biscuitsmama's Profile
Stat Summary
- Average Rating:4.3
- Helpful Votes:67,036
- Reviews Submitted:1148
- First Review:July 13, 2012
- Most Recent Review:December 16, 2020
- Featured reviews0
Status:
Explore the streets of Paris as you track down the Strangler!
Overall rating
5
/
5
165 of 205 found this review helpful
I WANT TO SEE MORE OF INSPECTOR LAROCHE! MAYBE HE AND DONNA WILL SOLVE MYSTERIES TOGETHER IN THE FUTURE
PostedAugust 26, 2017
biscuitsmama
fromI can just imagine spending a leisurely afternoon strolling the streets of Paris
Fun Factor
5
/
5
Visual/Sound Quality
5
/
5
Level of Challenge
5
/
5
Storyline
5
/
5
Paris is under siege! Well, at least the Golden Circle is. You receive a letter from your uncle who is living in Paris and he urgently needs your help. He has sent a letter that is rather cryptic letting you know that he is sorry for the lack of communication in the past but he really hopes you will come to Paris and help him. He encloses your father’s medallion as a token of perhaps fence mending or maybe so that you will trust him and come to Paris. Oh and by the way, he will tell you more when you arrive and signs off with “don’t trust anyone.” Brave young American woman that you are, you pack a valise and travel to Paris. However, your arrival in Paris doesn’t start off too well since the friend your uncle sent to meet you is murdered before your very eyes. Now you must find your uncle and pray that you are not too late to save him. Welcome to Paris!
Donna Brave is perhaps the beginning of a new series by Mad Head and if so, it certainly starts off being very interesting with a rather paranormal mystery theme. The graphics are very good and capture the art deco feel of Paris in the 1920s. Even though the game is set in the 1920s I swear I saw what looks like a cell phone when rummaging through a drawer in Uncle Andre’s house. Guess Andre was a bit ahead of his time - lol.
You have several options when setting up the game that include five different modes of gameplay. You will find an interactive map after you meet your uncle. You also have your father’s medallion that will help you focus and see things that are not obvious to the human eye alone.
The HOP scenes are nothing new and follow the Mad Head tradition of including morphing objects in each scene. The puzzles are fairly easy and it doesn’t seem like there is anything new here either. Because things are the same doesn’t mean that they are less enjoyable. I am of the opinion that developers can only do so much and should really always have to come up with something new or different when creating their games.
Even though the HOPS and Puzzles are nothing really new I did enjoy them and enjoyed the gameplay even more. I know some gamers might find the gameplay easy but it was just right for me. I enjoyed each step as the story unfolded and I learned more. When the game first began it had a sort of Adam Wolfe feel to it although it is different. I have to say that Inspector Laroche is a bit of eye candy for some of us. I really hope we get to see more of him in the future. In fact, I think he would be a great spin-off character for his own series.
If you prefer the CE version of a game this one includes the following extras: Collectibles that are once again the Mad Head Swirl logo. IMHO, it would be nice to find something perhaps a bit more creative and enticing rather than always using the same old symbol in every game. There are morphing objects found in the HOPS and, again, I wish that the developer would locate the morphing objects in the gameplay scenes rather than the HOPS. It takes me forever to finish the HOPS because I spend all of my time looking for one tiny thing that morphs. Other extras include Achievements to earn, along with Wallpapers, Concept Art, Soundtracks, Replay of HOPS, Memory Game, Character Gallery, Strategy Guide, and Bonus Game. IMHO, this represents a fairly decent package of extras if these are things you enjoy.
As I mentioned above I found the storyline interesting and this is a mystery I want to solve. Who is this gigantic strangler and why does he only target a select group of people? What are the members of the elite Golden Circle hiding and will I be able to solve the mystery before Uncle Andre meets his end? Oh, and will I get to spend more time with that smoking hot inspector? I find this to be an engaging game and although there is a bit of the paranormal feel, it has enough of a real every day mystery story to pique my interest. Even though I purchased the game right away, please try the demo to see if this is one you will enjoy as well. Happy gaming!
I recommend this game!
Can you save a young heir from Saint Germain in time?
Overall rating
5
/
5
110 of 149 found this review helpful
I LOVE SEEING THAT EVIL LITTLE DWARF HAVE A TANTRUM WHEN HE DOESN’T GET HIS WAY!
PostedAugust 24, 2017
biscuitsmama
fromThe pesky little dwarf is stomping his feet and grunting his way through another Haunted Legends game
Skill Level:Expert
What would a Haunted Legends be without that horrid little dwarf the Count St. Germain (SG) and, yes, he is back in game number eleven in the series The Cursed Gift. Just as I was tiring of this series the Cursed Gift seems to hold promise as a game that is a bit different and has a storyline that I happen to find interesting. Although most of the games from this developer seem to be sliding down a slippery slope to darkness, the Cursed Gift isn’t quite as bad as some recent offerings from ERS/AMAX.
You once again play the game as a detective and you receive a letter from Lucas Malloy asking you to save his son Sebastian. It seems that Sebastian has a very rare gift that SG wants. In an effort to save his son, Lucas signed a contract with the dwarf that would transfer Sebastian’s gift to him but then later realizing his error in judgement has spent his life trying to undo the contract and it has now cost him his life. When you arrive at the home, you find Lucas gone and the home is truly haunted with a variety of ghosts, some good and others who are not quite so good at all. SG is out to get Sebastian’s gift and nothing will get in his way, even you detective. As you play through the Cursed Gift you will need to overcome obstacles and work with a pair of ghostly knights to save Sebastian. Are you up to the challenge?
The graphics are excellent, as one would expect from this artistic team even though we are romping through a decrepit haunted house there are still touches of color and the game does not seem overpowered by the dull browns and grays we often find in haunted house types of games. I do have to say though that many of the graphics seem misty or foggy but I believe that is intentional given the nature of the game. The interactive map is present from the beginning of the game and, although I didn’t find any special tools or gimmicks there is a special box that requires seals to open. We will find those seals as we move through the game and I once we open the box there will be something we must do with it later in the game.
The HOPS include variety and some interaction to acquire the items we eventually need to use before moving forward in the game. The do not seem to be quite as many list type scenes as they do vary quite a bit. I happened to enjoy several of the different scenes, particularly the one where we must find objects on a special kaleidoscope using the story presented in the scene. Even the scenes where we find matching pairs were not too bad. The puzzles were nothing new but I did struggle with one where we place colored gems to open a door. Overall I enjoyed the demo enough that I know the Cursed Gift is sure to be quite an entertaining game. At this point I will need to honestly say the game is very easy and there is not a lot of brain-drain involved with the gameplay. I did have to use the hint button once or twice because an item didn’t seem to work as it should but it turned out it was me – lol.
The HOPS include variety and some interaction to acquire the items we eventually need to use before moving forward in the game. The do not seem to be quite as many list type scenes as they do vary quite a bit. I happened to enjoy several of the different scenes, particularly the one where we must find objects on a special kaleidoscope using the story presented in the scene. Even the scenes where we find matching pairs were not too bad. The puzzles were nothing new but I did struggle with one where we place colored gems to open a door. Overall I enjoyed the demo enough that I know the Cursed Gift is sure to be quite an entertaining game. At this point I will need to honestly say the game is very easy and there is not a lot of brain-drain involved with the gameplay. I did have to use the hint button once or twice because an item didn’t seem to work as it should but it turned out it was me – lol.
The CE version of the game includes Collectible Amulets to find. You will earn coins for each amulet found and they will be used later to purchase items for your Haunted House. There are the ever-present achievements to earn as well. I don’t generally care for achievements but must admit I liked the pop-up for the first achievement I did earn and now look forward to earning others. Even though I don’t use Screensavers or Wallpapers I might decide to use one of the 9 available Wallpapers as I play the game. Other extras include: 9 Concept Art, 5 Screensavers, 4 Music Tracks, Movies, replay of HOPS and Mini-Games, a Haunted House, the 29-page Strategy Guide, and a Bonus Chapter. This developer is not known for adding a lot of extra content but what is included is enough to entice me to purchase the CE.
After a recent release from this developer, I said I would never purchase another of their games but it seems that promise is short-lived since I added this new Haunted Legends game to my collection. I found the pace of the game to be quite good and there were enough “hooks” along the way to keep me wanting more of the storyline. As soon as the game was released I couldn’t prevent myself from hitting the buy button so now I will shut out the rest of the world (for at least a few hours) and immerse myself in the world of Haunted Legends and that pesky little dwarf who it seems I love to see be thwarted in his efforts to obtain his goals. Happy gaming!
After a recent release from this developer, I said I would never purchase another of their games but it seems that promise is short-lived since I added this new Haunted Legends game to my collection. I found the pace of the game to be quite good and there were enough “hooks” along the way to keep me wanting more of the storyline. As soon as the game was released I couldn’t prevent myself from hitting the buy button so now I will shut out the rest of the world (for at least a few hours) and immerse myself in the world of Haunted Legends and that pesky little dwarf who it seems I love to see be thwarted in his efforts to obtain his goals. Happy gaming!
I recommend this game!
Can you stop history from repeating itself?
Overall rating
1
/
5
120 of 159 found this review helpful
THIS SERIES HAS REACHED A NEW LOW
PostedAugust 19, 2017
biscuitsmama
fromIf you want a dark game, welcome to you know where
Skill Level:Expert
Fun Factor
1
/
5
Visual/Sound Quality
1
/
5
Level of Challenge
1
/
5
Storyline
1
/
5
Well a happy birthday to you too princess! What a dark and dreary way to celebrate. When the Spirits of Mystery series began in 2011, although there was a bit of a dark theme in the first game the Amber Maiden, the games have become much darker. With today’s game The Moon Crystal, I believe the series has hit a new low. A series that I could once enjoy has become so demonic and oppressively dark that it is impossible to play. I love fantasy games but not these dark and dreary games with people being fed to some evil entity during the beginning cut scene. Then in the first scene of the actual game we see a priest being stabbed by some sort of demon, who we must immediately battle.
BFG prints warnings on some games that don’t merit any sort of public warning but, IMHO, Spirits of Mystery should certainly come with a bold red print warning on the game's home page. Because I find the game so dark and disturbing, I am not even going to describe the rest of the game because it should be sufficient to say that this is definitely not a family game. There has been a push and trend lately to offer these darker games and I see nothing in this particular game that is worth paying for or playing. I personally play games to unwind and relax from a busy schedule but this is definitely not that game. At one time on could go to BFG and find games far better than the drivel that is being offered today.
I can in no way recommend this game. Sorry BFG this game is a no sale to me. I don't want this type of garbage in my game manager.
I don't recommend this game.
Can you find the Wise Dragon and save your people?
Overall rating
5
/
5
146 of 176 found this review helpful
HMMM, DRAKE MIGHT TURN OUT TO BE A BIG SURPRISE
PostedAugust 17, 2017
biscuitsmama
fromLet there be dragons, druids and magic. I love dragons, yes I do, I love dragons!
Skill Level:Expert
Fun Factor
5
/
5
Visual/Sound Quality
5
/
5
Level of Challenge
5
/
5
Storyline
5
/
5
Dragons, druids, and magic in a beautiful new fantasy game! You play the game as Diana, who was as a child to study with the Great Druid. Just as your training is coming to an end you receive a message from your father, a very well-known zoo magician, telling you that he is on the verge of a great discovery and that you should come home at once since he fears his life might be in danger. When you arrive back home you find your village on fire and after you rescue Mr. Chester from the flames he blames the dragons for the fire. Mr. Chester said your father had foreseen the fire and left an important message for you telling you to find a certain book in his library that would open a portal to the dragon’s lair. Thus begins this refreshing and wonderful fantasy game into a world of dragons and magic.
The graphics although very cartoonish in the beginning are very high-quality and everything I expect from this developer. I absolutely love the music in the game and hope the theme continues throughout the entire game. Get ready for a big collective groan because there is a helper in the game – a silly and incredibly funny raccoon. Although I agree totally with another reviewer, I have to admit that his antics at times had me laughing out loud. I had thought that the era of pet helpers was over and I too am a bit tired of having them in games, particularly when they don’t make sense or add anything to the storyline. Having optional helpers in a game would be a huge step in the right direction and one that would keep both factions (the love and hate helpers groups) happy! I realize it would be more work for the developers but the games are so cookie cutter in general, I am sure they could figure it out. Okay end of rant! You also have the standard interactive map to help you navigate your way through the game.
The graphics although very cartoonish in the beginning are very high-quality and everything I expect from this developer. I absolutely love the music in the game and hope the theme continues throughout the entire game. Get ready for a big collective groan because there is a helper in the game – a silly and incredibly funny raccoon. Although I agree totally with another reviewer, I have to admit that his antics at times had me laughing out loud. I had thought that the era of pet helpers was over and I too am a bit tired of having them in games, particularly when they don’t make sense or add anything to the storyline. Having optional helpers in a game would be a huge step in the right direction and one that would keep both factions (the love and hate helpers groups) happy! I realize it would be more work for the developers but the games are so cookie cutter in general, I am sure they could figure it out. Okay end of rant! You also have the standard interactive map to help you navigate your way through the game.
The HOP scenes follow the cookie cutter pattern (most likely set out by BFG) so if you play a lot of HOPA games you have an idea of what to expect. I happen to love the list type scenes that this developer primarily uses in its games but there is a variation included. We are beginning to see a lot more puzzles included in the HOPA genre of games and for those of us who love puzzles it is a good thing. One of my favorite puzzles is the one where we complete a mural by changing the disks but we must reveal various parts of the picture in order to complete others. Although most of the puzzles are fairly easy there some that are a bit more challenging. I really enjoyed the super puzzle (Rube-Goldberg type) that is included towards the end of the demo and found it really fun to solve. The puzzle is very creative and well-crafted because just when I thought I had finished solving the puzzle, another level appeared.
The CE version of the game includes collectible dragons and picture fragments to find as well as morphing objects that are scattered throughout the game. For those of you who love earning achievements you have 24 to earn. Other extras include wallpapers, concept art, music a secret room, bonus chapter and a strategy guide.
Even though the game begins with very cartoonish graphics they change after the first few scenes. I love fantasy games and dragons (yes I do have a collection of beautiful glass dragons) so I was very happy to see Midnight Calling Wise Dragon this morning. Even though I like variety in games and the type of games offered, I think that fantasy games are the ones I most enjoy. I enjoy gorgeous, colorful graphics much more than those in decrepit and decaying mansions so Wise Dragon is refreshing and a game I am sure to love. Yes there is that rascally raccoon but it is so humorous and funny at times that it doesn’t prevent me from enjoying this new fantasy game. Once I jumped into the storyline I found myself thoroughly enjoying the game which is the fourth game in the Midnight Calling series. Previous games were Midnight Calling: Anabel, Midnight Calling: Jeronimo, and Midnight Calling: Valeria. The Midnight Calling games can be enjoyed by the entire family – no warning about disturbing scenes required! As always, I suggest that you try the demo to see if Midnight Calling: Wise Dragon is a game you will enjoy. Happy gaming!
I recommend this game!
Can you stop the infamous Crows League before they strike again?
Overall rating
3
/
5
65 of 96 found this review helpful
OUR BELOVED DUPIN NEEDS A NAP AND MAYBE SOME B12 TO BREATHE NEW LIFE INTO THIS SERIES
PostedAugust 10, 2017
biscuitsmama
fromMaybe I need to take a nap and then wake up to find out that all of these interminable series have finally ended
Fun Factor
3
/
5
Visual/Sound Quality
3
/
5
Level of Challenge
2
/
5
Storyline
2
/
5
Dark Tales is back with game number eleven in the series. It is obvious that the developer is grasping at straws in order to keep this series alive because I doubt that many of you will find this game has anything to do with EAP’s Lenore. I guess we could maybe stretch our imaginations a bit and accept this might be a story of Lenore’s childhood and early life but that would be quite a stretch.
There is really no need for me to go into all of the other features in the game because if you want to know what to expect, there are others who will lay it all on the table and do an excellent job of providing the game’s details.
When I began the demo, I noticed that our haggard detective is back with perhaps just a bit of a cleanup since his last foray into the Dark Tales game world. You, of course, will play his sidekick who will do all of the work and discovery while Dupin just pops up with idiotic comments, not at all what one would expect from a top-notch detective.
As usual we get to find the missing objects and replace them in order to progress in the game, but the question here is do I really want to take another walk into the Dark Tales world when I really didn’t find much in the beginning that would give me the extra nudge and let me know that Lenore will be worth my time and effort only to find out that Lenore is yet another feeble attempt at keeping a series alive that should have been put to rest long ago.
If you are new to playing HOPA games, you will most likely enjoy Lenore. The ERS team certainly is excellent in presentation and I doubt that any other developer’s art team can create such wonderful characters in a game. On the other hand, the voices are terrible and certainly leave a lot to be desired. The reading of the letter at the beginning of the game had me wanting to beat my monitor with a stick to speed up the reader. The presentation of the mayor’s letter almost put me to sleep and was just the beginning of the downward spiral as far as Lenore is concerned. It is very sad for me to write a negative review of an ERS game because this developer was integral in creating my love of HOPA games. Perhaps, there have just been too many games in this series and I have reached my saturation point. That being said, many of you have not yet reached that point and will most likely find Lenore to be an excellent game. Please try the demo to see if Dark Tales Lenore is a game you will enjoy. Happy gaming!
I recommend this game!
Can you uncover the truth behind a string of strange thefts?
Overall rating
5
/
5
83 of 116 found this review helpful
THE ORDER ZERO (OZ) TEAM HAS ARRIVED TO SAVE THE DAY
PostedAugust 5, 2017
biscuitsmama
fromI think Dorothy should grab Toto and the rest of the OZ team and head back to Kansas where she might be more at home.
Skill Level:Expert
Fun Factor
5
/
5
Visual/Sound Quality
4
/
5
Level of Challenge
5
/
5
Storyline
4
/
5
After facing some formidable foes such as the Red Queen in your two previous cases, you once again play the game as young Hawkes, one of the newest members of the Vermillion Watch. Along with your companions Phileas Fogg, Rufus, Mr. Singh and a gang of new friends you are off to prevent the theft of an invaluable Egyptian artifact. As you soon learn there is more going on in this cloak and dagger fun fest than meets the eye. Will you survive the challenges as you try to figure out who is friend or foe in this amazing new Vermillion Watch game – Order Zero?
The graphics are excellent as are the soundtrack and voiceovers, which is what I expect to find in games from the EIPIX team. Other technical aspects include the various modes of gameplay with the custom mode allowing you to fiddle with the various buttons to set up the game the way you like to play. There is an integrated map available as well.
The HOP scenes are varied and quite creative AND more difficult than in other games. There is an interesting HOP where we meet Dorothy and the other members of the Order Zero (OZ) team that I did find a bit difficult because some of the items are very small or fade into the background. Most of the HOPS in the demo are well-designed and seem different than those we have seen before. I am not sure I particularly care for the change in the HOPS and wish this developer would go back to the the HOPS they had in their earlier games. On the flip side, the puzzles are very good and have a higher level of challenge. I found the gate puzzle to be a bit tricky and it took some time to get it right, mainly because I didn’t understand the instructions. There is one other tricky puzzle in the demo where we need to connect the dots across an invitation.
If you prefer the CE version of a game this one includes collectibles and morphing objects to find., achievements to earn and the other standard fluff that includes Wallpapers, Concept Art, Pictures, Music, Videos, replay of HOPS and Puzzles, a Strategy Guide and a Bonus Chapter
The graphics are excellent as are the soundtrack and voiceovers, which is what I expect to find in games from the EIPIX team. Other technical aspects include the various modes of gameplay with the custom mode allowing you to fiddle with the various buttons to set up the game the way you like to play. There is an integrated map available as well.
The HOP scenes are varied and quite creative AND more difficult than in other games. There is an interesting HOP where we meet Dorothy and the other members of the Order Zero (OZ) team that I did find a bit difficult because some of the items are very small or fade into the background. Most of the HOPS in the demo are well-designed and seem different than those we have seen before. I am not sure I particularly care for the change in the HOPS and wish this developer would go back to the the HOPS they had in their earlier games. On the flip side, the puzzles are very good and have a higher level of challenge. I found the gate puzzle to be a bit tricky and it took some time to get it right, mainly because I didn’t understand the instructions. There is one other tricky puzzle in the demo where we need to connect the dots across an invitation.
If you prefer the CE version of a game this one includes collectibles and morphing objects to find., achievements to earn and the other standard fluff that includes Wallpapers, Concept Art, Pictures, Music, Videos, replay of HOPS and Puzzles, a Strategy Guide and a Bonus Chapter
When the Vermillion Watch series was introduced with The Moorgate Accord, I thought it was excellent. I didn’t care as much for the second game but I really like Order Zero. My only complaint is that I think the introduction of a gang of American bounty hunters based on the Oz theme is a bit too much and somehow seems out of place or really not needed. As if the OZ gang didn’t add enough characters to the game we then meet the famous Captain Nemo bunch towards the end of the demo. There so many characters in the game that I had a hard time keeping track of who’s who. By the time the demo ended I wasn’t sure who could be trusted. Even though I feel that the OZ characters are out of place in the game, I still enjoyed the challenges I faced as I tried to find out who was really pulling the strings in this game. Please try the demo to see if this is a game you will enjoy. Happy gaming!
Can you save your young nephew from an unimaginable fate?
Overall rating
3
/
5
74 of 109 found this review helpful
GRAB DAD AND HURRY OFF TO DO A BIT OF GHOST BUSTING IN THIS LATEST GRIM TALES
PostedAugust 3, 2017
biscuitsmama
fromIsn’t it a bit weird to be carting your dad’s skull around in your handbag?
Skill Level:Expert
Fun Factor
3
/
5
Visual/Sound Quality
3
/
5
Level of Challenge
4
/
5
Storyline
4
/
5
Anna Grey is back in yet another of the never-ending installments of the Grey family saga or the antics of their children in this case. Anna receives an urgent call from her nephew Brandon asking for her help because his son Billy has gone missing from the Evergreen Boarding School along with his school friend Sarah. When Anna rushes to the school she finds there has been a fire that has destroyed portions of the school but thankfully the children were evacuated, with the exception of Billy and Sarah who are still missing. Will you be able to solve yet another mysterious case and save Billy and his friend from the White Lady?
The technical aspects of the game are in line with those of other games from this developer, but the graphics are really very cartoonish with the exception of Richard who is well illustrated. As I played the game I kept feeling like I was in the pages of a comic book. Aside from the graphics that really put me off, the sound and voiceovers are generally okay.. The game offers the custom mode with hints and skips that can be set in a range of 15 to 90 seconds as well as other options to set up the gameplay as you wish. There is an interactive map and you have a helper in the form of your dear old dad, Richard, or at least his skull to tag along on your inventory bar.
The HOPS offered a variety of interactive scenes including list, silhouette, and matching types. The HOPS were interesting and sometimes items were difficult to spot but the scenes were actually very good. The puzzles again are familiar but some have a different twist. I found the puzzles easy and maybe geared to newer players. Although none of the puzzles were difficult I found them quite a bit of fun and know that there will be a few head-scratchers thrown in later in the game.
If you prefer the CE version of a game, this one includes two collectibles and morphing objects to find, achievements to earn and the other expected extras this developer includes in its CE games such as the Secret Room, replay of HOPS and Puzzles, a 40-page Strategy Guide, and the Bonus Chapter.
Grim Tales: The White Lady is game number thirteen in this series. Honestly, I have lost all interest in the Grey family storyline at this point and think it is time to either end the series or start up with an independent theme in future games. I dislike having Richard’s Skull tag along and really wish he would go away. I don’t find other types of helpers nearly as annoying as “The Skull.” The White Lady is, IMHO, a rather boring game and one that I might consider when I have nothing better to play. Although I don’t find the game thrilling, I am sure it will be a wonderful and appealing game to the newer generation of gamers. There are other games out there that happen to ring my bell and many of them are from years ago that I still enjoy. If you like the back and forth action of finding bits and pieces scattered in different locations then you will most likely love Grim Tales The White Lady. As always, I recommend that you try the demo to see if The White Lady is a game you will enjoy. Happy gaming!
I recommend this game!
Can you stop a deadly curse before it’s too late?
Overall rating
5
/
5
112 of 143 found this review helpful
HEARTS AND ROSES, WITH A MISGUIDED SORCERESS THROWN IN FOR GOOD MEASURE ALL ADD UP TO A FUN GAME!
PostedJuly 29, 2017
Fun Factor
5
/
5
Visual/Sound Quality
5
/
5
Level of Challenge
5
/
5
Storyline
5
/
5
Count Darren Gray has fallen in love and Tess has now agreed to become his wife. No sooner have the vows been said and the couple is blissfully celebrating than an old enemy makes an appearance disrupting the nuptials and promising to exact revenge on the Count. We soon learn that Ursula, a sorceress blames Count Gray for the death of her beloved and now she is going to see that he suffers as she has. Ursula curses Tess with a slow and painful death, and as she and her henchmen kidnap the Count she swears that before he dies, he will know the same pain that she has felt she has felt. Now it is up to you to save your beloved but it definitely won’t be easy.
Graphics are absolutely gorgeous. I am simply a hopeless romantic at heart and this game has it all for me. The voiceovers are very good as is the familiar Immortal Love soundtrack although it does seem a bit repetitious at times. Even with its minor faults I still love the Immortal Love series and have all of the games that have been released. The game offers four modes of gameplay including Casual, Advanced, and Custom. The custom mode allows you to change various setting and to set the hints in a range of 10 to 120 seconds and the skips between 10 to 320 seconds. The interactive map is present at the beginning of the game. You acquire another tool a bit into the game and it will help you get rid of various roadblocks and annoyances. I don’t want to say too much about it because it is more fun if you discover it and its uses for yourself.
HOPS are interactive and very well-designed, and although there is some variety they are mostly the list type that is my favorite. The HOPS are gorgeous and the items are for the most part easy to find without going blind or needing a magnifying glass. The Puzzles are familiar and some are very easy such as the first one in the game where you remove pieces from a jeweled case. No matter how easy or challenging, I happen to enjoy most of the puzzles that are included in HOPA games and know that I can expect a lot of entertainment over the next several hours. The overall gameplay is a bit easy but there were times I wasn’t quite sure what to do or what item I should use to move forward.
The CE version of the game includes collectible candles and morphing objects to find, there are achievements to earn, wallpapers, screensavers concept artwork, music, movies, replay of HOPS and Puzzles, a Bonus Chapter, and a Strategy Guide.
Yes, I know that most of the games in this series, as are most games to be honest, very much alike. I agree that we have played this same theme a hundred or more times in the past but keep in mind that not all gamers are as addicted to HOPA games as are many of us who have been playing games in this genre for many, many years. To gamers who are new the theme might still be very interesting and still have a lot of appeal. Yes I have encountered sorcerers, evil entities, black smoke, broken zipper pulls, and all of those things that seem to irritate gamers who have been there and seen it all before. That being said, I still am a hopeless fan of the genre and can generally find something that I love in most HOPA games. What I really like about this series is the underlying love story theme – where love will seemingly conquer all. As I said earlier, I am a hopeless romantic and hope to be until the day I leave this world and start a new adventure. As far as I am concerned this developer does a wonderful job with presenting their love stories and most of their games. So today I am very happy that I can immerse myself in a love story with a sorceress and other unknown roadblocks to wedded bliss thrown into the mix. I have no doubt that at the end of the day, true love will overcome all and we will have a happy ending.
Can you stop an ancient darkness before it’s too late?
Overall rating
5
/
5
125 of 170 found this review helpful
THE DINOSAUR JUST MADE MY DAY!
PostedJuly 27, 2017
biscuitsmama
fromA simply amazing game that shows the creative genius of the development team
Skill Level:Expert
Fun Factor
5
/
5
Visual/Sound Quality
5
/
5
Level of Challenge
5
/
5
Storyline
5
/
5
Mad Head has done it again with what is certain to be another hit game - Shadowplay 2 Whispers of the Past. You play the game as Alicia Cole, a Research Consultant, hired by a university after an ancient Persian artifact, The Skull of Darkness, is excavated. The Skull is now on display on in an exhibit that is opening in just two days at the museum and you are working late to put the finishing touches on the exhibit. Your daughter Maya stops by your office to let you know she will wait for you in the car, but shortly after she leaves your office you hear a loud ruckus in the hall. When you step out of your office you realize that a burglar has stolen the precious artifact and is holding Maya as a hostage to ensure her escape from the museum with the stolen artifact. As soon as the burglar touches the skull its outer clay shell breaks and Maya is somehow sucked into the Skull. It is said that the Skull contains the forces that exist on the other side of light and now you get a glimpse of the terror through Maya’s eyes. Will you be able to save your daughter from the horror that awaits her?
The graphics in the game are crisp and crystal clear, with the scenes being exceptionally well-designed. As a rule I dislike games with live acting but, in this case, the developers did such an incredible job of selecting the right actors for the job that they are very believable. Not only is the acting realistic but the voices are excellent as well. The overall feel of the game is almost like stepping into a film because it is that good! Other technical aspects include five modes of gameplay including – Enthusiast, Archeologist, Conservator, Lecturer, and Curator (Custom). If you select the custom mode you can fiddle with all of the settings to set up the gameplay as you like. Hints and Skips both recharge in a range of 15 to 90 seconds. Your tools include a map that is present at the beginning of the game as well as an amulet that will allow you to dispel the creatures that emit from the skull.
The HOPS are extremely well-crafted and although they are not new, they are a refreshing and interesting take on those we normally see. I found the HOPS fun to play and some of the items were a bit difficult to find. The puzzles are excellent and again even though they are not necessarily new, they are done in a way that makes them seem different.
The HOPS are extremely well-crafted and although they are not new, they are a refreshing and interesting take on those we normally see. I found the HOPS fun to play and some of the items were a bit difficult to find. The puzzles are excellent and again even though they are not necessarily new, they are done in a way that makes them seem different.
The CE version of the game includes 36 collectibles, 19 morphing objects, and 36 bonus treasures to find. The usual roster of achievements is available if you love earning them in a HOPA game. Other extras include wallpapers, concept artwork, soundtrack, a bonus chapter, and a strategy guide.
This is one of the most impressive games to come our way this year. The graphics are so amazing and I loved the massive dinosaur skeleton that goes on the attack in the museum hall. It is incredible the way the artistic team brought the dinosaur to life. There is no need for me to say more. The game is a definite immediate purchase for me. I hope you give the demo a try and will be as impressed as I am by this wonderful game that has just set the bar a bit higher! Kudos to Mad Head and BFG on an AWESOME game! Happy gaming!
I recommend this game!
Become the hero of your own chapter in Tiny Tales: Heart of the Forest.
Overall rating
5
/
5
101 of 125 found this review helpful
A GORGEOUS FANTASY GAME REMINISCENT OF THE ROBIN HOOD THEME
PostedJuly 25, 2017
biscuitsmama
fromI had better brush up on my tournament skills if I am going to help Max save the day
Skill Level:Expert
Fun Factor
5
/
5
Visual/Sound Quality
4
/
5
Level of Challenge
5
/
5
Storyline
5
/
5
It is said that there is a kingdom hidden under the mushrooms and leaves of the forest where tiny people live in harmony with all creatures. And so begins the story of Max. Max arrives home after being away on his travels only find that things don’t feel quite right in his awesome little world. As he reaches his home he finds his mother being harassed by the King’s advisor/tax collector – Rattus Rathburn. It seems that Max’s family owes some tax money but what he has isn’t nearly enough. Fortunately there are signs posted for a tournament that has a huge prize. If Max can only win that tournament, surely that will be more than enough to satisfy the tax collector. The game rather reminds me of the “Robin Hood” theme. Play through this beautiful fantasy game and help Max save the day.
Tiny Tales Heart of the Forest is a wonderful fantasy game that can be enjoyed by the entire family. It would be a terrific way to keep the grandkids entertained when they come for a visit.
The graphics are gorgeous and colorful. The developer has done an excellent job in creating this tiny world by using live actors along with their beautiful hand-drawn artwork. It is not often that we see this type of creativity in games and I absolutely love it. How refreshing to see a fantasy game without clouds of black smoke used to portray some unspecified evil. For me the only drawback is the soundtrack that I found quite repetitive and annoying. The voiceovers certainly left a lot to be desired as did the dialog, but since the rest of the game is so excellent, I can overlook them. The game offers the expected modes of gameplay with the custom mode allowing the player to change some settings. I wish this developer would get rid of the misclick penalty or at least allow it to be turned off. Your tools include an interactive map and a spell book that will allow you to cast spells to get rid of obstacles.
The HOPS are creative and a blend of the variety we normally see with list, silhouette and storybook scenes included. The PUZZLES in the game are fairly easy but we all should know by now that they become increasingly challenging as the game progresses. Some of the earlier puzzles are not my favorite type and involve using a balance pole – ugh.
The HOPS are creative and a blend of the variety we normally see with list, silhouette and storybook scenes included. The PUZZLES in the game are fairly easy but we all should know by now that they become increasingly challenging as the game progresses. Some of the earlier puzzles are not my favorite type and involve using a balance pole – ugh.
The CE version of the game includes collectibles and morphing objects to find. Of course we have achievements to earn if you are interested in those. Other extras include wallpapers, concept art, music, replay of HOPS and Puzzles, a bonus chapter and strategy guide.
Tiny Tales Heart of the Forest is an ingenious game that shows the creativity of this developer. That being said, I just couldn’t get into the game because it seemed almost tedious with so many little items to find. At almost every turn I needed an item to complete another item so it could be used. I know this is standard in all HOPA games but it almost seemed too much at times. Maybe on another day when I have a bit more patience this game will be perfect for me. I am sure that many of you will absolutely love Tiny Tales Heart of the Forest as it is such a beautiful and refreshing fantasy game. Happy Gaming!
I recommend this game!