There have been only two games in recent history that when I finished them I sat back in my chair and said "WOW". This is one of them. For me, I felt like it was as much about the adventure and story than most games that are put out for something to throw in puzzles, mini games, and HOs.
I enjoyed every breathtaking moment. The bonus game is not necessary for the experience as it is a prequel to the main game. (it was about an hour or so long.. perhaps a little longer)
Favorite Genre(s):Adventure, Hidden Object, Match 3
Fun Factor
3/ 5
Visual/Sound Quality
5/ 5
Level of Challenge
4/ 5
Storyline
3/ 5
I already own Snowscapes and Twilight and was prepared to purchase this one until I saw that it was a Collector's Edition. The only difference between the games is that this one has a very lame story to go with it. I may get it whenever it becomes a standard edition but until then it's a no buy for me.
Favorite Genre(s):Adventure, Hidden Object, Match 3
Current Favorite:
Phantasmat: Reign of Shadows Collector's Edition
(34)
Fun Factor
2/ 5
Visual/Sound Quality
5/ 5
Level of Challenge
3/ 5
Storyline
3/ 5
I will pass on this one..... to me, Rite of Passage games lost their appeal some time ago after the groundbreaking first one. I will admit playing only a short time before making my decision.
If you love puzzles, you will love this one. I don't, especially when every time I used a card I had to do one.. arg! hate to have to "recharge" amulets, cards, etc. Time consuming and unnecessary, in my humble opinion.
I appreciate adventure and creative hidden objects scenes more and this one had neither.. I especially detest having to pick out symbols among a plethora of other symbols which makes me go cross-eyed and frustrated. (where's the creativity in that?)
At any rate, will delete this demo... and continue to wait for games more to my liking.
Favorite Genre(s):Adventure, Hidden Object, Match 3
Current Favorite:
Phantasmat: Reign of Shadows Collector's Edition
(34)
Fun Factor
5/ 5
Visual/Sound Quality
5/ 5
Level of Challenge
5/ 5
Storyline
5/ 5
I was going to wait until I had finished the latest installment but I am at Level 54. I found this game easier than the other 4 UNTIL I reached Level 53. I was finally asked if I wanted to skip that level but I said no and was determined to finish it. whew.. finally did. Now I will go back and work on the rest of the levels...
I am more about playing the match 3 than obtaining coins and building and appreciate the immediate skip on the puzzles and mini games.
Each Laruaville has it's own challenges and plays a little different from one to the next. Part of the fun is looking at the new board and trying to figure out "ok.. what am I supposed to do HERE?"
I love each one for the difference in game play but enjoy number 4 for the holiday spirit. Hope one day we see another holiday (any holiday) Laruaville.
Favorite Genre(s):Adventure, Hidden Object, Match 3
Current Favorite:
Phantasmat: Reign of Shadows Collector's Edition
(34)
Fun Factor
5/ 5
Visual/Sound Quality
5/ 5
Level of Challenge
5/ 5
Storyline
5/ 5
GENIUS! PURE GENIUS! I haven’t even started the bonus game yet but it doesn’t matter.. this is my pick for Game of the Year!
I don’t usually purchase games from this developer because of the tired, overdone HOs and lack of creativity in finding and use of inventory items and never needing to use the map.
NONE of this applies to this game!
It was challenge at it’s best for me. What a great mix of HOs (using the flashlight was my favorite). There was a lot of challenge in remembering where to go and what to use from my inventory. (and yes, I HAD to use the map – finally) Puzzles always confuse me but I could do some and many I skipped.
One of the BEST things about this game was that there was no amulet or gimmick to have to use, the real monster was a calm speaking, deranged scientist who goaded me through the game. (voice acting AMAZING !!)
The only downside was the strategy guide because I needed it but it wasn’t very useful in several cases. (thank goodness for this forum).
I never replay the HOs in the extras but this one I think I will.
When a famous shapeshifting alchemist is charged with looking into the murder of the king's most trusted agent and friend, the last thing she expects to discover is an intricate network of shadowy criminals, intent on bringing chaos to the land.
What a fun 2 days I've had playing this game. I didn't find the level of challenge to be excellent but without glints I had a good time discovering the "sweet spots" where there was something to do. The environments were feasts for my eyes and I did wish at times I could explore them more. I was really surprised to find that after playing the bonus (good length) that I had ANOTHER game to play to rescue Gretel and it, too, was a decent length. A nice relaxing game to play in the fantasy category.
I am certainly not buying any more CE's from the top developers we see on BF in established series anymore due to the fact that in my opinion this series like so many others just aren't living up to the creativity that has brought them to providing game after game. This developer first caught my eye when I played their HOs where EVERY item was interactive and it blew my mind away. Now, in this game like so many others we are given very little to excite us with their static, slightly interactive HOs.. with some items so tiny I missed them by a mile! Finally started playing the Match 3 instead. I found the story line to be good.. just wish it had been a little more fun to play it through. As far as sound quality I had everything turned down or off except the voices. After purchasing this game on sale I sit here and await some TRUE paranormal game that will strike FEAR in my heart even if I have to purchase it somewhere else. (can you tell I'm tired of cookie cutter, same old same old storylines, game play, puzzle laden, and especially boring hidden objects?)
While my favorite of the series is The Heir, I found this game to be enjoyable enough. I liked switching from past to present and trying to remember where to go and what to do.
I love dear old Dad but for heaven sake's speed up his speaking voice next time!!!