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:
Build an empire out of grass hut roots! Take the role of an emperor cursed to live without his love until he appeases his god!
Overall rating
2
/
5
0 of 2 found this review helpful
Colossally Repetitive & Tedious
PostedAugust 25, 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
1
/
5
Visual/Sound Quality
4
/
5
Level of Challenge
1
/
5
Storyline
2
/
5
I adore build-it games with no timers, but this one just presented the same tasks over and over again with different backgrounds. Find brush wood, reeds, berries, mushrooms, ore, etc. Then do it again. And again.
The rare times when you were required to find items in the scene and use them were awesome. Had this game included more of those and fewer mindless HO scenes, that would have been a good start.
There was no interactive build-it element to this game at all. Click the gathering area to research new items—once you've gathered a number of each required item—and suddenly you have a farm or a forge...placed where the game wants it, not where you want it.
Lastly, why is the emperor the one gathering firewood and food? It makes no sense in any context. Sorry, but I can't recommend this game.
I don't recommend this game.
A magic bear summons you to help save the neighboring kingdom of Nypha.
Overall rating
5
/
5
12 of 14 found this review helpful
Awesome Realm...MadHead does it again!
PostedAugust 23, 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
Dark Realm: Princess of Ice CE
Review based on completed game + bonus chapter + extras
Review based on completed game + bonus chapter + extras
PROLOGUE...
MadHead is rapidly moving to the forefront of the casual gaming world, outperforming other devs in overall quality, gameplay, graphics, music, and storyline. THIS is what casual gaming is supposed to be.
MadHead is rapidly moving to the forefront of the casual gaming world, outperforming other devs in overall quality, gameplay, graphics, music, and storyline. THIS is what casual gaming is supposed to be.
ONCE UPON A TIME...
Like her mother before her, Valera is a fire-wielder. With her medallion, one of the three ancient weapons, she saved Northpearl from the first great evil in Queen of Flames. Now, as Queen Valera, she must aid the neighboring kingdom of Nypha to conquer the second great evil before the whole world is encased in ice. Valera will also discover the true power behind these Dark Realm battles, meet the bearer of the second weapon, and help star-crossed lovers reconnect in Princess of Ice. Old friends and new are on hand to help, including Valera's childhood friend Nathaniel, the steampunk dwarf (with a new mode of travel), Myrina the wise counselor, and a wise and powerful polar bear.
Like her mother before her, Valera is a fire-wielder. With her medallion, one of the three ancient weapons, she saved Northpearl from the first great evil in Queen of Flames. Now, as Queen Valera, she must aid the neighboring kingdom of Nypha to conquer the second great evil before the whole world is encased in ice. Valera will also discover the true power behind these Dark Realm battles, meet the bearer of the second weapon, and help star-crossed lovers reconnect in Princess of Ice. Old friends and new are on hand to help, including Valera's childhood friend Nathaniel, the steampunk dwarf (with a new mode of travel), Myrina the wise counselor, and a wise and powerful polar bear.
PLAY THE GAME
Variety is the hallmark of the HO scenes, which include straight and interactive list, silhouette, multiples, patterns, rebuses, and placing items where they belong. Each scene contains a morphing object.
Variety is the hallmark of the HO scenes, which include straight and interactive list, silhouette, multiples, patterns, rebuses, and placing items where they belong. Each scene contains a morphing object.
There are several situational puzzles that repeat throughout the game. When Valera encounters an artifact, she must charge it with her bearclaw armor by completing a Match 3+ puzzle. There are two types of backstory puzzles: the find-and-return items characteristic of MadHead games, and one where you must choose which of four images matches the given image. For some of the battles, you must match symbols in a timely manner. Lastly, for some of the battles, you must draw runes with the mouse, requiring both timing and accuracy.
One-off puzzles include:
• matching icons to NPCs (hope you paid attention to the story!)
• Zuma-style marble shooter
• match the patterns
• find the differences
• match pairs
• swap the tiles jigsaw
• swap the tiles to complete horizontal and vertical patterns
• memorize and repeat multiple-square grid pattern
• rotate circles to complete the image
...and many more.
• matching icons to NPCs (hope you paid attention to the story!)
• Zuma-style marble shooter
• match the patterns
• find the differences
• match pairs
• swap the tiles jigsaw
• swap the tiles to complete horizontal and vertical patterns
• memorize and repeat multiple-square grid pattern
• rotate circles to complete the image
...and many more.
SIGHTSEEING...
Despite being a game about ice, the graphics were not overly blue and white. Nor did garish tones abound. Instead, there were lots of richly layered neutrals with touches of saturated jewel tones, creating a pleasing and realistic balance. I could have done without the frequent dramatic bright flashes of light whenever the gameplay transitioned in or out of the backstory, and whenever Valera used her bearclaw.
Despite being a game about ice, the graphics were not overly blue and white. Nor did garish tones abound. Instead, there were lots of richly layered neutrals with touches of saturated jewel tones, creating a pleasing and realistic balance. I could have done without the frequent dramatic bright flashes of light whenever the gameplay transitioned in or out of the backstory, and whenever Valera used her bearclaw.
SOUNDBOARD...
The soundtrack is stunning, worthy of a movie. There are beautiful wordless chants and operatic choirs, new age instrumentals and orchestral marches, melancholic strings and tranquil harps. One piece is reminiscent of a medieval faire, while another evokes an epic quest. Still another reminds me of an eastern European folk dance.
The soundtrack is stunning, worthy of a movie. There are beautiful wordless chants and operatic choirs, new age instrumentals and orchestral marches, melancholic strings and tranquil harps. One piece is reminiscent of a medieval faire, while another evokes an epic quest. Still another reminds me of an eastern European folk dance.
The voiceovers couldn't be more professional, with accents ranging across the British Isles and just the right touch of drama. Extremely well done! Environmental sounds are excellent, truly immersive.
TOOLBOX...
A journal stores clues and narrates the storyline. The jump map shows your location, areas with available tasks, and completed areas. And the bearclaw charges ancient artifacts.
A journal stores clues and narrates the storyline. The jump map shows your location, areas with available tasks, and completed areas. And the bearclaw charges ancient artifacts.
OOH! PIECE OF CANDY...
In the bonus chapter, discover what set the Dark Lord's puppet on the path to his evil ways. (I'm fairly sure this is a preview for the sequel.) You may replay the HO scenes either to improve your score or to retrieve morphing objects you might have missed. If you collect all the crowns, it unlocks an ultimate HO scene. (And you are allowed to go back and find the ones you missed!) Completing a jigsaw puzzles unlocks the character gallery. And there are performance achievements, the soundtrack (which is downloadable), and a "making of" video.
In the bonus chapter, discover what set the Dark Lord's puppet on the path to his evil ways. (I'm fairly sure this is a preview for the sequel.) You may replay the HO scenes either to improve your score or to retrieve morphing objects you might have missed. If you collect all the crowns, it unlocks an ultimate HO scene. (And you are allowed to go back and find the ones you missed!) Completing a jigsaw puzzles unlocks the character gallery. And there are performance achievements, the soundtrack (which is downloadable), and a "making of" video.
EPILOGUE...
Overall, a thoroughly enjoyable game with replay value, judging from the fact that I replayed Queen of Flames before playing this sequel. I do recommend both installments of Dark Realm in their CE versions, and I'm looking forward to part three. Happy gaming!
Overall, a thoroughly enjoyable game with replay value, judging from the fact that I replayed Queen of Flames before playing this sequel. I do recommend both installments of Dark Realm in their CE versions, and I'm looking forward to part three. Happy gaming!
I recommend this game!
Isa's back to his old tricks, and now he's doing the bidding of an even greater foe.
Overall rating
4
/
5
22 of 29 found this review helpful
ERS has stepped up its game! Eye candy & gameplay goodies.
PostedAugust 13, 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
4
/
5
Level of Challenge
4
/
5
Storyline
4
/
5
Spirits of Mystery: Chains of Promise CE
Review based on completed demo
Review based on completed demo
PROLOGUE...
Anyone who habitually reads my reviews know that I've been hard on ERS these past few years for repetitive storylines, using the same music, outdated graphics, and simplistic gameplay. I didn't expect much from this installment in the once-loved Spirits of Mystery franchise, but I was pleasantly surprised. And this release is serendipitous, as I just finished replaying Amber Maiden and Song of the Phoenix.
Anyone who habitually reads my reviews know that I've been hard on ERS these past few years for repetitive storylines, using the same music, outdated graphics, and simplistic gameplay. I didn't expect much from this installment in the once-loved Spirits of Mystery franchise, but I was pleasantly surprised. And this release is serendipitous, as I just finished replaying Amber Maiden and Song of the Phoenix.
ONCE UPON A TIME...
Isa must be immortal or able to reincarnate. No matter what happens to him, he just keeps coming back and causing trouble. This time, he's managed to force your best friend, princess in a neighboring kingdom, into an arranged marriage...but it's not really her hand he wants, but her kingdom. And it's up to you to stop the marriage, save your friend, and end Isa's evil plans once and for all.
Isa must be immortal or able to reincarnate. No matter what happens to him, he just keeps coming back and causing trouble. This time, he's managed to force your best friend, princess in a neighboring kingdom, into an arranged marriage...but it's not really her hand he wants, but her kingdom. And it's up to you to stop the marriage, save your friend, and end Isa's evil plans once and for all.
PLAY THE GAME
HO scenes include interactive list and sequential interaction...and they're much more old-school, in that you actually have to search for the items...they're not in plain view. Kudos for that. Puzzles were mostly familiar, but the difficulty level was not simplistic. Actual thinking and planning were required to complete them. More props to ERS.
HO scenes include interactive list and sequential interaction...and they're much more old-school, in that you actually have to search for the items...they're not in plain view. Kudos for that. Puzzles were mostly familiar, but the difficulty level was not simplistic. Actual thinking and planning were required to complete them. More props to ERS.
Lots to do in adventure mode. Periodically, you encounter a glowing red gargoyle image, the signal to use your mirror to search the scene for six glowing blue-white gargoyle images to "charge" the mirror so you can dispel the red image and see what it's hiding. Many clues to find, locks to unlocks, items to fix and complete, areas to search, etc. But there's a really good variety of tasks.
SIGHTSEEING...
Chains of Promise is hardly recognizable as an ERS game, and that's a compliment. The backgrounds are clearly drawn with beautifully crisp line work...no more watercolors. There's not a pastel in sight. Instead, stunning jewel tones abound. Animation is done well, and light and shadow create realistic dimension. Characters are much more realistically drawn and do lip synch.
Chains of Promise is hardly recognizable as an ERS game, and that's a compliment. The backgrounds are clearly drawn with beautifully crisp line work...no more watercolors. There's not a pastel in sight. Instead, stunning jewel tones abound. Animation is done well, and light and shadow create realistic dimension. Characters are much more realistically drawn and do lip synch.
SOUNDBOARD...
I'm a little mad at myself because I had the sound too low to hear the music, environmental sounds, and voiceovers. So, no comments here.
I'm a little mad at myself because I had the sound too low to hear the music, environmental sounds, and voiceovers. So, no comments here.
TOOLBOX...
Inventory locks open and includes plus items. The map shows your location and areas with available tasks, and transports. And there's the gargoyle mirror.
Inventory locks open and includes plus items. The map shows your location and areas with available tasks, and transports. And there's the gargoyle mirror.
OOH! PIECE OF CANDY...
CE extras include the bonus chapter, collectible stamps, performance achievements, replayable HO scenes and puzzles, the SG, and the developer's portfolio of sights and sounds.
CE extras include the bonus chapter, collectible stamps, performance achievements, replayable HO scenes and puzzles, the SG, and the developer's portfolio of sights and sounds.
EPILOGUE...
In my opinion, ERS is headed in the right direction as far as stepping up their game, pardon the pun. Graphics and gameplay have been much improved. The storyline developed at a decent pace without being overly revealing. Personally, I'm going to wait for the SE. Happy gaming!
In my opinion, ERS is headed in the right direction as far as stepping up their game, pardon the pun. Graphics and gameplay have been much improved. The storyline developed at a decent pace without being overly revealing. Personally, I'm going to wait for the SE. Happy gaming!
From the makers of the Rite of Passage series comes a ground-breaking new series that's as creepy as it gets.
Overall rating
4
/
5
10 of 13 found this review helpful
4½ stars...Other devs should be very afraid of MadHead!
PostedAugust 3, 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
5
/
5
Level of Challenge
4
/
5
Storyline
5
/
5
Maze: Subject 360 CE
Review based on completed game + bonus chapter
Review based on completed game + bonus chapter
PROLOGUE...
Are you afraid of the dark? You will be. Eldritch horrors await you around every corner in the shadows of the Maze. So put the kids to bed, turn out the lights, and prepare yourself for the challenges ahead. And there actually are challenges! While you still can't actually make a mistake, a wrong decision will have some startling—and sometimes frightening—repercussions. And whatever you fear, this game will throw at you...be warned.
Are you afraid of the dark? You will be. Eldritch horrors await you around every corner in the shadows of the Maze. So put the kids to bed, turn out the lights, and prepare yourself for the challenges ahead. And there actually are challenges! While you still can't actually make a mistake, a wrong decision will have some startling—and sometimes frightening—repercussions. And whatever you fear, this game will throw at you...be warned.
ONCE UPON A TIME...
You awaken in a dilapidated hallway with no memory of how you got there. Seeing a door, you open it to find a bizarre room. The door through which you entered disappears, and a child's voice addresses you through a speaker. She says you're being tested and, if you succeed, you'll be rewarded with the life of your dreams. First, you need to escape this room, Subject 360. But be prepared...something very strange is going on, and you'll have to face all your fears to regain your freedom. And the deceptively cute little girl is not what she seems to be.
You awaken in a dilapidated hallway with no memory of how you got there. Seeing a door, you open it to find a bizarre room. The door through which you entered disappears, and a child's voice addresses you through a speaker. She says you're being tested and, if you succeed, you'll be rewarded with the life of your dreams. First, you need to escape this room, Subject 360. But be prepared...something very strange is going on, and you'll have to face all your fears to regain your freedom. And the deceptively cute little girl is not what she seems to be.
PLAY THE GAME
HO scenes vary as to how the list of items is presented but, as usual these days, the items aren't really hidden, at least in most scenes. In this game, there are exceptions and several scenes do present a real challenge. For example, in one scene you must diagnose what a patient needs and match up the solution with the symptom. A couple of others require you to interpret verbal clues. Each scene also contains a morphing object, though finding them all doesn't unlock anything extra.
HO scenes vary as to how the list of items is presented but, as usual these days, the items aren't really hidden, at least in most scenes. In this game, there are exceptions and several scenes do present a real challenge. For example, in one scene you must diagnose what a patient needs and match up the solution with the symptom. A couple of others require you to interpret verbal clues. Each scene also contains a morphing object, though finding them all doesn't unlock anything extra.
One repeating puzzle will be familiar if you've played the Rite of Passage series. The backstory is related pictorially with a couple of items out of place. Once you replace them, the narration continues. Easy puzzles include picking a lock (depress four pins in the correct order), several simple mazes, the 9-tile slider, and switching five weighted figurines until they're in their correct places. More complex puzzles include rotating blocks to connect the wires (before you drown!), several puzzles bundled into one to learn a 9-digit door password, and multiple places where you must choose the correct action to take (although the wrong decision won't kill you).
Adventure mode is fairly linear, but the storyline keeps you moving forward with its constant sense of urgency. Enigmas abound throughout the game, and the pace at which the answers are revealed is perfect to keep you immersed.
SIGHTSEEING...
While in the Maze, the graphics are mostly in neutrals and muted colors. If you take the time to look around, you'll see items which might normally be comforting or reassuring represented as horrific in some way. The "beauty" is in the textures: peeling paint, chipped floor tiles, decaying fabrics. In contrast, the Dream world is stunning beautiful and everyone seems almost too happy. The Real world strikes a balance between the two. Animation is state-of-the-art and character lip-synching is extremely lifelike.
While in the Maze, the graphics are mostly in neutrals and muted colors. If you take the time to look around, you'll see items which might normally be comforting or reassuring represented as horrific in some way. The "beauty" is in the textures: peeling paint, chipped floor tiles, decaying fabrics. In contrast, the Dream world is stunning beautiful and everyone seems almost too happy. The Real world strikes a balance between the two. Animation is state-of-the-art and character lip-synching is extremely lifelike.
SOUNDBOARD...
If I didn't know better, I'd think this was a soundtrack from a horror movie. There's a lot of mood-setting piano...some sad and some that sets your teeth on edge. A wide variety of percussion serves to keep your nerves jangling throughout the game. Electric guitar gives the soundtrack a modern edge, from leads with echos to power metal chords. Of course, there's the ever-popular creepy music box. And orchestral crescendos and wordless voices add texture. It's a really stunning soundtrack. Voiceovers are professional and environmental sounds are appropriately spine-tingling.
If I didn't know better, I'd think this was a soundtrack from a horror movie. There's a lot of mood-setting piano...some sad and some that sets your teeth on edge. A wide variety of percussion serves to keep your nerves jangling throughout the game. Electric guitar gives the soundtrack a modern edge, from leads with echos to power metal chords. Of course, there's the ever-popular creepy music box. And orchestral crescendos and wordless voices add texture. It's a really stunning soundtrack. Voiceovers are professional and environmental sounds are appropriately spine-tingling.
TOOLBOX...
Inventory locks open and there are plus items. The map is comprehensive, indicating your location and active tasks as well as transporting you. An icon notes whether you've found the collectible MadHead swirl in the location (or the morphing object in the HO scene). Your journal notes objectives and clues. Lastly, a dream catcher comes into the picture at key moments to catch and hold your fears, defend you, and more. (I don't want to spoil it!)
Inventory locks open and there are plus items. The map is comprehensive, indicating your location and active tasks as well as transporting you. An icon notes whether you've found the collectible MadHead swirl in the location (or the morphing object in the HO scene). Your journal notes objectives and clues. Lastly, a dream catcher comes into the picture at key moments to catch and hold your fears, defend you, and more. (I don't want to spoil it!)
OOH! PIECE OF CANDY...
The bonus chapter takes you back to when the "sleeping sickness" began taking over Haven, and puts you in the role of Howard, the only resident who doesn't fall victim. If you find all the collectible MadHead swirls, you unlock a super HO scene (and you can go back and get the ones you missed). You may replay all 19 HO scenes as well—but not the puzzles—and there's a jigsaw puzzle in which you restore the Christmas room. The CE also offers the SG, a brief "making of" video, performance achievements, character bios, and downloadable wallpapers and music.
The bonus chapter takes you back to when the "sleeping sickness" began taking over Haven, and puts you in the role of Howard, the only resident who doesn't fall victim. If you find all the collectible MadHead swirls, you unlock a super HO scene (and you can go back and get the ones you missed). You may replay all 19 HO scenes as well—but not the puzzles—and there's a jigsaw puzzle in which you restore the Christmas room. The CE also offers the SG, a brief "making of" video, performance achievements, character bios, and downloadable wallpapers and music.
EPILOGUE...
MadHead has set the bar extremely high with this psychological thriller. Let's hope they continue to innovate and create! For unique gameplay, excellent storyline, stunning music, glorious graphics and animation, and a totally immersive experience, I wholeheartedly recommend Maze: Subject 360. And now, I'm headed back into the Maze to face my fears. Happy gaming!
MadHead has set the bar extremely high with this psychological thriller. Let's hope they continue to innovate and create! For unique gameplay, excellent storyline, stunning music, glorious graphics and animation, and a totally immersive experience, I wholeheartedly recommend Maze: Subject 360. And now, I'm headed back into the Maze to face my fears. Happy gaming!
I recommend this game!
A carnival is no laughing matter when a murderer strikes.
Overall rating
2
/
5
13 of 19 found this review helpful
High production value doesn't make up for simplistic, repetitive gameplay
PostedAugust 2, 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
2
/
5
Visual/Sound Quality
4
/
5
Level of Challenge
2
/
5
Storyline
1
/
5
Dead Reckoning: The Crescent Case CE
Review based on completed game + bonus chapter
Review based on completed game + bonus chapter
PROLOGUE...
The storyline had promise, but the characters were so thinly developed and the action so frequently interrupted that, by about the middle of the game, I gave up trying to keep track of who was who and which ones were the bad guys. After that, it was just a matter of slogging through endless broken or incomplete items, finding of tools and shaped "keys," puzzles (both difficult and filler), and uHOs. What are uHOs, you ask? We'll get to that.
The storyline had promise, but the characters were so thinly developed and the action so frequently interrupted that, by about the middle of the game, I gave up trying to keep track of who was who and which ones were the bad guys. After that, it was just a matter of slogging through endless broken or incomplete items, finding of tools and shaped "keys," puzzles (both difficult and filler), and uHOs. What are uHOs, you ask? We'll get to that.
ONCE UPON A TIME...
You arrive at the gates of the traveling Crescent Carnival to meet your new partner and begin a new case...another murder. The carnies all claim the victim is a stranger, but you soon discover they're all lying. This isn't just a murder; it's a deeply twisted plot involving robbery, blackmail, identity theft, and more! You'll have your hands full juggling the clues, and solving this mystery without endangering yourself will be like walking a tightrope. It'll be totally...wait for it...in tents. ;-P
You arrive at the gates of the traveling Crescent Carnival to meet your new partner and begin a new case...another murder. The carnies all claim the victim is a stranger, but you soon discover they're all lying. This isn't just a murder; it's a deeply twisted plot involving robbery, blackmail, identity theft, and more! You'll have your hands full juggling the clues, and solving this mystery without endangering yourself will be like walking a tightrope. It'll be totally...wait for it...in tents. ;-P
PLAY THE GAME
Lots of varied uHOs scattered throughout this game: interactive list, silhouette, sequential, riddle, and more. I just can't call them HOs anymore, because none of the objects are hidden. They're unHidden Object scenes, because no attempt is made to hide the objects on the list, other than to include a ton of other random objects in the scene. When I can spot them in the scene as fast as I can read them on the list, they're not "hidden objects."
Lots of varied uHOs scattered throughout this game: interactive list, silhouette, sequential, riddle, and more. I just can't call them HOs anymore, because none of the objects are hidden. They're unHidden Object scenes, because no attempt is made to hide the objects on the list, other than to include a ton of other random objects in the scene. When I can spot them in the scene as fast as I can read them on the list, they're not "hidden objects."
Puzzles were a bit better than in Brassfield Manor, with several rating higher in difficulty, but there were still a lot of throwaway filler puzzles. Easy puzzles included a ring toss with numbered rings where the rings on each bottle had to add up to ten, matching pairs, connecting pipes, and a maze. More difficult puzzles included a grid of cowboys with guns pointing in different directions where you had to set up a chain reaction, several logic puzzles, and a number grid (but with positive and negative numbers).
Adventure mode consisted of finding endless shaped keys, fixing an infinite number of broken things or things with missing pieces, and interviewing suspects. The interviews are touted as "deductive mode," but it's not challenging as you're pretty much told what item with which to confront the suspect and whether or not s/he is lying.
SIGHTSEEING...
What's up with the eye-searing colors and muddy neutrals? Almost all the colors were seriously harsh and glaring, while the neutrals were visceral and off-putting. Every scene was cluttered with non-essential items that defied definition; I kept peering at things and thinking, "What IS that?" There was a LOT of blurring and fogging, particulate matter, and random beams of light. I mean, props for realism but dial it back a bit because it's starting to read like gratuitous photoshop filters.
What's up with the eye-searing colors and muddy neutrals? Almost all the colors were seriously harsh and glaring, while the neutrals were visceral and off-putting. Every scene was cluttered with non-essential items that defied definition; I kept peering at things and thinking, "What IS that?" There was a LOT of blurring and fogging, particulate matter, and random beams of light. I mean, props for realism but dial it back a bit because it's starting to read like gratuitous photoshop filters.
SOUNDBOARD...
The soundtrack can be best described as "suspenseful soundscapes." I thought it fit the game well as a backdrop, as it wasn't repetitive melodies, but more like a movie soundtrack. Voiceovers were professional, and game sounds unobtrusive but effective. I was a bit surprised at the lack of circus-type music and environmental sounds.
The soundtrack can be best described as "suspenseful soundscapes." I thought it fit the game well as a backdrop, as it wasn't repetitive melodies, but more like a movie soundtrack. Voiceovers were professional, and game sounds unobtrusive but effective. I was a bit surprised at the lack of circus-type music and environmental sounds.
TOOLBOX...
The map is comprehensive, noting your location, your objective, and active tasks, as well as being a transporter. There is a forensics kit, but it mostly uses itself once you put it in the scene. An icon lets you know whether you've found the collectible scale in the scene.
The map is comprehensive, noting your location, your objective, and active tasks, as well as being a transporter. There is a forensics kit, but it mostly uses itself once you put it in the scene. An icon lets you know whether you've found the collectible scale in the scene.
OOH! PIECE OF CANDY...
The bonus chapter is a completely separate story, and is extremely short. You can replay puzzles and uHOs, and play bubble shooter. If you've found all the collectible scales, a bizarre and not really entertaining video is unlocked. Naturally, there's the SG and the developer's portfolio of sights and sounds.
The bonus chapter is a completely separate story, and is extremely short. You can replay puzzles and uHOs, and play bubble shooter. If you've found all the collectible scales, a bizarre and not really entertaining video is unlocked. Naturally, there's the SG and the developer's portfolio of sights and sounds.
EPILOGUE...
Once again, I found myself really just going through the motions to finish the game. It ceased being fun. The "hidden object" scenes presented no challenge; most of them took under a minute. While there were a few challenging puzzles, most were ridiculously simple. And the story could have been really entertaining, but it wasn't developed well. For these reasons, I can't recommend it.
Once again, I found myself really just going through the motions to finish the game. It ceased being fun. The "hidden object" scenes presented no challenge; most of them took under a minute. While there were a few challenging puzzles, most were ridiculously simple. And the story could have been really entertaining, but it wasn't developed well. For these reasons, I can't recommend it.
Honestly, I really dislike the current trends in casual gaming. Flashy production is all well and good, but not when the game underneath is boring and simplistic. Then again, I'm an old school gamer. There were no such things as hint buttons, strategy guides, and interactive maps. If you wanted a map, you drew one. At every step, you actually had to figure out what to do. And there was always a chance you might be eaten by a grue. I miss the challenge of actually beating the game without the dev holding my hand.
I don't recommend this game.
A murder mystery party turns deadly in real life!
Overall rating
2
/
5
13 of 18 found this review helpful
Dead Boring: Elementary School Puzzles and Unhidden Objects
PostedJuly 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
2
/
5
Visual/Sound Quality
3
/
5
Level of Challenge
2
/
5
Storyline
3
/
5
Dead Reckoning: Brassfield Manor CE
Review based on completed game + bonus chapter
Review based on completed game + bonus chapter
PROLOGUE...
Perhaps my many years of casual gaming have left me jaded, but it seems to me that HOPAs are getting worse, not better. The overwhelming majority of today's games are all style and not much substance, like junk metal jewelry with a thin veneer of gold plating. They make you exclaim, "Ooh...shiny!" until the plating quickly wears off and you realize there's nothing of value underneath it.
Perhaps my many years of casual gaming have left me jaded, but it seems to me that HOPAs are getting worse, not better. The overwhelming majority of today's games are all style and not much substance, like junk metal jewelry with a thin veneer of gold plating. They make you exclaim, "Ooh...shiny!" until the plating quickly wears off and you realize there's nothing of value underneath it.
ONCE UPON A TIME...
Reginald Greer, wealthy businessman, is a murder mystery aficionado and throws an annual party during which his high society guests must discover clues, unravel an elaborate plot, and solve the fictional murder he's created. This year, something has gone horribly awry, and Greer himself is found murdered. You've been assigned the case based on your success with the Silvermoon Isle case. It seems like everyone has a motive! Maybe the butler did it...
Reginald Greer, wealthy businessman, is a murder mystery aficionado and throws an annual party during which his high society guests must discover clues, unravel an elaborate plot, and solve the fictional murder he's created. This year, something has gone horribly awry, and Greer himself is found murdered. You've been assigned the case based on your success with the Silvermoon Isle case. It seems like everyone has a motive! Maybe the butler did it...
PLAY THE GAME
Ten years ago, you'd spend 15 minutes or more on ONE hidden object scene, because the devs took the time to actually HIDE the objects on the list. Shocking, I know. Sometimes an item would be camouflaged as if it were a chameleon, cheekily sitting in plain sight atop a like-colored object. Your eyes would skim over it a dozen times before you spotted it. Sometimes an item would be integrated into the scenery, hidden amongst similar shapes. And you'd both marvel and curse at the dev's cleverness.
Ten years ago, you'd spend 15 minutes or more on ONE hidden object scene, because the devs took the time to actually HIDE the objects on the list. Shocking, I know. Sometimes an item would be camouflaged as if it were a chameleon, cheekily sitting in plain sight atop a like-colored object. Your eyes would skim over it a dozen times before you spotted it. Sometimes an item would be integrated into the scenery, hidden amongst similar shapes. And you'd both marvel and curse at the dev's cleverness.
Today? 1-2 minutes tops, even if it's an interactive list. Time is given to creating different TYPES of lists. No time is given to actually hiding the objects on the list, other than including a gazillion other random objects in the scene. Sure, this game had interactive lists, silhouettes, matching pairs, riddles...but all the "hidden objects" were in plain view.
*sigh* I would gladly resurrect the eminently evil Charles Dalimar in order to get better puzzles. Remember his door locks? They were epic. Dalimar would NEVER have insulted our intelligence with a "swap the pieces" jigsaw puzzle. He would have scoffed had you suggested the Towers of Hanoi. Merely mentioning the 9-piece slider would have sent him into a towering rage. No, you had to use NEURONS to solve his puzzles.
The puzzles in this game would have bored a 10-year-old. A rock-paper-scissors style game using knights where you're told what the black knight's next move is. (In the depths of his torment, Charles Dalimar opens his eyes.) Assemble a coat of arms by matching the clues. (Charles' eyes narrow and his jaw clenches.) Connect the matching tokens on a grid without crossing their lines. (A vein in Charles' forehead begins to throb.) Complete a jigsaw puzzle shaped like Brassfield Manor. (Charles raises his hands. Ravenhearst begins to rise from the depths. Dare I hope? Only if BFG develops it.)
This series features a deductive mode for interviewing suspects during which you listen to a suspect, then you're told what evidence to show them, then you're told whether they're telling the truth or lying. This is more like an interactive story than gaming, because you can't really make a mistake.
The rest of the game consists of endless searching for keys, tools, missing pieces of things, and those (insert profanity here) shaped medallions (of which I'm deathly tired).
SIGHTSEEING...
I disliked the graphics. The colors were quite harsh to the eye, making the neutrals muddy and nondescript. The scenes seemed to lack dimension, with furniture and statuary blending into the background. And the perspective was off. Without the navigational arrows, there were many times where I couldn't tell where my character could go (like the gallery...I didn't even notice the staircase). Characters were drawn well, but I do miss this dev's live action NPCs.
I disliked the graphics. The colors were quite harsh to the eye, making the neutrals muddy and nondescript. The scenes seemed to lack dimension, with furniture and statuary blending into the background. And the perspective was off. Without the navigational arrows, there were many times where I couldn't tell where my character could go (like the gallery...I didn't even notice the staircase). Characters were drawn well, but I do miss this dev's live action NPCs.
SOUNDBOARD...
The voiceovers were extremely professional, as always. I'd still prefer more environmental sounds: crickets, tree frogs, coyotes, and owls in outdoor night scenes, for example, would lend realism to the game and aid in immersion. The music was nicely varied, including moody piano pieces, somber strings, ambient numbers, a percussive piece, and more. I was surprised, given the time period of the game, that there was no jazz.
The voiceovers were extremely professional, as always. I'd still prefer more environmental sounds: crickets, tree frogs, coyotes, and owls in outdoor night scenes, for example, would lend realism to the game and aid in immersion. The music was nicely varied, including moody piano pieces, somber strings, ambient numbers, a percussive piece, and more. I was surprised, given the time period of the game, that there was no jazz.
TOOLBOX...
Inventory bar locks open but is transparent, which I don't care for. Also, the "go back" hotspot was situated too close to the inventory bar, often causing me to inadvertently select an inventory item when I was merely attempting to go back to the previous location. Annoying.
Inventory bar locks open but is transparent, which I don't care for. Also, the "go back" hotspot was situated too close to the inventory bar, often causing me to inadvertently select an inventory item when I was merely attempting to go back to the previous location. Annoying.
The map shows your location, your objectives, and available tasks, and transports. Initially, you have a forensics kit, but you only use it to examine Greer's body. You also have a clue box for which you find five tokens. In return, the box gives you clues and items.
There's an indicator showing whether you've collected the Tarocchi card in the scene or the morphing object in the HO.
OOH! PIECE OF CANDY...
In the bonus chapter, find Greer's will before Penelope does, because there's another plot afoot. Standard extras include the SG, performance achievements, and the developer's portfolio of sights and sounds. There are 42 collectible Tarocchi cards and 8 collectible masks, but neither set unlocks anything awesome as far as I could see.
In the bonus chapter, find Greer's will before Penelope does, because there's another plot afoot. Standard extras include the SG, performance achievements, and the developer's portfolio of sights and sounds. There are 42 collectible Tarocchi cards and 8 collectible masks, but neither set unlocks anything awesome as far as I could see.
Additional extras include replayable HO scenes (including collecting the morphing objects you may have missed), replayable puzzles (no idea why you'd want to), collecting the Tarocchi cards you may have missed, playing bubble shooter, and a souvenir room (basically, revisit each scene to find one HO).
EPILOGUE...
Clearly, I can't rely on stars anymore, since this game averaged 4½ stars. I would strongly suggest, BFG, that you get rid of the "Top Reviewer" designation. When someone says the puzzles are easy, then gives 5 stars for "level of challenge," they're not giving an honest review; they're just vying to have "Top Reviewer" underneath their name by giving 5 stars even if it doesn't match their opinion.
Clearly, I can't rely on stars anymore, since this game averaged 4½ stars. I would strongly suggest, BFG, that you get rid of the "Top Reviewer" designation. When someone says the puzzles are easy, then gives 5 stars for "level of challenge," they're not giving an honest review; they're just vying to have "Top Reviewer" underneath their name by giving 5 stars even if it doesn't match their opinion.
I know my reviews are sometimes brutal, but they are honest. And I honestly don't recommend this game, unless you like the same thing over and over again in every game you play, and no challenge whatsoever. As for me, I'm going to go butt heads with Charles Dalimar. Happy gaming!
I don't recommend this game.
Save your daughter from an evil ghost in Psycho Train! Begin your journey towards the unknown!
Overall rating
1
/
5
7 of 7 found this review helpful
Psycho Train derailed before it even left the station.
PostedJuly 28, 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
1
/
5
Visual/Sound Quality
2
/
5
Level of Challenge
1
/
5
Storyline
1
/
5
Psycho Train departed from Nonsensical Station and made stops at Outmoded HO Scenes, Retread Puzzles, and Paper Thin Storyline.
The storyline made absolutely no sense. You get on the train with your daughter. In the window's reflection, you see a frightening man grabbing your daughter, but he's not actually on the train. Suddenly, the train has an accident, and your daughter is gone...along with everyone else. And you have no emotional reaction whatsoever.
All the HO scenes are lists with only one item each that is interactive, and that interaction is exceedingly minimal. The puzzles are all retreads and simple. I found myself just going through the motions to get through the demo.
This dev has created MUCH better games, and should really be embarrassed by this one, which feels like it was buried in a drawer somewhere and just dusted off (but not updated) before being released. Try these instead:
Alex Hunter: Lord of the Mind
The Lake House: Children of Silence
Eternal Journey: New Atlantis
Alex Hunter: Lord of the Mind
The Lake House: Children of Silence
Eternal Journey: New Atlantis
I don't recommend this game.
Black Viper: Sophia's Fate
Cop by day, formidable thief by night: Sophia, aka Black Viper, is a young woman leading a double life.
Overall rating
1
/
5
3 of 3 found this review helpful
A great storyline ruined by poor gameplay at a snail's pace.
PostedJuly 28, 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
1
/
5
Visual/Sound Quality
2
/
5
Level of Challenge
2
/
5
Storyline
5
/
5
It's exceedingly rare for me to not even make it through the demo before posting a review, but I played ten minutes and couldn't stand it any longer. I really wanted to like this game because I loved the storyline! Sadly, the following things drove me to distraction:
• repetitive music
• slow-moving dialog interrupting constantly
• HO objects not hidden, just tiny
• poorly-described objects (For example, "atlas" on the list turned out to be a globe...and they're not remotely the same thing! An atlas is a book!)
I could have forgiven the outdated graphics and animation had the gameplay been awesome. It wasn't. But the storyline had such promise that I truly am disappointed.
I don't recommend this game.
Beyond the sky lies a thrilling adventure... and a deadly threat!
Overall rating
4
/
5
14 of 16 found this review helpful
4½ stars...for the SF theme, a great story, and some original gameplay
PostedJuly 27, 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
5
/
5
Level of Challenge
4
/
5
Storyline
5
/
5
Beyond: Light Advent CE
Review based on completed game + bonus chapter
Review based on completed game + bonus chapter
PROLOGUE...
I don't know why science fiction themes are so rare in casual gaming. The genre provides an almost endless opportunity for creative storytelling, innovative gameplay, and breathtaking graphics, not to mention interesting music. Mad Head shows how it should be done in Beyond: Light Advent. It's not perfect, but it's it's pretty close. And it's certainly a welcome change from the endless missing relatives, vengeful ghosts, power-hungry demons, and saccharine princesses!
I don't know why science fiction themes are so rare in casual gaming. The genre provides an almost endless opportunity for creative storytelling, innovative gameplay, and breathtaking graphics, not to mention interesting music. Mad Head shows how it should be done in Beyond: Light Advent. It's not perfect, but it's it's pretty close. And it's certainly a welcome change from the endless missing relatives, vengeful ghosts, power-hungry demons, and saccharine princesses!
ONCE UPON A TIME...
As a little girl, Diana invented an imaginary playmate whom she named Nix. He was from another planet, and he taught her the wonders of the stars. Because of him, Diana decided to become an astronomer.
As a little girl, Diana invented an imaginary playmate whom she named Nix. He was from another planet, and he taught her the wonders of the stars. Because of him, Diana decided to become an astronomer.
Fast forward to the present...Diana heads off to investigate what she believes is a meteorite headed for Earth. Imagine her surprise when she not only discovers that the object is a spaceship, but also finds that its pilot is Nix! Unfortunately, her joy is short-lived, as Nix has returned to Earth to warn Diana of an imminent threat.
A voracious, carnivorous race of aliens, dubbed the World Eaters, destroyed Nix's planet...and they're on their way to Earth! Diana and Nix are the only ones capable of activating the three towers of the defense system put in place by Nix so long ago.
PLAY THE GAME
Travel the town recovering memory crystals which will allow you to interactively relive the memories of key people on Nix's planet, each of whom provided Nix with an element crystal, crucial to powering the defense towers. With great attention to detail, the entire user interface changes to a more futuristic look while you're playing within the memories.
Travel the town recovering memory crystals which will allow you to interactively relive the memories of key people on Nix's planet, each of whom provided Nix with an element crystal, crucial to powering the defense towers. With great attention to detail, the entire user interface changes to a more futuristic look while you're playing within the memories.
HO scenes are presented in great variety, including interactive list, silhouettes, matching pairs, finding patterns, multiples of items, one that actually simulates searching a room, and more. Puzzles vary in style and difficulty and include a couple of unique takes on the maze, several that involve timing, a few where you must assemble machinery, some that require figuring out how to operate machinery, and much more. Lots of original ideas in gameplay.
SIGHTSEEING...
I found the graphics delightfully rendered. The futuristic scenes are presented as sleek buildings set in an impossibly beautiful landscape, while Earth scenes are recognizably homey. I'm pretty sure the entire palette of colors was represented, and a lot of thought was given as to how color evokes mood. Characters are extremely well-rendered and do lip-synch.
I found the graphics delightfully rendered. The futuristic scenes are presented as sleek buildings set in an impossibly beautiful landscape, while Earth scenes are recognizably homey. I'm pretty sure the entire palette of colors was represented, and a lot of thought was given as to how color evokes mood. Characters are extremely well-rendered and do lip-synch.
SOUNDBOARD...
The music runs the gamut from a charming 1950's girl group number to dramatic orchestral arrangements to moody ambient numbers. Voiceovers are done extremely well, and environmental sounds are evocative.
The music runs the gamut from a charming 1950's girl group number to dramatic orchestral arrangements to moody ambient numbers. Voiceovers are done extremely well, and environmental sounds are evocative.
TOOLBOX...
To aid you in your quest, you have an Iridessan bracelet which reads memory crystals and stores information (taking the place of a journal). You carry a walkie talkie to keep in touch with Nix and other folks who help you. There's a rocket ship icon to let you know whether or not you've collected each one...its windows light if you've found the one in the scene or if there isn't one. And the map shows objectives and tasks, but will only transport if you have a blink crystal.
To aid you in your quest, you have an Iridessan bracelet which reads memory crystals and stores information (taking the place of a journal). You carry a walkie talkie to keep in touch with Nix and other folks who help you. There's a rocket ship icon to let you know whether or not you've collected each one...its windows light if you've found the one in the scene or if there isn't one. And the map shows objectives and tasks, but will only transport if you have a blink crystal.
OOH! PIECE OF CANDY...
In the bonus chapter, travel to Nix's planet Iridessa, encounter yet another alien being, and retroactively save Iridessa from the World Eaters. Other extras include replayable HO scenes plus an ultimate HOP, a new mini-game with three difficulty levels, a jigsaw puzzle, 44 collectible rocket ships, morphing objects in the HO scenes, the SG, performance achievements, and the developer's portfolio of sights and sounds.
In the bonus chapter, travel to Nix's planet Iridessa, encounter yet another alien being, and retroactively save Iridessa from the World Eaters. Other extras include replayable HO scenes plus an ultimate HOP, a new mini-game with three difficulty levels, a jigsaw puzzle, 44 collectible rocket ships, morphing objects in the HO scenes, the SG, performance achievements, and the developer's portfolio of sights and sounds.
EPILOGUE...
I absolutely recommend Beyond: Light Advent for its refreshingly original storyline, unique gameplay, and overall immersive experience. And I'm hoping for a sequel! Other notable games by Mad Head include Cadenza: Music, Betrayal, and Death (I disliked the sequel), Nevertales: The Beauty Within and Nevertales: Shattered Image, and the Rite of Passage series. Happy gaming!
I absolutely recommend Beyond: Light Advent for its refreshingly original storyline, unique gameplay, and overall immersive experience. And I'm hoping for a sequel! Other notable games by Mad Head include Cadenza: Music, Betrayal, and Death (I disliked the sequel), Nevertales: The Beauty Within and Nevertales: Shattered Image, and the Rite of Passage series. Happy gaming!
I recommend this game!
Adventure into the unknown to save a city from evil!
Overall rating
3
/
5
3 of 3 found this review helpful
3½ stars...liked the story, gameplay could have been stepped up
PostedJuly 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
3
/
5
Visual/Sound Quality
4
/
5
Level of Challenge
3
/
5
Storyline
4
/
5
Shrouded Tales: Revenge of Shadows CE
review based on completed game + bonus chapter
review based on completed game + bonus chapter
PREFACE...
I quite liked Shrouded Tales: The Spellbound Land for several reasons. Playing as Veronica, I had several magic spells to help me. Actions in the Shadow Realms affected their parallels in the real world. And I'm a sucker for a coming of age story. Veronica returns in Revenge of Shadows as the newest baron, charged with the magical safety of Havenwick and its sister cities.
I quite liked Shrouded Tales: The Spellbound Land for several reasons. Playing as Veronica, I had several magic spells to help me. Actions in the Shadow Realms affected their parallels in the real world. And I'm a sucker for a coming of age story. Veronica returns in Revenge of Shadows as the newest baron, charged with the magical safety of Havenwick and its sister cities.
ONCE UPON A TIME...
During your adventures as Veronica in The Spellbound Land, you discovered you possessed powerful magical abilities. With the help of your amulet, you were able to defeat the Master of Shadows, destroy the dome imprisoning your city of Havenwick, and release your mother and the other barons from the Shadow Realms.
During your adventures as Veronica in The Spellbound Land, you discovered you possessed powerful magical abilities. With the help of your amulet, you were able to defeat the Master of Shadows, destroy the dome imprisoning your city of Havenwick, and release your mother and the other barons from the Shadow Realms.
Now Havenwick has received a distress call from one of its sister cities, but static rendered the message all but useless. The barons decide to each visit a city to determine where the message originated, and Veronica goes through the portal to Volarden. She quickly discovers that Volarden is indeed the source of the message...in the worst way possible. For the Master of Shadows has returned and transformed the other barons to stone.
Veronica's magical skills and resourcefulness will be tested to the limit, as she will be virtually alone in defeating the Master, saving Volarden, and restoring her fellow barons.
PLAY THE GAME...
The Master has been quite busy wreaking havoc all over Volarden, and it will take more than spells from Veronica's amulet to save the day, especially since there are magic-free zones. There are lots of items to repair, parts to collect, objects to find, and clues to discover.
The Master has been quite busy wreaking havoc all over Volarden, and it will take more than spells from Veronica's amulet to save the day, especially since there are magic-free zones. There are lots of items to repair, parts to collect, objects to find, and clues to discover.
HO scenes are all interactive list, but those interactions often require either inventory items or amulet spells. Some are visited twice.
Mini-games are mostly familiar, but there is a nice range of difficulty levels from extremely easy (put the planets in order, swap pieces jigsaw) to average difficulty (use attract/repel magnets to place gems in their slots, paint stained glass so like colors don't touch) to somewhat tough (draw the correct number of connections where the nodes are moving and can disconnect, preprogram a maze).
SIGHTSEEING...
The graphics are a charming mix of crisp lines and handpainted textures. A wide variety of color is used with a tasteful balance between saturated jewel tones and neutrals. (No eye-searing pinks and purples!) Light and shadow are beautifully rendered, and characters are realistically drawn.
The graphics are a charming mix of crisp lines and handpainted textures. A wide variety of color is used with a tasteful balance between saturated jewel tones and neutrals. (No eye-searing pinks and purples!) Light and shadow are beautifully rendered, and characters are realistically drawn.
SOUNDWAVES...
The music is mainly orchestral (and not downloadable) with a good blend between drama and ambience. Voiceovers are professional, as are environmental sounds.
The music is mainly orchestral (and not downloadable) with a good blend between drama and ambience. Voiceovers are professional, as are environmental sounds.
TOOLBOX...
The map indicates active areas in both the real world and Shadow Realm, and transports. To the right, the amulet is available and shows which spells you've collected (and there are some new ones this time).
The map indicates active areas in both the real world and Shadow Realm, and transports. To the right, the amulet is available and shows which spells you've collected (and there are some new ones this time).
OOH! PIECE OF CANDY...
Extras include the bonus chapter, in which Veronica saves Volarden from the sudden drop in magical energy caused by the banishment of the Master of Shadows. Also, the SG, replayable HO scenes and mini-games, performance achievements, and the developer's portfolio. Near the beginning, I did collect one glowing scroll which gave me location information, but I didn't see any more of them.
Extras include the bonus chapter, in which Veronica saves Volarden from the sudden drop in magical energy caused by the banishment of the Master of Shadows. Also, the SG, replayable HO scenes and mini-games, performance achievements, and the developer's portfolio. Near the beginning, I did collect one glowing scroll which gave me location information, but I didn't see any more of them.
THE LAST WORD...
As I said regarding The Spellbound Land, I'd wait for the SE. I just don't find the extras offered to be enough to justify double the price. I did enjoy Revenge of Shadows, but it's not one of the best games I've ever played, so my recommendation is to try the demo for yourself. Happy gaming!
As I said regarding The Spellbound Land, I'd wait for the SE. I just don't find the extras offered to be enough to justify double the price. I did enjoy Revenge of Shadows, but it's not one of the best games I've ever played, so my recommendation is to try the demo for yourself. Happy gaming!