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:
Free the trapped souls and reunite a love long lost in Haunting Mysteries: The Island of Lost Souls!
Overall rating
3
/
5
6 of 6 found this review helpful
Good Game, Excellent Value
PostedAugust 30, 2013
JustTheFacts
fromRural Western Australia
Skill Level:Expert
Favorite Genre(s):Adventure, Hidden Object, Puzzle
Fun Factor
4
/
5
Visual/Sound Quality
3
/
5
Level of Challenge
4
/
5
Storyline
3
/
5
BASED ON COMPLETED GAME
FIRST IMPRESSIONS
I liked the intro to this one. After being downed by a freak storm, your first objective is to escape the plane before it sinks, and get to land. It is exciting and well done. When you reach landfall, you find yourself on an uncharted island, apparently abandoned, except by mournful ghosts! Helping these lost souls becomes the motivation for the game.
I liked the intro to this one. After being downed by a freak storm, your first objective is to escape the plane before it sinks, and get to land. It is exciting and well done. When you reach landfall, you find yourself on an uncharted island, apparently abandoned, except by mournful ghosts! Helping these lost souls becomes the motivation for the game.
SIGHTS & SOUNDS
The graphics are clear and cut scenes are done well, perhaps a little rough when compared with the kinds of art we see now. And there is not much in the way of eye candy, the scenes are kinda dull.
The graphics are clear and cut scenes are done well, perhaps a little rough when compared with the kinds of art we see now. And there is not much in the way of eye candy, the scenes are kinda dull.
A really nice touch was the voices. Throughout the game, we do not have a voice, only our “thought bar”. So for a while it looks as though there will be no voiceovers. However, upon meeting our first ghost, we they do have voices – very enchanting Scottish voices to be precise.
There are also some lengthy periods of silence, depending on how long it takes you to do stuff.
MAKING PROGRESS
HO scenes dominate the gameplay in this one. I found the HOs a tad more challenging than most, and part of that is the rough graphics, and partly because the cursor is pretty finicky, but it is also because the objects are well hidden. HOs are interactive list, with some lists being challenging to complete because they include many multiples of one item. Not too many puzzles, and I didn’t have trouble with most of them. Hint is pretty useless outside HO scenes, there is no journal and no map, so there is that element of greater challenge.
HO scenes dominate the gameplay in this one. I found the HOs a tad more challenging than most, and part of that is the rough graphics, and partly because the cursor is pretty finicky, but it is also because the objects are well hidden. HOs are interactive list, with some lists being challenging to complete because they include many multiples of one item. Not too many puzzles, and I didn’t have trouble with most of them. Hint is pretty useless outside HO scenes, there is no journal and no map, so there is that element of greater challenge.
BLING!
I say excellent value because, with this game, you get many of the features of Collectors’ Edition without the price tag. There are 40 morphing collectibles (cleverly hidden), 32 secret awards, and a game timer. (It took me exactly 4 hours to play)
I say excellent value because, with this game, you get many of the features of Collectors’ Edition without the price tag. There are 40 morphing collectibles (cleverly hidden), 32 secret awards, and a game timer. (It took me exactly 4 hours to play)
FAMOUS LAST WORDS
This game is interesting and involving. The characters are very appealing. If not overwhelming, it at least promises a pleasant afternoon’s distraction.
This game is interesting and involving. The characters are very appealing. If not overwhelming, it at least promises a pleasant afternoon’s distraction.
I recommend this game!
There are screams heard in Silent Hollow... Trouble at the Mystery Trackers headquarters means you're called in to help.
Overall rating
5
/
5
95 of 106 found this review helpful
James Bond, Eat Your Heart Out
PostedAugust 30, 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
5
/
5
BASED ON COMPLETED CE GAME
FIRST IMPRESSIONS
This game is just awesome in every respect. I loved it from the intro on. But then, I am a great fan of the series. From a tension-filled and shocking start, we are thrust into a very realistic environment with excellent ‘action’ music, a confused cop, and a body. We soon learn that James-Bond-style gadgets and paranormal abilities will be playing a large part in this action-packed game.
This game is just awesome in every respect. I loved it from the intro on. But then, I am a great fan of the series. From a tension-filled and shocking start, we are thrust into a very realistic environment with excellent ‘action’ music, a confused cop, and a body. We soon learn that James-Bond-style gadgets and paranormal abilities will be playing a large part in this action-packed game.
SIGHTS & SOUNDS
The graphics are as good as they get, very realistic, precise, colourful and detailed. The intro cut scenes are movie-like and extremely well done, using light and shadow to disguise any lack of lip sync on the voiceovers (which are very professionally done), and generally using every movie trick to make the experience more realistic.
The graphics are as good as they get, very realistic, precise, colourful and detailed. The intro cut scenes are movie-like and extremely well done, using light and shadow to disguise any lack of lip sync on the voiceovers (which are very professionally done), and generally using every movie trick to make the experience more realistic.
The music is very successful as a ‘mood setter’, with active and insistent styles where appropriate, and totally different quietly anxious tracks as well. Great environmental sounds, as you’d expect.
WHAT’S HAPPENING
I love the fact that this story includes not only us, but also our boss and colleagues at the Mystery Trackers Order. A rogue agent, locked up 100’s of years ago in a cryogenic-style sleep, has escaped. Now every agent is in danger.
I love the fact that this story includes not only us, but also our boss and colleagues at the Mystery Trackers Order. A rogue agent, locked up 100’s of years ago in a cryogenic-style sleep, has escaped. Now every agent is in danger.
The dude has serious paranormal talents, including hypnotism, which is felling agents all over the place. You are the only who is immune, and you must desperately seek out this guy and recapture him.
MAKING PROGRESS
This is a top notch adventure-lite game, with plenty of action in the form of interactive list HO scenes and lots of mini-games and puzzles. Nothing is seriously difficult, a task lit is available, as well as a very detailed map that gives you active areas and jump ability. Hint gives you very specific hints.
This is a top notch adventure-lite game, with plenty of action in the form of interactive list HO scenes and lots of mini-games and puzzles. Nothing is seriously difficult, a task lit is available, as well as a very detailed map that gives you active areas and jump ability. Hint gives you very specific hints.
A lot of the action consists of using your paranormal abilities, which are awakened at different stages in the game. You have Elf (your dog) to help you, and whatever else the agency can provide you with, i.e., gadgets, some of which give you more abilities.
BLING!
This version has the agents, their pets/partners, and the gadgets that are to be found in the CE, but not the extras such as the gallery items and the ‘secret room’. These features are fun, and interesting, and while the main story ends satisfactorily, there are clearly gaps in the ‘dossier’ of agents that says there’s more to see in the CE.
This version has the agents, their pets/partners, and the gadgets that are to be found in the CE, but not the extras such as the gallery items and the ‘secret room’. These features are fun, and interesting, and while the main story ends satisfactorily, there are clearly gaps in the ‘dossier’ of agents that says there’s more to see in the CE.
FAMOUS LAST WORDS
The CE is definitely the better buy. As well as the great game offered here in the SE, there is a totally independent investigation in the bonus chapter that uses a combination of revamped familiar locations and new ones, as well as new agents. There is also another game labelled simply “secret room”, which offers a unique experience. Unfortunately, I don’t dare say more or I’ll spoil it for others.
The CE is definitely the better buy. As well as the great game offered here in the SE, there is a totally independent investigation in the bonus chapter that uses a combination of revamped familiar locations and new ones, as well as new agents. There is also another game labelled simply “secret room”, which offers a unique experience. Unfortunately, I don’t dare say more or I’ll spoil it for others.
I recommend this game!
The Missing: Island of Lost Ships
After setting out to search for your missing friend, you find yourself trapped on the mysterious Island of Lost Ships.
Overall rating
3
/
5
12 of 13 found this review helpful
Poor Visuals Ruin This One
PostedAugust 29, 2013
JustTheFacts
fromRural Western Australia
Skill Level:Expert
Favorite Genre(s):Adventure, Hidden Object, Puzzle
Fun Factor
3
/
5
Visual/Sound Quality
1
/
5
Level of Challenge
2
/
5
Storyline
4
/
5
BASED ON COMPLETED GAME
FIRST IMPRESSIONS
The visuals in this game detract from an otherwise okay game. It is hard to believe this is a relatively recent release (Dec 2012), because the graphics have the resolution that could be found in the better games of 2009 or even earlier.
The visuals in this game detract from an otherwise okay game. It is hard to believe this is a relatively recent release (Dec 2012), because the graphics have the resolution that could be found in the better games of 2009 or even earlier.
As well, the HO scenes are static, as are most of the locations. Where the effort has gone in this game is clearly in the creation of quirky characters, whose animation and voiceovers are quite good. There are, in fact, a lot of characters to meet and interact with, and they are presented with a light hearted humour that is refreshing.
WHAT’S HAPPENING
Well, that is complicated. Our friend Robert has made us promise to help if we don’t hear from him soon, so we set sail on the Atlantic to rescue him. But instead we end up in a strange place peopled by quite unusual people whose conversations can only be taken tongue in cheek.
Well, that is complicated. Our friend Robert has made us promise to help if we don’t hear from him soon, so we set sail on the Atlantic to rescue him. But instead we end up in a strange place peopled by quite unusual people whose conversations can only be taken tongue in cheek.
We are now on the wrong side of some portal, although Robert is here, so that’s one thing, but we have no way of knowing how we will get back home. All of this, and a legend about a powerful artefact makes for some serious sleuthing.
MAKING PROGRESS
Quirky characters present you with queer quests, strange puzzles and many HO scenes. HO puzzles are interactive list and silhouettes. The interactive jump map is confusing, but necessary as the gameplay jumps around all over the place. Hint is directional and quick to refill. There is a handy journal. And there are many mysterious modes of transport.
Quirky characters present you with queer quests, strange puzzles and many HO scenes. HO puzzles are interactive list and silhouettes. The interactive jump map is confusing, but necessary as the gameplay jumps around all over the place. Hint is directional and quick to refill. There is a handy journal. And there are many mysterious modes of transport.
FAMOUS LAST WORDS
I couldn’t get past the poor graphics with this one. True, after a while you no longer notice the stretching to fit widescreen, or the graininess of the images, but combined with still, lifeless scenes, and so many of them, it stops being fun.
I couldn’t get past the poor graphics with this one. True, after a while you no longer notice the stretching to fit widescreen, or the graininess of the images, but combined with still, lifeless scenes, and so many of them, it stops being fun.
If you are HO addicted, or are using a small screen, this game might well take your fancy, because the characters are appealing, but I can’t really recommend it.
I don't recommend this game.
Sable Maze: Norwich Caves Collector's Edition
Your students have gone missing during an expedition under the university. Can you track them down before the water rises?
Overall rating
4
/
5
141 of 156 found this review helpful
Lost In The Labyrinth
PostedAugust 29, 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
4
/
5
Storyline
5
/
5
BASED ON DEMO
FIRST IMPRESSIONS
My first thought: turn up the volume. For some reason it is set so low you can’t even hear the music, let alone object to it. So it’s a quiet start to this game, but not an uninteresting one.
My first thought: turn up the volume. For some reason it is set so low you can’t even hear the music, let alone object to it. So it’s a quiet start to this game, but not an uninteresting one.
In fact, the story hooked me straightaway. Four college kids and a loopy professor are lost in the labyrinth, an ancient cave system with mysterious overtones. As a newly appointed professor, you have been begged to help in the search.
SIGHTS & SOUNDS
The graphics are top quality. Artistically, they have nothing to distinguish them, but the look is clear and detailed, and not unattractive. The sounds, well, even at full volume, do not make a real impact. Although there are a couple of ‘shocks’ when the music will suddenly be loud and frantic. The voiceovers were good for the most part, but the attempt at lip sync doesn’t quite come off.
The graphics are top quality. Artistically, they have nothing to distinguish them, but the look is clear and detailed, and not unattractive. The sounds, well, even at full volume, do not make a real impact. Although there are a couple of ‘shocks’ when the music will suddenly be loud and frantic. The voiceovers were good for the most part, but the attempt at lip sync doesn’t quite come off.
WHAT’S HAPPENING
Once we get into the basement and run into the missing professor, it becomes clear that he, at least, is not interested in being rescued. He magically shuts off all 4 entrances to the maze and disappears into it himself. His students are not so happy to be there!
Once we get into the basement and run into the missing professor, it becomes clear that he, at least, is not interested in being rescued. He magically shuts off all 4 entrances to the maze and disappears into it himself. His students are not so happy to be there!
And something strange is going on with the water... Further investigation exposes the history of the area, and the 4 founders who sealed the caves and started the university. Something really different – the bad guy is made of water!
MAKING PROGRESS
It may just be I am having a particularly dense day, but I found myself relying heavily on the interactive jump map practically from the moment I received it. A flair for lateral thinking is definitely an advantage in this one. Not that anything is totally out there wacko, but definitely non-linear.
It may just be I am having a particularly dense day, but I found myself relying heavily on the interactive jump map practically from the moment I received it. A flair for lateral thinking is definitely an advantage in this one. Not that anything is totally out there wacko, but definitely non-linear.
There are roughly the same number of HOs and puzzles, with the HOs being a progressive (find and use) list, and the puzzles being almost all new to me, and varying in difficulty. The instructions are not always the best. But the SG provides solutions that make the rules fairly obvious.
There is no journal with this one, and already I’m feeling the lack of it. There are symbols we will clearly be needing later on that I couldn’t hold in my memory, so I’ll have to actually write stuff down! Shock horror!
FAMOUS LAST WORDS
I think this is a good CE game. It has all the standard requirements (including very interesting collectibles and trophies), and the production quality. It is not a spectacular game, but it is good and will, I think, be an enjoyable addition to the collection.
I think this is a good CE game. It has all the standard requirements (including very interesting collectibles and trophies), and the production quality. It is not a spectacular game, but it is good and will, I think, be an enjoyable addition to the collection.
I recommend this game!
Discover what connects the ship’s disappearance with Devil’s Island and a family’s unsolved murder!
Overall rating
4
/
5
156 of 168 found this review helpful
Maritime Mystery Will Keep You Guessing
PostedAugust 28, 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
2
/
5
Storyline
5
/
5
BASED ON FULL DEMO
FIRST IMPRESSIONS
It may seem a little subdued at the start, but there are some very scary moments in the opening part of the game. This game starts out with a classic mystery: the abandoned ship with all crew mysteriously gone.
It may seem a little subdued at the start, but there are some very scary moments in the opening part of the game. This game starts out with a classic mystery: the abandoned ship with all crew mysteriously gone.
The introduction to our story includes cut scenes that are beautifully drawn, and I love the ‘ghostly’ ship. We are a detective who has received a letter from the mayor of Portsmouth, where the ship first set to sea, and then returned some weeks later. He and the harbourmaster have little to offer by way of assistance, so, lantern in hand, you board the strange vessel and begin an inspection. Things go pretty much downhill from there.
SIGHTS & SOUNDS
The graphics are a delight, top quality and hand drawn, but with a rougher touch which makes them significantly different from the ‘pretty’ art of fantasy games, but nowhere near as dark and dreary as other thrillers. There is a mistiness about many of the scenes, giving it a ghostly ambience while not interfering at all with the clarity of the scenes.
The graphics are a delight, top quality and hand drawn, but with a rougher touch which makes them significantly different from the ‘pretty’ art of fantasy games, but nowhere near as dark and dreary as other thrillers. There is a mistiness about many of the scenes, giving it a ghostly ambience while not interfering at all with the clarity of the scenes.
The music is just okay, but the ambient sounds are good, and the voiceovers are excellent. You can adjust sounds, music, voice dubbing. You can also adjust for aspect ratio.
MAKING PROGRESS
There is a lot to do in every location, and there are a lot of locations (15 in the demo alone). The gameplay is old-fashioned these days, with only interactive lists for the HOs and well known easy puzzles. I really like that when you revisit a HO scene, the items you removed before are still gone. Hint is directional and has an almost instantaneous refill, as does skip.
There is a lot to do in every location, and there are a lot of locations (15 in the demo alone). The gameplay is old-fashioned these days, with only interactive lists for the HOs and well known easy puzzles. I really like that when you revisit a HO scene, the items you removed before are still gone. Hint is directional and has an almost instantaneous refill, as does skip.
The interactive jump map can be adjusted to show active areas or not, by the choice you make of 3 difficulty levels. Even on the lowest level, the sparkles are discreet except for the HO scenes.
At first I thought this was going to be mostly a HO game, but it actually has a lot of adventure tasks and objectives as well, and even the puzzles are fairly frequent, but I can’t pretend that I didn’t find it very easy.
I enjoy easy if the story is fun, and this one definitely has me. The action is logical but not linear, and I am intrigued... How will this story end up being what the ad blurb on this game’s web page describes it? There is a mere breath of a hint in the last moments of the demo.
FAMOUS LAST WORDS
Have you noticed these things seem to go in waves (excuse the unavoidable pun)? We’ve been having a lot of maritime adventures lately! Luckily I like a good swashbuckler, so I’m diving right in!
Have you noticed these things seem to go in waves (excuse the unavoidable pun)? We’ve been having a lot of maritime adventures lately! Luckily I like a good swashbuckler, so I’m diving right in!
I recommend this game!
Help detective Ashley Clark uncover the truth behind a series of mysterious kidnappings, and reveal the secrets of the ruby pendant!
Overall rating
4
/
5
133 of 146 found this review helpful
Just The Thing For Punchcard Monday!
PostedAugust 26, 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
4
/
5
Storyline
5
/
5
BASED ON COMPLETED GAME
FIRST IMPRESSIONS
I am so often disappointed by stand alone SE games, that I am very happy to find a good one. This is not the flashiest game you’ll ever see – the budget is clearly too low for that – but it’s got all the essentials, and they’re done well.
I am so often disappointed by stand alone SE games, that I am very happy to find a good one. This is not the flashiest game you’ll ever see – the budget is clearly too low for that – but it’s got all the essentials, and they’re done well.
The opening cut scenes are very like 3D adventure games, and the game world is done in old fashioned pseudo-realism, but don’t let that fool you, there is more to this game than there seems at first glance.
WHAT’S HAPPENING
Initially, we have a typical cop/crime mystery game with the expected visuals to go with it, based in the real world and fairly ordinary. We have been called out to the crime scene of a probable kidnapping, with strange complications. We find out that there have been a series of similar crimes dating back to 1790!
Initially, we have a typical cop/crime mystery game with the expected visuals to go with it, based in the real world and fairly ordinary. We have been called out to the crime scene of a probable kidnapping, with strange complications. We find out that there have been a series of similar crimes dating back to 1790!
Then we take a good look at the ruby amulet found at the scene, and are thrown into a completely different world. Personally I thought we took that pretty casually, for a street smart cop and all.
With the guidance of stranded spirits, we track down our kidnapper, who doesn't seem all that formidable, but, hey *somebody* dragged me into this time zone/dimension - whatever.
SIGHTS & SOUNDS
Once we leave behind our present day reality, the graphics become mostly water colour hand drawn in style. Good colour and clarity. The cut scenes still hark back to earlier time, but the HO scenes in particular look great. No matter which style of graphics is being used at any moment, it is all well done.
Once we leave behind our present day reality, the graphics become mostly water colour hand drawn in style. Good colour and clarity. The cut scenes still hark back to earlier time, but the HO scenes in particular look great. No matter which style of graphics is being used at any moment, it is all well done.
The voiceovers, when there are some (characters will go from VO to print when the dialogue is long), are very good, even though sometimes the pronunciation is off. We can interact and talk with the characters we meet, and that plus the cut scene graphics give the game the feel of an adventure game, so expect a little more talk than usual.
MAKING PROGRESS
The gameplay is well balanced between HO games (interactive list & silhouettes) and puzzles. The puzzles were almost all new for me, and a couple were a little confusing, so a bit more difficult than the norm. The adventure gameplay was pretty logical, and plenty of guidance from characters meant, not overly difficult. There is a directional hint and skip is quick in the easiest of 3 levels. The map was a transporter, but not interactive.
The gameplay is well balanced between HO games (interactive list & silhouettes) and puzzles. The puzzles were almost all new for me, and a couple were a little confusing, so a bit more difficult than the norm. The adventure gameplay was pretty logical, and plenty of guidance from characters meant, not overly difficult. There is a directional hint and skip is quick in the easiest of 3 levels. The map was a transporter, but not interactive.
We collect rubies for additional hints.
FAMOUS LAST WORDS
I ran out of time because I was too engrossed in the story to pay attention, always a good sign. This one is definitely on my buy list.
I ran out of time because I was too engrossed in the story to pay attention, always a good sign. This one is definitely on my buy list.
I recommend this game!
The Emperor's son has a mysterious illness. As legendary healer Daiyu, you're called to the palace to save him, but you end up having to save yourself!
Overall rating
4
/
5
119 of 125 found this review helpful
Marvellous Oriental Adventure!
PostedAugust 25, 2013
JustTheFacts
fromRural Western Australia
Skill Level:Expert
Favorite Genre(s):Adventure, Hidden Object, Puzzle
Fun Factor
5
/
5
Visual/Sound Quality
4
/
5
Level of Challenge
4
/
5
Storyline
5
/
5
BASED ON COMPLETED CE GAME
FIRST IMPRESSIONS
Definitely a winner. The introduction is well done, excellent voiceover, deep and echoing. The game looks good, first class graphics (HD option) and good cut scenes that explain the story. The game is set in China, and is filled with excitingly exotic images and sounds.
Definitely a winner. The introduction is well done, excellent voiceover, deep and echoing. The game looks good, first class graphics (HD option) and good cut scenes that explain the story. The game is set in China, and is filled with excitingly exotic images and sounds.
The music is a blend of Chinese and western, and is excellent. There are a number of important characters throughout the game and they are each beautifully drawn and animated, as well as being well acted.
WHAT’S HAPPENING
An evil sorcerer poisons the Emperor’s son as a first step in his plot to become emperor himself. You are Daiyu, a renowned healer, and you have been summoned to the palace to heal the boy. From the start there are problems, but nothing you can’t overcome with your magical healer’s kit and a few important ingredients.
An evil sorcerer poisons the Emperor’s son as a first step in his plot to become emperor himself. You are Daiyu, a renowned healer, and you have been summoned to the palace to heal the boy. From the start there are problems, but nothing you can’t overcome with your magical healer’s kit and a few important ingredients.
Saving the Emperor’s son soon turns out to be both easier and a lot more difficult than expected and is the beginning of an epic journey.
MAKING PROGRESS
This is a true Hidden Object Puzzle Adventure, as the three kinds of play are pretty well balanced. None of them pose a big challenge, but they are all interesting. The HO scenes are lists that are somewhat interactive and silhouettes that are not. The objects are large and clear.
This is a true Hidden Object Puzzle Adventure, as the three kinds of play are pretty well balanced. None of them pose a big challenge, but they are all interesting. The HO scenes are lists that are somewhat interactive and silhouettes that are not. The objects are large and clear.
The puzzles are beautiful. They are fun to play because they look so good! They weren’t very original or very hard, though, and might just be too darn easy for some experts. Me, I don’t mind easy.
Getting around is helped by a portal map that tells you where there is something to do, and where you still have objectives to complete. It can be accessed through the journal, which also gives you a list of objectives and a summary of the game as you go along. In casual mode (1 of 3), the skip button filled really fast, and the game took me between 4 -5 hours.
BLING!
The healer’s kit turns special items you acquire into essences and such. It is the arcade-like game where you must time your click to match the green segment of a red bar. However, it is never too difficult.
The healer’s kit turns special items you acquire into essences and such. It is the arcade-like game where you must time your click to match the green segment of a red bar. However, it is never too difficult.
The CE has collectibles and achievements plus the usual CE extras. The story ends conclusively in the main game.
FAMOUS LAST WORDS
The journey to fulfil your mission is a wonderful adventure, there is light and colour and variety everywhere. Fascinating characters, beautiful objects, interesting activities. The story is well blended into the game, and the gameplay is easy but fun. A very enjoyable game.
The journey to fulfil your mission is a wonderful adventure, there is light and colour and variety everywhere. Fascinating characters, beautiful objects, interesting activities. The story is well blended into the game, and the gameplay is easy but fun. A very enjoyable game.
I recommend this game!
Who is responsible for your children’s disappearance? Follow the trail!
Overall rating
4
/
5
169 of 184 found this review helpful
Oh no! Cookie Monsters!
PostedAugust 24, 2013
JustTheFacts
fromRural Western Australia
Skill Level:Expert
Favorite Genre(s):Adventure, Hidden Object, Puzzle
Fun Factor
5
/
5
Visual/Sound Quality
4
/
5
Level of Challenge
4
/
5
Storyline
5
/
5
BASED ON DEMO
FIRST IMPRESSIONS
Sorry, couldn’t resist the awful pun, because there really are cookie monsters (evil gingerbread men) in this game.
Sorry, couldn’t resist the awful pun, because there really are cookie monsters (evil gingerbread men) in this game.
Except for the one who decides to stick with us. At least, he better be on our side, because as well as providing back story, he’s our hint button.
Opening scenes are fun, giving the impression of this being a children’s tale, with fantastical graphics and a rhyming narrative. But I’m not of the opinion that it is. I played this demo through to the conclusion (in 48mins), without even thinking to take notes, I was so caught up in it.
NB: This is a HO GAME, unlike the other superb games this developer has released recently. And it is very different from their other releases.
SIGHTS & SOUNDS
The graphics are delightfully whimsical. A touch of the surreal, with broad brush strokes, certainly have the feel of a fable. The characters, quite amusing as well as very well drawn and animated, are likewise “unreal”.
The graphics are delightfully whimsical. A touch of the surreal, with broad brush strokes, certainly have the feel of a fable. The characters, quite amusing as well as very well drawn and animated, are likewise “unreal”.
The music got repetitive really quickly, and I think let the side down. But it is in keeping with the pseudo-children’s book motif. I also think the voice of our friendly gingerbread man (Chip) is going to wear us down eventually too.
On the other hand, the narrator’s voiceover is excellent.
WHAT’S HAPPENING
Like the real Hansel & Gretel, we have an evil witch, but unlike it, the kids are stolen in town and have a mother (us) who cares enough to come save them. We do very little towards achieving that goal in the demo, but we do a series of fun and not difficult side quests.
Like the real Hansel & Gretel, we have an evil witch, but unlike it, the kids are stolen in town and have a mother (us) who cares enough to come save them. We do very little towards achieving that goal in the demo, but we do a series of fun and not difficult side quests.
MAKING PROGRESS
As I say, HOs followed by HOs and so on. They are interactive lists, no other variants, and each scene is visited twice. (One star demerit for lack of variety). There are puzzles as well, very good fun ones that stick close to the story. The hint button is not all that fast, seeing I played on easiest of 3 difficulty levels.
As I say, HOs followed by HOs and so on. They are interactive lists, no other variants, and each scene is visited twice. (One star demerit for lack of variety). There are puzzles as well, very good fun ones that stick close to the story. The hint button is not all that fast, seeing I played on easiest of 3 difficulty levels.
Outside HO, it gives you a picture of where you should be and allows you to travel there, if you are well away from it, and you will have to wait for a recharge. If close, it is simply directional, no cost. This is necessary because there is no map. Skip was quick. The journal holds important info and tracks your objectives.
BLING!
The usual. Gallery, SG, bonus chapter, as well as HO and puzzle replays. Movies and a “making of”. Achievements and collectible cupcakes.
The usual. Gallery, SG, bonus chapter, as well as HO and puzzle replays. Movies and a “making of”. Achievements and collectible cupcakes.
FAMOUS LAST WORDS
I know you’re thinking: "gingerbread men and collectible cupcakes, let me barf", but in fact it isn’t all that cutesy, even with the rhyming narration. It is altogether too dark and surreal to be a convincing fairy tale – and that of course is its appeal.
I know you’re thinking: "gingerbread men and collectible cupcakes, let me barf", but in fact it isn’t all that cutesy, even with the rhyming narration. It is altogether too dark and surreal to be a convincing fairy tale – and that of course is its appeal.
I am astonished at this developer's professionalism, talent and versatility. They certainly are rising stars, and this game, even if you are not into HOs, is an extremely well done and offbeat gaming experience.
I recommend this game!
The mysterious League of Light has chosen you as their newest member. Are you up to your first assignment?
Overall rating
4
/
5
64 of 75 found this review helpful
Solid Entertainment
PostedAugust 23, 2013
JustTheFacts
fromRural Western Australia
Skill Level:Expert
Favorite Genre(s):Adventure, Hidden Object, Puzzle
Fun Factor
5
/
5
Visual/Sound Quality
4
/
5
Level of Challenge
4
/
5
Storyline
4
/
5
BASED ON COMPLETED CE GAME
FIRST IMPRESSIONS
The intro is interesting, if not devastating. We find out much about the story in sepia animations with an excellent voiceover. Throughout the game, we continue to find scrolls which will tell us more about the characters and history of our world. The animations are well done, the voice acting very good, and I love the view over our horse’s neck.
The intro is interesting, if not devastating. We find out much about the story in sepia animations with an excellent voiceover. Throughout the game, we continue to find scrolls which will tell us more about the characters and history of our world. The animations are well done, the voice acting very good, and I love the view over our horse’s neck.
SIGHTS & SOUNDS
The graphics are very good, not astonishingly beautiful or artistically inspired, but easy on the eyes, very clear and bright, and with some great animations, like the banshee.
The graphics are very good, not astonishingly beautiful or artistically inspired, but easy on the eyes, very clear and bright, and with some great animations, like the banshee.
Character animation and lip sync is also very good. There are a lot of cut scenes early on, they are active and exciting, speed up the story rather than slow us down, and display the impressive talents of the animation team.
WHAT’S HAPPENING
As a newly inducted member of the League of Light we set forth to eradicate an evil presence in a village in the mountains. Things get exciting the minute we arrive, and we are soon attempting to save a damsel in distress, fight demonic beasts, and overcome the dark lord. In other words, the usual heroics. Looks like fun ;)
As a newly inducted member of the League of Light we set forth to eradicate an evil presence in a village in the mountains. Things get exciting the minute we arrive, and we are soon attempting to save a damsel in distress, fight demonic beasts, and overcome the dark lord. In other words, the usual heroics. Looks like fun ;)
MAKING PROGRESS
HO scenes come in two forms. We have “find & use” (progressive) grey shaded pictures. We also have interactive lists which include small puzzles as part of the interaction. The puzzles and mini-games are not as frequent, but they are well conceived and fun. None of them really struck me as being too hard.
HO scenes come in two forms. We have “find & use” (progressive) grey shaded pictures. We also have interactive lists which include small puzzles as part of the interaction. The puzzles and mini-games are not as frequent, but they are well conceived and fun. None of them really struck me as being too hard.
Getting around is fairly straightforward, I used the interactive jump map a fair bit, but didn’t miss the hint (it’s a “nothing to do here” one). There’s also a journal, but I didn’t make much use of that either. It is not a long game (9 chapters, timer said 3.5hr for me), but is enough so that you don’t feel you’ve missed out. The ending is very abrupt, but is not setting you up for the CE.
BLING!
The CE has some top quality extras. The stock standards are there, bonus chapter (nothing special), SG and gallery, as well as achievements that are brilliant and diverse and include one for a simple trivia test about the game, different collectibles, and a jigsaw game that you can only play if you get the other awards.
The CE has some top quality extras. The stock standards are there, bonus chapter (nothing special), SG and gallery, as well as achievements that are brilliant and diverse and include one for a simple trivia test about the game, different collectibles, and a jigsaw game that you can only play if you get the other awards.
The concept art is marvellous and seems to be scenes cut from the game. They are so good I was really disappointed that they had been cut, and that they could not be saved to my pc. I would have loved them as wallpapers.
FAMOUS LAST WORDS
Is the CE worth the additional cost? I just don’t know, but it’s a good solid game in either edition. Interesting and pleasant to play, not going to give you brain strain, but I doubt it will bore you either.
Is the CE worth the additional cost? I just don’t know, but it’s a good solid game in either edition. Interesting and pleasant to play, not going to give you brain strain, but I doubt it will bore you either.
I recommend this game!
You've come to Mexico to explore a mysterious mansion. But this is no vacation. Your cousin is missing, and the house is crawling with bizarre and deadly creatures!
Overall rating
5
/
5
128 of 142 found this review helpful
Delightfully Odd & Unexpected
PostedAugust 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 FULL DEMO
If you remember the first Twilight Phenomena game, you may be disappointed to hear that this one has HO puzzles. But don’t despair, you have the option to play a hexagonal "move item to the correct tile" game instead.
In fact, this whole game is about options. I don’t normally mention difficulty levels, but here it is noteworthy. There are 3 levels plus custom, in which you can toggle (separately) sparkles for HOs and/or Active Areas, and Black Bar Tips. You also have a slider for refill times on hint and skip.
We are after our cousin who has got herself caught in an illegal experiment which involves weird mutant-looking animals, and DNA injections on humans! Our cousin is already a victim of this experiment, but a terrible mistake was made... I can see where this story is going, and I’m anticipating a lot of fun getting there.
The game looks great, lots of (ERS) hand painted colour and imaginative imagery, set in the jungles of Mexico. The scenes are clear and brightly lit, with pastel stucco everywhere, wonderfully fanciful mutant animals and plenty of vegetation. Cut scenes are great. Music and sounds, very good. Voiceovers excellent.
But all of it feels somehow odd. Not in a bad way, just enough to keep you off balance and guessing. Interesting.
As well as the 14 HOPs/hexagonal puzzles (multiples, matching pairs and ‘find & use’ silhouettes), there are 17 Puzzle/Mini-games. Already I’ve seen some that I’ve never seen before, and there is also a fair amount of adventure tasks. They are easy enough to follow, even if they often have solutions that are ‘outside the box’.
So far, the puzzles have been mixed enough to make me think there’ll be plenty of variety. There’s a very good interactive jump map, hint is directional. Based on the 30 locations visible on the map, where the demo gives us access to only 6 (and I didn’t get anywhere near the end before time up), I’d say we will be kept busy for several hours.
Extras include the usual gallery items, plus SG, bonus chapter and replayable HOs and Puzzles. There are also Achievements to be had, with a good variety, and a cute offsider. Now I know, some of you are groaning, but he’s not entirely saccharine, and he is a big help. But you have to feed him to get his assistance, and being a dapper sort of guy, you must gather collectible soap bars for him to wash his clothes with, until he has all 4 of his outfits clean.
I am having a really cool time with this game, it just sort of flows of its own accord into a ‘logical’ sequence, and takes you with it.
I recommend this game!