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:
The town of Brightfield is under attack by a mysterious infection!
Overall rating
4
/
5
83 of 113 found this review helpful
I LOVE MYSTERY TRACKERS BUT THE TEDIOUS HOPS ARE ALMOST A BIT TOO MUCH
PostedDecember 10, 2016
Fun Factor
3
/
5
Visual/Sound Quality
3
/
5
Level of Challenge
4
/
5
Storyline
5
/
5
In a nod to one of my favorite games in the series, Raincliff, we go back to those familiar scenes in the town of Brightfield, which seems like a homecoming of sorts. With Elf by your side (and all decked out in his stylish doggie hazmat suit) you will battle an epidemic that is turning Brightfield’s citizens into monsters.
Gameplay Modes Include: Casual, Advanced Hardcore, and Detective, which is the custom mode where you can fiddle with various settings. Your tools include an interactive map and your little buddy, Elf. I know that many of you dislike helpers and for the most part I am not overly fond of them but Elf is an exception because he is really one of the trademarks of the Mystery Trackers games.
At one time I loved playing the HOPS in a game from the Mammoth team, but in an effort to make their games more difficult, the team has resorted to including some very tedious HOP scenes that I didn’t enjoy. Yes, there is variety in the scenes and many are interactive but I certainly don’t like having to hunt through dark scenes to find tiny or almost invisible items. I like challenge but don’t want to grit my teeth as I play through a HOP. While the HOPS are tedious, I found the puzzles fun and doable. Some had more challenge than others but all of them were entertaining. I particularly enjoyed the sliding puzzle where we must place items by the symbols on their tokens. It was a bit time-consuming and I loved it since I’ve not seen this puzzle in a long time. Other puzzles were equally fun to solve which compensated for the HOPS.
If you enjoy the CE version of games, this one includes the following extra content: fresco pieces and cards to locate in various scenes, morphing objects that are necessary to your survival. Other standard extras include achievements, bonus chapter, strategy guide, wallpapers, concept art, music, videos, replay of HOPS (but why anyone would want to suffer through them a second time is beyond me) and puzzles, a secret room and more.
At one time I loved playing the HOPS in a game from the Mammoth team, but in an effort to make their games more difficult, the team has resorted to including some very tedious HOP scenes that I didn’t enjoy. Yes, there is variety in the scenes and many are interactive but I certainly don’t like having to hunt through dark scenes to find tiny or almost invisible items. I like challenge but don’t want to grit my teeth as I play through a HOP. While the HOPS are tedious, I found the puzzles fun and doable. Some had more challenge than others but all of them were entertaining. I particularly enjoyed the sliding puzzle where we must place items by the symbols on their tokens. It was a bit time-consuming and I loved it since I’ve not seen this puzzle in a long time. Other puzzles were equally fun to solve which compensated for the HOPS.
If you enjoy the CE version of games, this one includes the following extra content: fresco pieces and cards to locate in various scenes, morphing objects that are necessary to your survival. Other standard extras include achievements, bonus chapter, strategy guide, wallpapers, concept art, music, videos, replay of HOPS (but why anyone would want to suffer through them a second time is beyond me) and puzzles, a secret room and more.
As much as I have always loved the Mystery Trackers games, the HOPS are not what I consider fun. My eyes are excellent but there are many older players who have issues seeing items that are as tiny as many of the hidden objects in Queen of Hearts. In the past I couldn’t hit the buy button fast enough when a new Mystery Trackers game was released but I might decide to wait on this one. If you really don’t mind sorting through dark junk piles then this game is right up your alley. Please be sure to try the demo to see if Queen of Hearts is a game you will enjoy.
I recommend this game!
Can you save the children of the town in time?
Overall rating
2
/
5
40 of 49 found this review helpful
A GAME WITH POTENTIAL BUT DIDN’T LIVE UP TO THE STANDARD OF CHIMERAS
PostedDecember 9, 2016
biscuitsmama
fromBoring, ho-hum, boring! Maybe I should just play in the sandbox with the kids.
Skill Level:Expert
Fun Factor
2
/
5
Visual/Sound Quality
3
/
5
Level of Challenge
3
/
5
Storyline
2
/
5
In Chimeras: Mortal Medicine you play the game as a detective who has been asked to investigate a mysterious illness that has fallen upon the children in the town of Ronas. The town’s doctor created a vaccine that took the life of his daughter and now he is accused of murder and faces the executioner’s axe. It seems the illness started when a dark stranger visited Ronas but he has disappeared. Now detective, you must not only find the stranger who might be the cause of the epidemic, but you must prove the innocence of the doctor as well.
Chimeras Mortal Medicine is game number four in the series. I absolutely loved the first game Tune of Revenge and had high hopes for the subsequent games but some were a disappointment. At least for me, Mortal Medicine is better than the previous game in the series and although it is still early in the game, I am enjoying the HOPS, puzzles and storyline.
The game offers four modes of gameplay – Casual, Detective, Super, and Custom. Hints and skips can be set in a range of 15 – 90 seconds. I would suggest turning off the sparkles in the custom mode because more seasoned gamers will hate having huge areas of sparkles all over each screen. Your tools include an integrated transporter type map that is quite helpful.
I find the HOPS to be enjoyable mainly because list types have always been my favorite. Although the HOPS are varied in type, I am not fond of the silhouette scenes. The puzzles, although on the easy side, are quite fun and I find them enjoyable.
If you prefer the CE version of games Mortal Medicine has collectibles that include puzzle pieces, cards, and morphing objects to find throughout the game. The standard fare includes 16 wallpapers, 12 concept art, screensavers that will be created by the puzzle pieces, 5 music tracks, an album created by the cards, a secret room, bonus chapter, a 45 page strategy guide, and let’s not forget those achievements that are earned aw we play. All in all, Mortal Medicine offers a nice CE package.
When Mortal Medicine was released I had high hopes for the game and gave it a high 5-star rating. What a huge mistake. It wasn’t long before I realized how boring the game was and nothing like a Chimeras game should be. I don’t know who the creative force behind the Mammoth team is now but their games have for the most part gone into the cellar. Most of us who have played HOPAs for a very long time, have seen games that were once unique and almost classics, deteriorate with sequel after sequel until there is nothing new or refreshing left to be found. I don’t usually cry “same ole, same ole”, but the endless sequels are destroying HOPA games. Then along comes Mortal Medicine, a sequel that had nothing of the wonderful story that made Tune of Revenge a top-notch game. Please try the demo but be aware that, IMHO, the game soon fails to hit the mark.
I don't recommend this game.
Can you stop the Brotherhood of Stone Masks in time?
Overall rating
5
/
5
67 of 83 found this review helpful
WHAT WOULD YOU DO TO SAVE THOSE YOU LOVE?
PostedDecember 8, 2016
biscuitsmama
fromI sure hope I make the right choices as I try to save my dad
Skill Level:Expert
Fun Factor
5
/
5
Visual/Sound Quality
5
/
5
Level of Challenge
5
/
5
Storyline
5
/
5
“Every miracle has a price,” and with those words this game of choices and lessons about the cost of those choices begins. What would you do for true love and to heal those you love?
You play the game as Louise who shares an antiques business with your father Greg. As the story begins you, and dad are traveling around Central Germany in search of items to sell back home but while you are there you will also visit with Conrad, an old family friend. It is a stormy night as you approach the tavern where Conrad is staying and the horses are spooked by the storm, and your wagon plunges over the mountain side. When you and dad didn’t arrive at the inn as expected Conrad came looking for you, and it is a good thing he did. After you catch your breath from the traumatic fall, you notice that something seems unusual about Conrad’s hand but he tells you it is nothing, just an old injury. Although Conrad happens to be a handsome fellow, I think I might have been a bit concerned about that odd looking glove on his hand.
You play the game as Louise who shares an antiques business with your father Greg. As the story begins you, and dad are traveling around Central Germany in search of items to sell back home but while you are there you will also visit with Conrad, an old family friend. It is a stormy night as you approach the tavern where Conrad is staying and the horses are spooked by the storm, and your wagon plunges over the mountain side. When you and dad didn’t arrive at the inn as expected Conrad came looking for you, and it is a good thing he did. After you catch your breath from the traumatic fall, you notice that something seems unusual about Conrad’s hand but he tells you it is nothing, just an old injury. Although Conrad happens to be a handsome fellow, I think I might have been a bit concerned about that odd looking glove on his hand.
Custom mode allows you to set hint time from 10 – 180 seconds and skip time from 10 - 320 seconds. I always skip the tutorial, which is the main reason I prefer the custom mode of gameplay; well that, and also because I tend to be impatient and want the lowest hint time available. Your tools include a transporter type map that allows you to move quickly between locations and an amulet that is a bit different than some we find in other HOPA games.
Although at times the game seems a bit “sugary” and might not appeal to everyone, I happen to love it. The game is from a special group of friends who has given us some terrific HOPA games over the years that are generally well-designed games with good storylines and great gameplay. The HOPS are interactive with items that are not too difficult to find. The puzzles, even though a bit easy, are still fun to solve as I navigate the game.
Although at times the game seems a bit “sugary” and might not appeal to everyone, I happen to love it. The game is from a special group of friends who has given us some terrific HOPA games over the years that are generally well-designed games with good storylines and great gameplay. The HOPS are interactive with items that are not too difficult to find. The puzzles, even though a bit easy, are still fun to solve as I navigate the game.
If you enjoy the CE version of games this one includes portrait pieces to collect. The remaining extra content is the standard fare with achievements to earn, a bonus chapter, strategy guide, wallpapers, screensavers, artwork, music, and replay HOPs and puzzles. The CE package isn’t that great but it DOES have the in-game strategy guide that can provide a bit of extra help if needed. Most seasoned, long-time HOPA game lovers rarely use the strategy guide but it is still a great benefit at times.
Not everyone will enjoy this game and I am sure there will be the usual cry of “same old thing”, but I happen to love the game. Although the game is basically a love story, it is also a lesson in morals and values, making choices, and the consequences of the choices we make. Although I find Price of a Miracle to be an excellent game, please be sure to try the demo to see if it is a game you will enjoy as well.
I recommend this game!
Can you stop a destructive scientist before it's too late?
Overall rating
5
/
5
101 of 128 found this review helpful
STOP A ROGUE AGENT BEFORE HE STOPS YOU!
PostedDecember 6, 2016
biscuitsmama
fromI want one of those anti-gravity things - something that will come in handy as I try to rearrange the living room.
Skill Level:Expert
Fun Factor
5
/
5
Visual/Sound Quality
5
/
5
Level of Challenge
5
/
5
Storyline
5
/
5
Agent, your mission is to stop a rogue agent from destroying the Curio Society. Jack, a one-time agent for the society, is on a rampage and bent on revenge after being expelled from the society years ago – and now he is back. In an urgent message from the Chief, his last words before losing the connection were to find the scientist Mary Fincher. Off you go on another mission and this time your very life may well depend on finding Mary.
The Curio Society games have not always been ones that I have loved but Thief of Life is a terrific game with everything I want in a HOPA. The HOPS are varied and there are many puzzles that will keep me happily engaged as I play through the story. If puzzles take you to your happy place, then I am sure you will enjoy solving the puzzles in this game. If you aren’t swept away by puzzles, the developer has included easy and hard settings for most of the puzzles in Thief of Life. If you want to skip the puzzles, the custom mode of gameplay will allow you to skip them after 15 seconds.
While the game has wonderful, colorful, and crisp graphics the voiceovers and dialog are a bit corny at times. The Custom mode allows you to set the hints and skips in a range of 15 to 90 seconds. Your tools include an interactive map and an antigravity scepter.
The HOPS are varied in style and the items are not too difficult to find. I am not going to give you all the details because discovery is something that makes playing games fun. I will only mention that for me the HOPS are fun and that I enjoyed playing the scenes. The puzzles are terrific, even those toggle types (not my favorite type of puzzle) proved solvable if I took my time. The game developer took the game to another level in my opinion by including the option of either an easy or hard setting for most puzzles.
The HOPS are varied in style and the items are not too difficult to find. I am not going to give you all the details because discovery is something that makes playing games fun. I will only mention that for me the HOPS are fun and that I enjoyed playing the scenes. The puzzles are terrific, even those toggle types (not my favorite type of puzzle) proved solvable if I took my time. The game developer took the game to another level in my opinion by including the option of either an easy or hard setting for most puzzles.
If you enjoy the CE version of games, this one includes the following extras: two types of collectibles to find throughout the game, morphing objects in some scenes, achievements to earn, a bonus chapter, strategy guide, replay of puzzles and HOPS, wallpapers, concept art, and music. For me the extras represent a decent CE package.
As you have probably guessed by now, “The Curio Society The Thief of Life” is a must-have game for me. I love the storyline and this one isn’t as far-fetched as some of the others. The game has a good pace so I didn’t feel bogged down with too many silly tasks to complete before moving forward. As a puzzle lover this game is perfect for me and an instant buy. Even though I enjoy the game, please be sure to try the demo to see if Thief of Life is one that you will like as well.
I recommend this game!
Uncover a secret from the past to save your dying father!
Overall rating
5
/
5
45 of 60 found this review helpful
CAN YOU FIND THE ARTIFACT AND HEAL THE DEVASTAION IN A DYING POST-APOCALYPTIC WORLD?
PostedDecember 4, 2016
Fun Factor
5
/
5
Visual/Sound Quality
5
/
5
Level of Challenge
5
/
5
Storyline
5
/
5
From a developer who is now emerging as one of the most creative and innovative producers of casual games comes Dawn of Hope Skyline Adventure, an exciting sci-fi/fantasy blend that is sure to please gamers who have been clamoring for something different. At least for me this game represents the best of both genres so I knew it would be an instant purchase.
In the opening cutscene the elven queen tells her people that since the time elves have started living along side of humans they have shared the same ill fates. The world is dying but there is hope: a prophecy that a champion from the world of humans will enter the forbidden zone and bring the queen a special artifact that will allow the queen to heal both worlds. The queen had hoped that Lana’s father was their long-awaited champion but he failed and the queen now asks you to take up the quest and succeed where he did not. You will play the game as Lana who is now trying desperately to save her dying father who returned from the “forbidden zone” in the lower world, after failing to find the artifact. Those who remain in the world now live “above” – in the trees and higher plateaus far from the destruction that once took place below. Will you be able to succeed in finding the artifact and save both your father? Face seemingly unsurmountable obstacles as you take up the quest to find the Nucleus and play through this wonderful new HOPA game.
In the opening cutscene the elven queen tells her people that since the time elves have started living along side of humans they have shared the same ill fates. The world is dying but there is hope: a prophecy that a champion from the world of humans will enter the forbidden zone and bring the queen a special artifact that will allow the queen to heal both worlds. The queen had hoped that Lana’s father was their long-awaited champion but he failed and the queen now asks you to take up the quest and succeed where he did not. You will play the game as Lana who is now trying desperately to save her dying father who returned from the “forbidden zone” in the lower world, after failing to find the artifact. Those who remain in the world now live “above” – in the trees and higher plateaus far from the destruction that once took place below. Will you be able to succeed in finding the artifact and save both your father? Face seemingly unsurmountable obstacles as you take up the quest to find the Nucleus and play through this wonderful new HOPA game.
Something I love about this game is that the artists have been able to create awesome graphics that depict the decaying “forbidden zone” without every scene being totally drenched in tones of gray, brown, and black. Although the world below is dreary, there is still some brilliant color in the scenes as well. The voices are wonderful and with the overall sound package make the game see realistic. I was so immersed in the game that when the demo ended I knew that I had to keep going.
The game tools include an interactive map but you also receive a magic rune table from your father’s friend Coop. This special cube will help you create or repair items by combining parts of other items after you play a mini-game to clear the runes from the top of the cube. A gimmick, of course, but I rather like this one.
The HOPS were well-designed and very interactive. Lately, I have become a bit bored with some HOPS that seem to require a bit too much interaction but I actually enjoyed these as they are very creative. The mini-games were not difficult but maybe that is because I happen to enjoy the ones found in the demo. As we all know, the puzzles inevitably become more challenging as the game progresses but at least you can hit the skip button if you don’t want to solve them.
If you enjoy the CE version of games, this one includes the following extras: there are 32 collectible fairies and 18 morphing objects to be found, and also 14 achievements to earn. The standard extras include the bonus game, strategy guide, 16 gorgeous wallpapers, soundtrack, and a Rune Game.
Recently we have seen several excellent games from this developer and now I find myself eagerly waiting for their next release. Dawn of Hope Skyline Adventure shows that fantasy and sci-fi fit nicely to create a new type of game that I happen to love. The storyline is excellent and the gameplay moved smoothly through the storyline to present a game that I find very entertaining. Since the game was an instant buy for me, I need to post this review and get back to playing. As always, please try the demo to see if you will enjoy this game as well.
Recently we have seen several excellent games from this developer and now I find myself eagerly waiting for their next release. Dawn of Hope Skyline Adventure shows that fantasy and sci-fi fit nicely to create a new type of game that I happen to love. The storyline is excellent and the gameplay moved smoothly through the storyline to present a game that I find very entertaining. Since the game was an instant buy for me, I need to post this review and get back to playing. As always, please try the demo to see if you will enjoy this game as well.
I recommend this game!
Can you clear her name before it’s too late?
Overall rating
5
/
5
108 of 124 found this review helpful
A WONDERFUL NEW GAME WITH A TOUCH OF EYE CANDY FOR THE LADIES
PostedDecember 2, 2016
biscuitsmama
fromI think I just want to run away with Captain Louis and forget about my mission
Skill Level:Expert
Fun Factor
5
/
5
Visual/Sound Quality
5
/
5
Level of Challenge
5
/
5
Storyline
5
/
5
In a terrific game that will hopefully become a new series, you play the game as Lady Jane a confident and ward of Queen Elizabeth. The queen has received a message accusing her of witchcraft and has been given three days to give up her throne or she will burn. Because the queen believes you have the expertise to handle a delicate situation she sends you on a dangerous mission right through the port where rebellion is brewing. Once on the road your carriage is attacked by rebels and you manage to escape before heading towards the port on your own. Just as the rebels catch up with you a hero comes to your rescue. Meet Louis, the gorgeous sea captain who the queen has hired to take you to your final destination.
Technical aspects of the game include excellent graphics with hand-drawn artwork, very good voiceovers and great sound effects that add to the total package. Gameplay modes Include: Casual, Advanced Hard, and Custom. In the custom mode you can set hints and skips in range of 5 – 240. Your tools include an interactive map and Louis who will help your during your journey. Well it could be worse – we could have a pet for a helper. I much prefer Louis who is quite funny and kept me entertained not only as a piece of eye candy but for his witty comments as he helped me complete some tasks.
Technical aspects of the game include excellent graphics with hand-drawn artwork, very good voiceovers and great sound effects that add to the total package. Gameplay modes Include: Casual, Advanced Hard, and Custom. In the custom mode you can set hints and skips in range of 5 – 240. Your tools include an interactive map and Louis who will help your during your journey. Well it could be worse – we could have a pet for a helper. I much prefer Louis who is quite funny and kept me entertained not only as a piece of eye candy but for his witty comments as he helped me complete some tasks.
The HOP scenes are excellent, interactive, and varied with many including puzzles. I enjoyed the HOPS since most of them use lists rather than vague silhouettes of items to find. The puzzles, although not difficult, were fun and added to the gameplay. If you want more details of the HOPS and puzzles another reviewer provides those details for you while I prefer to let you discover the fun factor as you play through the game.
If you prefer the CE version of a game, the extras include 39 morphing objects to find and coins to collect that are used to purchase interface changes. There are achievements that can be earned as you play through the game. Other extras include the bonus chapter, strategy guide, wallpapers, concept artwork, and music.
I love this game! For many it might just be the same ole, same ole but since I love HOPA games my criteria might be a bit different. I base my enjoyment of a game on the storyline as well as the HOPS (yes, searching for objects was what originally drew me to the genre), and the puzzles. Secrets of Great Queens: Old Tower is quite entertaining to play and has a well-developed storyline. With excellent graphics, sound, and interesting characters Secrets of Great Queens becomes the complete package for me. Even though this is a game I will buy, please try the demo to see if it is a game you will enjoy.
I recommend this game!
A sudden murder overshadows the writing opportunity of a lifetime.
Overall rating
5
/
5
37 of 42 found this review helpful
DO I REALLY WANT TO BE IN THIS COMPETITION? MAYBE THE STAKES ARE TOO HIGH!
PostedNovember 27, 2016
biscuitsmama
fromWinning isn’t everything – getting out alive is more important
Skill Level:Expert
Fun Factor
5
/
5
Visual/Sound Quality
5
/
5
Level of Challenge
5
/
5
Storyline
5
/
5
As the acclaimed writer of the popular Dead Reckoning series you have been invited along with four other authors to compete for a chance to write the biography of Harridan Welles an extremely wealthy and reclusive tycoon. Before you know it you have been whisked away on a private plane to Mr. Welles secluded mountain home where you meet the other four competitors. Things quickly take a turn when one of the authors is killed shortly after your arrival and only go from bad to worse as you are drugged and then almost asphyxiated when you get to your suite. Is someone trying to narrow the field or is there something more going on? Play this excellent new Dead Reckoning game as you attempt to find the murderer and stay alive. If you are lucky, you might just survive and win the competition.
It is no secret that I am a huge fan of this developer and love most of the Dead Reckoning games but I would venture to say that this one might be the best yet. The graphics are very good although I have some time related confusion that doesn’t always make sense. Your tools include an interactive map and, as is the case with other games in the series, you have deduction tools at your disposal, this time all neatly stored in your tablet.
The HOP scenes are well-designed and fit beautifully into the storyline without making the game seem choppy. If you choose not to hunt for items in the HOPS there is an alternate bubble-shooter game available. The puzzles are good but most are typical and familiar to those we normally find from this developer. I did find one during the demo to be challenging, at least for me since I don’t care for this type of maze puzzle. I don’t mind taking time to solve a puzzle but I want the logic to be a bit more obvious instead of having to make a wrong move and then start all over again. However, for the most part I like most of the puzzles and find them entertaining.
The question is always, should I go for the CE or wait for the SE to be released? In my case I can hardly wait for the next HOPA game to be released so I generally am chomping at the bit by the time they hit the BFG market. If you enjoy CE games because of the extra content Death Between the Lines offers the following goodies: collectible $ bills hidden in each scene, morphing objects found in HOPS, strategy guide, bonus chapter, concept art, wallpapers, music, videos and replay of HOPS and puzzles, Bubble-Shooter game, and the souvenir room. All extras in Death Between the Lines are consistent with those this developer generally offers in its CE version.
For me the biggest selling point in the game is the creative storyline. I am enjoying the way the game is presented and actually feel like I am a part of the mystery. Although I think I have figured out who the murderer might be, there might be some surprises ahead. Death Between the Lines is an instant buy for me but, as always, please try the demo to see if you will enjoy the game as well.
For me the biggest selling point in the game is the creative storyline. I am enjoying the way the game is presented and actually feel like I am a part of the mystery. Although I think I have figured out who the murderer might be, there might be some surprises ahead. Death Between the Lines is an instant buy for me but, as always, please try the demo to see if you will enjoy the game as well.
Investigate a virtual reality program that’s turning some players comatose.
Overall rating
5
/
5
126 of 154 found this review helpful
WOW THE VIRTUAL REALITY WORLD IS QUITE AWESOME
PostedNovember 26, 2016
biscuitsmama
fromI think I need a Nexus 2000 to see what world I could explore
Skill Level:Expert
Fun Factor
5
/
5
Visual/Sound Quality
5
/
5
Level of Challenge
5
/
5
Storyline
5
/
5
In this futuristic new Surface game you play a recently hired detective beginning a life or death job with the Virtual Reality Detective Agency. The only shadow on the horizon is that new Virtual Reality technology, the Nexus 2000 capsule created by Dr. Stein might not be as safe as was once thought. Recently over 1,000 people using the new capsule have either disappeared or become comatose after a journey into the virtual world. Not long ago you experienced an accident in the virtual reality world and you were effectively banished. After that you gave it all up until your friend Jean became a victim and went missing in the virtual reality world. Your friend Stephen begged you to join the agency so you could work with him to find Jean. Off you go into the virtual reality world via the new Nexus 2000 and begin the adventure of a lifetime. Wow, the virtual reality environment created in the capsule is quite something – or so you think as you begin to experience this new reality.
The graphics are excellent and crisp both in the real and virtual worlds and represent some of the best in the Surface series. The characters are created to perfection and seem very real with voiceovers that bring them to life. A special touch as you enter the Nexus capsule is that you can create your character’s gender as well as body type, which is nice for all the male gamers out there who are often stuck playing a female role in most HOPA games Your tools include an interactive map, a debugging device that can find and repair “glitches” in the scenes, and your computer journal. I didn’t see any fur buddies lurking around just waiting for the chance to be my helper.
The HOPS are wonderful and so well-designed that they fit seamlessly into the storyline. The puzzles are just as excellent though some might think them a bit easy. Some of the seemingly simple ones I struggled with because I just couldn’t understand the instructions. Eventually the light bulb went on and after that it was smooth sailing.
If you enjoy the CE version of games, this one includes the following extras: collectible flowers that are the signature of the Surface series, achievements, bonus chapter, strategy guide, wallpapers, concept art, music, a secret room, and replay of HOPS and puzzles.
The graphics are excellent and crisp both in the real and virtual worlds and represent some of the best in the Surface series. The characters are created to perfection and seem very real with voiceovers that bring them to life. A special touch as you enter the Nexus capsule is that you can create your character’s gender as well as body type, which is nice for all the male gamers out there who are often stuck playing a female role in most HOPA games Your tools include an interactive map, a debugging device that can find and repair “glitches” in the scenes, and your computer journal. I didn’t see any fur buddies lurking around just waiting for the chance to be my helper.
The HOPS are wonderful and so well-designed that they fit seamlessly into the storyline. The puzzles are just as excellent though some might think them a bit easy. Some of the seemingly simple ones I struggled with because I just couldn’t understand the instructions. Eventually the light bulb went on and after that it was smooth sailing.
If you enjoy the CE version of games, this one includes the following extras: collectible flowers that are the signature of the Surface series, achievements, bonus chapter, strategy guide, wallpapers, concept art, music, a secret room, and replay of HOPS and puzzles.
I have never been over the moon with the Surface series so Virtual Reality came as quite a surprise. Another thing that has never really interested me is the virtual reality theme but this game is so well-designed that it is perfect for me. The developer has combined the best of both worlds with the near future “real world” and the virtual reality of the middle ages. I was so involved in the game and all of its features that I was disappointed when the demo ended. Virtual Reality would have been the perfect game for release in October as it is spooky and creepy without a lot of blood splashed all over the screen. Well done developers, you have a winner with Surface Virtual Reality. I would love to see this amount of creativity in other HOPA games. As always, even though I love the game, please try the demo to see if Surface Virtual Reality will be a keeper for you.
I recommend this game!
Overall rating
5
/
5
43 of 53 found this review helpful
I’M ALMOST AFRAID TO TAKE A CARD BUT I CAN’T HELP MYSELF
PostedNovember 25, 2016
biscuitsmama
fromIf I want to find Melissa, I must be strong and take a card from the Deck of Fates
Skill Level:Expert
Fun Factor
5
/
5
Visual/Sound Quality
5
/
5
Level of Challenge
5
/
5
Storyline
5
/
5
What would you do when you feel you have no reason left to live? Would you give up or would you grasp at straws? Would you do or try anything to give your life meaning and rekindle the spark of life and joy that you once felt? Meet Evan, a man who is in this position and really has nothing left. He’s lost the love of his life and with her disappearance he feels there no reason to live. He searched for Melissa, in fact he left no stone unturned but no matter where he searched, it was in vain and Melissa was not to be found. Then in his darkest hour, Evan receives a mysterious letter that offers some hope. Evan is invited to play a game of chance in the desolate town of Waldberg where if he wins he will find his lost love. The other alternative is death at the hand of the Beast – a wicked looking creature, sort of a King Kong/werewolf blend, that hunts those who play the card game. There is no walking away from this card game – you either win or die!
The graphics are excellent as are all of the other technical aspects of the game. This development team is genius and with Deck of Fates they have undoubtedly created the most realistic HOPA game I have ever seen.
Your tools include an interactive map that will help you navigate quickly between the scenes; however, your most important tool is a card from the Deck of Fates. When you join the game you choose your first card from the deck and soon learn that each round of the game begins immediately and ends at dawn, which is when you will select another card from the deck – well those who survive the first round will select a new card.
There are some very different HOPS, many of which are creative including the storybook type. If I am not mistaken, this developer originated the very popular storybook type of HOP that was soon emulated by other game developers. Some of the puzzles or mini-games have a bit of difficulty but most of those in the demo are doable.
If you prefer the CE version of a game because of the extra goodies, Deck of Fates includes: hidden symbols to find, morphing objects that are found in the HOPS, multi-part achievements to earn, wallpapers, soundtracks, a card gallery, replay of HOPS, a bonus chapter and strategy guide.
When I tried the game’s beta test, it was one that I didn’t particularly enjoy because I generally don’t like games based on some sort of psychological terror. However, when I tried the demo something about the game grabbed me and I knew that I had to play the full game. I ended up purchasing the game and I am happy that I did because this is one terrific game! I wouldn’t want to play the game in the dark because the developer has created a masterpiece with some excellent jump scare moments. Deck of Fates is so well-crafted that I almost felt like I was Evan as I played the game. If you love a good scare, then you will probably agree that this is a perfect game for a dark and gloomy day. PLEASE, try the demo before you buy because you will most likely either love or hate Deck of Fates.
I recommend this game!
It's time to begin your journey to help a ghost captain and save the world.
Overall rating
5
/
5
28 of 41 found this review helpful
OFF ON ANOTHER EXCELLENT ADVENTURE TO THE LOST LANDS
PostedNovember 23, 2016
Fun Factor
5
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5
Visual/Sound Quality
5
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5
Level of Challenge
5
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5
Storyline
5
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5
I absolutely love the Lost Lands series of games and own all of the others that I have played many times. There is so much to do and see in the games so they have great replay value. Not only do I have all of the Lost Lands games I also have every CE from this developer including another of my favorite series – New York Mysteries.
In the newest game The Wanderer you get to play as Susan, our world traveling heroine, who was most likely around for the original “tea party” with all the traveling she does. When Susan returns home from her daily run she finds a magically sealed sea chest in her living room and, because after her previous expedition she accidentally returned with a pair of anti-magic gloves, she knows just what to do so she can open the chest. An interesting note in the chest, along with the Compass of Worlds, leads Susan to the shore where she is whisked away by a giant octopus where she soon meets Finuer Stulburn; Captain of the Grey Flounder who we learn is only an illusion. While meeting with the captain Susan learns that not only is the Lost Lands at danger of destruction, but so is any other world the captain has visited, including our own. So begins The Wanderer and Susan must not only find Captain Stulburn’s body and wake him from his destructive wandering but find and free his wife as well.
Although some might find the graphics old school, I happen to think they are excellent. The voiceovers and sound package are very good as well and compliment the game to perfection. The game offers the custom setting that is now becoming almost standard with all newer games. I appreciate the very interactive map that this developer includes in its games because not only can we quickly travel from place to place, it also shows where we have collectibles or morphing objects left to find. Believe me when I say this game has a lot of collectibles because it certainly does and is a bonanza for those of us who love CE versions of games for this reason.
I am not going to give all of the details about the HOPS or mini-games since they are what we would expect and do find in almost all HOPA games. Although all of the HOPS are the silhouette type they are very interactive and always a lot of fun. The good thing is that the silhouettes are fairly good so it isn’t too overly difficult to figure out what we need to find. Where I think this game is excellent is in the mini-games or puzzles. Even though the puzzles are not mind-numbing difficult there still is some challenge. Most of the puzzles are doable if you stop to think about them and if needed, you can find detailed instructions in the Strategy Guide.
If you choose to purchase the CE version of the game there are 32 collectibles that complete several different sets, 32 morphing objects, 20 manuscripts, 8 map pieces, and 15 masks to find. You can replay Mini-games and Puzzles (although I am not sure what the difference is between them at this point). Other extras include concept art, wallpapers, videos, music, bonus chapter and Strategy Guide.
Since I know the value of these games, I purchased it immediately because I couldn’t wait to play the full game. After playing the full game, I can say that it didn't disappoint. The storyline was very good and well told in a manner that made sense. Even though I loved this game, please try the demo to see if you will enjoy the game as much as I did.