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:
You've been called to investigate a strange purple tide. And that's when the mermaid shows up...
Overall rating
1
/
5
45 of 61 found this review helpful
Gameplay: find or piece together ornate emblems and slot them into matching indentations. Over and over again.
PostedNovember 13, 2014
LunaNik
fromThe Island of Myst
Skill Level:Expert
Favorite Genre(s):Word, Adventure, Hidden Object, Large File, Card & Board, Strategy, Time Management
Fun Factor
1
/
5
Visual/Sound Quality
2
/
5
Level of Challenge
1
/
5
Storyline
1
/
5
Dark Parables: The Little Mermaid and the Purple Tide
Review based on completed demo
Review based on completed demo
PREFACE…
In my opinion, the Dark Parables series jumped the shark with The Final Cinderella, and I have no idea why fishies keep giving it five stars. The gameplay is repetitive, the storyline is slow and boring, and the graphics are baroque in detail and loud in color.
In my opinion, the Dark Parables series jumped the shark with The Final Cinderella, and I have no idea why fishies keep giving it five stars. The gameplay is repetitive, the storyline is slow and boring, and the graphics are baroque in detail and loud in color.
ONCE UPON A TIME...
I had to reread the game page's blurb because actually playing the game gave me no idea what the storyline was. Not that it helped because no storyline was given. Something about you investigating a purple tide, seeing a mermaid, and an underwater kingdom. Yep.
I had to reread the game page's blurb because actually playing the game gave me no idea what the storyline was. Not that it helped because no storyline was given. Something about you investigating a purple tide, seeing a mermaid, and an underwater kingdom. Yep.
PLAY THE GAME...
Find incredibly ornate emblems and fit them into matching indentations. This will open up secret caches, revealing more ornate emblems. Play FROGs to acquire more ornate emblems. There are also ornate keys, just to shake it up a bit. And a few puzzles we've seen a million times before.
Find incredibly ornate emblems and fit them into matching indentations. This will open up secret caches, revealing more ornate emblems. Play FROGs to acquire more ornate emblems. There are also ornate keys, just to shake it up a bit. And a few puzzles we've seen a million times before.
SIGHTSEEING…
The graphics are typically Blue Tea: the full palette is used and colors are extremely saturated. Everything is baroque, even rococo, to the point where it's difficult to distinguish one thing from another. The complicated names all items are given don't help. Cinematics are grainy and pixellated. Lip synching is done via Eipix's character inset box.
The graphics are typically Blue Tea: the full palette is used and colors are extremely saturated. Everything is baroque, even rococo, to the point where it's difficult to distinguish one thing from another. The complicated names all items are given don't help. Cinematics are grainy and pixellated. Lip synching is done via Eipix's character inset box.
SOUND WAVES…
The music is nondescript, mainly strings. Voiceovers are done well.
The music is nondescript, mainly strings. Voiceovers are done well.
TOOLBOX…
The map is nothing special, graphically speaking, but it does indicate active areas and transport. Inventory remains open and includes plus items, which are indicated by flourishes within the item's box.
The map is nothing special, graphically speaking, but it does indicate active areas and transport. Inventory remains open and includes plus items, which are indicated by flourishes within the item's box.
EXTRA, EXTRA…
Extras include a bonus game, collectible crescent moons (which are easy to find), performance achievements, the SG, and the developer's portfolio. Meh.
Extras include a bonus game, collectible crescent moons (which are easy to find), performance achievements, the SG, and the developer's portfolio. Meh.
THE LAST WORD…
Boring and repetitive. After the hour demo, I still had no idea what the story was, or what my role was. But I had found a thousand ornate emblems and slotted them into a thousand indentations. And I'm not paying to do that for another four hours, thanks. I maintain that the best Dark Parables is The Exiled Prince, followed by The Snow Queen.
Boring and repetitive. After the hour demo, I still had no idea what the story was, or what my role was. But I had found a thousand ornate emblems and slotted them into a thousand indentations. And I'm not paying to do that for another four hours, thanks. I maintain that the best Dark Parables is The Exiled Prince, followed by The Snow Queen.
I don't recommend this game.
Death needs help from the only detective he trusts – you!
Overall rating
2
/
5
7 of 7 found this review helpful
Remember when the pachyderm's games were challenging? I miss those days.
PostedNovember 9, 2014
LunaNik
fromThe Island of Myst
Skill Level:Expert
Favorite Genre(s):Word, Adventure, Hidden Object, Large File, Card & Board, Strategy, Time Management
Fun Factor
1
/
5
Visual/Sound Quality
5
/
5
Level of Challenge
1
/
5
Storyline
4
/
5
Riddles of Fate: Memento Mori
Review based on full demo
Review based on full demo
PREFACE…
What is going on with all the devs lately? Simplistic gameplay seems to abound in every game I demo, regardless of dev. It's boring when there's no challenge. I've demo'd three CEs today, looking for a second game so I could take advantage of this weekend's sale. All of them were far too easy and, therefore, boring.
What is going on with all the devs lately? Simplistic gameplay seems to abound in every game I demo, regardless of dev. It's boring when there's no challenge. I've demo'd three CEs today, looking for a second game so I could take advantage of this weekend's sale. All of them were far too easy and, therefore, boring.
ONCE UPON A TIME...
Death seeks your detective skills to help him find the people who are cheating death. You must also prove their guilt. If you fail, the space-time continuum will be disrupted bringing doom to the entire world. Interesting idea for a game.
Death seeks your detective skills to help him find the people who are cheating death. You must also prove their guilt. If you fail, the space-time continuum will be disrupted bringing doom to the entire world. Interesting idea for a game.
PLAY THE GAME...
Adventure mode consists of finding and using tools and, mostly, finding shaped objects to fit into shaped locks. Again! HO scenes are varied. The interactive list HOs require you to unlock each of the four parts of the list first...by finding shaped items to fit into shaped locks. Ugh. Puzzles would have been easy for a child.
Adventure mode consists of finding and using tools and, mostly, finding shaped objects to fit into shaped locks. Again! HO scenes are varied. The interactive list HOs require you to unlock each of the four parts of the list first...by finding shaped items to fit into shaped locks. Ugh. Puzzles would have been easy for a child.
SIGHTSEEING…
Truly amazing production values. Pity they're wasted on a simplistic game. It seems to always be nighttime in the game world, so colors are muted. Characters are drawn, but do lip-synch. Cinematics are stunningly gorgeous.
Truly amazing production values. Pity they're wasted on a simplistic game. It seems to always be nighttime in the game world, so colors are muted. Characters are drawn, but do lip-synch. Cinematics are stunningly gorgeous.
SOUND WAVES…
The music is appropriately dramatic, but not intrusive. Voiceovers are professional and environmental sounds are quite good.
The music is appropriately dramatic, but not intrusive. Voiceovers are professional and environmental sounds are quite good.
TOOLBOX…
The map...oh, dear. You first must click on the city you wish to go to, then the map opens up to show you the areas of that city. Every area is identified as having something to do, even when that's not the case, so there's no help there.
The map...oh, dear. You first must click on the city you wish to go to, then the map opens up to show you the areas of that city. Every area is identified as having something to do, even when that's not the case, so there's no help there.
You also have several laboratory areas in your own house: a chemistry lab, a key-making station, and an area where you can develop photos and reveal writing on documents. While this is an innovative idea, none of these areas require any skill more than simply clicking to activate the machinery.
EXTRA, EXTRA…
Extras include the bonus adventure, collectibles, morphing objects, a secret room, the SG, performance achievements, and the developer's portfolio.
Extras include the bonus adventure, collectibles, morphing objects, a secret room, the SG, performance achievements, and the developer's portfolio.
THE LAST WORD…
The pachyderm's games have been going downhill lately. It appears that they're sacrificing good gameplay in favor of spending their time on impressive production. I don't recommend this game.
The pachyderm's games have been going downhill lately. It appears that they're sacrificing good gameplay in favor of spending their time on impressive production. I don't recommend this game.
I don't recommend this game.
A shadow from the Gray family's past has returned for revenge. Can you save your family from their worst nightmares?
Overall rating
1
/
5
44 of 52 found this review helpful
The panoramic scenes and animal abuse nauseated me. The gameplay alternately frustrated and bored me.
PostedNovember 9, 2014
LunaNik
fromThe Island of Myst
Skill Level:Expert
Favorite Genre(s):Word, Adventure, Hidden Object, Large File, Card & Board, Strategy, Time Management
Fun Factor
1
/
5
Visual/Sound Quality
4
/
5
Level of Challenge
1
/
5
Storyline
2
/
5
Grim Tales: Color of Fright CE
Review based on partial demo
Review based on partial demo
PREFACE…
I rarely review a game unless I've at least played the full demo, but I just couldn't. The story moved slowly and there was no urgency. Gameplay was either too easy or nonsensical.
I rarely review a game unless I've at least played the full demo, but I just couldn't. The story moved slowly and there was no urgency. Gameplay was either too easy or nonsensical.
ONCE UPON A TIME...
Once again, you're Aunt Gray, and you're headed to the family castle for a reunion. Upon your arrival, however, the castle is deserted and in disarray. Family portraits are vandalized with scribbled threats. Where is everyone? And who took them?
Once again, you're Aunt Gray, and you're headed to the family castle for a reunion. Upon your arrival, however, the castle is deserted and in disarray. Family portraits are vandalized with scribbled threats. Where is everyone? And who took them?
PLAY THE GAME...
Adventure mode is not at all intuitive. Part of the problem is that you can interact with items that are irrelevant. The puzzles are ridiculously easy: a jigsaw puzzle where the pieces don't even have to be rotated, for example. And the items in the HO scenes are right in plain sight, not hidden.
Adventure mode is not at all intuitive. Part of the problem is that you can interact with items that are irrelevant. The puzzles are ridiculously easy: a jigsaw puzzle where the pieces don't even have to be rotated, for example. And the items in the HO scenes are right in plain sight, not hidden.
SIGHTSEEING…
The background graphics are quite beautiful, with detail and dimension. Colors are subdued. Animation is rather stop-motion.
The background graphics are quite beautiful, with detail and dimension. Colors are subdued. Animation is rather stop-motion.
SOUND WAVES…
There is no ambient music, only dramatic moments. Voiceovers are done well. Environmental sounds are appropriate.
There is no ambient music, only dramatic moments. Voiceovers are done well. Environmental sounds are appropriate.
TOOLBOX…
I didn't use the map, so I won't comment on it. You have a magic paintbox with which you can make drawings come to life. And there are plus items in your inventory.
I didn't use the map, so I won't comment on it. You have a magic paintbox with which you can make drawings come to life. And there are plus items in your inventory.
WORKING THINGS THROUGH…
Inventory panel locks open. Zoom boxes close automatically, unless there's information, like a letter to read. Which is irritating because it makes you think there's still something to do there. The panoramic scenes are horribly annoying, especially as they don't pan smoothly.
Inventory panel locks open. Zoom boxes close automatically, unless there's information, like a letter to read. Which is irritating because it makes you think there's still something to do there. The panoramic scenes are horribly annoying, especially as they don't pan smoothly.
EXTRA, EXTRA…
Extras include the bonus adventure, tons of collectible, morphing objects, performance achievements, the SG, and the developer's portfolio. If the game itself were good, it would be CE-worthy.
Extras include the bonus adventure, tons of collectible, morphing objects, performance achievements, the SG, and the developer's portfolio. If the game itself were good, it would be CE-worthy.
THE LAST WORD…
Seeing the villain forcibly drag a beautiful wolf by a rope around her neck was the last straw for me. The look of pain and horror on the wolf's face was rendered extremely well, to the point that I was sickened. All in all, I can't recommend this game.
Seeing the villain forcibly drag a beautiful wolf by a rope around her neck was the last straw for me. The look of pain and horror on the wolf's face was rendered extremely well, to the point that I was sickened. All in all, I can't recommend this game.
I don't recommend this game.
You’re the only one who can save Taleworld from an evil queen.
Overall rating
2
/
5
18 of 23 found this review helpful
Storyline slow and boring, gameplay easy
PostedNovember 9, 2014
LunaNik
fromThe Island of Myst
Skill Level:Expert
Favorite Genre(s):Word, Adventure, Hidden Object, Large File, Card & Board, Strategy, Time Management
Fun Factor
2
/
5
Visual/Sound Quality
4
/
5
Level of Challenge
2
/
5
Storyline
1
/
5
Nevertales: Smoke and Mirrors CE
Review based on full demo
Review based on full demo
PREFACE…
The Nevertales series distinguished itself by being story-driven, and that's where this sequel fails. The story moved so slowly that I lost interest.
The Nevertales series distinguished itself by being story-driven, and that's where this sequel fails. The story moved so slowly that I lost interest.
ONCE UPON A TIME...
You play as Alice, daughter of Pierre and Belle. Alice was the baby you (as the player) rescued in The Beauty Within, and the young girl you rescued in Shattered Image.
You play as Alice, daughter of Pierre and Belle. Alice was the baby you (as the player) rescued in The Beauty Within, and the young girl you rescued in Shattered Image.
Alice is an adult now and living in the real world, with aspirations to be a corporate CEO. Suddenly, Gears the Owl visits her from Taleland with news that her father is scheduled to be executed and her mother is wanted dead or alive. Something has happened to the Queen of Hearts, ruler of Taleland, to turn her from loving queen to despot, and it's up to you to solve the mystery and rescue your folks.
PLAY THE GAME...
There's quite a variety of activities in this game, from interactive HOs to zoom box HOs, from puzzles both new and "been there, done that" to adventure mode. But it's all very easy, to the point where it feels like the target market for this game was not adults.
There's quite a variety of activities in this game, from interactive HOs to zoom box HOs, from puzzles both new and "been there, done that" to adventure mode. But it's all very easy, to the point where it feels like the target market for this game was not adults.
SIGHTSEEING…
The graphics are done well, with lots of different colors, good contrast of light and shadow, and decent rendering. Animation is more stop-motion, and there's no lip synching.
The graphics are done well, with lots of different colors, good contrast of light and shadow, and decent rendering. Animation is more stop-motion, and there's no lip synching.
SOUND WAVES…
I didn't notice the music, so it wasn't annoying. Voiceovers were professional. I found this to be a very quiet game. Perhaps that was part of the reason I failed to become immersed.
I didn't notice the music, so it wasn't annoying. Voiceovers were professional. I found this to be a very quiet game. Perhaps that was part of the reason I failed to become immersed.
TOOLBOX…
There is a map, but it was unnecessary during the demo, as the active areas are limited. The journal is a tablet. And you have Gears to help you reach things.
There is a map, but it was unnecessary during the demo, as the active areas are limited. The journal is a tablet. And you have Gears to help you reach things.
EXTRA, EXTRA…
Extras include the bonus adventure, collectible cards, morphing objects within the HOs, casino games, and the developer's portfolio.
Extras include the bonus adventure, collectible cards, morphing objects within the HOs, casino games, and the developer's portfolio.
THE LAST WORD…
This entry into the Nevertales series failed to enchant me. I found the gameplay too simple, the story lacking. I don't recommend it.
This entry into the Nevertales series failed to enchant me. I found the gameplay too simple, the story lacking. I don't recommend it.
I don't recommend this game.
Elementals: The Magic Key
Plunge into the captivating world of magic inhabited by elementals. Help Albert, a young magician, restore the Key of Eiron.
Overall rating
4
/
5
1 of 1 found this review helpful
Really excellent game for kids and families!
PostedNovember 5, 2014
LunaNik
fromThe Island of Myst
Skill Level:Expert
Favorite Genre(s):Word, Adventure, Hidden Object, Large File, Card & Board, Strategy, Time Management
Fun Factor
4
/
5
Visual/Sound Quality
5
/
5
Level of Challenge
4
/
5
Storyline
4
/
5
Elementals: The Magic Key
Review based on full demo
Review based on full demo
PREFACE…
The target audience for this game seems to be kids from about 8 to 11 years old, judging from the storyline and level of challenge. So my review is based on how well the game plays for that audience, rather than how well I, as an adult, enjoyed it.
The target audience for this game seems to be kids from about 8 to 11 years old, judging from the storyline and level of challenge. So my review is based on how well the game plays for that audience, rather than how well I, as an adult, enjoyed it.
ONCE UPON A TIME...
You play Albert, a budding wizard, and it's your birthday. You awaken to find the school abandoned, your sister Lilly kidnapped, and the elemental Key of Eiron shattered by the evil Sibelius. Off you go, along with your familiar Felly, to travel the lands of the elements and save the day!
You play Albert, a budding wizard, and it's your birthday. You awaken to find the school abandoned, your sister Lilly kidnapped, and the elemental Key of Eiron shattered by the evil Sibelius. Off you go, along with your familiar Felly, to travel the lands of the elements and save the day!
PLAY THE GAME...
There's a little bit of everything in this game: puzzles, HO scenes (mainly FROGs and several of one type of object), gameboard battle, and more. The instructions for everything are well-written, perfect for children.
There's a little bit of everything in this game: puzzles, HO scenes (mainly FROGs and several of one type of object), gameboard battle, and more. The instructions for everything are well-written, perfect for children.
SIGHTSEEING…
The graphics are beautifully drawn in the style of a realistic comic book, using the full palette of colors. Each scene is drawn from the imagination, blending real world elements with fanciful ones. Animation is fairly well done.
The graphics are beautifully drawn in the style of a realistic comic book, using the full palette of colors. Each scene is drawn from the imagination, blending real world elements with fanciful ones. Animation is fairly well done.
SOUND WAVES…
The music is dramatic and lends itself well to the theme of the game. Environmental sounds are imaginative, but there no voiceovers.
The music is dramatic and lends itself well to the theme of the game. Environmental sounds are imaginative, but there no voiceovers.
TOOLBOX…
There are none of the standard tools like maps and journals, but you have your familiar who offers quite a bit of help, and you can cast spells when they're needed. And there's a task bar at upper left.
There are none of the standard tools like maps and journals, but you have your familiar who offers quite a bit of help, and you can cast spells when they're needed. And there's a task bar at upper left.
WORKING THINGS THROUGH…
The inventory panel stays open and when you have a number of the same item to find, it shows both the total and how many you've found. Zoom boxes close when you're finished with them. To navigate back, click the door icon to the right of the inventory panel.
The inventory panel stays open and when you have a number of the same item to find, it shows both the total and how many you've found. Zoom boxes close when you're finished with them. To navigate back, click the door icon to the right of the inventory panel.
THE LAST WORD…
Although I think adults would be somewhat bored with this game, I do recommend it for kids and families. It encompasses quite a few game skills, has glorious graphics, and the story is interesting. Happy gaming!
Although I think adults would be somewhat bored with this game, I do recommend it for kids and families. It encompasses quite a few game skills, has glorious graphics, and the story is interesting. Happy gaming!
I recommend this game!
Shrouded Tales: The Spellbound Land Collector's Edition
Your magical powers have finally awakened. Now you have the strength to free your mother from the Shadow Realm!
Overall rating
4
/
5
2 of 2 found this review helpful
I was spellbound, but not with the CE.
PostedNovember 3, 2014
LunaNik
fromThe Island of Myst
Skill Level:Expert
Favorite Genre(s):Word, Adventure, Hidden Object, Large File, Card & Board, Strategy, Time Management
Fun Factor
4
/
5
Visual/Sound Quality
4
/
5
Level of Challenge
3
/
5
Storyline
5
/
5
Shrouded Tales: The Spellbound Land CE
Review based on completed demo
Review based on completed demo
PREFACE…
While this is not a difficult game, there is something captivating about both story and gameplay. It might be the fact that you can cast spells. Or that there are shadow lands, dark versions of some of the game's scenes. Perhaps it's the mystery behind the villain's motives. Or wondering what's outside the dome. This demo left me spellbound.
While this is not a difficult game, there is something captivating about both story and gameplay. It might be the fact that you can cast spells. Or that there are shadow lands, dark versions of some of the game's scenes. Perhaps it's the mystery behind the villain's motives. Or wondering what's outside the dome. This demo left me spellbound.
ONCE UPON A TIME...
When you were a young girl, the mysterious Master of Shadows sequestered your town, Havenwick, inside an impenetrable dome, and banished your mother and the other protectors to the Shadowlands. Today, at long last, your own magic has awakened within you. Finally, you have the power to free the protectors and Havenwick from the Master.
When you were a young girl, the mysterious Master of Shadows sequestered your town, Havenwick, inside an impenetrable dome, and banished your mother and the other protectors to the Shadowlands. Today, at long last, your own magic has awakened within you. Finally, you have the power to free the protectors and Havenwick from the Master.
PLAY THE GAME...
Adventure mode consists not only of finding and using objects, but also of interacting with things in the Shadowlands which will then affect things in Havenwick. You'll need to activate the colored altars to access each Shadow Realm. Some HO scenes are interactive lists, while others are silhouettes taken in order. Puzzles seem to be mainly retread, but beautifully rendered, and with clear instructions.
Adventure mode consists not only of finding and using objects, but also of interacting with things in the Shadowlands which will then affect things in Havenwick. You'll need to activate the colored altars to access each Shadow Realm. Some HO scenes are interactive lists, while others are silhouettes taken in order. Puzzles seem to be mainly retread, but beautifully rendered, and with clear instructions.
SIGHTSEEING…
The graphics are quite lovely and fanciful, detailed and colorful. Animation is smooth, although there is no lip-synching.
The graphics are quite lovely and fanciful, detailed and colorful. Animation is smooth, although there is no lip-synching.
SOUND WAVES…
Once again, I failed to take note of the music, although I had the volume maximized. All I can say is that it must not be repetitive and annoying. Voiceovers are professional and environmental sounds are done well.
Once again, I failed to take note of the music, although I had the volume maximized. All I can say is that it must not be repetitive and annoying. Voiceovers are professional and environmental sounds are done well.
TOOLBOX…
The map is interactive, notes both Havenwick and the Shadowlands, and transports. There is no journal. And you have your spell book, for which you must gather runes and solve a puzzle in order to learn a new spell. You'll use these spells quite a bit.
The map is interactive, notes both Havenwick and the Shadowlands, and transports. There is no journal. And you have your spell book, for which you must gather runes and solve a puzzle in order to learn a new spell. You'll use these spells quite a bit.
EXTRA, EXTRA…
Extras include the bonus adventure, SG, a quiz, collectibles (which I did not notice during the demo), and the developer's portfolio. I don't feel this is sufficient to qualify double the price, frankly. I plan to wait for the SE.
Extras include the bonus adventure, SG, a quiz, collectibles (which I did not notice during the demo), and the developer's portfolio. I don't feel this is sufficient to qualify double the price, frankly. I plan to wait for the SE.
THE LAST WORD…
While this is not a challenging game, it is a lovely game for a day when you feel like relaxing. I do recommend waiting for the SE, as I don't see this package as worth the CE price.
While this is not a challenging game, it is a lovely game for a day when you feel like relaxing. I do recommend waiting for the SE, as I don't see this package as worth the CE price.
Can you escape from the grasp of a lovestruck ghost?
Overall rating
1
/
5
15 of 18 found this review helpful
Incomprehensible puzzle instructions, convoluted map, ridiculously repetitive story
PostedNovember 1, 2014
LunaNik
fromThe Island of Myst
Skill Level:Expert
Favorite Genre(s):Word, Adventure, Hidden Object, Large File, Card & Board, Strategy, Time Management
Fun Factor
1
/
5
Visual/Sound Quality
3
/
5
Level of Challenge
1
/
5
Storyline
1
/
5
Death and Betrayal in Romania: A Dana Knightstone Novel
Standard Edition
Review based on completed game
Standard Edition
Review based on completed game
PREFACE…
Initially, the Dana Knightstone series offered innovative gameplay and interesting stories. This installment in the series suffered from a lack of attention to detail. For example, in one scene, a cabinet was jammed shut and needed lubrication. I had olive oil in my inventory, which clearly would have worked. Nope. I had to get a tub of lard instead. Additionally, there were many areas where the player was left clicking randomly with no idea of what to do, as this game was not intuitive and frequently used inventory items strangely.
Initially, the Dana Knightstone series offered innovative gameplay and interesting stories. This installment in the series suffered from a lack of attention to detail. For example, in one scene, a cabinet was jammed shut and needed lubrication. I had olive oil in my inventory, which clearly would have worked. Nope. I had to get a tub of lard instead. Additionally, there were many areas where the player was left clicking randomly with no idea of what to do, as this game was not intuitive and frequently used inventory items strangely.
ONCE UPON A TIME...
Reprise your role as Dana Knightstone, psychic novelist, as she solves another unrequited love triangle amongst ghosts. The names, locale, and plot mechanism have all changed, but it's the same story.
Reprise your role as Dana Knightstone, psychic novelist, as she solves another unrequited love triangle amongst ghosts. The names, locale, and plot mechanism have all changed, but it's the same story.
PLAY THE GAME...
Despite the fact that this game is not long—it took me four hours—it is incredibly convoluted. You'll collect and use a lot of items, and wear out many a pair of sneakers. The HO scenes are mostly standard lists, although there are smaller FROG scenes. The puzzles...that's where this game failed miserably. There were a LOT of puzzles, but the instructions were HORRIBLE. Utterly horrible. There were several puzzles that, even when I figured out the mechanics, I still didn't get what the goal was. Even clicking "skip" and seeing the solution didn't help.
Despite the fact that this game is not long—it took me four hours—it is incredibly convoluted. You'll collect and use a lot of items, and wear out many a pair of sneakers. The HO scenes are mostly standard lists, although there are smaller FROG scenes. The puzzles...that's where this game failed miserably. There were a LOT of puzzles, but the instructions were HORRIBLE. Utterly horrible. There were several puzzles that, even when I figured out the mechanics, I still didn't get what the goal was. Even clicking "skip" and seeing the solution didn't help.
SIGHTSEEING…
The graphics and animation were typical for this series...nothing new.
The graphics and animation were typical for this series...nothing new.
SOUND WAVES…
I didn't notice the music, so at least it wasn't annoying. Voiceovers were rather melodramatic, I thought.
I didn't notice the music, so at least it wasn't annoying. Voiceovers were rather melodramatic, I thought.
TOOLBOX…
The map is divided into pages and is, thankfully, interactive. Since the game world is convoluted and there's a lot of backing-and-forthing, I relied heavily on the map to move around and to remember where areas were. No journal or special tools, although you do have a ghost dog who, oddly, can interact with the physical world to help you.
The map is divided into pages and is, thankfully, interactive. Since the game world is convoluted and there's a lot of backing-and-forthing, I relied heavily on the map to move around and to remember where areas were. No journal or special tools, although you do have a ghost dog who, oddly, can interact with the physical world to help you.
THE LAST WORD…
I don't recommend this game, and I'm thankful I got it with a PCC. Better games by this dev include the Awakening series and the Botanica series. Happy gaming!
I don't recommend this game, and I'm thankful I got it with a PCC. Better games by this dev include the Awakening series and the Botanica series. Happy gaming!
I don't recommend this game.
Warriors of darkness have just attacked your people. Now you alone can defeat them and save your fellow Healers!
Overall rating
2
/
5
9 of 11 found this review helpful
Not the same series, and very slow gameplay
PostedOctober 22, 2014
LunaNik
fromThe Island of Myst
Skill Level:Expert
Favorite Genre(s):Word, Adventure, Hidden Object, Large File, Card & Board, Strategy, Time Management
Fun Factor
2
/
5
Visual/Sound Quality
4
/
5
Level of Challenge
2
/
5
Storyline
2
/
5
Echoes of the Past: Wolf Healer CE
Review based on demo
Review based on demo
PREFACE…
Once there was a story about a kingdom called Orion, in which an evil witch plagued the kingdom with a series of curses. After multiple quests, during which you traveled through time to Orion, you defeated the witch. This game, despite its name, has nothing to do with that story.
Once there was a story about a kingdom called Orion, in which an evil witch plagued the kingdom with a series of curses. After multiple quests, during which you traveled through time to Orion, you defeated the witch. This game, despite its name, has nothing to do with that story.
ONCE UPON A TIME...
You're a Healer, and you can transform into a wolf (and, of course, back into a human). Warriors attack the kingdom, kidnapping the Elder. You and his daughter, Mira, are the only ones left, and you must protect her as well as rescuing the Elder.
You're a Healer, and you can transform into a wolf (and, of course, back into a human). Warriors attack the kingdom, kidnapping the Elder. You and his daughter, Mira, are the only ones left, and you must protect her as well as rescuing the Elder.
PLAY THE GAME...
The HO scenes are well-rendered and varied, including interactive silhouette and put items in place. The puzzles are retreads and simple. Adventure mode finds you discovering and using keys, tools, and other items. Gameplay was extremely slow-moving and interrupted frequently by cutscenes.
The HO scenes are well-rendered and varied, including interactive silhouette and put items in place. The puzzles are retreads and simple. Adventure mode finds you discovering and using keys, tools, and other items. Gameplay was extremely slow-moving and interrupted frequently by cutscenes.
SIGHTSEEING…
Beautifully colorful graphics with lots of detail and dimension, and lovely animation (but no lip synching).
Beautifully colorful graphics with lots of detail and dimension, and lovely animation (but no lip synching).
SOUND WAVES…
The music was very much in the background, even with the volume all the way up. Voiceovers were well done.
The music was very much in the background, even with the volume all the way up. Voiceovers were well done.
TOOLBOX…
The map shows available actions and transports. Inventory locks open. And you have a bracelet that transforms you as needed. The entire panel (inventory, map, journal, etc.) is at the top of the screen, which takes a bit of getting used to.
The map shows available actions and transports. Inventory locks open. And you have a bracelet that transforms you as needed. The entire panel (inventory, map, journal, etc.) is at the top of the screen, which takes a bit of getting used to.
EXTRA, EXTRA…
Extras include the bonus game, replayable mini-games, performance achievements, collectibles, the SG, and the developer's portfolio.
Extras include the bonus game, replayable mini-games, performance achievements, collectibles, the SG, and the developer's portfolio.
THE LAST WORD…
To be honest, I found this game boring. The gameplay was so slow and interrupted so frequently by cutscenes that I became distracted from it. Better games by Orneon are Secrets of the Dark (Temple of Night and Eclipse Mountain).
To be honest, I found this game boring. The gameplay was so slow and interrupted so frequently by cutscenes that I became distracted from it. Better games by Orneon are Secrets of the Dark (Temple of Night and Eclipse Mountain).
I don't recommend this game.
Leonardo da Vinci needs your help! A tyrant has conquered Florence and he is destroying all works of art and science!
Overall rating
2
/
5
7 of 9 found this review helpful
Very grim.
PostedSeptember 21, 2014
LunaNik
fromThe Island of Myst
Skill Level:Expert
Favorite Genre(s):Word, Adventure, Hidden Object, Large File, Card & Board, Strategy, Time Management
Fun Factor
1
/
5
Visual/Sound Quality
3
/
5
Level of Challenge
2
/
5
Storyline
1
/
5
Presenting genius inventor Leonardo da Vinci as inept and helpless against a conman stretched the limits of credulity. Centering the story line around da Vinci, and not utilizing his inventions, sketches, and artwork as your overwhelming graphic theme and game design was a mortal sin.
The possibilities inherent in a da Vinci-themed game are limitless. That those possibilities were ignored makes the two stars I'm giving this game more than generous. I played the demo last night and nothing about it was memorable.
Graphics and music were typical of this dev. Gameplay was formulaic, predictable, and easy. Apparently, this dev is still using its playbook from five years ago. It's 2014, guys. Step it up.
I don't recommend this game.
Diva's dark talent claims another victim – can you stop her before the curtain falls?
Overall rating
3
/
5
19 of 21 found this review helpful
ERS is still resting on its laurels. I see improvement, but they need to meet the bar other devs have raised.
PostedSeptember 14, 2014
LunaNik
fromThe Island of Myst
Skill Level:Expert
Favorite Genre(s):Word, Adventure, Hidden Object, Large File, Card & Board, Strategy, Time Management
Fun Factor
3
/
5
Visual/Sound Quality
3
/
5
Level of Challenge
3
/
5
Storyline
3
/
5
Maestro: Dark Talent CE
Review based on completed game + bonus chapter
Review based on completed game + bonus chapter
PREFACE…
This will be another mixed review for ERS. They're improving, but still need work on their games. Dark Talent was extremely short. I was nearing the end during the demo, and it only took me about 45 minutes subsequent to buying to finish the main game. Subtract one full star for the ridiculously short length.
This will be another mixed review for ERS. They're improving, but still need work on their games. Dark Talent was extremely short. I was nearing the end during the demo, and it only took me about 45 minutes subsequent to buying to finish the main game. Subtract one full star for the ridiculously short length.
ONCE UPON A TIME...
You're invited to the opera by your friend, Kate. But what should be a relaxing evening turns into a nightmare as Kate is kidnapped by eldritch forces for a dark purpose. This time, it's not looks that kill, but a voice. You must stop Diva before her concert imperils the entire town, and before her nefarious plan for Kate is completed.
You're invited to the opera by your friend, Kate. But what should be a relaxing evening turns into a nightmare as Kate is kidnapped by eldritch forces for a dark purpose. This time, it's not looks that kill, but a voice. You must stop Diva before her concert imperils the entire town, and before her nefarious plan for Kate is completed.
PLAY THE GAME...
The first couple HO scenes are completely interactive…every item. That quickly changes, though, into straight lists with only one or two interactive items. I wish they'd continued the fully interactive HO scenes throughout the game.
The first couple HO scenes are completely interactive…every item. That quickly changes, though, into straight lists with only one or two interactive items. I wish they'd continued the fully interactive HO scenes throughout the game.
Puzzles include several variations on the jigsaw, quite a few swap-the-pieces, a couple of pattern recognitions, and one really cool sequential open-the-drawers. So, one out of 19 is excellent and the remainder are so-so.
Adventure mode makes use of tons of locks and keys, and shaped recesses needing matching medallions/amulets/bas relief pieces/etc. Subtract half a star for lack of innovation in gameplay.
SIGHTSEEING…
The graphics are instantly recognizable as ERS: watercolor pastels in a painterly style. Backgrounds lack detail, but close-up items are rendered in a more lifelike manner. Cutscene animation is excellent. The ghosts are reminiscent of Dementors, and just as creepy.
The graphics are instantly recognizable as ERS: watercolor pastels in a painterly style. Backgrounds lack detail, but close-up items are rendered in a more lifelike manner. Cutscene animation is excellent. The ghosts are reminiscent of Dementors, and just as creepy.
SOUND WAVES…
Background music, as usual, relies heavily on violins. Dear ERS, please inform your composer that an orchestra has 23 instruments (not including percussion) of which the violin is only one. How about some woodwinds or brass for a change? There is some operatic singing, which is a welcome addition to the usual string-section-only music.
Background music, as usual, relies heavily on violins. Dear ERS, please inform your composer that an orchestra has 23 instruments (not including percussion) of which the violin is only one. How about some woodwinds or brass for a change? There is some operatic singing, which is a welcome addition to the usual string-section-only music.
Voiceovers are ok. The villain is rather melodramatic, while the woman in peril doesn't really evoke fear. Environmental sounds were done well. Subtract half a star for repetitive music and graphics.
TOOLBOX…
The map is just to the left of the hint button, and is a transporter. It also alleges to indicate active areas, but I didn't find that to be true. At least, the couple of times I followed the large red dots, there was nothing to do there. You also have a medallion with which to dispel the ghosts, but you need to find the hidden amethysts to power it for each use.
The map is just to the left of the hint button, and is a transporter. It also alleges to indicate active areas, but I didn't find that to be true. At least, the couple of times I followed the large red dots, there was nothing to do there. You also have a medallion with which to dispel the ghosts, but you need to find the hidden amethysts to power it for each use.
The inventory panel locks open, and zoom boxes close when you're done (unless there's something to read there…ugh…just put it in a journal and close the zoom box for good!). Navigation is intuitive.
EXTRA, EXTRA…
In the bonus chapter, rescue Kate's father from a new villain whose motives remain a mystery, and discover an ornate chest that remains an enigma, all shrouded in a story line that makes no sense at all and doesn't relate to the main game. Replay the HO scenes and puzzles. The collectible ghost clouds don't get you anything except a decorated street scene. Other extras include performance achievements, the SG, concept drawings, downloadable music tracks, and wallpapers.
In the bonus chapter, rescue Kate's father from a new villain whose motives remain a mystery, and discover an ornate chest that remains an enigma, all shrouded in a story line that makes no sense at all and doesn't relate to the main game. Replay the HO scenes and puzzles. The collectible ghost clouds don't get you anything except a decorated street scene. Other extras include performance achievements, the SG, concept drawings, downloadable music tracks, and wallpapers.
THE LAST WORD…
As I said, I think ERS is improving its game (pun intended). Perhaps the sheafs of rotten reviews they've gotten of late has made an impact, and they've decided that resting on their laurels isn't cutting it. However, there's still work to be done—including updates on the graphics, music, and gameplay—if ERS is to remain relevant. Other devs are setting the bar higher and higher, and games like Dark Talent just aren't making the grade.
As I said, I think ERS is improving its game (pun intended). Perhaps the sheafs of rotten reviews they've gotten of late has made an impact, and they've decided that resting on their laurels isn't cutting it. However, there's still work to be done—including updates on the graphics, music, and gameplay—if ERS is to remain relevant. Other devs are setting the bar higher and higher, and games like Dark Talent just aren't making the grade.
I recommend waiting for the SE, then using a PCC if you must have this for your collection. Otherwise, save your money for a truly groundbreaking game that has replay value. Better games by ERS—and, even though some are older, these are ones that I do replay regularly—include Gothic Fiction: Dark Saga, Redemption Cemetery (Grave Testimony AND Salvation of the Lost ONLY), and Spirits of Mystery (Amber Maiden AND Song of the Phoenix ONLY).