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:
Something wicked has taken over Fate’s Carnival!
Overall rating
5
/
5
135 of 164 found this review helpful
BFG partners with Elephant...MCF is back and better than ever!
PostedNovember 26, 2013
LunaNik
fromThe Island of Myst
Skill Level:Expert
Favorite Genre(s):Word, Adventure, Hidden Object, Large File, Card & Board, Strategy, Time Management
Fun Factor
5
/
5
Visual/Sound Quality
5
/
5
Level of Challenge
5
/
5
Storyline
5
/
5
Mystery Case Files: Fate's Carnival
Developed by Big Fish Games and Elephant Games
Collector's Edition
Review based on demo
Developed by Big Fish Games and Elephant Games
Collector's Edition
Review based on demo
IN THE BEGINNING...
You're sent to cheek out an anomaly at the site of one of your previous investigations…Madame Fate's Carnival! Her ghost appears and tells you that you've inherited her curse, and you must save all the carnival performers. Will you finally discover the connection between the Carnival and Charles Dalimar? Is Dalimar behind all this once again?
You're sent to cheek out an anomaly at the site of one of your previous investigations…Madame Fate's Carnival! Her ghost appears and tells you that you've inherited her curse, and you must save all the carnival performers. Will you finally discover the connection between the Carnival and Charles Dalimar? Is Dalimar behind all this once again?
PLAY THE GAME...
Oh, frabjous day! MCF has returned! There's a lot to do at Fate's Carnival. Lots to collect and use in adventure mode, interactive HO scenes, beautifully designed original puzzles and locks reminiscent of the original Ravenhearst, and three sets of bonus objects to collect. You do have an animal helper, but she is decidedly not cute. It's brilliant.
Oh, frabjous day! MCF has returned! There's a lot to do at Fate's Carnival. Lots to collect and use in adventure mode, interactive HO scenes, beautifully designed original puzzles and locks reminiscent of the original Ravenhearst, and three sets of bonus objects to collect. You do have an animal helper, but she is decidedly not cute. It's brilliant.
SIGHTSEEING…
The graphics are colorful, yet maintain that supernatural, somewhat creepy mood without being dark. The style is artistic yet realistic, as it was in Madame Fate. The animation is quite well done, and there are some startlingly frightening moments that had me jump in my chair.
The graphics are colorful, yet maintain that supernatural, somewhat creepy mood without being dark. The style is artistic yet realistic, as it was in Madame Fate. The animation is quite well done, and there are some startlingly frightening moments that had me jump in my chair.
SOUND WAVES…
The music consists of variations on the MCF theme, but it's never intrusive and ebbs and flows with the gameplay rather nicely. Sound effects are excellent and voiceovers are totally professional.
The music consists of variations on the MCF theme, but it's never intrusive and ebbs and flows with the gameplay rather nicely. Sound effects are excellent and voiceovers are totally professional.
TOOLBOX…
I saw no map, but I don't think we'll need one. The journal, besides being informative, is a work of art in and of itself. I didn't peek at the Strategy Guide. There are five (yes, I said five) difficulty modes.
I saw no map, but I don't think we'll need one. The journal, besides being informative, is a work of art in and of itself. I didn't peek at the Strategy Guide. There are five (yes, I said five) difficulty modes.
EXTRA, EXTRA…
The CE offers a bonus game, three sets of collectibles, a solitaire game, achievements, and the usual cast of characters from music to screensavers.
The CE offers a bonus game, three sets of collectibles, a solitaire game, achievements, and the usual cast of characters from music to screensavers.
THE LAST WORD…
Just based on the demo, I must say that the partnership between BFG and Elephant has truly set the bar to a new and higher level. Fate's Carnival is utterly immersive, to the point that I was taken by surprise when the hour demo was over. This is a definite buy for me.
Just based on the demo, I must say that the partnership between BFG and Elephant has truly set the bar to a new and higher level. Fate's Carnival is utterly immersive, to the point that I was taken by surprise when the hour demo was over. This is a definite buy for me.
I recommend this game!
You thought this would be just like any other investigation. But now you find yourself lost in a mysterious mansion brimming with strange creatures, comatose colleagues, and mysterious tentacles around every corner…
Overall rating
1
/
5
45 of 70 found this review helpful
ERS is slacking again...and destroying another series
PostedNovember 21, 2013
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
1
/
5
Level of Challenge
1
/
5
Storyline
1
/
5
Haunted Halls: Nightmare Dwellers
Developed by ERS
Collector's Edition
Review based on exceedingly painful one-hour demo
Developed by ERS
Collector's Edition
Review based on exceedingly painful one-hour demo
IN THE BEGINNING...
There was a game developer that decided to forego creativity and originality in favor of the formulaic and parochial. And thus, some of the greatest casual game series met their untimely end. Hearken to their names: Maestro, PuppetShow, Spirits of Mystery. And now, Haunted Halls…the latest victim.
There was a game developer that decided to forego creativity and originality in favor of the formulaic and parochial. And thus, some of the greatest casual game series met their untimely end. Hearken to their names: Maestro, PuppetShow, Spirits of Mystery. And now, Haunted Halls…the latest victim.
Like daytime soap operas villains, ERS evildoers never die. They are magically and impossibly resurrected for a thinly plotted sequel or prequel. Yes, Dr. Blackmore is back in all his tentacular horror, and this time he has help. You can vanquish him again, but I feel certain he'll rise from the ashes until this series is dead and buried, and the ground salted.
PLAY THE GAME...
In adventure mode, the best advice I can give is to think, "What is the most illogical, senseless action I could perform here with what I have in my inventory?" and try it. These Halls are not Haunted; they're inane. I came across three HO scenes during the demo…two sequential silhouettes and one interactive list. And one puzzle that repeated ad nauseum. All I'll say about that is: the goggles are not as cool as they initially seem to be. Nothing ground-breaking here, but lots that's migraine-inducing.
In adventure mode, the best advice I can give is to think, "What is the most illogical, senseless action I could perform here with what I have in my inventory?" and try it. These Halls are not Haunted; they're inane. I came across three HO scenes during the demo…two sequential silhouettes and one interactive list. And one puzzle that repeated ad nauseum. All I'll say about that is: the goggles are not as cool as they initially seem to be. Nothing ground-breaking here, but lots that's migraine-inducing.
SIGHTSEEING…
The graphics and animation are exactly the same as every other ERS game you've ever played over the past few years. Frankly, ERS has become the McDonald's of casual gaming…generic, predictable, and a poor imitation for the real thing.
The graphics and animation are exactly the same as every other ERS game you've ever played over the past few years. Frankly, ERS has become the McDonald's of casual gaming…generic, predictable, and a poor imitation for the real thing.
SOUND WAVES…
The music is the exact same piece of music that ERS uses in all their games. Do they think we don't notice? At this point, I have an almost Pavlovian negative response to it. Those violins…*shudder*
The music is the exact same piece of music that ERS uses in all their games. Do they think we don't notice? At this point, I have an almost Pavlovian negative response to it. Those violins…*shudder*
TOOLBOX…
The map is inside the journal, which is poor interface design. The inventory is lockable, thankfully. I didn't use hints as I prefer to refer to the SG in order to gain additional achievements. However, being as this game passed Surreal at light speed and made itself comfortable at Utter Nonsense, I referred to the SG quite often. And still found myself saying, "Well, that's idiotic. Who would think of that?"
The map is inside the journal, which is poor interface design. The inventory is lockable, thankfully. I didn't use hints as I prefer to refer to the SG in order to gain additional achievements. However, being as this game passed Surreal at light speed and made itself comfortable at Utter Nonsense, I referred to the SG quite often. And still found myself saying, "Well, that's idiotic. Who would think of that?"
EXTRA, EXTRA…
I assume the usual suspects are offered with the CE, but I'm not interested enough to find out. The demo was enough torture for me and, it should be noted, I have the first three games in the series and really like them. There's a reason why trilogies never have a fourth installment.
I assume the usual suspects are offered with the CE, but I'm not interested enough to find out. The demo was enough torture for me and, it should be noted, I have the first three games in the series and really like them. There's a reason why trilogies never have a fourth installment.
THE LAST WORD…
I wouldn't waste hard drive space. ERS has been incredibly prolific these past few years…with about a 10% success rate at putting out quality games. The rest of the time, they're coasting and should be ashamed of themselves. This time they've even cashed in on the "cute animal" fad. In a horrific supernatural game. Seriously? Nightmare Dwellers is offal dressed up in the sirloin of the Haunted Halls label.
I wouldn't waste hard drive space. ERS has been incredibly prolific these past few years…with about a 10% success rate at putting out quality games. The rest of the time, they're coasting and should be ashamed of themselves. This time they've even cashed in on the "cute animal" fad. In a horrific supernatural game. Seriously? Nightmare Dwellers is offal dressed up in the sirloin of the Haunted Halls label.
I don't recommend this game.
Guide William on the adventure of a lifetime and discover Captain Kidd's lost pirate treasure in this riveting Hidden Object game.
Overall rating
1
/
5
0 of 1 found this review helpful
Good grief, BFG!
PostedNovember 11, 2013
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
1
/
5
Level of Challenge
1
/
5
Storyline
1
/
5
After having read the reviews, I had to try it myself to see if it could possibly be that bad. Once I began, it was difficult to pull myself away, much like rubbernecking at a bad auto accident. You really don't want to see what's going on, but you somehow can't help looking.
Gameplay was painfully boring and repetitive, with one HO scene after another. This game seems to have been developed merely to show off the panorama and zoom functions...developed, that is, a few decades ago.
Graphics were of the cut-and-paste Photoshop variety, and the outline artifacts were clearly visible. Objects were not well-rendered, and some were unrecognizable. Or misidentified...it was hard to tell which.
I know I've heard the music before somewhere else, and it too was repetitive. Other than the music, there was no sound and there were no voiceovers. It was like being stuck in an elevator alone.
I did note that the file size was only 89Mb, meaning that the game is mercifully short. However, I do not recommend it, not even if some misguided soul offers to pay you to take it.
If you wish to play an old adventure game, there are plenty of classics from which to choose. You can tell my favorite series from my "location." This game should be buried back under the rock from whence it came. And the ground salted.
I don't recommend this game.
Help Kate save her friend and find a mysterious briefcase! Travel across the world in Millennium Secrets: Emerald Curse!
Overall rating
5
/
5
6 of 6 found this review helpful
Gameplay, graphics, music, storyline...all amazing!
PostedNovember 7, 2013
LunaNik
fromThe Island of Myst
Skill Level:Expert
Favorite Genre(s):Word, Adventure, Hidden Object, Large File, Card & Board, Strategy, Time Management
Fun Factor
5
/
5
Visual/Sound Quality
5
/
5
Level of Challenge
5
/
5
Storyline
5
/
5
REVIEW BASED ON
completed game
completed game
DEVELOPER
JetDogs Studios
JetDogs Studios
GENRE
Interactive Hidden Object Puzzle Adventure
intrigue, spy, mystery, conspiracy
Interactive Hidden Object Puzzle Adventure
intrigue, spy, mystery, conspiracy
STORY
A devastating explosion has uncovered a secret bunker and a hidden cache of an unknown energy source. Reprise your role as Special Agent Kate McCormick. You'll need all your skills to uncover the conspiracy behind the enigma that is Roxanne's Necklace. From the secret bunker to HQ, from deep in the jungle to the ancient streets of Rome, follow the clues and solve the mystery.
A devastating explosion has uncovered a secret bunker and a hidden cache of an unknown energy source. Reprise your role as Special Agent Kate McCormick. You'll need all your skills to uncover the conspiracy behind the enigma that is Roxanne's Necklace. From the secret bunker to HQ, from deep in the jungle to the ancient streets of Rome, follow the clues and solve the mystery.
GAMEPLAY
Millennium Secrets is not a traditional iHOPA. Rather, it's more like an old-school adventure game with HO scenes added in here and there. Each area or room is panoramic, meaning that you can view all parts of it by navigating left or right. Items are hidden in a number of ways, and some are stand-alone objects while others are parts of collections where you must find all of the items before you can use them.
Millennium Secrets is not a traditional iHOPA. Rather, it's more like an old-school adventure game with HO scenes added in here and there. Each area or room is panoramic, meaning that you can view all parts of it by navigating left or right. Items are hidden in a number of ways, and some are stand-alone objects while others are parts of collections where you must find all of the items before you can use them.
INTERFACE
The map shows active areas and transports and the journal collects clues, notes the story, and lists your tasks. The hint function is direct both within a HO scene and in adventure mode.
The map shows active areas and transports and the journal collects clues, notes the story, and lists your tasks. The hint function is direct both within a HO scene and in adventure mode.
GRAPHICS & ANIMATION
Both graphics and animation are well-rendered, and each scene has amazing dimension through the use of light and shadow, color and texture. Also, this game has some of the best and most lifelike Posers we've seen.
Both graphics and animation are well-rendered, and each scene has amazing dimension through the use of light and shadow, color and texture. Also, this game has some of the best and most lifelike Posers we've seen.
MUSIC & SOUND & VOICEOVERS
Rather than having a repetitive musical theme, the devs chose to create mood through the use of beautiful ambient soundscapes, which is also reminiscent of old-school adventure games. And so much better than melodic music that becomes annoying! The voiceovers were truly professional, to the point that I actually did not skip through the text.
Rather than having a repetitive musical theme, the devs chose to create mood through the use of beautiful ambient soundscapes, which is also reminiscent of old-school adventure games. And so much better than melodic music that becomes annoying! The voiceovers were truly professional, to the point that I actually did not skip through the text.
ANALYSIS
The storyline was captivating and dimensional with the inclusion of sub-plots and personal touches that made it easy to identify with the game characters. Characterization was excellent. Graphics and animation were truly gorgeous and, along with the soundscapes and method of gameplay, made it easy to become immersed in this game. I highly recommend it. I'm off to purchase Millennium Secrets: Emerald Curse so I can accompany the plucky and resourceful "Kate the Great" on another adventure.
The storyline was captivating and dimensional with the inclusion of sub-plots and personal touches that made it easy to identify with the game characters. Characterization was excellent. Graphics and animation were truly gorgeous and, along with the soundscapes and method of gameplay, made it easy to become immersed in this game. I highly recommend it. I'm off to purchase Millennium Secrets: Emerald Curse so I can accompany the plucky and resourceful "Kate the Great" on another adventure.
I recommend this game!
Travel to Urami Island to find Victoria's missing sister.
Overall rating
3
/
5
2 of 2 found this review helpful
Loose plot ends, awful navigation, dark HOs, easy puzzles
PostedNovember 5, 2013
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
4
/
5
Level of Challenge
3
/
5
Storyline
3
/
5
REVIEW BASED ON
completed game
completed game
DEVELOPER
Game Devo
Game Devo
GENRE
Interactive Hidden Object Puzzle Adventure
Interactive Hidden Object Puzzle Adventure
STORY
Your sister Emily has disappeared on Urami Island, home of the boarding school you both once attended, but left prematurely due to a plague. To give you a small clue what you're in for, "urami" is the Japanese word for "grudge." Find Emily, and discover who's behind her disappearance as well as what was behind the plague.
Your sister Emily has disappeared on Urami Island, home of the boarding school you both once attended, but left prematurely due to a plague. To give you a small clue what you're in for, "urami" is the Japanese word for "grudge." Find Emily, and discover who's behind her disappearance as well as what was behind the plague.
GAMEPLAY
Nothing new to see here…standard adventure interspersed with minimally interactive HO scenes and puzzles. The HO scenes are somewhat hard, but mostly because of difficulty in recognizing objects, lack of lighting and contrast, and/or poor translation. The puzzles are mostly retreads and all simple.
Nothing new to see here…standard adventure interspersed with minimally interactive HO scenes and puzzles. The HO scenes are somewhat hard, but mostly because of difficulty in recognizing objects, lack of lighting and contrast, and/or poor translation. The puzzles are mostly retreads and all simple.
Navigation is a nightmare for two reasons. One, the map you get is useless as it's neither annotated nor a jump map. Two, navigation arrows appear all over the place, so swipe your cursor around the edges on EVERY screen or you'll miss areas.
Additionally, you have an assistant to help you move and break things: a robot named Boilerplate. He also gives warnings and advice.
INTERFACE
You do have a journal, but you really don't need it as the clues you gather put up on the screen when you need them. The hint function is useful outside the HOs; it tells you in which area you missed something. The inventory is lockable.
You do have a journal, but you really don't need it as the clues you gather put up on the screen when you need them. The hint function is useful outside the HOs; it tells you in which area you missed something. The inventory is lockable.
GRAPHICS & ANIMATION
The graphics are quite clear and realistic, though obviously rendered, except that the HOs are darker and have less contrast, making the items difficult to distinguish. Animation was fairly well done. As per games with a darker theme, colors were muted and more monotone than real life. But at least it wasn't raining.
The graphics are quite clear and realistic, though obviously rendered, except that the HOs are darker and have less contrast, making the items difficult to distinguish. Animation was fairly well done. As per games with a darker theme, colors were muted and more monotone than real life. But at least it wasn't raining.
MUSIC & SOUND & VOICEOVERS
The music was evocative, but repetitive. Ambient sounds were fairly good, with lots of creepy noises thrown in (eerie laughs, ethereal humming, creaky doors). There were no voiceovers.
The music was evocative, but repetitive. Ambient sounds were fairly good, with lots of creepy noises thrown in (eerie laughs, ethereal humming, creaky doors). There were no voiceovers.
ANALYSIS
While the plot does end decisively, it does not end satisfactorily, as a lot of loose ends are left dangling. I don't know if this is meant to indicate a sequel in the works or not, but Malice is definitely a "play once" kind of game. It lacks the elegance of gameplay and true immersion that would make me want to play it again. For that reason, and the others stated above, I don't recommend it.
While the plot does end decisively, it does not end satisfactorily, as a lot of loose ends are left dangling. I don't know if this is meant to indicate a sequel in the works or not, but Malice is definitely a "play once" kind of game. It lacks the elegance of gameplay and true immersion that would make me want to play it again. For that reason, and the others stated above, I don't recommend it.
I don't recommend this game.
Face your fears and unravel the mystery of the abandoned asylum!
Overall rating
3
/
5
1 of 1 found this review helpful
3.5 stars...needs a jump map, more puzzles, and fewer junk pile HOs
PostedNovember 4, 2013
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
4
/
5
Level of Challenge
4
/
5
Storyline
3
/
5
I have mixed feelings about Abandoned: Chestnut Lodge Asylum. It had the potential to be a 5-star game, but there was too much missing or wrong for me to give it even 4 stars, so I'll go with 3.5 stars.
The storyline was interesting—especially the twist at the end—but it should have been more thoroughly developed. The protagonist's inevitable meeting with his antagonist was rather anticlimactic, to say the least. And it wasn't immediately clear that there was a connection between the patients and their rooms because of the order of the game.
Gameplay was predictable. Explore the environment. Examine pieces of information for clues. Acquire items to use elsewhere. And run into HO scene after HO scene after HO scene! All junk piles that were, at best, minimally interactive. And all of them repeated.
Thankfully, there was a built-in SG to help, as the hints were completely unhelpful. Just that irritating, "There's nothing to do here now." A journal collected clues and kept track of the story. Very unfortunately, there was no map. No map at all. And there should have been a jump map, as I wore out several pairs of sneakers retracing my path over and over. And riding the elevator a thousand times.
With the exception of the posers, the animation was just gorgeous. It moved smoothly, had dimension and texture, and truly placed you in the aspect of the game character. The posers were not badly done; live actors would have been better, especially as there were only two.
The graphics were mostly dark and subdued in color, presumably to evoke the mood of the story. Of course, it was raining outside, the better to create a creepy environment. The morphing objects were incredibly difficult to find, not at all obvious.
The music was ethereal and fit the story, although I did find it repetitive after awhile. Voiceovers were ok, but not great. I would have liked more ambient sounds, especially inside the asylum. Random doors creaking. Wind whistling through broken windows. Disembodied footsteps.
Also, and this is a general note to ESL developers, please utilize better translators. While it's clever to use "brush" in your HO scenes (since you could have us looking for a hairbrush, a paintbrush, a scrub brush, a shaving brush, etc.), there's a huge difference between "brush" and "comb." And gamers become angry when we've combed the scene for 5 minutes looking for a "comb," only to find out you meant "brush."
Rather than recommend this game, I suggest you download the demo and try it yourself. It might be your cup of tea, especially if you like a lot of HO scenes and you don't mind backtracking.
Guide little Emmy through her fears and back to the real world!
Overall rating
4
/
5
10 of 16 found this review helpful
Which evil is worse? The nightmare one or the real life one?
PostedNovember 3, 2013
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
4
/
5
Storyline
4
/
5
First, it should be noted that this game is not from the same developer as Dreamscapes: The Sandman, and is not a continuation of that series. OK, onto the review.
Your niece Emmy has horrific nightmares. Her mom Mary is a scientist, and has been attempting to cure them, to no avail. In fact, Mary herself has fallen into a coma as a result of her attempts. Now you must work with Dr. Sullivan and enter Emmy's nightmares (like the movie The Cell) to resolve her fears and cure her distress.
The graphics are quite painterly in style, but objects are easy to recognize for the most part. The scenes are eerie and dark in color until you resolve Emmy's fear, whereupon they transform into cheery and vibrant. Animation is a bit cartoonish, but the characters do lip synch after a fashion. The nightmare Emmy is definitely creepy!
I didn't take much notice of the music, so it must serve its function of remaining in the background while adding to the player's immersion. Same thing with ambient and game sounds. The voiceovers are extremely professional, which is a good thing as there is a lot of conversation between characters to further the story.
A lot of gameplay time is spent finding shapes to fit locks and puzzles, which has become a staple of casual gameplay, unfortunately, and is getting rather boring. Developers take note: we're tired of finding endless keys, regardless of their shape. HO scenes are of the junk pile variety and minimally interactive. There are some original puzzles here…a pleasant surprise.
I did note that the file size is rather small, and the game downloaded and installed very quickly, so I'm assuming this is not a long game. However, I'd say it's weighted about 70-30% adventure to HO scenes, so it may just be that it's not stuffed with filler HO scenes that serve no real purpose.
I do recommend the SE, especially with the current sale. Just at the end of the demo, a sinister subplot was foreshadowed, and I found the storyline engaging enough, the gameplay interesting enough, and the graphics enchanting enough that I want to know what happens.
I recommend this game!
Journey down a magical road to save two worlds!
Overall rating
2
/
5
12 of 23 found this review helpful
Talk talk talk + cute animal sidekicks + convoluted story = no thanks
PostedNovember 3, 2013
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
2
/
5
Level of Challenge
3
/
5
Storyline
1
/
5
Clearly I have the minority viewpoint, but I was not at all enchanted by this fairy tale. Which is a shame, because it had some of the best original puzzles I've seen in a long time. Unfortunately, they couldn't save the convoluted storyline which was constantly interrupted by NPCs monologuing backstory at you. At length.
While the graphics were quite vivid, they had an unfinished look that I found unappealing. Proportions were off, and light and shadow were missing, leaving each scene flat and lacking depth and life. The animation was clunky and reminded me of a low budget children's cartoon.
The music was light, airy, and fit the theme of the game. Voiceovers were fairly well done, which is a plus, since you listen to them a LOT.
Gameplay was standard adventure with iHOs, puzzles, and mini-games. There was a lot less of the "find shapes that are really keys" than in most games, and more working through tasks.
The last straw for me was the overdose of nauseating cuteness that prevailed. It wasn't enough to have one adorable animal sidekick; this game gave you TWO. Ugh! Who started this revolting trend anyway? Fantasy and fairy tales are not sweet or cute. Dragons are especially not cute; they're fire-breathing predators. Yes, even the baby ones. (And I won't discuss the purpose of nymphs as this is not an adult forum. Suffice it to say that they're not cute either.)
Obviously, this is not a buy for me, not even in the SE, and I don't recommend it unless you're addicted to sugar.
I don't recommend this game.
To save your father from a hideous monster, you've decided to sacrifice your own freedom. Now you must journey through a strange and magical land before time runs out!
Overall rating
2
/
5
27 of 38 found this review helpful
Too easy + too cute + too boring = no buy for me
PostedNovember 1, 2013
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
I can't recommend this game from ERS for the following reasons:
1. All aspects of gameplay were too simplistic, which made the game boring. The only objects in the HOs that were hidden were the interactive ones. Adventure mode was either finding one shape/key after another or fulfilling a character's demands. Puzzles and mini-games were childishly easy.
2. The never-ending cast of cutesy sidekicks was annoying and cloyingly saccharine, interfered with gameplay, and was just plain irritating. After an hour of feeding, rescuing, and listening to them, I knew this game was not a buy for me.
3. The storyline was convoluted and not at all engaging. It was impossible to identify with the heroine, or to fear the villains.
4. The voiceovers were badly cast and acted. None sounded appropriate for their age or role. (Developers, if you're going to have a child in your game, have the character voiced by a child! Villains' voices should virtually drip with evil intent. Give the hero/heroine a voice; it helps us identify with him/her and immerse ourselves in the game.)
5. The graphics, animation, and sound were well done, but those things just couldn't save this formulaic game.
I don't recommend this game.
Follow the kidnapper's clues, rediscover Sarah's past and bring her brother back to safety in this action packed Hidden Object game!
Overall rating
2
/
5
0 of 2 found this review helpful
Slow-moving, dated gameplay and amateurish production
PostedOctober 29, 2013
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
2
/
5
Level of Challenge
2
/
5
Storyline
2
/
5
This game appears to have been in mothballs for a decade or so, and not updated since then.
The graphics are of the photo-real cut and paste variety, quite flat, without shadowing and highlighting. The music is rather moody, repetitive piano that becomes irritating quickly. Why the developer sprang for a live actress to play the heroine, then had her just stand there while comic book thought bubbles appeared rather than having her read the lines is beyond me.
I found the gameplay very slow-moving and simplistic. Cluttered rooms were presented with only one or two things to do in each, interspersed with basic HO scenes.
The nature of the storyline provided ample opportunity to engage the player, yet it did not. The heroine was rather emotionless considering the trauma she'd experienced and, as such, it was impossible to empathize with her and become immersed in her story.
I don't recommend this game, not even as a DD or with a PCC.
I don't recommend this game.