’ve played this game before, even though you know you haven’t.) If you feel you must have this game, then I do recommend waiting for the SE, as this is not even remotely CE-worthy. As always, happy gaming, fishies!
Once again, I’m forced to make the same complaints: undeveloped storyline and simplistic gameplay. I must sound like a broken record at this point, but these games are coming across like déjà joué. (That’s the strange feeling that you’ve played this game before, even though you know you haven’t.) If you feel you must have this game, then I do recommend waiting for the SE, as this is not even remotely CE-worthy. As always, happy gaming, fishies!
RECOMMENDED BY THIS DEV (★★★★ or above, based on my rating at game’s release)
Shrouded Tales: The Spellbound Land - 2014
Stranded Dreamscapes: The Prisoner - 2013
Shrouded Tales: The Spellbound Land - 2014
Stranded Dreamscapes: The Prisoner - 2013
I don't recommend this game.
Can you save your boyfriend before it's too late?
Overall rating
5
/
5
55 of 61 found this review helpful
Other devs had better take notice...Madhead has just raised the bar again!
PostedSeptember 25, 2016
LunaNik
fromNever underestimate a woman with a hacksaw.
Skill Level:Expert
Favorite Genre(s):Adventure, Card & Board, Hidden Object, Large File, Puzzle, Strategy, Word
Fun Factor
5
/
5
Visual/Sound Quality
5
/
5
Level of Challenge
5
/
5
Storyline
5
/
5
REVIEW BASED ON completed game + bonus chapter + extras
MY GAMES
How long was I stuck at five hundred and four?
Every game that I tried was too easy…a bore!
For this, I made room gladly on my hard drive.
And I’m proud to announce: I own 505. :-)
How long was I stuck at five hundred and four?
Every game that I tried was too easy…a bore!
For this, I made room gladly on my hard drive.
And I’m proud to announce: I own 505. :-)
PROLOGUE
I loved the first two episodes of this series—The Beauty Within and Shattered Image—and gave them both five stars. The storylines were interesting and gameplay was enjoyable. Smoke and Mirrors was too easy, and the storyline moved slowly. I never bothered with Legends, based on reviews that said gameplay was easy.
I loved the first two episodes of this series—The Beauty Within and Shattered Image—and gave them both five stars. The storylines were interesting and gameplay was enjoyable. Smoke and Mirrors was too easy, and the storyline moved slowly. I never bothered with Legends, based on reviews that said gameplay was easy.
I decided to try Hidden Doorway in the hopes that Madhead had revived this once-great series. Better look sharp, devs. Madhead has raised the bar again!
ONCE UPON A TIME ★★★★★
Your boyfriend, Ian, is interning with established writer, Benjamin Bells. You finally receive a strange video call from him; Ian claims he’s in danger…from his mentor. Naturally, you immediately go to Mr. Bells’ house and find Ian behind a locked door. He hands you a book, telling you that you must change the story. By the time you get through the door, Mr. Bells and Ian are vanishing through a portal of some type. And Mr. Bells is doing his best to stop you from following them, insisting that he has to “stop Ian” at all costs. What’s going on here?
Your boyfriend, Ian, is interning with established writer, Benjamin Bells. You finally receive a strange video call from him; Ian claims he’s in danger…from his mentor. Naturally, you immediately go to Mr. Bells’ house and find Ian behind a locked door. He hands you a book, telling you that you must change the story. By the time you get through the door, Mr. Bells and Ian are vanishing through a portal of some type. And Mr. Bells is doing his best to stop you from following them, insisting that he has to “stop Ian” at all costs. What’s going on here?
Note: While this episode is not part of the stories involving Belle and her family, it is still a valid part of this series, as it concerns Taleworld.
PLAY THE GAME ★★★★★
Adventure mode finds you following Mr. Bells through strikingly different “tales,” as he does his best to stop Ian from bringing darkness to Taleworld. You’ll not only have to fight against the darkness being introduced to the various tales, but also against Mr. Bells’ own stories. Some of this is done via traditional gameplay—interacting with the environment through your inventory—while some is done via changing the story to your advantage. Yes, you heard that right. (LoC: low through high. FF: medium to high.)
Adventure mode finds you following Mr. Bells through strikingly different “tales,” as he does his best to stop Ian from bringing darkness to Taleworld. You’ll not only have to fight against the darkness being introduced to the various tales, but also against Mr. Bells’ own stories. Some of this is done via traditional gameplay—interacting with the environment through your inventory—while some is done via changing the story to your advantage. Yes, you heard that right. (LoC: low through high. FF: medium to high.)
HO Scenes are varied in presentation, interactive, and challenging. For the most part, the objects are actually hidden! Some of the variations:
• a mixed presentation of straight list, interactive list, and related pairs where one or both require interactions,
• interactive list where each object hides a fragment of a lock,
• silhouettes…find three of each type, most objects require interaction,
• related pairs,
• find the highlighted words in the narrative,
• find three of each drawing while listening to the backstory, and
• find three that correspond to each given category.
(LoC: medium to high. FF: medium to high.)
• a mixed presentation of straight list, interactive list, and related pairs where one or both require interactions,
• interactive list where each object hides a fragment of a lock,
• silhouettes…find three of each type, most objects require interaction,
• related pairs,
• find the highlighted words in the narrative,
• find three of each drawing while listening to the backstory, and
• find three that correspond to each given category.
(LoC: medium to high. FF: medium to high.)
Puzzles run the gamut from quite easy to “requires functioning neurons.” These are all after the demo:
• Repeating puzzle: In the storybook, choose which word to modify, then choose from the five available choices. (LoC: low to high. FF: awesome.)
• Use the magic magnifying glass to gather clues at the crime scene. When you have them all, tag them and place them in the correct order. (LoC: medium. FF: high.)
• Several levels of increasing difficulty: A number of figurines are set up on a board. Each has a goal and a directional arrow. Move each figurine until it reaches its goal. The first board merely requires you to move each in a straight line, but they become more difficult, requiring strategic planning. (LoC: low to high. FF: high.)
• Three levels: Rotate the “sight glass” to reveal rune fragments. For each level, choose the rune fragments that together complete the displayed rune. (LoC: medium. FF: medium.)
• Asteroids! I’m not even kidding. (LoC: medium. FF: high)
• Repeating puzzle: In the storybook, choose which word to modify, then choose from the five available choices. (LoC: low to high. FF: awesome.)
• Use the magic magnifying glass to gather clues at the crime scene. When you have them all, tag them and place them in the correct order. (LoC: medium. FF: high.)
• Several levels of increasing difficulty: A number of figurines are set up on a board. Each has a goal and a directional arrow. Move each figurine until it reaches its goal. The first board merely requires you to move each in a straight line, but they become more difficult, requiring strategic planning. (LoC: low to high. FF: high.)
• Three levels: Rotate the “sight glass” to reveal rune fragments. For each level, choose the rune fragments that together complete the displayed rune. (LoC: medium. FF: medium.)
• Asteroids! I’m not even kidding. (LoC: medium. FF: high)
SIGHTSEEING ★★★★★
The graphics are so varied in style that I’m not sure where to begin. Fantasy scenes are whimsical while modern scenes show realism. I’m fairly sure the entire palette was used, but used wisely and with taste. Color evokes mood subtly but with great success.
The graphics are so varied in style that I’m not sure where to begin. Fantasy scenes are whimsical while modern scenes show realism. I’m fairly sure the entire palette was used, but used wisely and with taste. Color evokes mood subtly but with great success.
Zoomed in, everything has beautiful detail and texture. The NPCs are well-drawn with realistic articulation and movement and excellent facial expressions. Both in-game and cutscene animation are smooth.
SOUNDBOARD ★★★★★
The music is varied and well-integrated. “Eternal Garden” is a piano minuet against a backdrop of strings. “Puppet’s Strings” reminds me of a film noir soundtrack, while “Breakthroughs” calls to mind an epic movie. There are four variations on a theme called “Hideaways,” parts one through four, and all are markedly different in style, mood, and tempo.
The music is varied and well-integrated. “Eternal Garden” is a piano minuet against a backdrop of strings. “Puppet’s Strings” reminds me of a film noir soundtrack, while “Breakthroughs” calls to mind an epic movie. There are four variations on a theme called “Hideaways,” parts one through four, and all are markedly different in style, mood, and tempo.
Environmental sounds are appropriate, but not overwhelming. Game sounds are unobtrusive and not annoying. Voiceovers are excellent. (Mr. Bells’ voice reminds me of Atrus from the Myst series.)
TOOLBOX ★★★★★
Inventory panel locks open and includes plus item. And, miracle of miracles, the arrow keys function as “page up” and “page down” buttons instead of just moving forward or back one item at a time. Full stars!
Inventory panel locks open and includes plus item. And, miracle of miracles, the arrow keys function as “page up” and “page down” buttons instead of just moving forward or back one item at a time. Full stars!
The map transports and has “something to do here” indicators. Style-wise, it’s interconnected screenshots of the scenes, so you can tell exactly which place is which. There’s no journal, nor is one necessary.
You have a helper for part of the game: an adorable levitating robot with shears at the ends of his arms. He stays onscreen and is unobtrusive. Nor must you name or dress him. There are no irritating gimmicks.
BUGS & BOTHERS
No technical difficulties, lags, or annoyances with Mac OS 10.11.6.
No technical difficulties, lags, or annoyances with Mac OS 10.11.6.
OOH! PIECE OF CANDY ★★★★
• Bonus Chapter - Help Ian seal the darkness in once and for all.
• Collectibles: There’s portal symbol in each scene; an icon near the inventory panel reminds you whether you’ve found it. If you find them all, each one is a piece of a jigsaw puzzle which, when completed, unlocks four Treasure Hunts: fantasy, science fiction, crime, and drama.
• Morphing Objects - There’s one in each HO; the collectible icon works here too. Collect them all to unlock the Avatars.
• Replay HO Scenes - All 16 of them, including getting any morphing objects you missed.
• Replay Puzzles - No. *weeps copiously* But you can play a bunch of levels of the gardening puzzle.
• Performance Achievements - Nope, and I didn’t miss them one tiny bit.
• Developer’s Portfolio - 17 wallpapers, 22 concept art, 10 downloadable soundtracks, 24 Avatars,
• Other - Strategy Guide, Nostalgia (4 HO scenes from previous games)
• Bonus Chapter - Help Ian seal the darkness in once and for all.
• Collectibles: There’s portal symbol in each scene; an icon near the inventory panel reminds you whether you’ve found it. If you find them all, each one is a piece of a jigsaw puzzle which, when completed, unlocks four Treasure Hunts: fantasy, science fiction, crime, and drama.
• Morphing Objects - There’s one in each HO; the collectible icon works here too. Collect them all to unlock the Avatars.
• Replay HO Scenes - All 16 of them, including getting any morphing objects you missed.
• Replay Puzzles - No. *weeps copiously* But you can play a bunch of levels of the gardening puzzle.
• Performance Achievements - Nope, and I didn’t miss them one tiny bit.
• Developer’s Portfolio - 17 wallpapers, 22 concept art, 10 downloadable soundtracks, 24 Avatars,
• Other - Strategy Guide, Nostalgia (4 HO scenes from previous games)
EPILOGUE - Overall Rating: (34 total ★) ÷ 6 = 4.83 ★ (rounded to ★★★★★)
I absolutely recommend this game without reservation. While it’s not the longest game, it more than makes up for that with quality gameplay that’s challenging and fun. Happy gaming, fishies!
I absolutely recommend this game without reservation. While it’s not the longest game, it more than makes up for that with quality gameplay that’s challenging and fun. Happy gaming, fishies!
RECOMMENDED BY THIS DEV (★★★★ or above, based on my rating at game’s release)
from this series:
The Beauty Within CE, Shattered Image CE
from this series:
The Beauty Within CE, Shattered Image CE
from the Rite of Passage series:
The Perfect Show, Child of the Forest CE, Hide and Seek CE
The Perfect Show, Child of the Forest CE, Hide and Seek CE
from the Dark Realm series:
Queen of Flames CE, Princess of Ice CE, Lord of the Winds CE
Queen of Flames CE, Princess of Ice CE, Lord of the Winds CE
from the Cadenza series:
Music, Betrayal, and Death CE, Havana Nights CE
Music, Betrayal, and Death CE, Havana Nights CE
One-Offs
Beyond: Light Advent CE, Maze: Subject 360 CE
Beyond: Light Advent CE, Maze: Subject 360 CE
I recommend this game!
A unique puzzle game in a fantastical mansion of a legendary toymaker! Challenge yourself to solve a series of diabolical puzzles!
Overall rating
4
/
5
13 of 16 found this review helpful
4½ stars for the 3rd episode in this unique series!
PostedSeptember 21, 2016
LunaNik
fromNow THESE are puzzles!
Skill Level:Expert
Favorite Genre(s):Adventure, Card & Board, Hidden Object, Large File, Puzzle, Strategy, Word
Fun Factor
5
/
5
Visual/Sound Quality
5
/
5
Level of Challenge
5
/
5
Storyline
5
/
5
REVIEW BASED ON playing more than halfway through and still going!
I CURRENTLY OWN 504 computer games.
PROLOGUE
My first encounter with this dev was the prequel to Rooms: The Main Building, which he offered as a free online game. I was enchanted with the graphics, music, and gameplay. It was unlike any other game out there. Years went by, and we now have two sequelae with the same game mechanics, humor, and devilishly difficult puzzles. Here’s hoping for more.
My first encounter with this dev was the prequel to Rooms: The Main Building, which he offered as a free online game. I was enchanted with the graphics, music, and gameplay. It was unlike any other game out there. Years went by, and we now have two sequelae with the same game mechanics, humor, and devilishly difficult puzzles. Here’s hoping for more.
ONCE UPON A TIME ★★★★★
Since our dev has earned his freedom from the Rooms universe, we have a new challenger: a young girl named Anne who is fascinated with the Toymaker and his Mansion. Seems the Toymaker got hold of a magic puzzle piece that made his ordinary toys into amazing toy. Except every time he used it, it lost power…until he discovered what to feed it.
Since our dev has earned his freedom from the Rooms universe, we have a new challenger: a young girl named Anne who is fascinated with the Toymaker and his Mansion. Seems the Toymaker got hold of a magic puzzle piece that made his ordinary toys into amazing toy. Except every time he used it, it lost power…until he discovered what to feed it.
Anne becomes increasingly horrified as the story is revealed to her during her exploration. Will she be able to escape the Mansion? Or will the Toymaker collect her soul to power his fantastic devices?
PLAY THE GAME ★★★★★
Within each chapter are a series of numbered doorways. Pass through, and you’ll find a number of rooms that are out of order, including one room with an exit. Your challenge is to use what’s available to move the rooms around until they’re back in order within the given number of moves, then get to the exit.
Within each chapter are a series of numbered doorways. Pass through, and you’ll find a number of rooms that are out of order, including one room with an exit. Your challenge is to use what’s available to move the rooms around until they’re back in order within the given number of moves, then get to the exit.
However, there will be quite a few obstacles and things to assist you, including:
• rooms that are locked in place and cannot be moved, so you have to work around them
• rooms that are blocked until you explode the blockage
• a nasty puppet that mimics your movements and explodes if you encounter him
• rooms with magnets you can use to attract/repel other rooms
• rooms with payphones that will teleport you between them, Matrix-style
• rooms with wardrobes which, when activated, will exchange the two rooms’ positions
• rooms with matching mirrors that will mimic each other’s movements, unless blocked
…and lots more!
• rooms that are locked in place and cannot be moved, so you have to work around them
• rooms that are blocked until you explode the blockage
• a nasty puppet that mimics your movements and explodes if you encounter him
• rooms with magnets you can use to attract/repel other rooms
• rooms with payphones that will teleport you between them, Matrix-style
• rooms with wardrobes which, when activated, will exchange the two rooms’ positions
• rooms with matching mirrors that will mimic each other’s movements, unless blocked
…and lots more!
The trick is to find the correct combination of moves to achieve three stars for each level. You can reset at any time. (Also, you can click and hold on the talking lantern to see the correct configuration.)
SIGHTSEEING ★★★★★
• Scenery - A combination of realistic textures and surreal architecture have been the hallmark of this series. There’s lots of looped animation in the background, which can be a clue to which room goes where, but also adds to the charm.
• Up close - No zoomed-in scenes.
• NPCs - Anne is a 3D rendered character with exaggerated features, and adorably cute.
• Cutscene Animation - The backstory is presented in a lovely sepia-toned silhouette style.
• Zoom Scene Animation - No zoomed animation.
• Scenery - A combination of realistic textures and surreal architecture have been the hallmark of this series. There’s lots of looped animation in the background, which can be a clue to which room goes where, but also adds to the charm.
• Up close - No zoomed-in scenes.
• NPCs - Anne is a 3D rendered character with exaggerated features, and adorably cute.
• Cutscene Animation - The backstory is presented in a lovely sepia-toned silhouette style.
• Zoom Scene Animation - No zoomed animation.
SOUNDBOARD ★★★★
• Music - Enjoyable and well done, but not as varied as the previous episode.
• Environmental Sounds - Excellent! Everything you do has an accompanying sound effect, and they’re all realistic.
• Game Sounds - There aren’t many, since most actions have their own sound effects.
• Voiceovers - Honestly, I can’t remember whether there was narration, but there were no other voiceovers.
• Music - Enjoyable and well done, but not as varied as the previous episode.
• Environmental Sounds - Excellent! Everything you do has an accompanying sound effect, and they’re all realistic.
• Game Sounds - There aren’t many, since most actions have their own sound effects.
• Voiceovers - Honestly, I can’t remember whether there was narration, but there were no other voiceovers.
TOOLBOX ★★★★
At left is a counter that tracks the number of times you’ve moved any/all rooms, the reset button, the talking lantern, and a navigation button that allows you to move from mansion to mansion. That last is a bit tricky and can be frustrating. I’m torn as to whether this game could use a hint system. On the one hand, I feel like it would make me lazy. On the other hand, I have been well and truly stuck in a couple of levels.
At left is a counter that tracks the number of times you’ve moved any/all rooms, the reset button, the talking lantern, and a navigation button that allows you to move from mansion to mansion. That last is a bit tricky and can be frustrating. I’m torn as to whether this game could use a hint system. On the one hand, I feel like it would make me lazy. On the other hand, I have been well and truly stuck in a couple of levels.
BUGS & BOTHERS
No technical difficulties, lags, or annoyances with Mac OS 10.11.6.
No technical difficulties, lags, or annoyances with Mac OS 10.11.6.
EPILOGUE - Overall Rating: (23 total ★) ÷ 5 = 4.6 ★ (rounded to ★★★★½)
If you’re a fan of thinking games, this one’s for you. Sure, it starts out easy, but it becomes difficult rather quickly. And that’s awesome.
If you’re a fan of thinking games, this one’s for you. Sure, it starts out easy, but it becomes difficult rather quickly. And that’s awesome.
RECOMMENDED BY THIS DEV (★★★★ or above, based on my rating at game’s release)
Both from this series:
The Main Building ★★★★★ 2015
Rooms (the free online game) ★★★★★ 2007
Both from this series:
The Main Building ★★★★★ 2015
Rooms (the free online game) ★★★★★ 2007
I recommend this game!
Can you escape Silent Waters before it's too late?
Overall rating
2
/
5
40 of 46 found this review helpful
2½ stars, and it only got that for its graphics
PostedSeptember 17, 2016
LunaNik
fromWondering if there's a curse on devs whose names begin with E. All seem to have fallen victim to releasing super easy games that lack storylines, but have great graphics.
Skill Level:Expert
Favorite Genre(s):Adventure, Card & Board, Hidden Object, Large File, Puzzle, Strategy, Word
Fun Factor
1
/
5
Visual/Sound Quality
4
/
5
Level of Challenge
1
/
5
Storyline
1
/
5
REVIEW BASED ON completed demo
I CURRENTLY OWN 504 computer games.
PROLOGUE
This game falls into the high production value, zero storyline, tedious and easy gameplay category. There are a plethora of better games by this dev, which I list at the end of my review.
This game falls into the high production value, zero storyline, tedious and easy gameplay category. There are a plethora of better games by this dev, which I list at the end of my review.
ONCE UPON A TIME ★
You have the starring role in one of the pachyderm’s casual games. Naturally, this means you gets into a car accident straight off. Some nasty person drags you into an abandoned hotel and locks you in a room. Fortunately, the place is chock full of items you can use to escape…if, that is, you can stay awake long enough to plow through the mind-numbingly easy mini-games, unhidden object scenes, lack of storyline, and infinite shaped “keys” you’ll need.
You have the starring role in one of the pachyderm’s casual games. Naturally, this means you gets into a car accident straight off. Some nasty person drags you into an abandoned hotel and locks you in a room. Fortunately, the place is chock full of items you can use to escape…if, that is, you can stay awake long enough to plow through the mind-numbingly easy mini-games, unhidden object scenes, lack of storyline, and infinite shaped “keys” you’ll need.
PLAY THE GAME ★
Adventure mode, summed up:
• “Looks like I need a corkscrew. Too bad I dropped the one I had ten minutes ago!”
• “What a surprise; a zipper missing its tab. You hardly ever see that in these games.”
• “I’m going to need a screwdriver.” *takes two steps* “Hey, look! A screwdriver!”
• “I need a triangle/hexagon/fleur-de-lis/skull/crown/lion/etc. to open this.”
(Level of challenge: using a fork without stabbing your face. Fun factor: SAT test.)
Adventure mode, summed up:
• “Looks like I need a corkscrew. Too bad I dropped the one I had ten minutes ago!”
• “What a surprise; a zipper missing its tab. You hardly ever see that in these games.”
• “I’m going to need a screwdriver.” *takes two steps* “Hey, look! A screwdriver!”
• “I need a triangle/hexagon/fleur-de-lis/skull/crown/lion/etc. to open this.”
(Level of challenge: using a fork without stabbing your face. Fun factor: SAT test.)
HO Scenes were presented in a variety of ways, including minimally interactive list, replace items in the scene, uncover pairs, straight list then FROG, and silhouette. But all objects were in plain view. (Level of challenge: making a sandwich. Fun factor: folding laundry.)
Puzzles were all retreads and ridiculously easy, with one exception. First, the exception:
• There’s a grid of six metal tiles, and each has a track along which a ball can move. You can rotate the tiles and exchange the top and bottom ones. Strategize to find a way to move the ball to the goal. (LoC: medium. FF: medium.)
Now, the throwaways, all of which presented no challenge and no fun:
• Slide five colored balls along the tracks to their matching goals.
• Move the flowers to their matching outlines.
• Move three dials to match the given clue; moving one dial affects others.
• There are five angel figurines on strings. By guessing randomly, determine the correct order in which to pull them. Three levels.
• Fill the grid with Tetris-shaped pieces.
• Aim a slingshot by clicking when the moving sliders are in the red zone. Several levels of increasing “difficulty.”
• A stupidly easy rotate-the-pipes.
• Rotate three stars with differently colored points until the balls between them are solid colors.
(Level of challenge: saying the alphabet. Fun factor: window washing.)
• There’s a grid of six metal tiles, and each has a track along which a ball can move. You can rotate the tiles and exchange the top and bottom ones. Strategize to find a way to move the ball to the goal. (LoC: medium. FF: medium.)
Now, the throwaways, all of which presented no challenge and no fun:
• Slide five colored balls along the tracks to their matching goals.
• Move the flowers to their matching outlines.
• Move three dials to match the given clue; moving one dial affects others.
• There are five angel figurines on strings. By guessing randomly, determine the correct order in which to pull them. Three levels.
• Fill the grid with Tetris-shaped pieces.
• Aim a slingshot by clicking when the moving sliders are in the red zone. Several levels of increasing “difficulty.”
• A stupidly easy rotate-the-pipes.
• Rotate three stars with differently colored points until the balls between them are solid colors.
(Level of challenge: saying the alphabet. Fun factor: window washing.)
SIGHTSEEING ★★★★
• Scenery - Hand-painted in lots of neutrals, but with a few colors here and there. Lots of horror movie, surreal perspective.
• Up close - Beautiful detail, including textures and accessories like spiderwebs and dead leaves.
• NPCs - Hand-drawn, but well-articulated with lifelike movements and lip synching.
• Cutscene Animation - Stunning, and there’s lots of in-game animation as well, which is typical of this series. Animated portraits and mirrors, ghosts that appear and disappear, and more.
• Zoom Scene Animation - Smooth and realistic. However, the morphing objects were not done well at all. Each one morphed into something that didn’t resemble it in size, shape, and color, and the morphs were fast. They were too easy to spot.
• Scenery - Hand-painted in lots of neutrals, but with a few colors here and there. Lots of horror movie, surreal perspective.
• Up close - Beautiful detail, including textures and accessories like spiderwebs and dead leaves.
• NPCs - Hand-drawn, but well-articulated with lifelike movements and lip synching.
• Cutscene Animation - Stunning, and there’s lots of in-game animation as well, which is typical of this series. Animated portraits and mirrors, ghosts that appear and disappear, and more.
• Zoom Scene Animation - Smooth and realistic. However, the morphing objects were not done well at all. Each one morphed into something that didn’t resemble it in size, shape, and color, and the morphs were fast. They were too easy to spot.
SOUNDBOARD ★★★
• Music - Not horrific enough, in my view. It was just this dev’s typical, orchestral soundtrack.
• Environmental Sounds - Done really well: lots of creaky doors, crashing parts of the house falling apart, eerie sounds of ghosts, whispering, etc.
• Game Sounds - Nicely unobtrusive.
• Voiceovers - Good affect and not overly melodramatic.
• Music - Not horrific enough, in my view. It was just this dev’s typical, orchestral soundtrack.
• Environmental Sounds - Done really well: lots of creaky doors, crashing parts of the house falling apart, eerie sounds of ghosts, whispering, etc.
• Game Sounds - Nicely unobtrusive.
• Voiceovers - Good affect and not overly melodramatic.
TOOLBOX ★★★★
• Inventory Panel - Locks open and includes plus items. Arrows only move one item, not one page.
• Map - A isometric drawing of the hotel with flags showing your location and active areas. It also transports.
• Journal - No.
• Helper - No.
• Gimmick - No.
• Inventory Panel - Locks open and includes plus items. Arrows only move one item, not one page.
• Map - A isometric drawing of the hotel with flags showing your location and active areas. It also transports.
• Journal - No.
• Helper - No.
• Gimmick - No.
BUGS & BOTHERS
No technical difficulties with Mac OS 10.11.6, but the mouse was extremely slow to respond and the cursor often remained in one iteration even after the action had been completed. For example, if I went back to a previous room, the cursor would remain in the form of the back arrow for anywhere from 5-10 seconds.
No technical difficulties with Mac OS 10.11.6, but the mouse was extremely slow to respond and the cursor often remained in one iteration even after the action had been completed. For example, if I went back to a previous room, the cursor would remain in the form of the back arrow for anywhere from 5-10 seconds.
OOH! PIECE OF CANDY ★★★
• Bonus Chapter - No idea whether it’s related to the main story.
• Strategy Guide - I didn’t use it, so I can’t speak to its setup.
• Collectibles - Pieces of a crest. Random, unrelated items for a “music room.”
• Morphing Objects - Far too easy to spot.
• Replay HO Scenes - Yes, 13 of them.
• Replay Puzzles - Yes, 16 of them, although I can’t imagine you’d want to do so.
• Performance Achievements - I doubt they’re difficult to earn.
• Developer’s Portfolio - Wallpapers, concept art, a screensaver, and a mere four soundtracks.
• Other - Souvenir room.
• Bonus Chapter - No idea whether it’s related to the main story.
• Strategy Guide - I didn’t use it, so I can’t speak to its setup.
• Collectibles - Pieces of a crest. Random, unrelated items for a “music room.”
• Morphing Objects - Far too easy to spot.
• Replay HO Scenes - Yes, 13 of them.
• Replay Puzzles - Yes, 16 of them, although I can’t imagine you’d want to do so.
• Performance Achievements - I doubt they’re difficult to earn.
• Developer’s Portfolio - Wallpapers, concept art, a screensaver, and a mere four soundtracks.
• Other - Souvenir room.
EPILOGUE - Overall Rating: (16 total ★) ÷ 6 = 2.6 ★★★★★ (rounded to ★★½)
Sorry, but the amazing graphics and animation cannot overcome the simplistic, repetitive, and completely boring gameplay and the storyline, which is either undeveloped or developed much too slowly. By the end of the demo, you’re only left with questions, but the game just wasn’t fun enough to keep me interested in finding out the answers.
Sorry, but the amazing graphics and animation cannot overcome the simplistic, repetitive, and completely boring gameplay and the storyline, which is either undeveloped or developed much too slowly. By the end of the demo, you’re only left with questions, but the game just wasn’t fun enough to keep me interested in finding out the answers.
RECOMMENDED BY THIS DEV (★★★★ or above, based on my rating at game’s release)
From the Grim Tales series:
The Wishes ★★★★ 2012
Bloody Mary CE ★★★★★ 2013
The Vengeance CE ★★★★ 2014
From the Grim Tales series:
The Wishes ★★★★ 2012
Bloody Mary CE ★★★★★ 2013
The Vengeance CE ★★★★ 2014
From the Mystery Trackers series:
The Void ★★★★ 2010
Raincliff ★★★★ 2011
Black Isle ★★★★ 2012
Four Aces CE ★★★★★ 2012
Silent Hollow CE ★★★★ 2013
Raincliff's Phantoms CE ★★★★½ 2014
The Void ★★★★ 2010
Raincliff ★★★★ 2011
Black Isle ★★★★ 2012
Four Aces CE ★★★★★ 2012
Silent Hollow CE ★★★★ 2013
Raincliff's Phantoms CE ★★★★½ 2014
From the Royal Detective series:
The Lord of Statues ★★★★★ CE 2012
Queen of Shadows ★★★★ CE 2014
The Lord of Statues ★★★★★ CE 2012
Queen of Shadows ★★★★ CE 2014
From the Surface series:
Mystery of Another World CE ★★★★★ 2012
The Noise She Couldn't Make CE ★★★★★ 2012
The Soaring City CE ★★★★★ 2013
The Pantheon CE ★★★★★ 2013
Mystery of Another World CE ★★★★★ 2012
The Noise She Couldn't Make CE ★★★★★ 2012
The Soaring City CE ★★★★★ 2013
The Pantheon CE ★★★★★ 2013
One-Offs:
Chimeras: Tune of Revenge CE ★★★★★ 2013
Christmas Stories: The Nutcracker ★★★★★ 2012
Detective Quest: The Crystal Slipper ★★★★ 2012
Unfinished Tales: Illicit Love CE ★★★★★ 2012
Chimeras: Tune of Revenge CE ★★★★★ 2013
Christmas Stories: The Nutcracker ★★★★★ 2012
Detective Quest: The Crystal Slipper ★★★★ 2012
Unfinished Tales: Illicit Love CE ★★★★★ 2012
I don't recommend this game.