JustTheFacts's Profile
Stat Summary
- Average Rating:3.9
- Helpful Votes:33,148
- Reviews Submitted:681
- First Review:December 7, 2011
- Most Recent Review:June 4, 2018
- Featured reviews0
Status:
An imprisoned soul will never be free until you clear his name!
Overall rating
3
/
5
16 of 29 found this review helpful
Nice, But Not CE-Worthy
PostedDecember 1, 2013
JustTheFacts
fromRural Western Australia
Skill Level:Expert
Favorite Genre(s):Adventure, Hidden Object, Puzzle
Fun Factor
4
/
5
Visual/Sound Quality
5
/
5
Level of Challenge
4
/
5
Storyline
3
/
5
BASED ON DEMO
FIRST IMPRESSIONS
The developers tried a little too hard, I think, to make this game seem more scary than the previous Dana novels. Or, at least, the intro cut-scene, which was out of character for this series, and didn’t quite come off. For me, I was too busy registering my shock at a Dana game with poor graphics – IMPOSSIBLE!
The developers tried a little too hard, I think, to make this game seem more scary than the previous Dana novels. Or, at least, the intro cut-scene, which was out of character for this series, and didn’t quite come off. For me, I was too busy registering my shock at a Dana game with poor graphics – IMPOSSIBLE!
SIGHTS & SOUNDS
True, the poor graphics only lasted as long as the intro, but it was an unpleasant surprise. For the rest of the demo, the locations, and particularly the city lights at night , were breathtaking. Very much what you expect from this developer. The voiceovers were well done, as always. But the guy you first speak to gets your back up straightaway with his condescending tone – this is of course deliberate, as you will see. The music is romantic, almost dreamy.
True, the poor graphics only lasted as long as the intro, but it was an unpleasant surprise. For the rest of the demo, the locations, and particularly the city lights at night , were breathtaking. Very much what you expect from this developer. The voiceovers were well done, as always. But the guy you first speak to gets your back up straightaway with his condescending tone – this is of course deliberate, as you will see. The music is romantic, almost dreamy.
WHAT’S HAPPENING
We are attending the opening of a new hotel when we find ourselves being drawn into the past (literally) by an ancient newspaper clipping. What we find is a standard Dana Knightstone love tragedy, and we must redeem the innocent soul. This is done a bit differently than in previous games of this series, and I like the new style. Now, when we observe part of the past , we do so in sepia tones, and with fuzzy fades around the view. Much more dramatic.
We are attending the opening of a new hotel when we find ourselves being drawn into the past (literally) by an ancient newspaper clipping. What we find is a standard Dana Knightstone love tragedy, and we must redeem the innocent soul. This is done a bit differently than in previous games of this series, and I like the new style. Now, when we observe part of the past , we do so in sepia tones, and with fuzzy fades around the view. Much more dramatic.
MAKING PROGRESS
The few HOPs in this game so far are straight interactive lists, but there are not many of them, and we do not repeat. The puzzles are much more innovative than I have seen in the other Dana games, some were frustratingly tricky. All of them look great. Also some nice twists on older games.
The few HOPs in this game so far are straight interactive lists, but there are not many of them, and we do not repeat. The puzzles are much more innovative than I have seen in the other Dana games, some were frustratingly tricky. All of them look great. Also some nice twists on older games.
There is hint system that will show you where to go next and offer to teleport you there. There is also an interactive jump map that tells you where you have active tasks. The journal gives you both a diary and an objectives list, as well as replayable movies. These have important info in them sometimes.
The game consists of 6 chapters plus the bonus, and I only just finished the first chapter when I stopped with 8 minutes to spare. As for CE Bling!, there is nothing very exciting: Bonus chapter, Strategy Guide, and Gallery Items, (fairly ordinary) Achievements and Collectibles (40 large playing cards).
FAMOUS LAST WORDS
I liked this demo, better than previous Dana Knightstone games, actually. But I never have thought of the games in this series as CE-worthy, and this one is the same. I think it will make a good value, enjoyable and intriguing SE game. THAT I will rate higher, and will recommend. This one...
I liked this demo, better than previous Dana Knightstone games, actually. But I never have thought of the games in this series as CE-worthy, and this one is the same. I think it will make a good value, enjoyable and intriguing SE game. THAT I will rate higher, and will recommend. This one...
I don't recommend this game.
The rich folklore continues with this exciting tale set in an old Slavic land. As Child of Spring, can you save the world from eternal winter?
Overall rating
5
/
5
81 of 93 found this review helpful
Lovely Second Myth!
PostedDecember 1, 2013
JustTheFacts
fromRural Western Australia
Skill Level:Expert
Favorite Genre(s):Adventure, Hidden Object, Puzzle
Fun Factor
5
/
5
Visual/Sound Quality
5
/
5
Level of Challenge
4
/
5
Storyline
4
/
5
BASED ON COMPLETED GAME
FIRST IMPRESSIONS
It must be said upfront I guess that this is a story that’s been done to death in the last couple of years. It is yet another Ice Queen banishing Spring and attempting to hold the world forever in Winter. Having got that objection out of the way, there is very little fault to find here, in this the second game in the series “Myths Of The World”. I loved it.
It must be said upfront I guess that this is a story that’s been done to death in the last couple of years. It is yet another Ice Queen banishing Spring and attempting to hold the world forever in Winter. Having got that objection out of the way, there is very little fault to find here, in this the second game in the series “Myths Of The World”. I loved it.
WHAT’S HAPPENING
Vesna, the Goddess of Spring has come to you, a lowly peasant girl, for help in defeating the Goddess of Winter, who apparently has a bee in her bonnet and has banished Spring forever. Following Vesna through your mirror you do indeed arrive in a world that is totally frozen in ice and snow.
Vesna, the Goddess of Spring has come to you, a lowly peasant girl, for help in defeating the Goddess of Winter, who apparently has a bee in her bonnet and has banished Spring forever. Following Vesna through your mirror you do indeed arrive in a world that is totally frozen in ice and snow.
Vesna gives you a Spring Brush which helps you defrost smaller patches of ice, and counsels you to seek help from the animals you meet. The first of these is an ermine who is thrown into a well of ice by the Winter woman. You save him and he becomes your pet. He has interesting less-than-obvious talents that help you out along the way.
SIGHTS & SOUNDS
Just lovely. Beautifully drawn locations which are often depicted in both winter and spring states, making a marvellous transition. The HOPs are the least cluttered I’ve seen in a long time, and the objects are clear and usually quite large. Sometimes the loading of one location to another is slow enough to create a black screen, but it is not there for long. The sounds are relaxing most of the time, with some exciting stuff when the action justifies it. I loved the (lip synch’d) voiceovers.
Just lovely. Beautifully drawn locations which are often depicted in both winter and spring states, making a marvellous transition. The HOPs are the least cluttered I’ve seen in a long time, and the objects are clear and usually quite large. Sometimes the loading of one location to another is slow enough to create a black screen, but it is not there for long. The sounds are relaxing most of the time, with some exciting stuff when the action justifies it. I loved the (lip synch’d) voiceovers.
MAKING PROGRESS
This is a Hidden Object Puzzle Adventure, with roughly the same number of HOPs and other puzzles. The HOPs come in 3 types; interactive lists, silhouettes, and multiples. The list HOPs are visited twice and can be swapped for a Match 3 game instead. The puzzles are fun and not overly difficult, with a number of them being original and creative.
This is a Hidden Object Puzzle Adventure, with roughly the same number of HOPs and other puzzles. The HOPs come in 3 types; interactive lists, silhouettes, and multiples. The list HOPs are visited twice and can be swapped for a Match 3 game instead. The puzzles are fun and not overly difficult, with a number of them being original and creative.
The progress is usually clear enough, with a directional hint system, plus a 3D interactive jump map and a diary which lists objectives.
FINAL VERDICT
Despite the lack of originality of the story, in essence, it is actually treated in a sufficiently different way that it is not repetitive or boring. I loved this game, and found myself so caught up in it, I was sad to see it finished.
Despite the lack of originality of the story, in essence, it is actually treated in a sufficiently different way that it is not repetitive or boring. I loved this game, and found myself so caught up in it, I was sad to see it finished.
I recommend this game!
Explore seven different Mahjong styles while traveling through the cosmos in Space Mahjong.
Overall rating
3
/
5
25 of 30 found this review helpful
Unexceptional Mahjong Game
PostedNovember 26, 2013
JustTheFacts
fromRural Western Australia
Skill Level:Intermediate
Favorite Genre(s):Adventure, Hidden Object, Puzzle
Fun Factor
3
/
5
Visual/Sound Quality
3
/
5
Level of Challenge
3
/
5
BASED ON DEMO
FIRST IMPRESSIONS
The game looks nice enough from the beginning, but it is nothing spectacular. There is no real feeling of being extraterrestrial. And of course they were covered by the board anyway, and there is only one new background per level. The music is likewise nice, not stunning, and eastern meditative rather than exotic. It also got boring and irritating quite quickly.
The game looks nice enough from the beginning, but it is nothing spectacular. There is no real feeling of being extraterrestrial. And of course they were covered by the board anyway, and there is only one new background per level. The music is likewise nice, not stunning, and eastern meditative rather than exotic. It also got boring and irritating quite quickly.
There is not even a hint of a story.
MAKING PROGRESS
The game plays as most modern mahjong games do. There are 7 gameplay styles including:
The game plays as most modern mahjong games do. There are 7 gameplay styles including:
• Mahjong
• Logical Pairs
• Klondike Solitaire
• Add to the right number
• Logical Pairs
• Klondike Solitaire
• Add to the right number
and 3 others I don’t have names for.
I found the ‘logical pairs’ were not all that logical actually. The game progresses with points awarded for each (replayable) level, high scores and trophies.
You must play a total of 14 boards (2 x 7 types) before you can unlock the next level. You have hint, shuffle, undo, button, along with the no. of matches, no. of tiles. Each board can be trashed and replaced at any time, and you can replay them immediately or at a later time.
BOTTOM LINE
All standard mahjong stuff. I see nothing compelling with this one. But if you’ve grown bored with your other mahjong games...
All standard mahjong stuff. I see nothing compelling with this one. But if you’ve grown bored with your other mahjong games...
I recommend this game!
Something wicked has taken over Fate’s Carnival!
Overall rating
5
/
5
128 of 162 found this review helpful
Authentic Sequel, Pure MCF
PostedNovember 26, 2013
JustTheFacts
fromRural Western Australia
Skill Level:Expert
Favorite Genre(s):Adventure, Hidden Object, Puzzle
Fun Factor
4
/
5
Visual/Sound Quality
5
/
5
Level of Challenge
4
/
5
Storyline
4
/
5
BASED ON DEMO
FIRST IMPRESSIONS
I know everyone has been waiting breathlessly to see if the new developers of this game (Elephant) could possibly bring us a game that is all that the MCF series (you could almost call it a tradition) means to the fans. Especially seeing Elephant are not known for making games with a high level of creepy, or difficulty.
I know everyone has been waiting breathlessly to see if the new developers of this game (Elephant) could possibly bring us a game that is all that the MCF series (you could almost call it a tradition) means to the fans. Especially seeing Elephant are not known for making games with a high level of creepy, or difficulty.
In order to prepare myself for this game, I have just finished attempting to play the original MCF: Madam Fate, of which this is the sequel. The similarities are amazing. The result is a game with the degree of more difficult gameplay, creepy atmosphere and solid story of the original game, joined with the exceptional graphics, ‘spectacular’ effects, and the bling! of an Elephant game.
SIGHTS & SOUNDS
Very high standard, as you’d expect. The graphics are dark, but richly colour drenched and clear. Lots of purple, flashing lights and animated fluff to liven up the scenes. Characters from Madam Fate are so close to their earlier pictures, it is as if the same artist has done them. The sounds of the carnival are creepy, there’s not a lot of voiceover, but it is as excellent as last time around. Music in tune with the theme and some of it is lifted directly from the earlier game. There are also a lot of pauses in the music where you only have carnival sounds around you. Tense.
Very high standard, as you’d expect. The graphics are dark, but richly colour drenched and clear. Lots of purple, flashing lights and animated fluff to liven up the scenes. Characters from Madam Fate are so close to their earlier pictures, it is as if the same artist has done them. The sounds of the carnival are creepy, there’s not a lot of voiceover, but it is as excellent as last time around. Music in tune with the theme and some of it is lifted directly from the earlier game. There are also a lot of pauses in the music where you only have carnival sounds around you. Tense.
WHAT’S HAPPENING
Well, we’re back at the end of the game Madame Fate, with a small difference, Madame Fate is back from the dead and in need of our help. As yet it is not clear what that entails, but it is to do with lifting a curse. I felt the backstory of the game was lacking. I haven’t completed Madam Fate yet, and I felt a little lost. Much worse if you’ve not played Madam at all.
Well, we’re back at the end of the game Madame Fate, with a small difference, Madame Fate is back from the dead and in need of our help. As yet it is not clear what that entails, but it is to do with lifting a curse. I felt the backstory of the game was lacking. I haven’t completed Madam Fate yet, and I felt a little lost. Much worse if you’ve not played Madam at all.
GAMEPLAY
Classic MCF gameplay. Trickier than usual puzzles, and puzzle boards. The puzzles are remarkable in themselves, mostly original, but in keeping with the carnival (and MCF) theme, and requiring a good bit of brain strain. Puzzle boards are a real problem for me, I’m hopeless at them, but I don’t want to skip them all either. So the good news is there are puzzle hints available on the board! Excellent!
Classic MCF gameplay. Trickier than usual puzzles, and puzzle boards. The puzzles are remarkable in themselves, mostly original, but in keeping with the carnival (and MCF) theme, and requiring a good bit of brain strain. Puzzle boards are a real problem for me, I’m hopeless at them, but I don’t want to skip them all either. So the good news is there are puzzle hints available on the board! Excellent!
Two of my favourite puzzles from the earlier game I have not yet seen here – word puzzles, and finding multiples of a single item or two on a pic of one of the characters. These are always fun. The only HOPs are few and far between, and are very interactive, with complex actions required to get the item. Some of the items are moving and must be caught when they’re visible.
BLING!
There are oodles of collectibles, achievements, and extra gameplay. Some of these I think may not be CE exclusives.
There are oodles of collectibles, achievements, and extra gameplay. Some of these I think may not be CE exclusives.
*Standard Features: Gallery items, bonus chapter, in-game Strategy Guide
*Morphing Cards (in the HOPs), which allow you to play in-game solitaire
*Old Pounds (banknotes, used with Isis)
*Bobble-head figures (12)
*Doomed (a page with the info cards of each of the characters)
*Achievements (beautiful fans for trophies)
*Solitaire (can be played any time inside the game). Others have wondered what the point is, but I like this feature – I find mega-games like this one tiring, and would enjoy a little break from the brain strain without leaving the game
*Mutoscope, which is a strange recording device you use in the game to see backstory, and can replay in the Extras
*Isis – your cat assistant. You can buy stuff for her with the collectible “old pounds”
*Spirits Of Blackpool preview – a Play 4 Free by the looks of it
*Secret Room – which will probably be like others Elephant have done and SPOILER! Be the equivalent of a Reader’s Digest of the game, using all the puzzles, but in a supplementary story that is skeletal.
*Morphing Cards (in the HOPs), which allow you to play in-game solitaire
*Old Pounds (banknotes, used with Isis)
*Bobble-head figures (12)
*Doomed (a page with the info cards of each of the characters)
*Achievements (beautiful fans for trophies)
*Solitaire (can be played any time inside the game). Others have wondered what the point is, but I like this feature – I find mega-games like this one tiring, and would enjoy a little break from the brain strain without leaving the game
*Mutoscope, which is a strange recording device you use in the game to see backstory, and can replay in the Extras
*Isis – your cat assistant. You can buy stuff for her with the collectible “old pounds”
*Spirits Of Blackpool preview – a Play 4 Free by the looks of it
*Secret Room – which will probably be like others Elephant have done and SPOILER! Be the equivalent of a Reader’s Digest of the game, using all the puzzles, but in a supplementary story that is skeletal.
FINAL THOUGHTS
I (unlike every other fish in the oceans) am not a big fan of the MCF games, but love Elephant games. So I was intrigued to see how the combination would appeal to me. I think it is an excellent meshing of two styles into an overall exceptional game. Whether I’ll be able to work out enough of the puzzles to complete it is another question altogether!
I (unlike every other fish in the oceans) am not a big fan of the MCF games, but love Elephant games. So I was intrigued to see how the combination would appeal to me. I think it is an excellent meshing of two styles into an overall exceptional game. Whether I’ll be able to work out enough of the puzzles to complete it is another question altogether!
I recommend this game!
Overall rating
4
/
5
18 of 21 found this review helpful
More Jigsaw Than Mosaics
PostedNovember 25, 2013
JustTheFacts
fromRural Western Australia
Skill Level:Intermediate
Favorite Genre(s):Adventure, Hidden Object, Puzzle
Fun Factor
4
/
5
Visual/Sound Quality
4
/
5
Level of Challenge
4
/
5
BASED ON ONE HOUR DEMO
If you are a fan of the World Mosaics series, you will be disappointed to hear that this is NOT a pictograph game. It is a JIGSAW style game, like Patchworkz. On the other hand, of course, if you are a fan of Patchworkz (as I am), you’ll be pleased to hear this game is as charming and delightful as that one.
For those who have not played either, this is a game of “competitive” jigsaw. Like most casual games, you must succeed at one level to unlock further gameplay. You have a jigsaw to put together – deceptively easy to begin with – and a certain time in which to do it. You are awarded points, coins, keys based on completion of the puzzle, accuracy and speed.
You need 40 out of a possible 60 keys to move up to the next world, or you can buy your way in with gold coins (sounds like real life!). Using the hint button costs you are certain number of coins.
There are 6 ‘worlds’ each with 20 levels (i.e. puzzles) to complete. Each world uses a different medium for its tiles. The first world (Fairy Forest) uses wooden tiles. The next world (Golden Sands) uses fabric patches. The images are very pretty and enjoyable to piece together.. The music is particularly soothing, and there are also sound effects, like a bell tolling when you are in trouble timewise.
The only way you’d know there is supposed to be a story is if you’ve read the blurb on this page. In the game itself, you get an opening comic book page, which sorta shows you the story (no verbals), if you know what to expect, and that is it.
There are a lot of animals in the puzzles, but there are other subjects too. If we are going to find our pets, it must be further than I got in an hour, which was into the second world.
The puzzles are quite easy, if you didn’t have to worry about time and accuracy, and you can play the game that way if you want. You just have to replay puzzles you can do until you get enough coins. If you do decide to ‘compete’, there are trophies for each world you finish, for collecting coins, no hints, etc. And a record of your highest scores.
I like this game. It will make a nice change from Patchworkz, which is the only game like this I have seen before. And an interesting twist for jigsaw lovers.
I recommend this game!
You were just about to relax with a good book when a stranger leaves a baby on your doorstep.
Overall rating
5
/
5
81 of 91 found this review helpful
Genuine Masterpiece!
PostedNovember 22, 2013
JustTheFacts
fromRural Western Australia
Skill Level:Expert
Favorite Genre(s):Adventure, Hidden Object, Puzzle
Fun Factor
5
/
5
Visual/Sound Quality
5
/
5
Level of Challenge
5
/
5
Storyline
5
/
5
BASED ON PARTIALLY COMPLETED GAME
FIRST IMPRESSIONS
I’ve never been tempted to use the word “masterpiece” about a game before, but it is fitting for this game. I am in the process of playing it at the moment, so I am just taking a few minutes out to let you know what I’ve seen so far.
I’ve never been tempted to use the word “masterpiece” about a game before, but it is fitting for this game. I am in the process of playing it at the moment, so I am just taking a few minutes out to let you know what I’ve seen so far.
It’s funny how things go sometimes, I was trying to explain why this game is so far above the hundreds I’ve played before, and I thought the only game that has come close to the same complexities and imagination, is Rite Of Passage: Child Of The Forest, which when released was the most inspiring game I’d seen. Then, looking at other games by this developer, guess what I found was their last offering? Yup, this developer has managed to shock me into speechlessness with the quality and originality of their work, not once, but twice this year. (And their name doesn’t even start with “E”!)
GAME IN BRIEF
This game’s artwork is absolutely wonderful, and others have aptly described it in the CE reviews, but it is the games and puzzles that are so special. There are a dozen different types of HOPs for starters. Plenty so original we don’t have names for them yet (but hopefully we will in the future), unique and cleverly designed scenes for the HOPs, and all of them varying in difficulty and purpose.
This game’s artwork is absolutely wonderful, and others have aptly described it in the CE reviews, but it is the games and puzzles that are so special. There are a dozen different types of HOPs for starters. Plenty so original we don’t have names for them yet (but hopefully we will in the future), unique and cleverly designed scenes for the HOPs, and all of them varying in difficulty and purpose.
And all this is true for the mini-games as well. I am having a hard time remembering any that were not totally new and unexpected. Some are crazy-hard simply because the logic to the puzzle is totally new to me. And many are so cunning and beautiful! The adventuring side of the game leads you into some startling areas too. There is nothing at all that’s not original in this game. Even our purpose – the story is about protecting a baby that’s been left on your doorstep!
CE vs. SE COMPARISON
I am sorry not to be able to give you an in depth comparison for this game – because I haven’t unlocked all the extras yet, but from conversations with people who have, and what I can see for myself, this is one of those very rare games where I think the CE is a must have. Even if it means having to wait til the next CE sale (which is what I did, and why I’ve not finished already.)
I am sorry not to be able to give you an in depth comparison for this game – because I haven’t unlocked all the extras yet, but from conversations with people who have, and what I can see for myself, this is one of those very rare games where I think the CE is a must have. Even if it means having to wait til the next CE sale (which is what I did, and why I’ve not finished already.)
What I have seen are excellent gallery offerings, including my preferred style of purpose-created wallpapers that you can actually use. And a very clear strategy guide, which gives the main game as 7 chapters (I have completed the third, in just over 2 hours), and 1 bonus chapter and 3 hidden chapters. It also gives the locations of the collectibles – roses, morphing items in the HOs and one other collectible known only after you’ve completed other aspects of the game. There’s also 2 bonus games and both replayable HOs and puzzles.
With all that, you can see why I think the CE is the best value CE we’ve ever had. But having said all that, this is a wonderful game, no matter which way you look at it. I would not hesitate to recommend this SE version, especially if you’re not into Bling!
I recommend this game!
You thought this would be just like any other investigation. But now you find yourself lost in a mysterious mansion brimming with strange creatures, comatose colleagues, and mysterious tentacles around every corner…
Overall rating
5
/
5
73 of 92 found this review helpful
Dr Blackmore’s Back! In Our Dreams?
PostedNovember 21, 2013
Fun Factor
5
/
5
Visual/Sound Quality
5
/
5
Level of Challenge
4
/
5
Storyline
5
/
5
BASED ON DEMO
FIRST IMPRESSIONS
Oh man... I am so weirded out by this game! In the best of all possible ways of course. It’s bad enough that Dr Blackmore is apparently alive and strutting his tentacles, now he has a fond ‘admirer’! Who has lured us into her extremely creepy home, captured our fellow investigator, and left us to fend for ourselves among a zooful of insane animals.
Oh man... I am so weirded out by this game! In the best of all possible ways of course. It’s bad enough that Dr Blackmore is apparently alive and strutting his tentacles, now he has a fond ‘admirer’! Who has lured us into her extremely creepy home, captured our fellow investigator, and left us to fend for ourselves among a zooful of insane animals.
This has always been an excellent and creepy series, but it went ballistic for this game. As well as the signature aspects of the series, the betentacled doctor, the electronic gadgets and a uniquely surreal game world, ERS has introduced blatant magic for the first time. I literally could write a treatise on all this game has going for it, even after just one hour of playing it, but I’ll spare you.
HIGHPOINTS IN BRIEF (as I noticed them)
*perhaps the most dramatic opening of any ERS game
*highly customizable – many choices on all types of options
*ERS signature art, but much lighter than any other game of theirs I’ve seen. Combines beauty and creepy very cleverly
*lip sync’d voiceover
*cute guy as our partner
*an awesome level of weirdness in the story and gameplay (E.g., put the frog in the vase and feed him a chilli pepper to melt the wax.)
*special secret service goggles designed to see supernatural activity. Associated with a mini-game to reveal a game tip
*choice to play the hard or the easy version of INDIVIDUAL puzzles, inside the game, as well as fully customisable difficulty level from the menu
*many more puzzles/mini-games than HOPs. Only HOP I did was a find and use silhouette HOP, visited twice
*(but there’s sure to be more, because) I didn’t get to the halfway point of the demo (according to the SG) before my hour was up
*there are oodles of animals, but they are for the most part not very friendly. Those that are, are not very cute. I didn’t even like the cat
*good interactive map, journal, directional hint
*more bling! than you can count
*highly customizable – many choices on all types of options
*ERS signature art, but much lighter than any other game of theirs I’ve seen. Combines beauty and creepy very cleverly
*lip sync’d voiceover
*cute guy as our partner
*an awesome level of weirdness in the story and gameplay (E.g., put the frog in the vase and feed him a chilli pepper to melt the wax.)
*special secret service goggles designed to see supernatural activity. Associated with a mini-game to reveal a game tip
*choice to play the hard or the easy version of INDIVIDUAL puzzles, inside the game, as well as fully customisable difficulty level from the menu
*many more puzzles/mini-games than HOPs. Only HOP I did was a find and use silhouette HOP, visited twice
*(but there’s sure to be more, because) I didn’t get to the halfway point of the demo (according to the SG) before my hour was up
*there are oodles of animals, but they are for the most part not very friendly. Those that are, are not very cute. I didn’t even like the cat
*good interactive map, journal, directional hint
*more bling! than you can count
CE BLING!
*bonus chapter: seeing into the enemy’s mind (Dr Blackmore’s? Cuz that would be really scary),
*accessible SG (this actually didn’t look all that useful to me, it was light on information),
*excellent interface in keeping with the game for accessing wallpapers, videos, concepts, screensavers, music, replayable puzzles and mini-games.
*achievements in a dream room in a night time sky
*collections – 5 vials each of 4 different potions
*zoo – collection of all the animals you come across in the game
*hamster (who thinks he’s a merchant)
*accessible SG (this actually didn’t look all that useful to me, it was light on information),
*excellent interface in keeping with the game for accessing wallpapers, videos, concepts, screensavers, music, replayable puzzles and mini-games.
*achievements in a dream room in a night time sky
*collections – 5 vials each of 4 different potions
*zoo – collection of all the animals you come across in the game
*hamster (who thinks he’s a merchant)
BOTTOM LINE
Truly a stupendous game, particularly if you are a fan of the series. If you don’t know the series, your enjoyment of this game won’t suffer, but you’ll be wanting the previous games before the bundle sale is up!!
Truly a stupendous game, particularly if you are a fan of the series. If you don’t know the series, your enjoyment of this game won’t suffer, but you’ll be wanting the previous games before the bundle sale is up!!
After the first date with a charming girl named April, our hero wakes up alone in an abandoned city after being drugged.
Overall rating
4
/
5
5 of 5 found this review helpful
From Mastodon To Elephant Circus
PostedNovember 20, 2013
JustTheFacts
fromRural Western Australia
Skill Level:Expert
Favorite Genre(s):Adventure, Hidden Object, Puzzle
Fun Factor
4
/
5
Visual/Sound Quality
1
/
5
Level of Challenge
5
/
5
Storyline
4
/
5
BASED ON FULL HOUR DEMO
Evolution in its starkest form can be seen in the monumental changes we witness everyday in the world of electronics.
So. Imagine a hot thick demitasse of scalding Turkish coffee – bitter, potent, dangerous, exotic. Now imagine a chilled , heavily sweetened mocha frappe – light, frothy, refreshing. Even so, you will be unprepared for the stellar distances between the Elephant Games of today and this 2009 offering.
As you’d expect, this game suffers badly from the antique graphics. They are grainy, fuzzy, ugly. In my least favourite artistic style (I call it 20th Century Dumpster). Worse still, the hidden objects, and there are 100s of them, are often tiny. And yet still, I really enjoyed this game. In fact, I am delighted by it.
It’s secret is that the game does not fit any HOPA mould. It is a very different experience. It is more like reading an animated, interactive graphic novel (comic book) – or possibly a riddle book. Which you occasionally get to contribute to.
The story is different, well told, with the complexities, plot twists and gradual enlightenment of a true novel. The novel is interrupted by the gameplay, not the other way around. Nevertheless, there is a lot to do in every scene, but you are given precise instructions all the time. Every action is controlled.
After the first few ‘tutorial’ chapters, you follow a fairly straightforward formula. Read one page of the story, (memorizing what hints you can for later in the chapter) which is illustrated by sketches. This will activate a scene – later on you will learn how to use the map, which requires you to figure out where you should go next.
A variety of tasks will be given to you, and usually include some of multiple objects, a list, a bunch of silhouettes, a couple of easy puzzles, maybe a riddle or two. Often you get no more than a vague clue as to what to do next.
There are a large number of pictorial puzzles, and a number of the line up the rings type. Everything you collect has a purpose and will be used inside that room. At the finish of each chapter, you will find the map that allows you to travel to your next destination. If that sounds a lot, I’ve got another surprise, there are 34 chapters!
Luckily, there is a relaxed, untimed mode as well as the timed one. Both modes accumulate (or subtract) points by your actions.
The very best success this game has is the edgy atmosphere, helped along by grungy art and freaky music. It brings to mind games like F.A.C.E.S. or Nocturnal: Boston Nightfall.
Perhaps the solution to the conundrum of how Elephant Games ever came to be the developer of such a different game from their well known glamorous style today, lies in the credits – Elephant Games South Studios.
I recommend this game!
Help the young maiden Giselle free those held captive in the castle and rescue her beloved prince from an evil curse.
Overall rating
3
/
5
30 of 36 found this review helpful
You’ve Got A Crush On The Prince!
PostedNovember 20, 2013
JustTheFacts
fromRural Western Australia
Skill Level:Intermediate
Favorite Genre(s):Time Management
Fun Factor
4
/
5
Visual/Sound Quality
3
/
5
Level of Challenge
3
/
5
Storyline
3
/
5
BASED ON DEMO
FIRST IMPRESSIONS
There is nothing outstanding or unique to make this game special. It is a classic time/resource management game. The graphics are nicely done, with a very light hand, which does look nice, and very bright. There’s nothing noteworthy in the soundtrack either. But the game plays smoothly and is quite fun.
There is nothing outstanding or unique to make this game special. It is a classic time/resource management game. The graphics are nicely done, with a very light hand, which does look nice, and very bright. There’s nothing noteworthy in the soundtrack either. But the game plays smoothly and is quite fun.
WHAT’S HAPPENING
I do think there is too much story/narrator voiceover in the early stages of the game. The narrator speaks in very ironic tones, indicating that the story is not to be taken too seriously. Which just as well, because our character is a silly little chit who has a crush on the prince, who practically doesn’t know she’s alive. Still, love is so often the spur that leads to acts of bravery and honour!
I do think there is too much story/narrator voiceover in the early stages of the game. The narrator speaks in very ironic tones, indicating that the story is not to be taken too seriously. Which just as well, because our character is a silly little chit who has a crush on the prince, who practically doesn’t know she’s alive. Still, love is so often the spur that leads to acts of bravery and honour!
A nasty prince (not your one) has decided he wants to marry you after catching a glimpse of you from afar, thinking you are a princess. When he finds out that you are just a servant girl, he starts waving his magic wand and cursing everyone. Now it is up to you to rescue your love. It’s kinda different, and I like that.
The problem I’m having is trying to figure out how you, a servant girl, can order the men in your kingdom to do anything. Suddenly we can muster armies? The story and the gameplay don’t seem to be connected in any way.
MAKING PROGRESS
Anyway, the helpful guys of the kingdom go about doing what all building games are about. Follow a set of goals for each level, within a certain time. Mine, farm, saw, use magic, in every way you can to get it done on time.
Anyway, the helpful guys of the kingdom go about doing what all building games are about. Follow a set of goals for each level, within a certain time. Mine, farm, saw, use magic, in every way you can to get it done on time.
Or opt for the relaxed mode and take as long as you like. You will still get graded on performance with stars and achievements. The days and nights continue to progress too, which is an important part of the early levels. Another important feature is the ability to queue jobs up, giving yourself a chance to work faster.
THE BOTTOM LINE
I am a long way short of expert with this sort of game, but I have played enough now to see that this game, while alright, is not in the same league as a Northern Tales or Royal Envoy.
I am a long way short of expert with this sort of game, but I have played enough now to see that this game, while alright, is not in the same league as a Northern Tales or Royal Envoy.
I think it will appeal to those who love this genre and are always looking for another game to add to their collection. It’s pretty easy from what I saw, so maybe beginners might like it too.
Help Princess Arianna save her kingdom and defeat the Dark Witch in this clever hidden-object adventure and match-3 game.
Overall rating
4
/
5
68 of 81 found this review helpful
What A Neat Little Game!
PostedNovember 19, 2013
JustTheFacts
fromRural Western Australia
Skill Level:Expert
Favorite Genre(s):Adventure, Hidden Object, Puzzle
Fun Factor
4
/
5
Visual/Sound Quality
4
/
5
Level of Challenge
3
/
5
Storyline
2
/
5
BASED ON DEMO
FIRST IMPRESSIONS
This is a nicely put together hybrid game, part HOPs and part Match 3. The unique factor here is that it is the first game of this type that I think actually works! The two genres mesh tightly in an action-based adventure that is really cleverly done and smoothly paced.
This is a nicely put together hybrid game, part HOPs and part Match 3. The unique factor here is that it is the first game of this type that I think actually works! The two genres mesh tightly in an action-based adventure that is really cleverly done and smoothly paced.
SIGHTS & SOUNDS
The looks are very ‘fairy tale’ of the big bold and beautiful sort. Heavy brush strokes, strong colour saturation, and HOPs that are filled with big easy to see objects. The effect is perhaps a little too cartoony for some, but I think it just squeaks in on the positive side.
The looks are very ‘fairy tale’ of the big bold and beautiful sort. Heavy brush strokes, strong colour saturation, and HOPs that are filled with big easy to see objects. The effect is perhaps a little too cartoony for some, but I think it just squeaks in on the positive side.
The sound track is both the best and the worst of the game! There are no voiceovers, which is probably a good thing, because there is a lot of chit chat. The music is, seriously, uplifting. Some of the best music I’ve ever heard. The problem is it’s so loud! And changing the volume in options doesn’t work. Open up options again, and you’ll see it is back to full volume. (Might be worth fixing that, Dev)
WHAT’S HAPPENING
The story is both familiar and a bit tired, but this is not a game you’ll buy for the story. It’s just the wrapping paper on the gift. You return from who knows where to discover your kingdom has been overtaken by none other than our old friend Morgana (if you haven’t met her yet, you’ve been playing the wrong games *cheeky wink*). The royal scribing pigeon escapes and will be keeping a journal of your odyssey as you travel ‘the far kingdoms’ in a bid to defeat her. The King of Frogs decides he might come along for the ride, and even give you a few pointers along the way. Congratulations, you have met your (directional) hint button.
The story is both familiar and a bit tired, but this is not a game you’ll buy for the story. It’s just the wrapping paper on the gift. You return from who knows where to discover your kingdom has been overtaken by none other than our old friend Morgana (if you haven’t met her yet, you’ve been playing the wrong games *cheeky wink*). The royal scribing pigeon escapes and will be keeping a journal of your odyssey as you travel ‘the far kingdoms’ in a bid to defeat her. The King of Frogs decides he might come along for the ride, and even give you a few pointers along the way. Congratulations, you have met your (directional) hint button.
MAKING PROGRESS
This game is one of those where you get very little choice about what order things are done, where to go next, etc. Mostly it is carrying out the quest set you by each new character you meet. The focus is on both the Match 3 mini-games and the HOPs fairly evenly distributed. There is only a handful of puzzles. There are some mini-games of the arcade-type (burn all the marauding spiders before they reach you).
This game is one of those where you get very little choice about what order things are done, where to go next, etc. Mostly it is carrying out the quest set you by each new character you meet. The focus is on both the Match 3 mini-games and the HOPs fairly evenly distributed. There is only a handful of puzzles. There are some mini-games of the arcade-type (burn all the marauding spiders before they reach you).
I like the Match 3 because each scene you play generates a Match 3 with tiles that are appropriate to the spot you are in. E.g. In a mushroom grove, there are different kinds of mushrooms for you to match. That is fun.
The HOPs are straight lists, I didn’t notice any interaction. The few puzzles are easy and very familiar, but it doesn’t detract from the game as much as you’d think. No map, as you’ll be travelling through portals and casting spells in order to get around. You do have a magic potions bottle, which will combine your ingredients for making spells from recipes you will find in your quests.
MY FINAL WORD
Nice game. Probably a little bit too child-like for me, but I wouldn’t be at all surprised to find many adults loving it. It’s a fairy tale, yes, but it is different and entertaining too.
Nice game. Probably a little bit too child-like for me, but I wouldn’t be at all surprised to find many adults loving it. It’s a fairy tale, yes, but it is different and entertaining too.
The game gets an extra star for doing such a good job combining match 3 and HOP gameplay, and is certainly worth a demo.
I recommend this game!