themom101's Profile
Stat Summary
- Average Rating:3.7
- Helpful Votes:215
- Reviews Submitted:12
- First Review:June 7, 2012
- Most Recent Review:August 26, 2016
- Featured reviews0
Mysterious creatures are terrorizing the train!
Overall rating
3
/
5
28 of 30 found this review helpful
Think it's time to go back to the drawing board with this series.
PostedAugust 26, 2016
themom101
fromArkansas
Skill Level:Expert
Favorite Genre(s):Adventure, Hidden Object
Fun Factor
3
/
5
Visual/Sound Quality
4
/
5
Level of Challenge
2
/
5
Storyline
3
/
5
BASED ON THE DEMO OF COLLECTOR'S EDITION
I really wanted to like this game. I have several of the previous ones in the series. I have purchased more than 250 games here at Felix's playground and Elephant games are some of my favorite ones of all time. But, I sincerely feel that the storyline and level of creativity where this series is concerned has reached a low peak. There is a lot of back and forth to complete tasks and to gather items. Some of those make very little sense. Elf is always present and is probably one of the best features of this game.
Mini-games had very little challenge to them, tasks were at times predictable and, at others, seemed to be designed to just fill time.
I'll always be among the first to try new games in this series. I just hope that they go back to the drawing board, replay the early games, and get back to the former glory.
It's not a bad game, just not up to the "Mystery Trackers" standards.
As always, try the demo. My opinion is just that.....my opinion! While I will continue to recommend the Mystery Trackers series, and always the Elephant gang of developers, this one will not be going onto my "wish list".
I really wanted to like this game. I have several of the previous ones in the series. I have purchased more than 250 games here at Felix's playground and Elephant games are some of my favorite ones of all time. But, I sincerely feel that the storyline and level of creativity where this series is concerned has reached a low peak. There is a lot of back and forth to complete tasks and to gather items. Some of those make very little sense. Elf is always present and is probably one of the best features of this game.
Mini-games had very little challenge to them, tasks were at times predictable and, at others, seemed to be designed to just fill time.
I'll always be among the first to try new games in this series. I just hope that they go back to the drawing board, replay the early games, and get back to the former glory.
It's not a bad game, just not up to the "Mystery Trackers" standards.
As always, try the demo. My opinion is just that.....my opinion! While I will continue to recommend the Mystery Trackers series, and always the Elephant gang of developers, this one will not be going onto my "wish list".
I recommend this game!
It’s up to you to save the Swan Princess’s kingdom!
Overall rating
5
/
5
61 of 68 found this review helpful
Only You Bring Back the Magic Seed and Save the Kingdom
PostedJuly 7, 2016
themom101
fromArkansas
Skill Level:Expert
Favorite Genre(s):Adventure
Fun Factor
5
/
5
Visual/Sound Quality
4
/
5
Level of Challenge
5
/
5
Storyline
5
/
5
The other reviews have given you much of the info about the workings and layout of the game so I won't rehash those. The Dark Parable games is one of the few series that I consider a "must have" from the moment the CE is released. It's also one of the very few series in which I will invest in the CE version, often going directly "buy" instead of playing the Demo. I own all of the previous games in this series and have replayed them all several times. My fingers were getting itchy in anticipation of new one being released. When I saw this one available, I jumped right in and purchased it without a second thought. In the past, I have rarely regretted that choice with one of the Dark Parable games. But, after this one, I'm going to have to rethink my strategy.
It has already been mentioned that the graphics of this one is lacking the beauty and details of the earlier ones. They're not bad, they're just not up to the standard that was set with the first one. Yes, they do cross over into "cartoonish" at times. In fact, one of the early mini-games was extremely cartoonish and disappointing.
In the earlier games, the SE versions offered the morphing beyond objects. Then as the series progressed they were available only in the CE versions. The objects didn't jump out and wave a flag at you, but they also didn't require a magnifying glass to locate. Both versions of the games included pieces of different parables to be located that added an extra element of enjoyment. In the past, the parable pieces were much like an inventory item in that they were a specific shape and object. This game somehow got off the beaten path and got lost. The collectibles are not the morphing type, they are tiny leaves and acorns that blend into the background so much that I did have to dig that magnifying glass out. In contrast to the earlier games, the parable pieces in this one are the morphing type and are just one instinctive piece of three that make up the picture.
Always loved the FROG scenes that were beautifully and artfully detailed with the sections tucked into the display neatly but identifiable. This is another area that sees a digression of the series. The sections of the item are flat, muddied pieces that lack the detailing to which we have become accustomed.
I rated this one a low 5 star in the hopes that it will prove my first impressions wrong and develop into a game worthy of the Dark Parable title. In the past, I would have said "It's a new Dark Parable, go for it, you'll love it". Instead, I recommend that you play the Demo before deciding.
Overall, I think the developer needs to go back and play the earlier installments in the series enough times to become inspired to go back to the drawing board and restore reputation of the Dark Parable series.
I'm headed back to play further into this one with fingers crossed hoping that brilliance breaks thru the clouds.
I recommend this game!
You're the last hope to stop the ancient curse!
Overall rating
5
/
5
2 of 2 found this review helpful
Definitely worth a buy for the CE
PostedJanuary 12, 2016
themom101
fromArkansas
Skill Level:Expert
Favorite Genre(s):Hidden Object, Adventure
Fun Factor
5
/
5
Visual/Sound Quality
5
/
5
Level of Challenge
5
/
5
Storyline
5
/
5
I normally go for the SE versions, but this one caught my attention quickly. It was well worth every penny too. It's one of the longest games I've played in a very, very long time. The CE version has lots of collections to gather, plus the morphing objects that are well hidden. The bonus chapter was ok, but didn't really add much to the story for me.
The only thing that I could possibly not love is the back and forth. I usually don't use the transporting maps, preferring to "walk" it on my own to stay in character. But, on this one, you have to use the map. Without it, you'd be totally lost and wandering around in circles trying to find where you saw that "thingy" you need to open this, or fix that.
Over all, it's a great game to spend a weekend enjoying.
The only thing that I could possibly not love is the back and forth. I usually don't use the transporting maps, preferring to "walk" it on my own to stay in character. But, on this one, you have to use the map. Without it, you'd be totally lost and wandering around in circles trying to find where you saw that "thingy" you need to open this, or fix that.
Over all, it's a great game to spend a weekend enjoying.
I recommend this game!
Who is trying to destroy the Kingdom of Barsia?
Overall rating
4
/
5
72 of 77 found this review helpful
Great Storyline, but scant and misleading instructions signal a downward trend of this beloved series
PostedDecember 20, 2015
themom101
fromArkansas
Skill Level:Expert
Favorite Genre(s):Hidden Object, Adventure
Fun Factor
4
/
5
Visual/Sound Quality
5
/
5
Level of Challenge
4
/
5
Storyline
5
/
5
I own all the Dark Parables games in the series. It has become an almost "must buy".....until this one. I normally wait for the SE to be released. However, in the early Dark Parable games, the SE's were loaded with goodies and the CE version just added a bonus chapter. The SE's had the morphing objects, parables to complete, rich graphics, long play time.....just an all over great series.
Since the new developer has taken over, the series has gradually lost the extras that made them a must have in my book. First, the morphing objects were taken out. Then the game play became shorter. And in this latest edition, there were several issues that bothered me.
Some of the mini games had instructions that were either unclear, or missing all together. That wouldn't have been an issue if they were the usual selection of mini games since I'm an experienced player. But, the ones that had the least information available were totally new ones. And, they didn't follow any logical pattern that I could see.
The game was fairly long, a decent length at least. But in this final installment of the series, not only have we lost all the extras that were offered in the SE's, we've now lost the parables to complete.
There remains very little to resemble the original concept. Yes, they offer a twist on the fairy tales we know and love. Yes, the graphics are intense, and breathtaking. But as we lose all the things that made the series a great one, we're left with a run of the mill game that are a dime a dozen.
Will I buy the next installment of the Dark Parable series? Probably, but it will only be after I play the demo, and only if my OCD tendencies kick in to make it "logical" for me to own all of them.
Personally, I think Epix needs to go back to the drawing board and rediscover all the things that made the early installments so well loved. I hate to see a great series become mediocre.
I recommend the game overall, but you should play the demo and make sure that it one you'll enjoy and not buy it just based on the series.
I recommend this game!
Dark Realm: Queen of Flames
Without warning, a group of mysterious figures arrives and reduces your village to flames and rubble. What do they want... and who is controlling them?
Overall rating
5
/
5
1 of 1 found this review helpful
Can't get enough!!
PostedJanuary 22, 2015
themom101
fromArkansas
Skill Level:Expert
Favorite Genre(s):Adventure, Mahjong
Fun Factor
5
/
5
Visual/Sound Quality
5
/
5
Level of Challenge
5
/
5
Storyline
5
/
5
I don't usually review games. I'm also an avid player, but one that I would describe as multi-tasking. I normally play my games with the sound muted, the Tv on, and devide my attention between the game and the Tv.
This game has blown all my multi-tasking to heck! After less than 5 minutes into the demo, I knew I had to have this one.
Not only did I immediately fall in love with it, I have found myself muting the TV and playing with the sound on and giving this game my full attention.
It raises the bar for developers and opens the door for a hint of what the quality of the games in the future could/SHOULD be judged against. Everything about this game is amazing! The sound track, the voice overs, the graphics, the story line and the attention to the fine details.
I can't give a time frame, because I haven't finished it yet. And, honestly, I don't want it to end! :)
If you haven't played this one yet, try it. Get your game credits lined up because you'll be ready to buy it within a very few minutes!!
Good job!!
I recommend this game!
The latest installment in the Clutter series is here! It’s just Clutter, Clutter and more Clutter!
Overall rating
3
/
5
11 of 12 found this review helpful
I was disappointed
PostedOctober 14, 2014
themom101
fromArkansas
Skill Level:Expert
Favorite Genre(s):Word, Adventure, Hidden Object, Puzzle
Fun Factor
3
/
5
Visual/Sound Quality
5
/
5
Level of Challenge
5
/
5
Storyline
3
/
5
When I saw this game was released I was very happy and quick to buy it without messing with the demo. Loved the 1st one!! Loved, loved the new things in Clutter 2 "He said, She said"! Absolutely adored the additions in Clutter 3! I've spent hrs upon hrs playing each one. I couldn't imagine how they could make it better. Well, I very sad to say that they DIDN'T make it better. In the Clutter series the major part of the fun is digging your way thru the piles of, well, clutter. It was challenging, always a new game, nothing repeated, wonderful. The mini games were there to play individually if you chose. In this game, the mini games have taken over.
With this one, they minimized the clutter and made the game based on the mini games. Yes, those are challenging, but I can play them all I want in the other 3. The main challenge of every previous game has been reduced to a few levels.
I tried very hard to like this one. And, I do like the digging thru the clutter levels. Would have just preferred they put more of those in there as well as added the new minis.
I'll still play it, but have a strong idea that the 3rd version will continue to be my go-to game.
I recommend this game!
Grim Tales: Bloody Mary
Save your niece from the evil presence haunting her school!
Overall rating
5
/
5
8 of 13 found this review helpful
Absolute must have!
PostedOctober 24, 2013
themom101
fromArkansas
Favorite Genre(s):Adventure
Fun Factor
5
/
5
Visual/Sound Quality
5
/
5
Level of Challenge
5
/
5
Storyline
5
/
5
I have all the games in this series. After the 1st demo came out, I was hooked. They are all top notch, tons of stuff to do, great graphics, interesting story lines, and you don't have to have the prior games. Each story is it's own.
One of the best things about this game is the little extras details that you find in all "Elephant" games. For instance, feed the baby birds in the nest a bag of seeds. One of them is very talented at throwing them up in the air and catching them. It isn't needed to remember or use later.......just a fun extra detail.
All the Grim Tales games will keep you occupied for hours. If you haven't already played the others in this series.... check them out! You'll be hooked too!
One of the best things about this game is the little extras details that you find in all "Elephant" games. For instance, feed the baby birds in the nest a bag of seeds. One of them is very talented at throwing them up in the air and catching them. It isn't needed to remember or use later.......just a fun extra detail.
All the Grim Tales games will keep you occupied for hours. If you haven't already played the others in this series.... check them out! You'll be hooked too!
I recommend this game!
Midnight Mysteries: Witches of Abraham Collector's Edition
One night the ghost of President Lincoln appears, asking for your help. Can you find the hidden Confederate treasure?
Overall rating
4
/
5
21 of 24 found this review helpful
Much too easy
PostedSeptember 28, 2013
themom101
fromArkansas
Skill Level:Intermediate
Favorite Genre(s):Adventure, Hidden Object
Fun Factor
4
/
5
Visual/Sound Quality
4
/
5
Level of Challenge
2
/
5
Storyline
5
/
5
This is based on demo play only.
I've got and loved all the Midnight Mysteries series. They are never extremely hard, but usually require more thought than this one.
It starts as all of the MM's do, in your office with a ghost. This time Abraham Lincoln. Interactive HO, take Lincoln's hand and begin the adventure.
As always, look for clovers in every scene to unlock HO free play. Watch and collect Ravens for hints.
The story is good as always, however, this one is extremely easy. Requires very little thought on how to proceed and even the puzzles are easy. If you've played these games before, you won't have any problem with them.
If you're a beginner and want to get your feet wet in this genre, this is a good game to start with. If you're more experienced and require more of a challenge.....definitely wait for the SE or a daily deal.
I'll probably buy it if it pops up as a daily deal or perhaps on a BOGO weekend, but the challenge in the former MM series is lacking in this one.
I've got and loved all the Midnight Mysteries series. They are never extremely hard, but usually require more thought than this one.
It starts as all of the MM's do, in your office with a ghost. This time Abraham Lincoln. Interactive HO, take Lincoln's hand and begin the adventure.
As always, look for clovers in every scene to unlock HO free play. Watch and collect Ravens for hints.
The story is good as always, however, this one is extremely easy. Requires very little thought on how to proceed and even the puzzles are easy. If you've played these games before, you won't have any problem with them.
If you're a beginner and want to get your feet wet in this genre, this is a good game to start with. If you're more experienced and require more of a challenge.....definitely wait for the SE or a daily deal.
I'll probably buy it if it pops up as a daily deal or perhaps on a BOGO weekend, but the challenge in the former MM series is lacking in this one.
I recommend this game!
Brink of Consciousness: The Lonely Hearts Murders Collector's Edition
Olivia has been kidnapped by the mysterious Lonely Hearts Killer who murders those suffering from a shattered love. Save her!
Overall rating
3
/
5
Not Up to the Standards set by the 1st Brink of Consciousness
PostedApril 2, 2013
themom101
fromArkansas
Skill Level:Intermediate
Favorite Genre(s):Adventure, Hidden Object
Fun Factor
3
/
5
Visual/Sound Quality
4
/
5
Level of Challenge
3
/
5
Storyline
4
/
5
I loved the 1st Brink of Consciousness: Dorian Grey Syndrome. I had high hopes for this one. Was sadly disappointed! The dialog alone is enough to suffocate all the fun out of the game. You can skip it, true, but it does go along with the game. Without it, the game would be confusing.. and would probably be at least 1/3 as long. Too much for me!! Struggled thru it but only because I'm stubborn! The mini games are quite easy. The CE version has no morphing objects, no trophies, no added goodies except a bonus chapter and another 45min worth of dialog to dig thru!
I don't recommend this game.
Otherworld: Spring of Shadows
Use a mystical locket to explore a magical world and save a young girl in Other world: Spring of Shadows!
Overall rating
5
/
5
Glad I didn't pass this one up!
PostedMarch 4, 2013
themom101
fromArkansas
Skill Level:Intermediate
Favorite Genre(s):Adventure, Hidden Object, Puzzle
Fun Factor
5
/
5
Visual/Sound Quality
5
/
5
Level of Challenge
5
/
5
Storyline
5
/
5
I fell in love with this game during the trial. But, I only purchase games that are listed as 5+ hrs long. All the reviews were saying 3-4hrs or so. Finally decided to go for it anyway and I'm so glad I did. Storyline is great. (Yeah, you're still on a mission to rescue someone) Graphics were good. I normally play with sound muted as I like to multi-task so I can't rate that.
My playing method is to take my time and immerse myself in the story... if possible. This one was easy to get lost in! My final time was about 6.5hrs. All in all, it was a perfect game for me.
My playing method is to take my time and immerse myself in the story... if possible. This one was easy to get lost in! My final time was about 6.5hrs. All in all, it was a perfect game for me.
I recommend this game!