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:
Join Elly Cooper as she is unexpectedly thrown into an adventure that takes her around the world.
Overall rating
1
/
5
22 of 40 found this review helpful
Game of Antiquity, actually.
PostedOctober 6, 2015
LunaNik
from*cough cough* Sorry, it's the dust from this game. It must have been on the shelf for ten years.
Skill Level:Expert
Favorite Genre(s):Puzzle, Hidden Object, Time Management, Adventure, Large File, Strategy, Word, Card & Board
Fun Factor
1
/
5
Visual/Sound Quality
5
/
5
Level of Challenge
1
/
5
Storyline
1
/
5
Elly Cooper and the City of Antiquity
Review based on slightly over half the demo
Review based on slightly over half the demo
PROLOGUE...
If you don't care much about story lines or puzzles as long as there are constant junk-piled HO scenes, you may like this game. Otherwise, I doubt you will. Its gameplay is rather dated.
If you don't care much about story lines or puzzles as long as there are constant junk-piled HO scenes, you may like this game. Otherwise, I doubt you will. Its gameplay is rather dated.
ONCE UPON A TIME...
Elly Cooper returns from holiday and meets with her father. I dozed off during the long, slow dialogue they had and missed the set-up. I then had to run around the city from restaurant to dad's office to Elly's apartment accomplishing...I have no idea. Somewhere in all this, Elly was kidnapped. I swear I wasn't drinking.
Elly Cooper returns from holiday and meets with her father. I dozed off during the long, slow dialogue they had and missed the set-up. I then had to run around the city from restaurant to dad's office to Elly's apartment accomplishing...I have no idea. Somewhere in all this, Elly was kidnapped. I swear I wasn't drinking.
PLAY THE GAME...
Endless HO scenes. Also, HO scenes. When you're done with those, there are HO scenes. Many of the items are extremely small and way in the background or in shadows.
Endless HO scenes. Also, HO scenes. When you're done with those, there are HO scenes. Many of the items are extremely small and way in the background or in shadows.
SIGHTSEEING...
Excellent graphics...items were realistically dimensional, light and shadow were utilized well, textures were amazing.
Excellent graphics...items were realistically dimensional, light and shadow were utilized well, textures were amazing.
SOUNDBOARD...
I had the sound down, so I won't comment here.
I had the sound down, so I won't comment here.
TOOLBOX...
Inventory didn't lock open...annoying. There was a journal I never used. The map indicated active areas, but didn't transport.
Inventory didn't lock open...annoying. There was a journal I never used. The map indicated active areas, but didn't transport.
OH BOTHER!
I seemed to have to click several times on everything.
I seemed to have to click several times on everything.
OOH! PIECE OF CANDY...
Collectible "O coins." Apparently, there's a bonus room with achievements.
Collectible "O coins." Apparently, there's a bonus room with achievements.
EPILOGUE...
If I'm going to play a game full of junk-piled HO scenes, they need to be in context and done extremely well. This wasn't.
If I'm going to play a game full of junk-piled HO scenes, they need to be in context and done extremely well. This wasn't.
I don't recommend this game.
A visitor arrives through Prof. Bennett's portal, seeking help.
Overall rating
1
/
5
9 of 10 found this review helpful
Childish, mundane gameplay & sluggish, inconsistent story line
PostedOctober 4, 2015
LunaNik
fromAre any devs making games for adults? Hello? Bueller?
Skill Level:Expert
Favorite Genre(s):Puzzle, Hidden Object, Time Management, Adventure, Large File, Strategy, Word, Card & Board
Fun Factor
1
/
5
Visual/Sound Quality
4
/
5
Level of Challenge
1
/
5
Storyline
1
/
5
Amaranthine Voyage: The Orb of Purity CE
Review based on completed demo
Review based on completed demo
PROLOGUE...
This once enchanting series has become simplistic and formulaic, I'm afraid, rife with repetitive mini-games that would bore an 8-year-old. Even the graphics have gone downhill this time, and transitions between cutscenes and gameplay were slow. What little there was of a story line moved at a snail's pace.
This once enchanting series has become simplistic and formulaic, I'm afraid, rife with repetitive mini-games that would bore an 8-year-old. Even the graphics have gone downhill this time, and transitions between cutscenes and gameplay were slow. What little there was of a story line moved at a snail's pace.
ONCE UPON A TIME...
Professor Samantha Bennett has used harmonium to open a portal, but is inexplicably surprised when someone comes through it. She refers to him as an alien, though he is completely human. Bennett calls on you, Eve Glover, as "the leading expert on harmonium." Apparently, she managed her research without you, but is now stumped. The demo presented a sufficient number of contradictions that, even as a science fiction and fantasy junkie, I was unable to suspend my disbelief.
Professor Samantha Bennett has used harmonium to open a portal, but is inexplicably surprised when someone comes through it. She refers to him as an alien, though he is completely human. Bennett calls on you, Eve Glover, as "the leading expert on harmonium." Apparently, she managed her research without you, but is now stumped. The demo presented a sufficient number of contradictions that, even as a science fiction and fantasy junkie, I was unable to suspend my disbelief.
The alien human is Kraixx, and he needs you to save his world, naturally. Dark harmonium is threatening it. Also, there are the Watchers, a group of self-styled police officers who arrest people with magical abilities. Strangely, they seem to use magic to do so. I gave up trying to make sense of the story just when the demo ended.
PLAY THE GAME...
Solve elementary school-level mini-games to use your gauntlet to gather harmonium. Matching pairs. Move a jointed string into position to light up all the dots.
Solve elementary school-level mini-games to use your gauntlet to gather harmonium. Matching pairs. Move a jointed string into position to light up all the dots.
Find an infinite number of shaped keys to open locks with their matching indentations. Some need assembly. Woo hoo.
HO scenes I encountered were sequential with areas where you could zoom in, probably the most realistic type of HO in that it most approximates searching a room for something usable.
Puzzles were all ridiculously simplistic, even the multi-step door lock, which was merely four easy puzzles on one screen. Matching pairs. A version of leaping frogs. A swap pieces jigsaw. Choose the elements that comprise the shown symbol.
I still miss Charles Dalimar and his fiendish door locks.
SIGHTSEEING...
The usual pretty graphics, but the animation is not as good as usual. Lip synching was often missing and when it was present, it was subpar. Eipix should bring back live actors.
The usual pretty graphics, but the animation is not as good as usual. Lip synching was often missing and when it was present, it was subpar. Eipix should bring back live actors.
SOUNDBOARD...
The music was the best part, beautifully ambient soundscapes. Environmental sounds were just ok. Voiceovers were somewhat melodramatic.
The music was the best part, beautifully ambient soundscapes. Environmental sounds were just ok. Voiceovers were somewhat melodramatic.
TOOLBOX...
Another map that requires two clicks to transport, one on the area where you wish to go, then another on the inset that opens up at top left. Ugh. It shows active areas and objectives if you so choose. The gauntlet gathers and releases harmonium if and when it's useful to do so. Plus items are indicated in the locked open inventory panel.
Another map that requires two clicks to transport, one on the area where you wish to go, then another on the inset that opens up at top left. Ugh. It shows active areas and objectives if you so choose. The gauntlet gathers and releases harmonium if and when it's useful to do so. Plus items are indicated in the locked open inventory panel.
OH BOTHER!
No technical difficulties except slow transitions between cutscenes and gameplay and vice versa.
No technical difficulties except slow transitions between cutscenes and gameplay and vice versa.
OOH! PIECE OF CANDY...
Bonus chapter, collectible pink owls, the SG, performance achievements, the developer's portfolio, and I assume you can replay HO scenes and puzzles (although I doubt you would want to).
Bonus chapter, collectible pink owls, the SG, performance achievements, the developer's portfolio, and I assume you can replay HO scenes and puzzles (although I doubt you would want to).
EPILOGUE...
Nope. I was bored and glad when the demo ended. Honestly, writing this review was more fun. If you're a rank beginner to the genre of HOPAs, you might like it. I found the gameplay monotonous, the story line forced and contradictory. Better games by Eipix include:
• Off the Record: Linden Shades
• Amaranthine Voyage: The Tree of Life
• Amaranthine Voyage: The Living Mountain
Nope. I was bored and glad when the demo ended. Honestly, writing this review was more fun. If you're a rank beginner to the genre of HOPAs, you might like it. I found the gameplay monotonous, the story line forced and contradictory. Better games by Eipix include:
• Off the Record: Linden Shades
• Amaranthine Voyage: The Tree of Life
• Amaranthine Voyage: The Living Mountain
I don't recommend this game.
Redemption Cemetery: Clock of Fate Collector's Edition
Can you undo the past and set the trapped souls free?
Overall rating
4
/
5
11 of 15 found this review helpful
4½ stars...Welcome back, ERS! Really good to see you!
PostedSeptember 27, 2015
LunaNik
fromNow that I'm Death's assistant, y'all better just watch out! First, I demand more adventure games. Don't make me use the clock. I will, you know!
Skill Level:Expert
Favorite Genre(s):Puzzle, Hidden Object, Time Management, Adventure, Large File, Strategy, Word, Card & Board
Fun Factor
4
/
5
Visual/Sound Quality
5
/
5
Level of Challenge
4
/
5
Storyline
5
/
5
Redemption Cemetery: Clock of Fate CE
Review based on completed game + bonus chapter
Review based on completed game + bonus chapter
PROLOGUE...
Over the years, ERS has risen to the top of the pack, held the top spot, then fallen as they released game after game with monotonous gameplay, sleep-inducing story lines, and the exact same pastel graphics and screeching violin-based music. Well, hold onto your hat...ERS is not only relevant again, but has released a game that is immersive, groundbreaking, and modern.
Over the years, ERS has risen to the top of the pack, held the top spot, then fallen as they released game after game with monotonous gameplay, sleep-inducing story lines, and the exact same pastel graphics and screeching violin-based music. Well, hold onto your hat...ERS is not only relevant again, but has released a game that is immersive, groundbreaking, and modern.
ONCE UPON A TIME...
As you're rushing to catch the last train of the night, voices from the subway's loudspeakers discuss your suitability, then decide you're the one. Suddenly, your surroundings change as you're thrust back in time to when the station was being constructed. You've been chosen to redeem souls who are tormented by the choices they made in life. Meanwhile, Death herself is holding your soul hostage. And you'll have a life or death choice to make for yourself in the end.
As you're rushing to catch the last train of the night, voices from the subway's loudspeakers discuss your suitability, then decide you're the one. Suddenly, your surroundings change as you're thrust back in time to when the station was being constructed. You've been chosen to redeem souls who are tormented by the choices they made in life. Meanwhile, Death herself is holding your soul hostage. And you'll have a life or death choice to make for yourself in the end.
PLAY THE GAME...
You'll be required to redeem three souls. In the first scenario, you learn your task is impossible without the help of Death's clock, which allows you to be in two places at once. And much like in the movie The Butterfly Effect, you see the results of your choices...and they're horribly tragic. Fortunately, you get to rewind, replay, and learn from your mistakes.
You'll be required to redeem three souls. In the first scenario, you learn your task is impossible without the help of Death's clock, which allows you to be in two places at once. And much like in the movie The Butterfly Effect, you see the results of your choices...and they're horribly tragic. Fortunately, you get to rewind, replay, and learn from your mistakes.
HO scenes are varied and interactive, and scenes are visited twice. Types of scenes include:
• Multiples of one object. (In some of these, the multiples are parts of a whole that you construct, like rungs of a ladder.)
• Backstory...find items relating to the words in bold type.
• Find pairs of related objects (like pipe+tobacco).
• Find pairs relating to the clue. (If the clue is "luck," you might find a horseshoe and a four-leaf clover.)
• Silhouette list.
• Find items that don't belong in the given time period. (My favorite!)
• Multiples of one object. (In some of these, the multiples are parts of a whole that you construct, like rungs of a ladder.)
• Backstory...find items relating to the words in bold type.
• Find pairs of related objects (like pipe+tobacco).
• Find pairs relating to the clue. (If the clue is "luck," you might find a horseshoe and a four-leaf clover.)
• Silhouette list.
• Find items that don't belong in the given time period. (My favorite!)
Puzzles vary in difficulty. However, the difficulty generally arises because the instructions are badly written and you have to figure out what you're supposed to do. Among the puzzles are:
• For each displayed symbol, choose the correct two elements that combine to form it.
• Connect numbered inputs with wires so the totals equal the numbers on the fuses.
• Select letters in the correct order to follow a twisted path and form a word.
• Using weights from 1-9, balance three scales following the clue. Incomplete instructions caused me to spend time looking for a solution using all the weights because that's usually the case.
• Sew a pattern without going over lines already sewn. Another puzzle with unclear instructions. The clue you're given bears no resemblance to the pattern you're supposed to sew.
• Catch the ingredients that falls through a series of cups with spouts. The direction each spout points changed when an ingredient lands in the cup, so you have to plan ahead.
• Several different versions of the jigsaw puzzle, including swap pieces, 9-piece slider with rotation, and build a bridge with Tetris-like pieces.
• For each displayed symbol, choose the correct two elements that combine to form it.
• Connect numbered inputs with wires so the totals equal the numbers on the fuses.
• Select letters in the correct order to follow a twisted path and form a word.
• Using weights from 1-9, balance three scales following the clue. Incomplete instructions caused me to spend time looking for a solution using all the weights because that's usually the case.
• Sew a pattern without going over lines already sewn. Another puzzle with unclear instructions. The clue you're given bears no resemblance to the pattern you're supposed to sew.
• Catch the ingredients that falls through a series of cups with spouts. The direction each spout points changed when an ingredient lands in the cup, so you have to plan ahead.
• Several different versions of the jigsaw puzzle, including swap pieces, 9-piece slider with rotation, and build a bridge with Tetris-like pieces.
SIGHTSEEING...
Gone are the pastel watercolors and painterly backgrounds of ERS's yesteryears. The graphics are beautifully rendered with crisp lines, stunning colors, highlights and shadows, and realistic textures. The posers are animated and lip synch when they speak. Natural elements like water, fire, and stone are gorgeous and lifelike. And the cinematics are breathtaking.
Gone are the pastel watercolors and painterly backgrounds of ERS's yesteryears. The graphics are beautifully rendered with crisp lines, stunning colors, highlights and shadows, and realistic textures. The posers are animated and lip synch when they speak. Natural elements like water, fire, and stone are gorgeous and lifelike. And the cinematics are breathtaking.
SOUNDBOARD...
The four soundtracks are quite similar to one another, with lots of rich strings, tubular bells, creepy musicbox, and elements of Eastern European folk music. They fit the mood of the game, but I would have liked more variety. Environmental sounds were done well, and voiceovers were professional. Death's voice was creepy, reminiscent of the evil little girl in Maze: Subject 360.
The four soundtracks are quite similar to one another, with lots of rich strings, tubular bells, creepy musicbox, and elements of Eastern European folk music. They fit the mood of the game, but I would have liked more variety. Environmental sounds were done well, and voiceovers were professional. Death's voice was creepy, reminiscent of the evil little girl in Maze: Subject 360.
TOOLBOX...
I didn't find the map too helpful. Its indication of active areas wasn't what we're used to. When you see an active area, it doesn't mean, "You can do something here." It merely means, "You're not done with this area." So, if you're stuck, the map won't help you. It is a jump map. I did find it annoying that the SG was not available during puzzles; I had to back out of the puzzle to access it.
I didn't find the map too helpful. Its indication of active areas wasn't what we're used to. When you see an active area, it doesn't mean, "You can do something here." It merely means, "You're not done with this area." So, if you're stuck, the map won't help you. It is a jump map. I did find it annoying that the SG was not available during puzzles; I had to back out of the puzzle to access it.
OH BOTHER!
For me, the Tangram T and H puzzles would not click together in casual mode. I knew I had completed them correctly because I checked in the SG. They both worked properly in hard mode.
For me, the Tangram T and H puzzles would not click together in casual mode. I knew I had completed them correctly because I checked in the SG. They both worked properly in hard mode.
OOH! PIECE OF CANDY...
The bonus chapter is not so much a continuation of the main story as a completely separate redemption. It is fairly long and involved, but it seemed to me to be disjointed and not as well planned. I found myself getting stuck frequently because the next action required was not intuitive.
The bonus chapter is not so much a continuation of the main story as a completely separate redemption. It is fairly long and involved, but it seemed to me to be disjointed and not as well planned. I found myself getting stuck frequently because the next action required was not intuitive.
Other extras include the SG, the developer's portfolio (soundtracks, screensavers, wallpapers, concept art, movies), replayable HO scenes and puzzles as well as eleven Tangram puzzles like the T and H.
There are a ton of performance achievements, some of them humorous. They are not heralded by that annoying banner sliding in from the side, but by an explosive graphic that covers the screen. It begins as a stone box which cracks open into a gargoyle. Oddly, it doesn't tell you which achievement you've earned. You have to go to the gallery to find that out.
Collect the gemstone skulls in each scene so you can purchase and build headstones for each soul you've redeemed. When completed, you learn what happened to their lives after your redemption. And, yes, you can go back and collect the ones you've missed. When you're at the headstones, at top left there's a "map" icon. Click that, then click each place where you see a skull and it'll take you to the scene where you missed one.
EPILOGUE...
This is almost a 5-star game. It's so close. More attention to the bonus chapter, better instructions for the puzzles, vary the music, improve the map, and debug...and I'd give 5 stars. That's something I haven't done for an ERS game in years. In the meantime, I give major props to ERS for really good gameplay, excellent graphics, a solid story line, and a truly enjoyable game. Welcome back, you guys!!!
This is almost a 5-star game. It's so close. More attention to the bonus chapter, better instructions for the puzzles, vary the music, improve the map, and debug...and I'd give 5 stars. That's something I haven't done for an ERS game in years. In the meantime, I give major props to ERS for really good gameplay, excellent graphics, a solid story line, and a truly enjoyable game. Welcome back, you guys!!!
I recommend this game!
Help Meredith retrieve the ancient tomes and stop the Wizard’s wrath in this hidden object adventure!
Overall rating
2
/
5
8 of 12 found this review helpful
Cateia, please stick to pure adventure games!
PostedSeptember 26, 2015
LunaNik
from*sigh* Please don't tell me I'm losing another adventure game developer to the morass of homogenous HOPA games!
Skill Level:Expert
Favorite Genre(s):Puzzle, Hidden Object, Time Management, Adventure, Large File, Strategy, Word, Card & Board
Fun Factor
1
/
5
Visual/Sound Quality
5
/
5
Level of Challenge
1
/
5
Storyline
5
/
5
Myths of Orion: Light from the North
Review based on completed game
Review based on completed game
PROLOGUE...
Cateia is one of my favorite adventure game developers. This is the second of their HOPA games I've tried, and I've disliked the gameplay of both. This would have been amazing had it been a pure adventure game.
Cateia is one of my favorite adventure game developers. This is the second of their HOPA games I've tried, and I've disliked the gameplay of both. This would have been amazing had it been a pure adventure game.
ONCE UPON A TIME...
An evil wizard gathered the world's wisdom into three books: Knowledge, Law, and Magic. These books gave him power over the realm. An enchantress stole the books and took them, along with her daughter Meredith, to her sister's home at the edge of the world.
An evil wizard gathered the world's wisdom into three books: Knowledge, Law, and Magic. These books gave him power over the realm. An enchantress stole the books and took them, along with her daughter Meredith, to her sister's home at the edge of the world.
Years later, the enchantress has died and Meredith has been raised by her aunt in the ways of magic. She returns home one day to find the books have been stolen by three demons. To retrieve them, Meredith must travel to three different realms—the worlds of Orcs, Humans, and Elves—witness the destruction the wizard has wrought upon innocent people, and fight for her life.
PLAY THE GAME...
None of the HO scenes are interactive, although there is variation in type: traditional list, sequential list, and silhouettes. With the traditional list, you don't see the entire list at once. Instead, you get a few items and, as you find them, more list items slide in from the right. There are quite a few mistranslations. "Pitchfork" on the list turned out to be a fireplace shovel which was then labeled "fireplace poker."
None of the HO scenes are interactive, although there is variation in type: traditional list, sequential list, and silhouettes. With the traditional list, you don't see the entire list at once. Instead, you get a few items and, as you find them, more list items slide in from the right. There are quite a few mistranslations. "Pitchfork" on the list turned out to be a fireplace shovel which was then labeled "fireplace poker."
The puzzles are all retreads and all extremely easy. A rotating rings jigsaw, a swap the pieces jigsaw, a nonogram, match-3, and more. There are a few that are difficult only because the instructions are so badly written.
Adventure mode consists of lots of finding keys and unlocking things, collecting items for potions, and the like. Combining items is done with the dreaded pop-up circle of silhouettes at the site where the combined object is needed.
SIGHTSEEING...
The graphics are glorious...colorful, detailed, and dimensional. Backgrounds are imaginative and realistic. Items in close-up are beautifully-detailed and well thought out. For example, in the king's throne room, the rug leading to his throne has wrinkles as if it's not laying flat. Animation is done well, except that the characters don't move at all.
The graphics are glorious...colorful, detailed, and dimensional. Backgrounds are imaginative and realistic. Items in close-up are beautifully-detailed and well thought out. For example, in the king's throne room, the rug leading to his throne has wrinkles as if it's not laying flat. Animation is done well, except that the characters don't move at all.
SOUNDBOARD...
The music is varied, changing from realm to realm. Each piece is fairly lengthy, so you're not stuck listening to a short loop that becomes annoying.
The music is varied, changing from realm to realm. Each piece is fairly lengthy, so you're not stuck listening to a short loop that becomes annoying.
TOOLBOX...
The journal notes needed information and keeps track of how many talismans you find. The map indicates active areas and transports. A few reviewers said it wasn't a jump map. It definitely is.
The journal notes needed information and keeps track of how many talismans you find. The map indicates active areas and transports. A few reviewers said it wasn't a jump map. It definitely is.
OH BOTHER!
I didn't encounter any technical difficulties.
I didn't encounter any technical difficulties.
OOH! PIECE OF CANDY...
There are a few CE extras in this SE, as is usual for Cateia. Collect two different types of talismans on your journey and earn performance achievements.
There are a few CE extras in this SE, as is usual for Cateia. Collect two different types of talismans on your journey and earn performance achievements.
EPILOGUE...
Cateia should go back to making pure adventure games like Black Rainbow and Where Angels Cry. I felt this game had a great story line, but was held back by the HO scenes and simplistic puzzles, neither of which were enjoyable.
Cateia should go back to making pure adventure games like Black Rainbow and Where Angels Cry. I felt this game had a great story line, but was held back by the HO scenes and simplistic puzzles, neither of which were enjoyable.
I don't recommend this game.
Help build the World of Zellians from the ground up! Transform the simple Zellians into a modern and efficient society!
Overall rating
4
/
5
2 of 2 found this review helpful
Good overall but a few improvements would have made it stellar.
PostedSeptember 19, 2015
LunaNik
fromThe Island of Myst
Skill Level:Expert
Favorite Genre(s):Puzzle, Hidden Object, Time Management, Adventure, Large File, Strategy, Word, Card & Board
Fun Factor
4
/
5
Visual/Sound Quality
3
/
5
Level of Challenge
4
/
5
Storyline
4
/
5
World of Zellians
Review based on completed game + sandbox mode
Review based on completed game + sandbox mode
PROLOGUE...
World of Zellians is not a time management game, but a strategy game. The levels are not timed, but several situations do arise to which you must respond in a timely manner. Even without that ticking clock, you'll be busy with the demands each level presents.
World of Zellians is not a time management game, but a strategy game. The levels are not timed, but several situations do arise to which you must respond in a timely manner. Even without that ticking clock, you'll be busy with the demands each level presents.
ONCE UPON A TIME...
The World of Zellians is in chaos! Royal feuds, phobias, and other problems have ground production to a halt and development to a standstill. You're merely an apprentice, and just learning how to balance the needs of each kingdom with the demands of each ruler. However, you soon surpass your master, and he jealously leaves you on your own and even works to sabotage your efforts. Can you succeed in rebuilding each kingdom from the ground up and reuniting the Zellians?
The World of Zellians is in chaos! Royal feuds, phobias, and other problems have ground production to a halt and development to a standstill. You're merely an apprentice, and just learning how to balance the needs of each kingdom with the demands of each ruler. However, you soon surpass your master, and he jealously leaves you on your own and even works to sabotage your efforts. Can you succeed in rebuilding each kingdom from the ground up and reuniting the Zellians?
PLAY THE GAME...
Each level offers specific challenges to accomplish, beginning with rather simple ones and moving to complex and interconnected ones. You have several categories of items you can build: social, production, shops, and special.
Each level offers specific challenges to accomplish, beginning with rather simple ones and moving to complex and interconnected ones. You have several categories of items you can build: social, production, shops, and special.
Each item has monetary, material, and population requirements, and some require that other items be built first. These prerequisites are mostly logical. For example, you can't build the juice bar until you've built the orchard. Hovering over each item brings up a box with its prerequisites. Additionally, each item must be connected to the roads.
While you're rebuilding each kingdom, your former master is busy sabotaging you by setting fires and sending in thieves and crazy people. Each level is different, so you must judge when to build the fire station, police station, and hospital to deal with these miscreants. Fires and crazy people will destroy what you've built, while thieves will steal your resources.
SIGHTSEEING...
The graphics are cartoon-like with each kingdom representing a distinct biome, so the colors vary. I did find the buildings to be fairly homogenous (and lacking the cleverness of, say, Dream Builder: Amusement Park).
The graphics are cartoon-like with each kingdom representing a distinct biome, so the colors vary. I did find the buildings to be fairly homogenous (and lacking the cleverness of, say, Dream Builder: Amusement Park).
SOUNDBOARD...
I turned the music off, finding it repetitive. Game sounds were appropriate. There's a siren whenever an event occurs that requires your immediate attention, like a fire, a thief, or a crazy person.
I turned the music off, finding it repetitive. Game sounds were appropriate. There's a siren whenever an event occurs that requires your immediate attention, like a fire, a thief, or a crazy person.
TOOLBOX...
At the bottom of the screen are your item menus. The "social" tab includes houses and civic buildings. The "production" tab contains farms, mills, and the like. The "shops" tab is self-explanatory. And the "specials" tab is only active in the later kingdoms, and includes a variety of different items depending on the kingdom.
At the bottom of the screen are your item menus. The "social" tab includes houses and civic buildings. The "production" tab contains farms, mills, and the like. The "shops" tab is self-explanatory. And the "specials" tab is only active in the later kingdoms, and includes a variety of different items depending on the kingdom.
To the left are two icons. One is for road-building, which is free. The other is for destroying roads and buildings. When you do destroy something, the money and materials spent to build it are returned to you.
At the right is a panel listing your goals for the level. Lastly, across the top are the current stats: population, and rolling tallies for money and materials. The options button is there as well.
OH BOTHER!
Where I felt the game could be improved...
• Items could not be rotated, so you were stuck placing them in the same orientation every time. Ugh.
• There was no way to discover the size and shape of an item until you had fulfilled the prerequisites. At times, this meant you had no room left for a large, awkwardly shaped item, and were forced to destroy and rebuild. Frustrating.
• Except for the last kingdom, there was nothing you could build except buildings. No trees, statues, fountains, plants, flower beds, or other decorative items. The last kingdom offered a palm tree, a fountain, and a bench.
• Each kingdom should have had its own specialty items. Most did not.
• You could not "build" water elements: streams, lakes, etc. This should have been available in sandbox mode, at least.
Where I felt the game could be improved...
• Items could not be rotated, so you were stuck placing them in the same orientation every time. Ugh.
• There was no way to discover the size and shape of an item until you had fulfilled the prerequisites. At times, this meant you had no room left for a large, awkwardly shaped item, and were forced to destroy and rebuild. Frustrating.
• Except for the last kingdom, there was nothing you could build except buildings. No trees, statues, fountains, plants, flower beds, or other decorative items. The last kingdom offered a palm tree, a fountain, and a bench.
• Each kingdom should have had its own specialty items. Most did not.
• You could not "build" water elements: streams, lakes, etc. This should have been available in sandbox mode, at least.
EPILOGUE...
Overall, I enjoyed the gameplay and I think World of Zellians has replay value. I definitely recommend trying it to see if you like it. I do hope there will be a sequel with some of the improvements added. Happy gaming!
Overall, I enjoyed the gameplay and I think World of Zellians has replay value. I definitely recommend trying it to see if you like it. I do hope there will be a sequel with some of the improvements added. Happy gaming!
I recommend this game!
Travel to a mysterious city and save your love from an ancient curse. Solve perplexing puzzles and explore colorful locations in "Dracula’s Legacy".
Overall rating
3
/
5
0 of 2 found this review helpful
3½ stars...good story and graphics, easy gameplay great for beginners
PostedSeptember 9, 2015
LunaNik
fromLet us step into the night and pursue that flighty temptress, adventure games.
Skill Level:Expert
Fun Factor
3
/
5
Visual/Sound Quality
4
/
5
Level of Challenge
2
/
5
Storyline
4
/
5
Dracula's Legacy
Review based on completed demo
Review based on completed demo
PROLOGUE...
Generally, I'm happy to see stand-alone games. The lack of a CE version means the devs spent all their time and energy on the actual game. They didn't waste resources on unrelated bells and whistles like wardrobes for cute helpers, infinite HO scenes, and ridiculous performance achievements. (e.g. "Take more than 5 minutes to finish a hidden object scene!" Yeah, it took me 30 seconds.)
Generally, I'm happy to see stand-alone games. The lack of a CE version means the devs spent all their time and energy on the actual game. They didn't waste resources on unrelated bells and whistles like wardrobes for cute helpers, infinite HO scenes, and ridiculous performance achievements. (e.g. "Take more than 5 minutes to finish a hidden object scene!" Yeah, it took me 30 seconds.)
Dracula's Legacy is not a bad game by any means. There are backstories and an overall goal. The graphics and animation are done well. Gameplay is not outdated. However, it may not appeal to a wide audience. I found the gameplay quite easy, but the storyline intrigued me. It may be perfect for a day when I want to be engaged, but don't feel like taxing myself.
ONCE UPON A TIME...
Isabella has no memory of her past, only frightening dreams of eldritch figures and an imposing town. After she meets Matt, they spend their time trying to unravel this enigma. One day, Matt suggests they take a trip to find the mysterious town of Isabella's dreams.
Isabella has no memory of her past, only frightening dreams of eldritch figures and an imposing town. After she meets Matt, they spend their time trying to unravel this enigma. One day, Matt suggests they take a trip to find the mysterious town of Isabella's dreams.
Driving through the woods, they're stopped by a fallen tree blocking the road. Suddenly, a demonic creature appears and begins chasing them, and they become separated when Isabella falls into a chasm. When she comes to, she's in a dungeon. A vision of a man appears and tells her she must escape before dark...before the vampires awaken.
Help Isabella on her journey to the lost city to rescue Matt and, hopefully, uncover her past.
PLAY THE GAME...
HO scenes are all interactive lists, generally with quite a few items requiring actions. All scenes are up close and personal with large, beautifully rendered objects.
HO scenes are all interactive lists, generally with quite a few items requiring actions. All scenes are up close and personal with large, beautifully rendered objects.
The puzzles are all relatively simple, but gorgeous. I encountered:
• a "jigsaw" of concentric circles forming the head of Medusa, where each circle only moved itself
• a grid of nine interlocked, rotating knobs, each with four crystals, where you must rotate until each knob has crystals of the correct color
• a tangram with Tetris-shaped pieces
• a "switch the pieces" puzzle, where you must exchange the pieces' positions (move one spot or jump over the opposite color)
• a pipes puzzle (simple rotate in place)
• a fusebox where the fuses needed to be sorted by color and shape
• a "jigsaw" of concentric circles forming the head of Medusa, where each circle only moved itself
• a grid of nine interlocked, rotating knobs, each with four crystals, where you must rotate until each knob has crystals of the correct color
• a tangram with Tetris-shaped pieces
• a "switch the pieces" puzzle, where you must exchange the pieces' positions (move one spot or jump over the opposite color)
• a pipes puzzle (simple rotate in place)
• a fusebox where the fuses needed to be sorted by color and shape
Adventure mode consisted of finding both traditional and shaped keys, tools, fragments of things, and such and unlocking, repairing, assembling as necessary.
SIGHTSEEING...
Lovely graphics and animation (from a graphics perspective). The textures and use of light/shadow created a realistic ambience. The demonic creature was rendered really well down to the sheen of its leathery skin. NPC animation was typical of posers.
Lovely graphics and animation (from a graphics perspective). The textures and use of light/shadow created a realistic ambience. The demonic creature was rendered really well down to the sheen of its leathery skin. NPC animation was typical of posers.
SOUNDBOARD...
Best I can say about the music is that it was unobtrusive. Voiceovers were done well. I didn't care for the overwhelmingly loud game sounds that chimed, whooshed, and screeched every time I completed a task.
Best I can say about the music is that it was unobtrusive. Voiceovers were done well. I didn't care for the overwhelmingly loud game sounds that chimed, whooshed, and screeched every time I completed a task.
TOOLBOX...
Best user interface ever! I loved that everything was off-screen unless I chose to pull it up and lock it there. It really helped with immersion to NOT have the bottom quarter of the screen cluttered up with eighty different things.
Best user interface ever! I loved that everything was off-screen unless I chose to pull it up and lock it there. It really helped with immersion to NOT have the bottom quarter of the screen cluttered up with eighty different things.
No map or journal, but neither was necessary. Each area of exploration was limited to a few areas before you moved on. Seriously, if you need a map for that, I'll hold your hand while you play the next game...lol.
OH BOTHER!
No gameplay issues, technical difficulties, or bad translations.
No gameplay issues, technical difficulties, or bad translations.
EPILOGUE...
Even though the gameplay was simple, I recommend this game anyway. The storyline was so engaging, the graphics were so lush, and the interface was so well-designed, I'd really like to see more from this dev. Also, if you like adventure games, I recommend the following games from this same dev:
• Millennium Secrets: Emerald Curse (female spy)
• Millennium Secrets: Roxanne's Necklace (female spy)
• Sinister City (tongue-in-cheek humor)
Even though the gameplay was simple, I recommend this game anyway. The storyline was so engaging, the graphics were so lush, and the interface was so well-designed, I'd really like to see more from this dev. Also, if you like adventure games, I recommend the following games from this same dev:
• Millennium Secrets: Emerald Curse (female spy)
• Millennium Secrets: Roxanne's Necklace (female spy)
• Sinister City (tongue-in-cheek humor)
I recommend this game!
Kathleen’s beloved Danny has been arrested under strange circumstances and accused of murder. It’s up to Kathleen to hold her own investigation and find out what really happened.
Overall rating
4
/
5
14 of 14 found this review helpful
Conundrum: 4 stars but I can't recommend it. Too many bugs.
PostedSeptember 9, 2015
LunaNik
fromIt's 2015: why are we still getting games with bugs and horrible translations?
Skill Level:Expert
Favorite Genre(s):Puzzle, Hidden Object, Time Management, Adventure, Large File, Strategy, Word, Card & Board
Fun Factor
4
/
5
Visual/Sound Quality
4
/
5
Level of Challenge
4
/
5
Storyline
4
/
5
Chronicles of the Witches and Warlocks
Review based on completed demo
Review based on completed demo
PROLOGUE...
I was thrilled to see this game, because I loved Portal of Evil: Stolen Runes, also by this dev, so I was expecting something along those lines. Unfortunately, Chronicles wasn't nearly as sophisticated in its development and, as a whole, it suffered in several areas.
I was thrilled to see this game, because I loved Portal of Evil: Stolen Runes, also by this dev, so I was expecting something along those lines. Unfortunately, Chronicles wasn't nearly as sophisticated in its development and, as a whole, it suffered in several areas.
ONCE UPON A TIME...
You take the role of Attorney Kathleen Wilson, whose lover Danny Reed has been accused of murder. Danny claims innocence, alleging that he was attacked because he'd been searching for ancient totems. As you begin your investigation, you too are attacked, lending credence to Danny's story. Now, you'll have to become a treasure hunter and travel through time to find the totems in order to clear his name.
You take the role of Attorney Kathleen Wilson, whose lover Danny Reed has been accused of murder. Danny claims innocence, alleging that he was attacked because he'd been searching for ancient totems. As you begin your investigation, you too are attacked, lending credence to Danny's story. Now, you'll have to become a treasure hunter and travel through time to find the totems in order to clear his name.
PLAY THE GAME...
HO scenes are junk piles with minimally interactive lists, but are generally more difficult than most modern day games which don't even hide the items. You'll spend more time in each HO than you're used to doing, and each gives you a necessary object for your inventory.
HO scenes are junk piles with minimally interactive lists, but are generally more difficult than most modern day games which don't even hide the items. You'll spend more time in each HO than you're used to doing, and each gives you a necessary object for your inventory.
I found the puzzles to be extremely easy. Some are familiar, some are variations on a theme, and a few are unique. None are difficult. Collect books and swap until you complete the picture on their spines. Rotate two circles of pictures with earth or space themes and swap them until they're on the circle where they belong.
Adventure mode is typical. Find keys and shaped items to unlock doors, drawers, cabinets, and boxes. Collect tools to repair or assemble things. Discover clues for your journal.
SIGHTSEEING...
I loved the graphics and animation. Colors were saturated but not garish jewel tones. Light and shadow were well-represented to created lifelike dimension. And the perspective created just a touch of surrealism. The only missing piece was that the posers could have been animated better. Their movements were robotic and their facial expressions rather monotone.
I loved the graphics and animation. Colors were saturated but not garish jewel tones. Light and shadow were well-represented to created lifelike dimension. And the perspective created just a touch of surrealism. The only missing piece was that the posers could have been animated better. Their movements were robotic and their facial expressions rather monotone.
SOUNDBOARD...
The music was somewhat repetitive, unlike Portal of Evil. To be honest, that piano theme got to me after awhile. There was a lack of appropriate environmental sounds as well. And there were no voiceovers at all.
The music was somewhat repetitive, unlike Portal of Evil. To be honest, that piano theme got to me after awhile. There was a lack of appropriate environmental sounds as well. And there were no voiceovers at all.
TOOLBOX...
The inventory panel did not lock open...annoying. A journal detailed the story and stored needed clues. The map transported and showed active areas, but didn't indicate areas you were unable to visit.
The inventory panel did not lock open...annoying. A journal detailed the story and stored needed clues. The map transported and showed active areas, but didn't indicate areas you were unable to visit.
OH BOTHER!
Even though there was an update to this game, I found quite a few issues. For example, the puzzle with the Native American statuettes and animals? The solution the game accepted didn't match up with the given clue. Additionally, there were quite a few horrid mistranslations. "Funnel" on the HO list turned out to be a conical oil can. "Ostrich feather" on the list was actually a peacock feather. Things like these really detract from immersion and enjoyment.
Even though there was an update to this game, I found quite a few issues. For example, the puzzle with the Native American statuettes and animals? The solution the game accepted didn't match up with the given clue. Additionally, there were quite a few horrid mistranslations. "Funnel" on the HO list turned out to be a conical oil can. "Ostrich feather" on the list was actually a peacock feather. Things like these really detract from immersion and enjoyment.
EPILOGUE...
If it weren't for the issues, I'd probably purchase this game. As it stands, I can't recommend it. I do highly recommend Portal of Evil: Stolen Runes from this dev, and hope they'll develop more games of that quality. Happy gaming!
If it weren't for the issues, I'd probably purchase this game. As it stands, I can't recommend it. I do highly recommend Portal of Evil: Stolen Runes from this dev, and hope they'll develop more games of that quality. Happy gaming!
I don't recommend this game.
Do you have the courage to stop the inquisitor?
Overall rating
3
/
5
2 of 4 found this review helpful
I want my Cateia adventure games back!
PostedSeptember 7, 2015
LunaNik
fromAt least my horse didn't crash. And none of my relatives went missing either.
Skill Level:Expert
Favorite Genre(s):Puzzle, Hidden Object, Time Management, Adventure, Large File, Strategy, Word, Card & Board
Fun Factor
3
/
5
Visual/Sound Quality
5
/
5
Level of Challenge
2
/
5
Storyline
5
/
5
Where Angels Cry: Tears of the Fallen CE
Review based on completed demo
Review based on completed demo
PROLOGUE...
I was thrilled when I saw there was a sequel to When Angels Cry...then devastated once I started playing it. This sequel bears no resemblance to its precursor in gameplay. Cateia is one of my favorite devs, one of the few that still creates adventure games. But Tears of the Fallen, sadly, plays like an outdated HOPA.
I was thrilled when I saw there was a sequel to When Angels Cry...then devastated once I started playing it. This sequel bears no resemblance to its precursor in gameplay. Cateia is one of my favorite devs, one of the few that still creates adventure games. But Tears of the Fallen, sadly, plays like an outdated HOPA.
ONCE UPON A TIME...
You return in your role as the Vatican's undercover agent, sent out once again to investigate rumors of a priest gone rogue. This time, it's Inquisitor Augustine. He's become obsessed with hunting down a woman named MIguela, whom he claims is not only a witch, but also the "Wolf Queen." In his mad quest, Augustine is killing anyone who gets in his way. It's time for you to bring peace to the mountain village of Portonero.
You return in your role as the Vatican's undercover agent, sent out once again to investigate rumors of a priest gone rogue. This time, it's Inquisitor Augustine. He's become obsessed with hunting down a woman named MIguela, whom he claims is not only a witch, but also the "Wolf Queen." In his mad quest, Augustine is killing anyone who gets in his way. It's time for you to bring peace to the mountain village of Portonero.
PLAY THE GAME
Where the first game in this series played like an adventure game, Tears of the Fallen plays like a standard HOPA with a couple of differences.
Where the first game in this series played like an adventure game, Tears of the Fallen plays like a standard HOPA with a couple of differences.
1. Plus items are not combined in the inventory panel. Instead, you collect all the items necessary, travel to where they're needed, and "plug them in" to their matching silhouettes in the wheel that pops up...like the Treasure Seekers series from five years ago. Unlike that series, you can't leave the wheels open. The instant you click elsewhere, they close.
2. In some of the HO scenes, there are additional interactions available once you've completed the list. These interactions consisted of finding objects and using them in the scene to discover the item you actually needed. I enjoyed this part, as it was exploratory and instructions were minimal.
Puzzles were all easy, at least in the demo, which was disappointing. No strategy was required to solve them, just click-click-click until you're finished.
SIGHTSEEING...
Utterly brilliant graphics and animation...I think I may have drooled a bit when that piece of cloth billowed gently to the ground after I pulled it from the cart it was covering. The only exception was the posers: lip-synching was a touch off, and the NPCs all moved like members of the Ministry of Silly Walks.
Utterly brilliant graphics and animation...I think I may have drooled a bit when that piece of cloth billowed gently to the ground after I pulled it from the cart it was covering. The only exception was the posers: lip-synching was a touch off, and the NPCs all moved like members of the Ministry of Silly Walks.
But the variety of colors, the use of light and shadow, the dimensional quality of items and scenes...amazing.
SOUNDBOARD...
Beautiful music, both orchestral instruments and wordless vocals, sets the scene. Voiceovers are mostly done well, but the Portonero gate guard sounded too much like a frat boy. Environmental sounds were appropriate.
Beautiful music, both orchestral instruments and wordless vocals, sets the scene. Voiceovers are mostly done well, but the Portonero gate guard sounded too much like a frat boy. Environmental sounds were appropriate.
TOOLBOX...
The inventory panel locks open and offers a task list. The journal is updated via a raven that flies from scene to scene. Videos therein relate the backstory. The map indicates areas where you have something to do and will transport you. The footprint icon will show you all exits from an area.
The inventory panel locks open and offers a task list. The journal is updated via a raven that flies from scene to scene. Videos therein relate the backstory. The map indicates areas where you have something to do and will transport you. The footprint icon will show you all exits from an area.
OOH! PIECE OF CANDY...
The bonus chapter is a prequel, relating the story of Augustine's downfall, and the love story of the Sheriff and Delores. HO scenes and puzzles can be replayed. There are collectible doves and performance achievements, as well as the SG and the developer's portfolio of sights and sounds.
The bonus chapter is a prequel, relating the story of Augustine's downfall, and the love story of the Sheriff and Delores. HO scenes and puzzles can be replayed. There are collectible doves and performance achievements, as well as the SG and the developer's portfolio of sights and sounds.
EPILOGUE...
If I consider this as a sequel to Where Angels Cry and as a game developed by Cateia, I'm disappointed. And I hope that Cateia isn't planning to abandon straight up adventure games! When considered just as a HOPA like the hundreds of others available, it's fairly comparable in that the gameplay is quite simple. However, the story is much better than most. My recommendation is try it and decide for yourself.
If I consider this as a sequel to Where Angels Cry and as a game developed by Cateia, I'm disappointed. And I hope that Cateia isn't planning to abandon straight up adventure games! When considered just as a HOPA like the hundreds of others available, it's fairly comparable in that the gameplay is quite simple. However, the story is much better than most. My recommendation is try it and decide for yourself.
In the meantime, if you're an adventure game aficionado like me, I do recommend Cateia's Black Rainbow, Red Crow Mysteries: Legion, and The Legend of Crystal Valley. Happy gaming!
The twinkling lights in the marsh look pretty, but they hold a mysterious power. Whatever you do... do not follow them!
Overall rating
2
/
5
19 of 21 found this review helpful
Graphics alone don't make a game great. Gameplay was too easy, storyline too boring.
PostedSeptember 6, 2015
LunaNik
fromIf I see one more 9-piece slider puzzle, I'm going to run amok.
Skill Level:Expert
Favorite Genre(s):Puzzle, Hidden Object, Time Management, Adventure, Large File, Strategy, Word, Card & Board
Fun Factor
1
/
5
Visual/Sound Quality
5
/
5
Level of Challenge
1
/
5
Storyline
2
/
5
Myths of the World: The Whispering Marsh CE
Review based on completed demo
Review based on completed demo
PROLOGUE...
I admit it: I'm a sucker for amazing graphics and animation in a game. But that can't be all there is. A game is a total package, and for me to be over the moon, the gameplay has to engage me, and the storyline and music have to be good enough to keep me immersed. If I can concentrate on a TV show while playing a game, the gameplay and immersion are seriously lacking.
I admit it: I'm a sucker for amazing graphics and animation in a game. But that can't be all there is. A game is a total package, and for me to be over the moon, the gameplay has to engage me, and the storyline and music have to be good enough to keep me immersed. If I can concentrate on a TV show while playing a game, the gameplay and immersion are seriously lacking.
ONCE UPON A TIME...
People are disappearing into the Whispering Marsh. As County Bounder, it's your duty to investigate. On your journey, your carriage crashes (of course), and by the time you get past the wreckage, your driver has been lured into the Marsh by lights that seem to have minds of their own. Then, there's that eldritch, robed figure off in the distance holding a lantern. He doesn't look friendly.
People are disappearing into the Whispering Marsh. As County Bounder, it's your duty to investigate. On your journey, your carriage crashes (of course), and by the time you get past the wreckage, your driver has been lured into the Marsh by lights that seem to have minds of their own. Then, there's that eldritch, robed figure off in the distance holding a lantern. He doesn't look friendly.
(Note: I could not find a definition that helped the term "County Bounder" make sense. The etymology of "bound" stems from Old Norse "to dwell" or "to prepare." Otherwise, "bounder" is archaic British slang for a man of objectionable social behavior.)
PLAY THE GAME
HO scenes are interactive, as is usual with this dev. I encountered a list followed by rebuses, and sequential silhouettes where each item is used to find the next. You can choose to play mahjongg instead of the HO. Additionally, there are mini-HO scenes.
HO scenes are interactive, as is usual with this dev. I encountered a list followed by rebuses, and sequential silhouettes where each item is used to find the next. You can choose to play mahjongg instead of the HO. Additionally, there are mini-HO scenes.
The puzzles are all easy, at least in the demo. Navigate a maze, backtracking as necessary to avoid obstacles. Find matched pairs. A minimal gears and chains puzzle. Sliders that open a shelf where moving one affects others. And a repeating puzzle involving "scaring away" the marsh lights where you have to connect the symbols without crossing lines or having identical symbols next to each other.
SIGHTSEEING...
Yep, the graphics are glorious and the animation is amazing.
Yep, the graphics are glorious and the animation is amazing.
SOUNDBOARD...
I didn't notice the music. The voiceovers were done well, as were environmental sounds.
I didn't notice the music. The voiceovers were done well, as were environmental sounds.
TOOLBOX...
The inventory panel locks open, and plus items are indicated (depending on difficulty level). The map was a pain. Select where you want to go and an inset will pop up. Click that to go there. It does indicate active areas.
The inventory panel locks open, and plus items are indicated (depending on difficulty level). The map was a pain. Select where you want to go and an inset will pop up. Click that to go there. It does indicate active areas.
OOH! PIECE OF CANDY...
Each scene contains a collectible acorn and each HO includes a morphing object. An icon on the inventory panel lets you know when you've found them. You can replay puzzles and HO scenes. There are performance achievements and a souvenir room. Naturally, there's the bonus chapter, SG, and the usual developer's portfolio of sights and sounds.
Each scene contains a collectible acorn and each HO includes a morphing object. An icon on the inventory panel lets you know when you've found them. You can replay puzzles and HO scenes. There are performance achievements and a souvenir room. Naturally, there's the bonus chapter, SG, and the usual developer's portfolio of sights and sounds.
EPILOGUE...
I just wasn't engaged. The storyline didn't tease me along or make me care that people in Kaltdorf were disappearing. The gameplay was too pro forma and too easy. For these reasons, I can't recommend it.
I just wasn't engaged. The storyline didn't tease me along or make me care that people in Kaltdorf were disappearing. The gameplay was too pro forma and too easy. For these reasons, I can't recommend it.
I don't recommend this game.
Return once more to the haunted grounds of Ravenhearst Manor to uncover new details about this poignant saga. What you find could very well be the final chapter of this riveting story-if you escape.
Overall rating
5
/
5
7 of 7 found this review helpful
YES! Challenging gameplay, excellent story, gorgeous graphics...I didn't really want to escape!
PostedAugust 30, 2015
LunaNik
fromThe Island of Myst
Skill Level:Expert
Favorite Genre(s):Puzzle, Hidden Object, Time Management, Adventure, Large File, Strategy, Word, Card & Board
Fun Factor
5
/
5
Visual/Sound Quality
5
/
5
Level of Challenge
5
/
5
Storyline
5
/
5
Mystery Case Files: Escape from Ravenhearst CE
Review based on complete game
Review based on complete game
PROLOGUE...
Apparently, I didn't review Escape back when I bought it. However, a replay review is just as valuable, I think, since it shows whether a game stands the test of time. This one most definitely does.
Apparently, I didn't review Escape back when I bought it. However, a replay review is just as valuable, I think, since it shows whether a game stands the test of time. This one most definitely does.
After reading the copious reviews, it appears that those who disliked Escape fall into four camps:
• The game was too hard for them.
• The themes were too disturbing and/or gross for them.
• They disliked the morphing object scenes.
• They were upset that there was no bonus chapter in the CE.
• The game was too hard for them.
• The themes were too disturbing and/or gross for them.
• They disliked the morphing object scenes.
• They were upset that there was no bonus chapter in the CE.
ONCE UPON A TIME...
As the detective who solved the mystery of Ravenhearst, you learned from Emma's and Rose's ghosts the horrors they suffered at the hands of the twisted Charles Dalimar and his disturbed son. Now you visit Ravenhearst for the last time to learn Charles' side of the story, to relive moments and scenes from his life and discover what made him the madman he is. Heed the warning in red: The themes in Escape are exceedingly disturbing. And you'll need all your skills if you are to escape from Ravenhearst.
As the detective who solved the mystery of Ravenhearst, you learned from Emma's and Rose's ghosts the horrors they suffered at the hands of the twisted Charles Dalimar and his disturbed son. Now you visit Ravenhearst for the last time to learn Charles' side of the story, to relive moments and scenes from his life and discover what made him the madman he is. Heed the warning in red: The themes in Escape are exceedingly disturbing. And you'll need all your skills if you are to escape from Ravenhearst.
PLAY THE GAME
Throughout the game, there was a refreshing lack of hand-holding reminiscent of old-school adventure games. My intelligence wasn't insulted even once. For example, when I encountered a cover held in place by screws, Captain Obvious failed to comment, "Looks like I need a screwdriver." And when I found the screwdriver, Captain Obvious didn't remind me where I needed to use it. It was entirely up to me to PAY ATTENTION. Epic.
Throughout the game, there was a refreshing lack of hand-holding reminiscent of old-school adventure games. My intelligence wasn't insulted even once. For example, when I encountered a cover held in place by screws, Captain Obvious failed to comment, "Looks like I need a screwdriver." And when I found the screwdriver, Captain Obvious didn't remind me where I needed to use it. It was entirely up to me to PAY ATTENTION. Epic.
Puzzles came with no instructions at all. *commences endzone dance* I was left entirely on my own to fiddle around with each puzzle until I figured it out solely by firing my synapses. Now THAT is gaming. One repeating puzzle required activating picture charms in order to unlock doors, necessitating a multi-part solution: identify the picture, remember where you saw it, travel there, and place the charm.
HO scenes were non-traditional. All objects were morphing—with amazing animation—and there was no list, only a locket showing you how many items remained. Quite a few were incredibly difficult to spot, making a wonderful change of pace from most HO scenes where the objects are in plain sight and each one takes about 30 seconds.
Yes, this is a difficult game. However, "challenging" and "frustrating" do not have the same meaning. To me, a game with pro forma HO scenes and puzzles that can be completed easily is utterly boring. If there's no challenge, what's the point?
SIGHTSEEING...
Graphics and animation are STILL among the best I've ever seen, even four years later. The green-screening was absolutely seamless. Animation flowed with no stuttering and was completely lifelike. The overall palette was neutral with color being used to accent, but the variety of realistic textures more than made up for it.
Graphics and animation are STILL among the best I've ever seen, even four years later. The green-screening was absolutely seamless. Animation flowed with no stuttering and was completely lifelike. The overall palette was neutral with color being used to accent, but the variety of realistic textures more than made up for it.
SOUNDBOARD...
The music varies depending on the scene, and you'll hear the characteristic MCF theme on different instruments and at varying tempos. Environmental sounds are perfect, keeping you completely immersed in the game. Voiceovers are, as usual, professional with the actors perfectly in character.
The music varies depending on the scene, and you'll hear the characteristic MCF theme on different instruments and at varying tempos. Environmental sounds are perfect, keeping you completely immersed in the game. Voiceovers are, as usual, professional with the actors perfectly in character.
TOOLBOX...
The inventory does not lock open, which I did find annoying. There is no map and quite a bit of backing and forthing. However, in keeping with the adventure game format, I felt this was appropriate. The journal does not note clues for you, so have pen and paper handy for the various numbers and patterns you'll find. I didn't find this irritating, being used to adventure games where you end up with pages of notes AND you have to draw your own map.
The inventory does not lock open, which I did find annoying. There is no map and quite a bit of backing and forthing. However, in keeping with the adventure game format, I felt this was appropriate. The journal does not note clues for you, so have pen and paper handy for the various numbers and patterns you'll find. I didn't find this irritating, being used to adventure games where you end up with pages of notes AND you have to draw your own map.
OOH! PIECE OF CANDY...
For a CE, Escape is sadly lacking in extras. There are bloopers alongside the credits and the SG, but you will not find a bonus game, downloadable music and wallpapers, replayable HOs and puzzles, or any of the other usuals. Normally, I would subtract a star for this, but the gameplay and story were so epic that I'm not going to.
For a CE, Escape is sadly lacking in extras. There are bloopers alongside the credits and the SG, but you will not find a bonus game, downloadable music and wallpapers, replayable HOs and puzzles, or any of the other usuals. Normally, I would subtract a star for this, but the gameplay and story were so epic that I'm not going to.
EPILOGUE...
I'd love to see BFG develop more games with gameplay just like this. Puzzles with no instructions. Adventure mode with no hand-holding. No map. Note-taking required. For the love of all that makes gaming fun, challenge us! And ask the other devs to challenge us too! Quite a lot of us are sick unto death of games that are ridiculously easy, even in the hardest difficulty mode.
I'd love to see BFG develop more games with gameplay just like this. Puzzles with no instructions. Adventure mode with no hand-holding. No map. Note-taking required. For the love of all that makes gaming fun, challenge us! And ask the other devs to challenge us too! Quite a lot of us are sick unto death of games that are ridiculously easy, even in the hardest difficulty mode.
Seriously, if I see another Towers of Hanoi puzzle, I might run amok. One more 9-piece slider, and I might commit mayhem. HO scenes that I can solve in 30 seconds are NOT fun. Don't even get me started on jigsaw puzzles. Make more games like this one! Games for adults! Don't make me beg. ;-)
I recommend this game!