pennmom36's Profile
Stat Summary
- Average Rating:3.7
- Helpful Votes:358,445
- Reviews Submitted:4712
- First Review:December 10, 2012
- Most Recent Review:April 24, 2025
- Featured reviews0
Status:
Can you save your dad from a genie bent on revenge?
Overall rating
3
/
5
34 of 39 found this review helpful
DOMINI SURE CAN TELL A STORY BUT WHY DO WE ALWAYS HAVE TO BE WILLING TO DEAL WITH EASY GAMEPLAY?
PostedJune 26, 2020
pennmom36
fromI think the fans are speaking loud and clear, but is anyone listening?
Skill Level:Expert
Fun Factor
3
/
5
Visual/Sound Quality
4
/
5
Level of Challenge
3
/
5
Storyline
5
/
5
Four powerful Genies hold Elemental Powers of Water, Fire, Nature, and Air, but there is a fifth Genie who draws his powers from the darkness. No one thought it was possible to harness the power of all five elements (except for Queen Elsa, I'll Let It Go...Into The Unknown) perhaps a new element will arise to save the Enchanted Kingdom?
Gadgets/Helper:
Why does a Genie need a helper? Can't a Genie just snap his/her fingers and get 'er done? I'd also like to add the comment that I flew on a Pegasus to a floating island in the sky and the second I landed my journey was abruptly halted because the bridge was missing? The answer couldn't be more obvious, I needed a Unicorn? Back to the Helper Gadget which is one and the same and obviously only added as a cuteness factor because he is only used 7 times in the Main Chapters only and only to reach items no mortal could reach (???) the rest of the time he sits on a cushy pillow (which I'm assuming I lug around this entire harrowing journey) not stirring or making a single drangonly peep...good Chakka!
Why does a Genie need a helper? Can't a Genie just snap his/her fingers and get 'er done? I'd also like to add the comment that I flew on a Pegasus to a floating island in the sky and the second I landed my journey was abruptly halted because the bridge was missing? The answer couldn't be more obvious, I needed a Unicorn? Back to the Helper Gadget which is one and the same and obviously only added as a cuteness factor because he is only used 7 times in the Main Chapters only and only to reach items no mortal could reach (???) the rest of the time he sits on a cushy pillow (which I'm assuming I lug around this entire harrowing journey) not stirring or making a single drangonly peep...good Chakka!
Collectibles & Morphing Objects (CE Version Only):
There are 15 Morphing Genie Vessels and 15 Animal Tracks with pictures and descriptions in the extra's menu. There are 51 Zoom Zone Mushrooms that can be used to purchase 15 Laboratory Items such as pinecones and a sack of flour? I have to cry foul on the mushrooms which seem to be rather magical at times and look nothing like a mushroom, in fact, they look like a blob of black magical fog tucked in the darkest corner of the zoom zone???
There are 15 Morphing Genie Vessels and 15 Animal Tracks with pictures and descriptions in the extra's menu. There are 51 Zoom Zone Mushrooms that can be used to purchase 15 Laboratory Items such as pinecones and a sack of flour? I have to cry foul on the mushrooms which seem to be rather magical at times and look nothing like a mushroom, in fact, they look like a blob of black magical fog tucked in the darkest corner of the zoom zone???
Hidden Object Scenes:
There are 13 Hidden Object Scenes +6 in the CE Bonus Chapter and an alternate Match 3 Game available, which btw, doesn't allow you to make consecutive matches quickly. (you have to wait for all tiles to stop falling before you can make the next match) I was impressed for the first time in a long time by the beauty, the variety, and the creativity, however, the objects were still very obvious so let's work on that one, shall we? There were Listed Item Finds, Vertical & Horizontal Slider Bar Finds, Spot the Differences, Combo Silhouetted Shape Finds, Matching Pair Finds, Keywords in Sentence Finds, Morphing Object Finds, Replace Items into the Scene Finds, Matching Pair Finds, Recipe Item Finds, Swatches Finds, and one new style where an object was pictured inside a bubble and you had to figure out what interaction was required to complete the item. If the objects were a little less obvious to spot, these would have been some of the best Hidden Object Scenes I've ever seen (BG's Fam Mys has my #1 slot at the moment!)
There are 13 Hidden Object Scenes +6 in the CE Bonus Chapter and an alternate Match 3 Game available, which btw, doesn't allow you to make consecutive matches quickly. (you have to wait for all tiles to stop falling before you can make the next match) I was impressed for the first time in a long time by the beauty, the variety, and the creativity, however, the objects were still very obvious so let's work on that one, shall we? There were Listed Item Finds, Vertical & Horizontal Slider Bar Finds, Spot the Differences, Combo Silhouetted Shape Finds, Matching Pair Finds, Keywords in Sentence Finds, Morphing Object Finds, Replace Items into the Scene Finds, Matching Pair Finds, Recipe Item Finds, Swatches Finds, and one new style where an object was pictured inside a bubble and you had to figure out what interaction was required to complete the item. If the objects were a little less obvious to spot, these would have been some of the best Hidden Object Scenes I've ever seen (BG's Fam Mys has my #1 slot at the moment!)
Mini-Games:
There are 15 Mini-Games +8 in the CE Bonus Chapter. You can choose to play them in an Easy or Hard difficulty mode and you can choose which mode to have them start out in the Custom Setting (you can still switch between modes for each individual game) Below are a few of my personal favorites:
There are 15 Mini-Games +8 in the CE Bonus Chapter. You can choose to play them in an Easy or Hard difficulty mode and you can choose which mode to have them start out in the Custom Setting (you can still switch between modes for each individual game) Below are a few of my personal favorites:
1-Select up & down arrows and side arrows to swap sections of lock parts on the left & right.
2-Rotate disk rings and drag the gold bar to recreate the pattern of the red marbles shown on the clue.
3-Press arrows to add or subtract pressure in each tube to the correct amounts.
4-Trap Lazarus in a honeycomb grid.
2-Rotate disk rings and drag the gold bar to recreate the pattern of the red marbles shown on the clue.
3-Press arrows to add or subtract pressure in each tube to the correct amounts.
4-Trap Lazarus in a honeycomb grid.
Bonus Chapter (CE Version Only)
Oops... Let's just put this back where we found it and make a bee-line for the door and if anybody asks, I was in my office the entire day! (whistle, whistle, whistle) Looks like Professor Xavier (no, not the awesome X-men professor) opened up a huge can of genie worms and let the cat out of the bag, only this was a bad#-bleep genie who's been cooped up longer than all pandemic mandates in the history of mankind combined, and trust me, this genie didn't have a computer, games, or the internet to keep him occupied! Things go from bad to really bad when you discover the genie is on the loose, and you are stuck in his past...oh, crap, this can only mean one thing, dun, dun, dun...no internet...arghhhhhh!!!!!! This is an average-length Domini chapter spanning over 6 scene locations with 8 additional Mini-Games and 6 Hidden Object Scenes, but because you aren't playing as the half-breed Genie, poor little Chakka services aren't required. You will continue your search for the final 3 Morphing Genie Vessels, 3 Animal Tracks, and 9 Zoom Zone Mushrooms (of varying amounts) which allows you to purchase the Laboratory Items. I found this chapter rather boring and unimpressive compared to the main chapter.
Oops... Let's just put this back where we found it and make a bee-line for the door and if anybody asks, I was in my office the entire day! (whistle, whistle, whistle) Looks like Professor Xavier (no, not the awesome X-men professor) opened up a huge can of genie worms and let the cat out of the bag, only this was a bad#-bleep genie who's been cooped up longer than all pandemic mandates in the history of mankind combined, and trust me, this genie didn't have a computer, games, or the internet to keep him occupied! Things go from bad to really bad when you discover the genie is on the loose, and you are stuck in his past...oh, crap, this can only mean one thing, dun, dun, dun...no internet...arghhhhhh!!!!!! This is an average-length Domini chapter spanning over 6 scene locations with 8 additional Mini-Games and 6 Hidden Object Scenes, but because you aren't playing as the half-breed Genie, poor little Chakka services aren't required. You will continue your search for the final 3 Morphing Genie Vessels, 3 Animal Tracks, and 9 Zoom Zone Mushrooms (of varying amounts) which allows you to purchase the Laboratory Items. I found this chapter rather boring and unimpressive compared to the main chapter.
Collector's Edition Extra's: (CE version only)
16 Wallpapers, 10 Concept Art Pictures, 5 Music Soundtracks, 20 Movie Video Cutscenes, 38 Achievements, 15 Replayable Mini-Games, 18 Replayable Hidden Object Scenes, 15 Morphing Genie Vessels,15 Animal Traces (with descriptions), a gazillion Missing Notes, 51 Mushrooms, 15 Laboratory Items (purchase with Mushrooms) 4 Main Chapters +Bonus Chapter, and a Built-In Strategy Guide.
16 Wallpapers, 10 Concept Art Pictures, 5 Music Soundtracks, 20 Movie Video Cutscenes, 38 Achievements, 15 Replayable Mini-Games, 18 Replayable Hidden Object Scenes, 15 Morphing Genie Vessels,15 Animal Traces (with descriptions), a gazillion Missing Notes, 51 Mushrooms, 15 Laboratory Items (purchase with Mushrooms) 4 Main Chapters +Bonus Chapter, and a Built-In Strategy Guide.
ENCHANTED KINGDOM SERIES LIST
Title***Standard Edition Release Date***Average Rating
Title***Standard Edition Release Date***Average Rating
1-A Dark Seed (May 5-2017) 4.0
2-A Stranger's Venom (October 27-2017) 3.2
3-Fog of Rivershire (March 23-2018) 3.0
4-Fiend of Darkness (September 21-2018) 3.3
5-Descent of the Elders (March 29-2019) 3.8
6-Arcadian Backwoods (November 3-2019) n/a
7-The Secret of the Golden Lamp (June 26-2020) n/a
by: Domini Games
2-A Stranger's Venom (October 27-2017) 3.2
3-Fog of Rivershire (March 23-2018) 3.0
4-Fiend of Darkness (September 21-2018) 3.3
5-Descent of the Elders (March 29-2019) 3.8
6-Arcadian Backwoods (November 3-2019) n/a
7-The Secret of the Golden Lamp (June 26-2020) n/a
by: Domini Games
I recommend this game!
An expedition to an Aztec temple awakens a true force of nature!
Overall rating
4
/
5
151 of 177 found this review helpful
IT'S A GOOD THING I TOOK THAT H.E.L.P WILD CAT TRAINING COURSE LOL
PostedJune 25, 2020
pennmom36
fromHidden Expedition went through some changes, in Titanic it was H.E.A.T Hidden Expedition Adventure League, In Devil's Triangle it was H.E.A.L Hidden Expedition Adventure Team, in Hope Diamond it became H.E.L.P Hidden Expedition League of Preservation
Skill Level:Expert
Fun Factor
4
/
5
Visual/Sound Quality
5
/
5
Level of Challenge
3
/
5
Storyline
4
/
5
Completed Game approximately 7.5 hours
(including completion of all mini-games & CE Bonus Chapter)
21 Main Game Scene Locations +10 Bonus Chapter
Difficulty Range: Beginner
(including completion of all mini-games & CE Bonus Chapter)
21 Main Game Scene Locations +10 Bonus Chapter
Difficulty Range: Beginner
Is This The Price of Paradise? Our original Hidden Expedition developer has turned in their H.E.L.P badges and gear after 18 episodes, or should I say cases? A year later, the organization has a brand new C.E.O. with bright and shiny graphics, (which was to be expected by this developer anyway) What I wasn't expecting was a complete overhaul of the organization, No Original H.E.L.P. Characters, No H.E.L.P gadgets, No H.E.L.P Fun Fact Cards? So for me, this wasn't a Hidden Expedition game, it was a decent game, but in reality, it was just another new Domini Game, and it wasn't really deserving of the HE title.
Gadgets/Helper:
This should be the point where I explain about the fun fact cards you find during your "expedition" but Domini chose NOT to include this Hidden Expedition staple feature that made the Hidden Expedition series different from all the other games???
Gadgets/Helper:
This should be the point where I explain about the fun fact cards you find during your "expedition" but Domini chose NOT to include this Hidden Expedition staple feature that made the Hidden Expedition series different from all the other games???
Collectibles & Morphing Objects (CE Version Only):
You get to search for 15 tiny Aztec Souvenirs and 20 Calendar Day Collectibles in a whopping 31 scene locations. That's all folks!
You get to search for 15 tiny Aztec Souvenirs and 20 Calendar Day Collectibles in a whopping 31 scene locations. That's all folks!
Hidden Object Scenes:
There are 18 Hidden Object Scenes + 6 in the CE Bonus Chapter. They vary with Interactive List Finds, Keywords in Sentence Finds, Replace Items into the Scene, Silhouetted Shape Finds, Price Tag Finds, Matching Pair Finds and Multiples of the Same Item Finds. There is an alternaive Match 3 game available as well.
There are 18 Hidden Object Scenes + 6 in the CE Bonus Chapter. They vary with Interactive List Finds, Keywords in Sentence Finds, Replace Items into the Scene, Silhouetted Shape Finds, Price Tag Finds, Matching Pair Finds and Multiples of the Same Item Finds. There is an alternaive Match 3 game available as well.
Mini-Games:
There are 36 Mini-Games +8 in the CE Bonus Chapter. You can choose to play them in an Easy or Hard difficulty mode and you can choose which mode to have them start out in the Custom Setting (you can still switch between modes for each individual game) Below are a few of my personal favorites:
There are 36 Mini-Games +8 in the CE Bonus Chapter. You can choose to play them in an Easy or Hard difficulty mode and you can choose which mode to have them start out in the Custom Setting (you can still switch between modes for each individual game) Below are a few of my personal favorites:
1-Drop matching colored boxes onto each other to remove them.
2-Use a cue stick to hit pool balls into the matching colored holes.
3-Fire a signal from the far left satellite to the lower right base.
4-Connect all dots just once.
2-Use a cue stick to hit pool balls into the matching colored holes.
3-Fire a signal from the far left satellite to the lower right base.
4-Connect all dots just once.
Bonus Chapter (CE Version Only)
Wind back the hands of time playing as Vincent Alvarez as he tries to stop a seedy organization from stealing The Vase of Wind...whoosh (rut row, I think I just let the air escape, they should put a lid on this puppy!) This is a rather long Domini chapter spanning over 10 scene locations with 8 additional Mini-Games and 6 Hidden Object Scenes. You will complete your search for the final 7 Calendar Days and 4 Souvenirs.
Wind back the hands of time playing as Vincent Alvarez as he tries to stop a seedy organization from stealing The Vase of Wind...whoosh (rut row, I think I just let the air escape, they should put a lid on this puppy!) This is a rather long Domini chapter spanning over 10 scene locations with 8 additional Mini-Games and 6 Hidden Object Scenes. You will complete your search for the final 7 Calendar Days and 4 Souvenirs.
Collector's Edition Extra's: (CE version only)
11 Wallpapers, 11 Concept Art Pictures, 5 Music Soundtracks, 33 Movie Video Cutscenes, 38 Achievements, 23 Replayable Mini-Games, 18 Replayable Hidden Object Scenes, 15 Aztec Souvenirs, 20 Calander Days, 7 Main Chapters +Bonus Chapter, and a Built-In Strategy Guide.
11 Wallpapers, 11 Concept Art Pictures, 5 Music Soundtracks, 33 Movie Video Cutscenes, 38 Achievements, 23 Replayable Mini-Games, 18 Replayable Hidden Object Scenes, 15 Aztec Souvenirs, 20 Calander Days, 7 Main Chapters +Bonus Chapter, and a Built-In Strategy Guide.
HIDDEN EXPEDITION SERIES LIST
Title***Collector's Edition Release Date***Average Rating
1-Titanic SE only (July 22-2006) 3.6
2-Everest SE only (June 1-2007) 3.3
3-Amazon SE only (June 20-2008) 3.8
4-Devil's Triangle SE only (October 23-2009) 3.6
5-The Uncharted Islands (August 14-2011) 3.2
6-Smithsonian Hope Diamond (December 19-2013) *no longer available*
7-The Crown of Solomon (July 3-2014) 4.1
8-Smithsonian Castle (December 25-2014) *no longer available*
9-Dawn of Prosperity (August 27-2015) 3.7
10-The Fountain of Youth (January 7-2016) 4.3
11-Midgard's End (June 2-2016) 4.1
12-The Eternal Emperor (September 1-2016) 3.5
13-The Lost Paradise (December 22-2016) 3.7
14-The Pearl of Discord (April 8-2017) 3.8
15-The Curse of Mithridates (October 28-2017) 3.9
16-The Golden Secret (February 10-2018) 3.6
17-The Altar of Lies (July 21-2019) 3.3
18-Neptune's Gift (April 25-2019) 3.5
19-The Price of Paradise (June 25-2020) n/a
by: Domini Games
Title***Collector's Edition Release Date***Average Rating
1-Titanic SE only (July 22-2006) 3.6
2-Everest SE only (June 1-2007) 3.3
3-Amazon SE only (June 20-2008) 3.8
4-Devil's Triangle SE only (October 23-2009) 3.6
5-The Uncharted Islands (August 14-2011) 3.2
6-Smithsonian Hope Diamond (December 19-2013) *no longer available*
7-The Crown of Solomon (July 3-2014) 4.1
8-Smithsonian Castle (December 25-2014) *no longer available*
9-Dawn of Prosperity (August 27-2015) 3.7
10-The Fountain of Youth (January 7-2016) 4.3
11-Midgard's End (June 2-2016) 4.1
12-The Eternal Emperor (September 1-2016) 3.5
13-The Lost Paradise (December 22-2016) 3.7
14-The Pearl of Discord (April 8-2017) 3.8
15-The Curse of Mithridates (October 28-2017) 3.9
16-The Golden Secret (February 10-2018) 3.6
17-The Altar of Lies (July 21-2019) 3.3
18-Neptune's Gift (April 25-2019) 3.5
19-The Price of Paradise (June 25-2020) n/a
by: Domini Games
I recommend this game!
This series makes it easier than ever to paint a beautiful picture!
Overall rating
4
/
5
31 of 39 found this review helpful
I'M A PIXEL ART FAN BUT THERE'S ROOM FOR IMPROVEMENT STILL
PostedJune 24, 2020
pennmom36
fromYou told me you loved to take a normal game and give it a T1 twist, so why not add some T1 options?
Skill Level:Expert
Fun Factor
4
/
5
Visual/Sound Quality
4
/
5
Level of Challenge
4
/
5
I still don't understand why our beautiful artwork is always a single image placed on a drab grey background? Why can't we fill in the entire background with pixels or at the very least choose the color of the background? It just doesn't make any sense to me, these are supposed to be works of art and after several games in the series, you would think the developer would start adding some options?
I also don't understand why some of the images are still so boring, who cares about a cup of coffee, the frog is really cool, a pear, so-so, a majestic butterfly is awesome but then you have to complete 10 really boring fruit or random images to get to the next decent picture. Why do I have to follow the levels, why do I have to go in a specific order? I love the larger, more detailed images because you get a sense of accomplishment compared to the smaller images that can be completed with just 10 or so colors. When a picture has 20-30 different colors it's really fun to watch the scene unfold, little by little, pixel by pixel, besides, it gives you more "in the zone" time to just block out the business of the world and find some zen time :)
I'd still like to see a few options added such as an Undo button, a Cursor option of different widths, a full-color palette for the Background Colors, a full-color palette to choose the color of "shaded" current numbered pixels, and an option to save the completed images as a screensaver or wallpaper, makes sense, right?
There's not a whole lot to have to figure out, it's about as uncomplicated and basic as it gets so as long as someone can recognize numbers, they should be able to play! Pixel Art is a computer version of Paint by Numbers. Each pixel has a number and you chose the corresponding color bubble from the palette (also numbered) on the right side, and you simply left click to fill in all the numbers with the correct color, you can hold the mouse button and swipe through large groupings as well.
There is a Slider Bar that allows you to zoom in & out (there's a "fit" tab as well) you can also move the entire page around by right-clicking and dragging. There is an auto-fill feature that will fill in large groups of pixels in a particular color by double-clicking, but that feature has to recharge after each use, besides, it's more satisfying to color them yourself. The last feature is a slider bar that allows you to change the color of the background, it really only allows you to change the colors in shades of grey to black. To me, it would make more sense to have an entire color scale available on a paint by numbers game though, wouldn't it?
Come join me on the Zen Pixel Art Train, I'll save ya a seat!
PIXEL ART SERIES LIST
Title***Release Date***Average Rating
Title***Release Date***Average Rating
1-Pixel Art 1 (August 27-2018) 4.3
2-Pixel Art 2 (February 13-2019) 4.1
3-Pixel Art 3 (June 17-2019) 4.4
4-Pixel Art 4 (June 25-2019) 4.3
5-Pixel Art 5 (October 21-2019) 4.4
6-Pixel Art 6 (December 17-2019) 4.3
7-Pixel Art 7 (January 13-2020) 4.3
8-Pixel Art 8 (March 4-2020) 4.8
9-Pixel Art 9 (May 26-2020) n/a
2-Pixel Art 2 (February 13-2019) 4.1
3-Pixel Art 3 (June 17-2019) 4.4
4-Pixel Art 4 (June 25-2019) 4.3
5-Pixel Art 5 (October 21-2019) 4.4
6-Pixel Art 6 (December 17-2019) 4.3
7-Pixel Art 7 (January 13-2020) 4.3
8-Pixel Art 8 (March 4-2020) 4.8
9-Pixel Art 9 (May 26-2020) n/a
by: T1 Games
I recommend this game!
A unique combo of hidden object scenes, tile-matching puzzles and challenging mini games!
Overall rating
5
/
5
145 of 154 found this review helpful
SOME OF THE MOST CREATIVE MAHJONG & HO LEVELS WITH A BEAUTIFUL STORY & I'M NOT EVEN A MAHJONG FAN!
PostedJune 24, 2020
Fun Factor
5
/
5
Visual/Sound Quality
5
/
5
Level of Challenge
5
/
5
Storyline
5
/
5
I thought I was impressed by the first game, Stone Garden, but Four Guardians has blown me away! I happen to notice the small details that most do not, I see the beauty in the fonts chosen, the angles of the views chosen, the visual contrasts, the backgrounds. Atmosphere matters even though it's subconscious for most of us, but the concept of following the Kingfisher from scene to scene was one of the most creative, and most beautiful concepts I've ever seen in a game, I absolutely loved it!
The game itself has a unique style that keeps your interest because you clear the board by making matches with the Tiles shown at the bottom. Some of the Tiles have several available matching stones, and you can keep collecting them for double, triple, quadruple points. The goal is to find all of the Gold Letters to win the level.
You can choose a Traditional Tile, a Zen Tile, a Mosaic Tile, an Oriental Tile, an Icon Tile, or Colored Number Tiles and you can play in a Casual Untimed Mode or a Challenge Timed Mode. As you play the levels you unlock the Zen Mode where the level goal is to uncover the two Gold Tiles to win the level.
Each level has a Pearl that you can collect and use to purchase Power-ups. The Hint icon will cost a single pearl, the Shuffle icon costs 2 pearls, the Fire power-up removes 12 tiles and costs 4 pearls, another removes 20 tiles and costs 5 pearls each time it is used. There is also a Kitty of Good Fortune that will appear at random times that allows you to match any Tile with him at any time.
After a Mahjong level, the Kingfisher will lead you to a very creative and challenging Hidden Object Scene followed by a chance to spin the wheel to see which type of mini-game you will be playing (they can be skipped) BINGO was one of my favorites, this is played with numbered tiles on a bingo board with different colored number tiles. The balls with numbers travel down the right side and bottom in a Zuma style and it backs up with every number you match, otherwise, the numbers will eventually travel off the screen and become unavailable.
LOST AMULETS SERIES LIST
Title***Release Date***Average Rating
Title***Release Date***Average Rating
1-Stone Garden (September 15-2015) 4.6
2-Four Guardians (June 24-2020) n/a
2-Four Guardians (June 24-2020) n/a
by: Mixo Games
I recommend this game!
Can you stop a deadly evil waiting in an abandoned school?
Overall rating
5
/
5
230 of 248 found this review helpful
WELCOME BACK OLD FRIEND :)
PostedJune 20, 2020
pennmom36
fromThe most haunted doll was a German Steiff doll named Robert that belonged to Robert Eugene Otto with supernatural abilities that allow it to move, change its facial expressions, and make giggling sounds.
Skill Level:Expert
Fun Factor
5
/
5
Visual/Sound Quality
5
/
5
Level of Challenge
4
/
5
Storyline
5
/
5
Completed Game approximately 6.0 Hours
(including completion of all puzzles & Bonus Chapter
21 Scene Locations +7 CE Bonus Chapter
Difficulty Range: Beginner-Intermediate
(including completion of all puzzles & Bonus Chapter
21 Scene Locations +7 CE Bonus Chapter
Difficulty Range: Beginner-Intermediate
Maze: Subject 360 was a game that broke all the rules, it was creepy, it was the kind of game that proved that MHG possessed skills no other developer was capable of at the time. They took advantage of unusual visual graphics, they were able to make a connection between the character and the player and they didn't use all those cliche tasks that have become second nature. But then they lost their way and became just another developer with just another average game, a game just like those other developers. Now I'm not saying this game is as epic as Subject 360, they fell a little short at pushing the envelope when they were SO CLOSE, (why, did you chose to back down guys?) I suspect they wanted to dip their toes to see just how far they could go with it??
Welcome Back Home old friend, THIS is the Mad Head I have been waiting patiently for. This is why MHG's was always one of my favorite developers. It is games of this caliber that other developers should strive to achieve!
Morphing Objects/Collectibles (CE version only)
Each of the 28 Scenes, throughout the Main Game and Bonus Chapter, has a Morphing Object and Collectible Gemini Sign. The collectibles are rather large but the morphs are very challenging to spot! There is also a Morphing Object in all of the Hidden Object Scenes, (19) some are fairly obvious, some not so much. Any missed Hidden Object Scene Morphs can be picked up by playing replaying the HO's in the extra's menu, which also allows you to better your star or accuracy score.
Each of the 28 Scenes, throughout the Main Game and Bonus Chapter, has a Morphing Object and Collectible Gemini Sign. The collectibles are rather large but the morphs are very challenging to spot! There is also a Morphing Object in all of the Hidden Object Scenes, (19) some are fairly obvious, some not so much. Any missed Hidden Object Scene Morphs can be picked up by playing replaying the HO's in the extra's menu, which also allows you to better your star or accuracy score.
Hidden Object Scenes:
There are 19 Hidden Object Scenes, +4 HOP's in the CE Bonus Chapter. This is the one area that MHG's shined, the HO scenes were colorful and located in interesting locations. I found some of the objects to be challenging to spot because objects weren't blatantly obvious, they did a wonderful job blending items into the scenery. There are a lot of different variations such as Silhouetted Shape Finds, Matching Pairs Finds, Interactive & Listed Item Finds, Symbol Finds (MHG loves their symbols!) Swatches Finds, Multiples Finds and Find & Replace as well. Each of the Main HO Scenes has a Morphing Object that can be picked up within the CE Extra's menus as well.
There are 19 Hidden Object Scenes, +4 HOP's in the CE Bonus Chapter. This is the one area that MHG's shined, the HO scenes were colorful and located in interesting locations. I found some of the objects to be challenging to spot because objects weren't blatantly obvious, they did a wonderful job blending items into the scenery. There are a lot of different variations such as Silhouetted Shape Finds, Matching Pairs Finds, Interactive & Listed Item Finds, Symbol Finds (MHG loves their symbols!) Swatches Finds, Multiples Finds and Find & Replace as well. Each of the Main HO Scenes has a Morphing Object that can be picked up within the CE Extra's menus as well.
Mini-Games:
There are 28 Mini-Games +7 in the CE Bonus Chapter. I really enjoyed them because there were a lot of mechanical type puzzles which are my favorite type, and almost all of the puzzles were available in an Easy or Hard difficult mode. In this CE version, there is an Ultimate Jigsaw Puzzle available where you can complete 3 Jigsaw puzzles as well after completing the game.
There are 28 Mini-Games +7 in the CE Bonus Chapter. I really enjoyed them because there were a lot of mechanical type puzzles which are my favorite type, and almost all of the puzzles were available in an Easy or Hard difficult mode. In this CE version, there is an Ultimate Jigsaw Puzzle available where you can complete 3 Jigsaw puzzles as well after completing the game.
Bonus Chapter: (CE version only)
They're back! It's time to battle those evil twins again, bwahahaha, everyone loves creepy kids, right? This is an average-length chapter taking place over 7 additional scene locations with 4 Hidden Object Scenes and 7 Mini-Games. There are 4 Hidden Object Scene Morphs, 7 Scene Morphing Objects, and 7 Collectible Gemini's. After completing the CE Bonus Chapter, you can access the Ultimate Jigsaws and access the Character Pictures.
They're back! It's time to battle those evil twins again, bwahahaha, everyone loves creepy kids, right? This is an average-length chapter taking place over 7 additional scene locations with 4 Hidden Object Scenes and 7 Mini-Games. There are 4 Hidden Object Scene Morphs, 7 Scene Morphing Objects, and 7 Collectible Gemini's. After completing the CE Bonus Chapter, you can access the Ultimate Jigsaws and access the Character Pictures.
Collector's Edition Extra's:
12 Wallpapers, 4 Concept Art Pictures, Character Pictures, 10 Music Soundtracks, 11 Achievements (6 available in 3 categories) 19 Replayable Hidden Object Scenes, 28 Collectible Gemini Signs, 28 Scene Morphing Objects, 19 HOP Morphing Objects, an Ultimate Jigsaw Puzzle, 4 Main Chapters +Bonus Chapter and a Built-In Strategy Guide.
12 Wallpapers, 4 Concept Art Pictures, Character Pictures, 10 Music Soundtracks, 11 Achievements (6 available in 3 categories) 19 Replayable Hidden Object Scenes, 28 Collectible Gemini Signs, 28 Scene Morphing Objects, 19 HOP Morphing Objects, an Ultimate Jigsaw Puzzle, 4 Main Chapters +Bonus Chapter and a Built-In Strategy Guide.
MAZE SERIES LIST
Title***Collector's Edition Release Date***Average Rating
1-Subject 360 (August 1-2015) 4.6
2-The Broken Tower (October 8-2016) 4.1
3-Nightmare Realm (August 12-2017) 3.9
4-Stolen Minds (June 23-2018) 3.2
5-Sinister Place (June 20-2020) n/a
by: Mad Head Games
Title***Collector's Edition Release Date***Average Rating
1-Subject 360 (August 1-2015) 4.6
2-The Broken Tower (October 8-2016) 4.1
3-Nightmare Realm (August 12-2017) 3.9
4-Stolen Minds (June 23-2018) 3.2
5-Sinister Place (June 20-2020) n/a
by: Mad Head Games
I recommend this game!
An intruder’s puzzling calling-card means certain doom for the Holmes family line!
Overall rating
2
/
5
45 of 63 found this review helpful
ELEPHANT GAMES HAS AMAZING STORIES BUT THE GAMES ARE ALWAYS THE SAME FROM POINT A TO B
PostedJune 19, 2020
pennmom36
fromCan't they make at least one series that isn't for beginners? (preferably something that doesn't include emblem-placing)
Skill Level:Expert
Fun Factor
2
/
5
Visual/Sound Quality
4
/
5
Level of Challenge
2
/
5
Storyline
4
/
5
Completed Game approximately 4.5 hours
(including completion of all mini-games & CE Bonus Chapter)
18 Main Game Scene Locations +6 Bonus Chapter
Difficulty Range: Beginner
(including completion of all mini-games & CE Bonus Chapter)
18 Main Game Scene Locations +6 Bonus Chapter
Difficulty Range: Beginner
I knew I was in for a PIP of a time when I pulled into my own driveway to discover someone had taken the time to bury something in my rose garden whilst burglarizing my house. I noticed this because I had to retrieve one of the emblem initials to my mailbox I keep under the thorny flowers because all mailboxes in Elephant Games world require emblem initials, one of which I keep with me, naturally, inside my purse (which usually requires a signet ring, which I usually don't have, or a zipper, which always breaks...you know the M.O) I have to remove GOO and paint, solve an ANT problem, de-lockpick my front door, search for missing books, find Keys, replace a toolbox emblem with a Hammer and Wrench that looks almost identical to the emblem I replace with the Fork & Spoon, remove rust that's been there longer than the cabinet itself, pick the lock on my own purse, find and replace my own drawer handle, find and replace my cabinet's specialized Caduceus symbol, find something to fetch an important item that is under my fridge as if I'd even think to look there in real life, remove nails, place more emblems, cut ropes, find more emblems, jimmy more latches....and this my friends all takes place within TWO SCENES! ...Holy Orange PIPS!
☽☾Morphing Objects/Collectibles: (CE version only)☼
There are 26 Morphing Objects, one per scene. Although not super challenging to spot, they did a decent job with not-so-obvious object selection and size. Each scene also has Zoom-Zone Jigsaw Puzzle Piece that allows you to assemble 4 Screensavers, Two 12 Piece Jigsaw's & Two 9 Piece Jigsaws. Some of the scenes also have Sharlotte Holmes Collectibles with descriptions available but there is no option available to return to the scenes to pick up any missed collectibles.
There are 26 Morphing Objects, one per scene. Although not super challenging to spot, they did a decent job with not-so-obvious object selection and size. Each scene also has Zoom-Zone Jigsaw Puzzle Piece that allows you to assemble 4 Screensavers, Two 12 Piece Jigsaw's & Two 9 Piece Jigsaws. Some of the scenes also have Sharlotte Holmes Collectibles with descriptions available but there is no option available to return to the scenes to pick up any missed collectibles.
◔Hidden Object Scenes◕
There are only 8 Hidden Object Scenes +7 in the CE Bonus Chapter, + 4 Zoom-Zone HO's. These were some of the least creative, unimaginative, most boring un-Hidden Object Scenes I've ever seen. They are located in boring locations, the objects are at times difficult to tell what they actually are and the scenes are dark and void of color. There was one Keyword in Sentence Find, one Swatch Find, one Replace Items into the Scene, one Multiple Weapon's Find, and one Matching Pairs, the rest were just Listed Items and totally boring.
There are only 8 Hidden Object Scenes +7 in the CE Bonus Chapter, + 4 Zoom-Zone HO's. These were some of the least creative, unimaginative, most boring un-Hidden Object Scenes I've ever seen. They are located in boring locations, the objects are at times difficult to tell what they actually are and the scenes are dark and void of color. There was one Keyword in Sentence Find, one Swatch Find, one Replace Items into the Scene, one Multiple Weapon's Find, and one Matching Pairs, the rest were just Listed Items and totally boring.
♙Mini-Games♙
There are 14 Mini-Games +4 in the CE Bonus Chapter. They are the same games offered in the last game by Elephant Games. Here are a few examples:
1-Rotate cylinders to create a path for each bird from left to right.
2-Glue fragments, rotate & place into highlighted slots.
3-Follow the recipe according to the picture.
4-Fold the map vertically & horizontally.
5-Place the orbs into the form so the lines fit into the sockets.
(these are the same exact games that were in Grim tales a few weeks ago)
There are 14 Mini-Games +4 in the CE Bonus Chapter. They are the same games offered in the last game by Elephant Games. Here are a few examples:
1-Rotate cylinders to create a path for each bird from left to right.
2-Glue fragments, rotate & place into highlighted slots.
3-Follow the recipe according to the picture.
4-Fold the map vertically & horizontally.
5-Place the orbs into the form so the lines fit into the sockets.
(these are the same exact games that were in Grim tales a few weeks ago)
✯Bonus Chapter (Collector's Edition version only)✯
Sharlotte Holmes arrives at Phillip Hayes & Susie's Wedding just in time to see Susie Slip out the back Jack. Look's like she made some new plans and Ran. She left behind her Wedding Ring Bling, but not before asking her Honey for some Money...Ding!. Nuting weird suspected 'cept that letter burning thing? Ouch, Susie may just want to keep on running...This is a very short chapter taking place over 6 scenes with just 4 mini-games and 7 hidden object scenes (including smaller zoom-zones) You will complete the final 3 Collectibles, 8 Morphs, and 12 Zoom Zone Jigsaw Puzzle Pieces which allows you to complete the final 12 piece puzzle Jigsaw Puzzle Screensaver.
Sharlotte Holmes arrives at Phillip Hayes & Susie's Wedding just in time to see Susie Slip out the back Jack. Look's like she made some new plans and Ran. She left behind her Wedding Ring Bling, but not before asking her Honey for some Money...Ding!. Nuting weird suspected 'cept that letter burning thing? Ouch, Susie may just want to keep on running...This is a very short chapter taking place over 6 scenes with just 4 mini-games and 7 hidden object scenes (including smaller zoom-zones) You will complete the final 3 Collectibles, 8 Morphs, and 12 Zoom Zone Jigsaw Puzzle Pieces which allows you to complete the final 12 piece puzzle Jigsaw Puzzle Screensaver.
♕Collector's Edition Extra's♕
8 Wallpapers, 8 Concept Art Pictures, 5 Music Soundtracks, 23 Achievements, Archives with 12 Replayable Mini-Games and 11 Hidden Object Scenes 12Sharlotte Holmes Collectibles, 26 Morphing Objects, 42 Zoom-Zone Jigsaw Puzzle Pieces, 4 Screensavers, 3 Main Chapters +Bonus Chapter and a Built-In Strategy Guide.
8 Wallpapers, 8 Concept Art Pictures, 5 Music Soundtracks, 23 Achievements, Archives with 12 Replayable Mini-Games and 11 Hidden Object Scenes 12Sharlotte Holmes Collectibles, 26 Morphing Objects, 42 Zoom-Zone Jigsaw Puzzle Pieces, 4 Screensavers, 3 Main Chapters +Bonus Chapter and a Built-In Strategy Guide.
MS. HOLMES SERIES LIST
Title***Standard Edition Release Date***Average Rating
1-The Monster of Baskervilles (June 21-2019) 3.0
2-Five Orange Pips (June 19-2020) n/a
Title***Standard Edition Release Date***Average Rating
1-The Monster of Baskervilles (June 21-2019) 3.0
2-Five Orange Pips (June 19-2020) n/a
by: Elephant Games
I don't recommend this game.
A romantic spa getaway hides a terrible secret!
Overall rating
3
/
5
109 of 128 found this review helpful
THE SCRIPT WRITERS & GRAPHICS DEPARTMENT ARE IN A WHOLE DIFFERENT LEAGUE! EVER THINK ABOUT GOING INDIE? I'D TOTALLY BE YOUR #1 FAN!
PostedJune 18, 2020
pennmom36
fromThe infamous Haunted Crescent Hotel & Spa owned by Norman Baker claimed to have the cure for cancer displayed in bottles despite the fact that he wasn't a doctor & no one was cured. Over 500 bottles were unearthed in a recent archaeological dig,
Skill Level:Expert
Fun Factor
3
/
5
Visual/Sound Quality
5
/
5
Level of Challenge
2
/
5
Storyline
5
/
5
Completed Game approximately 4.5 hours
(including completion of all mini-games & CE Bonus Chapter)
19 Main Game Scene Locations +8 Bonus Chapter
Difficulty Range: Beginner
Honey, I have a great idea, why don't we go to this seemingly beautiful Victorian Hotel for our one year anniversary and get the "House Youthful Treatment Special" So tell me, James, after 18 Haunted Hotel experiences, how is it that you manage to remain clueless about the whole "Haunted" part until you're smack-dab in the middle of the situation?
(including completion of all mini-games & CE Bonus Chapter)
19 Main Game Scene Locations +8 Bonus Chapter
Difficulty Range: Beginner
Honey, I have a great idea, why don't we go to this seemingly beautiful Victorian Hotel for our one year anniversary and get the "House Youthful Treatment Special" So tell me, James, after 18 Haunted Hotel experiences, how is it that you manage to remain clueless about the whole "Haunted" part until you're smack-dab in the middle of the situation?
☽☾Morphing Objects/Collectibles: (CE version only)☼
There are 27 Scene Morphing Objects, one per scene. They are large and in charge, can't miss objects. They morph way too fast, the objects are ridiculously large, they offer no challenge whatsoever, so what's the point? There are 13 Morphing Character Statuettes which are actually larger than the scene morphing objects...both of these objects are larger than just about anything else in the room with the exception of a desk, a bed, or a couch, so all you have to do is take a glance at anything in the room that's huge, what's even worse is that they are always laying side by side, and always on the floor, and they morph so quickly your eye can't help but notice them the second you walk into a new location, so you click on them because they are annoying, not because they are a challenge or because they are fun to SEARCH for! That is how they used to be in older games (do you remember staring intently at a scene because they were never obvious?), that is what their purpose was, they were intended to be added as an extra CE CHALLENGE, these aren't Challenges? These are just Clickables these are just large interactive items you can click on to add them to an inventory collectible category, nothing more! There are also 20 Zoom Zone Puzzle Fragments to create 4 Screensavers, no assembly required.
◔Hidden Object Scenes◕
There are only 10 Hidden Object Scenes +8 in the CE Bonus Chapter, + 4 Zoom-Zone HO's. They were just average, so-so HO's in my opinion, not impressive, but not dreadful either. There are Interactive List Finds, Silhouetted Shape Finds, Symbols Finds, Multiples Finds, Keywords in Sentence Finds, and a Swatch Find where you find the exact area on a painting that matches circular token swatch examples, shown. One of the HO's was rather odd, you had to find 3 items at a time but the 3 items would fade in and out constantly and I thought this may bother a lot of people that had vision problems, especially if they were prone to seizures, but the items don't flash, they just fade in and out if that makes sense?
♙Mini-Games♙
There are 16 Mini-Games +4 in the CE Bonus Chapter. I did not encounter any new or original mini-games, in fact, they were such familiar puzzles that I didn't have to read any of the instructions to know how to solve them. That isn't necessarily a bad thing, but I would like to see a little more creativity in the future?? Here are some of my favorite games:
There are 27 Scene Morphing Objects, one per scene. They are large and in charge, can't miss objects. They morph way too fast, the objects are ridiculously large, they offer no challenge whatsoever, so what's the point? There are 13 Morphing Character Statuettes which are actually larger than the scene morphing objects...both of these objects are larger than just about anything else in the room with the exception of a desk, a bed, or a couch, so all you have to do is take a glance at anything in the room that's huge, what's even worse is that they are always laying side by side, and always on the floor, and they morph so quickly your eye can't help but notice them the second you walk into a new location, so you click on them because they are annoying, not because they are a challenge or because they are fun to SEARCH for! That is how they used to be in older games (do you remember staring intently at a scene because they were never obvious?), that is what their purpose was, they were intended to be added as an extra CE CHALLENGE, these aren't Challenges? These are just Clickables these are just large interactive items you can click on to add them to an inventory collectible category, nothing more! There are also 20 Zoom Zone Puzzle Fragments to create 4 Screensavers, no assembly required.
◔Hidden Object Scenes◕
There are only 10 Hidden Object Scenes +8 in the CE Bonus Chapter, + 4 Zoom-Zone HO's. They were just average, so-so HO's in my opinion, not impressive, but not dreadful either. There are Interactive List Finds, Silhouetted Shape Finds, Symbols Finds, Multiples Finds, Keywords in Sentence Finds, and a Swatch Find where you find the exact area on a painting that matches circular token swatch examples, shown. One of the HO's was rather odd, you had to find 3 items at a time but the 3 items would fade in and out constantly and I thought this may bother a lot of people that had vision problems, especially if they were prone to seizures, but the items don't flash, they just fade in and out if that makes sense?
♙Mini-Games♙
There are 16 Mini-Games +4 in the CE Bonus Chapter. I did not encounter any new or original mini-games, in fact, they were such familiar puzzles that I didn't have to read any of the instructions to know how to solve them. That isn't necessarily a bad thing, but I would like to see a little more creativity in the future?? Here are some of my favorite games:
1-Select a number on the lock with directional arrows to move the latch to the round slot
2-Fill the grid with more hourglasses than syringes, moving 1 space creates another hourglass, placing one next to a syringe turns it into an hourglass.
4-Guide the pearl into the slot by selecting the numbered buttons, if it hits a bumper you must start over.
5-Move blue & green blocks into their matching slots using directional arrows. They move at the same time so use other blocks as bumpers.
✯Bonus Chapter (Collector's Edition version only)✯
Rewind the hands of the clock as you play a vibrant, young version of Josephine who's father has demanded she stop Bernard from continuing his experiments because he fears something catastrophic may occur...don't worry dad, I'm sure his experiments are perfectly safe, practically benign, what could possibly go wrong? This is an average-length chapter that takes place over 8 scene locations and is geared towards HO fans with 8 Hidden Object Scenes and only 4 small mini-games. You will complete the collections with the final 8 Scene Morphing Objects, 4 Morphing Character Statuettes, and the final 5 Zoom Zone Puzzle Fragments which completes the fourth and final Screensaver.
2-Fill the grid with more hourglasses than syringes, moving 1 space creates another hourglass, placing one next to a syringe turns it into an hourglass.
4-Guide the pearl into the slot by selecting the numbered buttons, if it hits a bumper you must start over.
5-Move blue & green blocks into their matching slots using directional arrows. They move at the same time so use other blocks as bumpers.
✯Bonus Chapter (Collector's Edition version only)✯
Rewind the hands of the clock as you play a vibrant, young version of Josephine who's father has demanded she stop Bernard from continuing his experiments because he fears something catastrophic may occur...don't worry dad, I'm sure his experiments are perfectly safe, practically benign, what could possibly go wrong? This is an average-length chapter that takes place over 8 scene locations and is geared towards HO fans with 8 Hidden Object Scenes and only 4 small mini-games. You will complete the collections with the final 8 Scene Morphing Objects, 4 Morphing Character Statuettes, and the final 5 Zoom Zone Puzzle Fragments which completes the fourth and final Screensaver.
♕Collector's Edition Extra's♕
10 Wallpapers, 10 Concept Art Pictures, 5 Music Soundtracks, 18 Achievements, 13 Replayable Mini-Games,14 Hidden Object Scenes 13 Morphing Character Statues 27 Morphing Objects 20 Jigsaw Puzzle Pieces, 4 Screensavers, a Secret Room (Return to Scenes to Locate HO Objects) 4 Main Chapters +Bonus Chapter, and a Built-In Strategy Guide.
10 Wallpapers, 10 Concept Art Pictures, 5 Music Soundtracks, 18 Achievements, 13 Replayable Mini-Games,14 Hidden Object Scenes 13 Morphing Character Statues 27 Morphing Objects 20 Jigsaw Puzzle Pieces, 4 Screensavers, a Secret Room (Return to Scenes to Locate HO Objects) 4 Main Chapters +Bonus Chapter, and a Built-In Strategy Guide.
HAUNTED HOTEL SERIES LIST
Title***Collector's Edition Release Date***Average Rating
1-Haunted Hotel SE only (March 5-2008) 2.9
2-Believe The Lies SE only (January 7-2009) 2.7
3-Lonely Dreams SE only (August 28-2010) 3.3
4-Charles Dexter Ward (June 10-2012) 3.9
5-Eclipse (October 10-2013) 4.1
6-Ancient Bane (May 29-2014) 3.9
7-Death Sentence (December 18-2014) 4.1
8-Eternity (April 25-2015) 4.2
9-Phoenix (August 20-2015) 3.8
10-The X (November 12-2015) 4.3
11-The Axiom Butcher (April 30-2016) 4.1
12-Silent Waters (September 17-2016) 3.7
13-The Thirteenth (December 24-2016) 3.5
14-Personal Nightmare (May 25-2017) 4.2
15-The Evil Inside (September 30-2017) 3.8
16-Lost Dreams (March 8-2018) 3.8
17-Beyond The Page (December 27-2018) 3.9
18-Room 18 (October 31-2019) 3.8
19-Lost Time (June 18-2020) n/a
by: Elephant Games
Title***Collector's Edition Release Date***Average Rating
1-Haunted Hotel SE only (March 5-2008) 2.9
2-Believe The Lies SE only (January 7-2009) 2.7
3-Lonely Dreams SE only (August 28-2010) 3.3
4-Charles Dexter Ward (June 10-2012) 3.9
5-Eclipse (October 10-2013) 4.1
6-Ancient Bane (May 29-2014) 3.9
7-Death Sentence (December 18-2014) 4.1
8-Eternity (April 25-2015) 4.2
9-Phoenix (August 20-2015) 3.8
10-The X (November 12-2015) 4.3
11-The Axiom Butcher (April 30-2016) 4.1
12-Silent Waters (September 17-2016) 3.7
13-The Thirteenth (December 24-2016) 3.5
14-Personal Nightmare (May 25-2017) 4.2
15-The Evil Inside (September 30-2017) 3.8
16-Lost Dreams (March 8-2018) 3.8
17-Beyond The Page (December 27-2018) 3.9
18-Room 18 (October 31-2019) 3.8
19-Lost Time (June 18-2020) n/a
by: Elephant Games
Take a journey through the former USSR to investigate the whereabouts of a missing person!
Overall rating
3
/
5
114 of 123 found this review helpful
I'LL TELL YA WHAT REALLY GIVES ME DEJA VU
PostedJune 17, 2020
Fun Factor
4
/
5
Visual/Sound Quality
3
/
5
Level of Challenge
4
/
5
Storyline
3
/
5
Everyone will probably hate this old-school HO adventure game, but I like games that don't follow the same formula. I am so tired of games by the same three developers, the only devs that seem to be clinging on nowadays, and this is one of the biggest reasons why... they are far too simplified nowadays. Games by those developers have the same formulas, they take the same game format and copy & paste it from one game to the next. Sure, they change the graphics and the plot, but the HO's & Mini-Games are in the same places and in the same order in every game. You are following the same familiar paths and doing the same familiar steps to get from point A to B because it IS the same formula. Those devs work a lot of magic trickery, but once you catch on to this method, you will realize you are playing the same game, that's why once you have played a lot of games by one developer, you begin to realize what comes next...because you have played that game...hundreds of times, it was just under a different title!
It is games developed by those developers that give me DEJA VU! If this game had better graphics and the acting was a tad bit better, I would have given it 5-Stars, as it stands, I think it's a solid 3.8 because I had to think about many of the tools I had to use, I had to place each lug nut for example or turn the key and then the handle which was more realistic, I enjoyed the interactive HO's, such as narrowing down a person by selecting all people wearing a uniform, all children, all people with an umbrella, etc, I enjoyed the mini-games which were easily solved yet didn't seem childish.
This game appears to have been a CE version because it has Concept Art, Music, a Bonus Chapter, 30 collectible Matryoshka dolls, a ton of Achievements, easy yet enjoyable mini-games, and multi-layered Hidden Object Scenes. There are 3 Modes of Difficulty-Casual, Advanced & Expert, but at the bottom of the screen, there is a tab that allows you to select a Custom tab to use a slider bar to adjust the amount of Hint & Skip times which looks like it may have been an add on feature?
As I said earlier, this game doesn't follow the usual formula, the graphics could be better and it's definitely an old-school kind of Hidden Object game. Most people aren't going to give this game a chance and will take one look at the graphics or give up when they realize that it doesn't follow those easy-breezy formula patterns that those other three developers have gotten us so accustomed to. Give it a chance, the demo is free, that's why the developer gives you a trial period, new things take some adjustment to get used to, and you may find yourself enjoying your journey through the former USSR!
I recommend this game!
Can you stop a mysterious monster terrorizing a new amusement park?
Overall rating
1
/
5
38 of 60 found this review helpful
CHEESY MONSTERS, CHILLED CHILLS AND CHEAP THRILLS
PostedJune 14, 2020
pennmom36
fromHow about a HOPA game that actually IS a horror game genre?
Skill Level:Expert
Fun Factor
1
/
5
Visual/Sound Quality
5
/
5
Level of Challenge
1
/
5
Storyline
1
/
5
Completed Game approximately 4.0 Hours
(including completion of all puzzles & Bonus Chapter
20 Scene Locations +7 CE Bonus Chapter
Difficulty Range: Beginner
(including completion of all puzzles & Bonus Chapter
20 Scene Locations +7 CE Bonus Chapter
Difficulty Range: Beginner
MHG poured everything they had into the graphics of Thrills, Chills, and Kills. The Hidden Object scenes were not overlooked as often times they tend to do, the CE version collectibles and morphs were well-placed for the most part, and unfortunately, the story has the most G-rated, cheesiest monster imaginable.
To make matters worse, on several occasions, I ran into situations where the SG and the Hint told me that an item was located in a zoom zone but nothing was there. I'd click and click, but trust me, there was nothing there until I'd uninstall & reinstall the game. Okay, no biggie, I'd move on. Then it happened a second time...a third time, a fourth time...I think I'm seeing a pattern here...I'm friends with the monster that's inside of my game, they get along with the objects, must be all in my head ♪ ♫
Morphing Objects/Collectibles (CE version only)
Each of the 27 Scenes, throughout the Main Game and Bonus Chapter, has a Morphing Object and Collectible Top Hat. There is also a Morphing Object in all of the Hidden Object Scenes, some are fairly obvious, some not so much. Any missed Hidden Object Scene Morphs can be picked up by playing replaying the HO's in the extra's menu, which also allows you to better your star or accuracy score.
Each of the 27 Scenes, throughout the Main Game and Bonus Chapter, has a Morphing Object and Collectible Top Hat. There is also a Morphing Object in all of the Hidden Object Scenes, some are fairly obvious, some not so much. Any missed Hidden Object Scene Morphs can be picked up by playing replaying the HO's in the extra's menu, which also allows you to better your star or accuracy score.
Hidden Object Scenes:
There are 13 Hidden Object Scenes, +4 HOP's in the CE Bonus Chapter. This is the one area that MHG's shined, the HO scenes were colorful and located in interesting locations. I found some of the objects to be challenging to spot because objects weren't blatantly obvious, they did a wonderful job blending items into the scenery. There are a lot of different variations such as Silhouetted Shape Finds, Matching Pairs Finds, Interactive & Listed Item Finds, Symbol Finds (MHG loves their symbols!) Swatches Finds, Multiples Finds and Find & Replace as well. Each of the Main HO Scenes has a Morphing Object that can be picked up within the CE Extra's menus as well. There is no alternate puzzle offered. In this CE version, there is an Ultimate HO available to search for 3 lists within a chest at the end of the BC.
There are 13 Hidden Object Scenes, +4 HOP's in the CE Bonus Chapter. This is the one area that MHG's shined, the HO scenes were colorful and located in interesting locations. I found some of the objects to be challenging to spot because objects weren't blatantly obvious, they did a wonderful job blending items into the scenery. There are a lot of different variations such as Silhouetted Shape Finds, Matching Pairs Finds, Interactive & Listed Item Finds, Symbol Finds (MHG loves their symbols!) Swatches Finds, Multiples Finds and Find & Replace as well. Each of the Main HO Scenes has a Morphing Object that can be picked up within the CE Extra's menus as well. There is no alternate puzzle offered. In this CE version, there is an Ultimate HO available to search for 3 lists within a chest at the end of the BC.
Mini-Games:
There are 25 Mini-Games +7 in the CE Bonus Chapter. The puzzles are easily solved, one of which required picking up a single square tile and swapping it with another tile to solve...just one single move and the puzzle was over...seriously??? Nearly every single game involved swapping tiles to complete a basic image or to complete a path of wires or pipes, games that I would assume were administered to children during third-grade assessment tests. Perhaps next time we could bump it up a notch to at least the fourth-grade puzzle level? In this CE version, there is an Ultimate Puzzle available where you must avoid making contact with people in a park.
There are 25 Mini-Games +7 in the CE Bonus Chapter. The puzzles are easily solved, one of which required picking up a single square tile and swapping it with another tile to solve...just one single move and the puzzle was over...seriously??? Nearly every single game involved swapping tiles to complete a basic image or to complete a path of wires or pipes, games that I would assume were administered to children during third-grade assessment tests. Perhaps next time we could bump it up a notch to at least the fourth-grade puzzle level? In this CE version, there is an Ultimate Puzzle available where you must avoid making contact with people in a park.
Bonus Chapter: (CE version only)
Delve deeper into the background story of the mysterious Chest's origins as you do a little bit of solo research work while Lisa is on vacation. This is a somewhat short Chapter taking place over 7 additional scene locations with just 4 Hidden Object Scenes and 7 Mini-Games. There are 4 Hidden Object Scene Morphs, 7 Scene Morphing Objects, and 7 Collectible Hats remaining. After completing the CE Bonus Chapter, you can access the Ultimate HO & Ultimate Puzzle.
Delve deeper into the background story of the mysterious Chest's origins as you do a little bit of solo research work while Lisa is on vacation. This is a somewhat short Chapter taking place over 7 additional scene locations with just 4 Hidden Object Scenes and 7 Mini-Games. There are 4 Hidden Object Scene Morphs, 7 Scene Morphing Objects, and 7 Collectible Hats remaining. After completing the CE Bonus Chapter, you can access the Ultimate HO & Ultimate Puzzle.
Collector's Edition Extra's:
4 Wallpapers, 3 Concept Art Pictures, 10 Music Soundtracks, 11 Achievements (6 available in 3 categories) 17 Replayable Hidden Object Scenes, 27 Collectible Hats, 27 Scene Morphing Objects, 17 HOP Morphing Objects, an Ultimate Hidden Object Scene, an Ultimate Puzzle, 4 Main Chapters +Bonus Chapter and a Built-In Strategy Guide.
4 Wallpapers, 3 Concept Art Pictures, 10 Music Soundtracks, 11 Achievements (6 available in 3 categories) 17 Replayable Hidden Object Scenes, 27 Collectible Hats, 27 Scene Morphing Objects, 17 HOP Morphing Objects, an Ultimate Hidden Object Scene, an Ultimate Puzzle, 4 Main Chapters +Bonus Chapter and a Built-In Strategy Guide.
FRIGHT CHASERS SERIES LIST
Title***Standard Edition Release Date***Average Rating
1-Dark Exposure (November 19-2017) 3.6
2-Soul Reaper (June 15-2018) 3.9
3-Director's Cut (March 17-2019) 3.6
4-Thrills, Chills, and Kills (June 14-2020) n/a
by: Mad Head Games
Title***Standard Edition Release Date***Average Rating
1-Dark Exposure (November 19-2017) 3.6
2-Soul Reaper (June 15-2018) 3.9
3-Director's Cut (March 17-2019) 3.6
4-Thrills, Chills, and Kills (June 14-2020) n/a
by: Mad Head Games
I don't recommend this game.
Can you stop a new monster brought to life before it's too late?
Overall rating
4
/
5
126 of 151 found this review helpful
I THINK SOME OF MY GEARS ARE RUSTY SO REMIND ME AGAIN...WHY IS THIS A COLLECTOR'S EDITION?
PostedJune 11, 2020
pennmom36
fromWeird Achievements game #6: for using investigation cards wrongly & using an incorrect item 5x's in a row on the same hot spot Game #8: for trying to use a knife on the gendarme who demands authorization at the start of the game.
Skill Level:Expert
Fun Factor
4
/
5
Visual/Sound Quality
4
/
5
Level of Challenge
3
/
5
Storyline
4
/
5
Completed Game approximately 4.5 hours
(including completion of all mini-games & CE Bonus Chapter)
20 Main Game Scene Locations 12-13 Bonus Chapter
Difficulty Range: Beginner-Intermediate
(including completion of all mini-games & CE Bonus Chapter)
20 Main Game Scene Locations 12-13 Bonus Chapter
Difficulty Range: Beginner-Intermediate
I haven't enjoyed PuppetShow games in a very long time, they were fantastic in the beginning but then, as most series do, it just became another puppet on a string kind of game. Amax has been pulling back the reins lately, I think they realized that spewing out quantity over quality was destroying their reputation so kudos for having the insight and even more so for having the courage to face those challenges and implement the changes, that to me, are obvious. Although I don't think the CE offerings are very CE worthy, I do think the game itself is worthy, it has a good storyline, non-repetitive tasks (although quite a bit of back-and-forth, to-and-fro, for my tastes) and decent mini-games, not to mention the fact that few can match the quality of Amax graphics!
FYI: They have some unusual Achievements (CE Version) so don't forget to read them over before starting the game or you will miss earning a few of them!
☽☾Collectibles:..not very CE worthy! (CE version only)☼
There are NO morphing Objects, There are NO real Collectibles because what this game has to offer isn't something that is hidden in each scene or every other scene, if fact, they aren't even hidden and there are only 10 "Keys" located within Zoom Zones (again they are NOT hidden they are "th-dah" moments) The Keys unlock the birdcages that hold 10 Mechanical Animals, some of which aren't even animals?!? Each mechanical "object" gives a detailed description of why it was created and its purpose. Had the game itself not been as well-crafted, I would be asking for a refund at this point!
☽☾Collectibles:..not very CE worthy! (CE version only)☼
There are NO morphing Objects, There are NO real Collectibles because what this game has to offer isn't something that is hidden in each scene or every other scene, if fact, they aren't even hidden and there are only 10 "Keys" located within Zoom Zones (again they are NOT hidden they are "th-dah" moments) The Keys unlock the birdcages that hold 10 Mechanical Animals, some of which aren't even animals?!? Each mechanical "object" gives a detailed description of why it was created and its purpose. Had the game itself not been as well-crafted, I would be asking for a refund at this point!
◔Hidden Object Scenes◕
There are 12 Hidden Object Scenes +4 in the CE Bonus Chapter, + 5 Zoom-Zone HO's. If I'm being honest, the HO's were rather boring and by the time Chapter Four rolled around I was dreading them and wished I could just skip them! They are located in boring locations most were just Interactive List finds, and there's only so many times you want to sift through a pile of broken puppet parts ti find a random mechanical part, right? There were also Silhouetted Shape Finds, Multiples of the Same Object Find, Fragmented Item Finds, Find & Replace, and Swatches Finds where you find an object with the color that matches the color on the token swatch example. There are no alternate Puzzles available.
There are 12 Hidden Object Scenes +4 in the CE Bonus Chapter, + 5 Zoom-Zone HO's. If I'm being honest, the HO's were rather boring and by the time Chapter Four rolled around I was dreading them and wished I could just skip them! They are located in boring locations most were just Interactive List finds, and there's only so many times you want to sift through a pile of broken puppet parts ti find a random mechanical part, right? There were also Silhouetted Shape Finds, Multiples of the Same Object Find, Fragmented Item Finds, Find & Replace, and Swatches Finds where you find an object with the color that matches the color on the token swatch example. There are no alternate Puzzles available.
♙Mini-Games♙
There are 24 Mini-Games +5 in the CE Bonus Chapter, and naturally, they are mostly mechanical type puzzles ranging from easy-intermediate. Here are some of my personal favorites:
1-Place the holograms onto the map using rotational, + & - buttons to resize and place correctly, and then find 4 birds after placing each map hologram.
2-Push tokens into center slots according to the numbered slots on the columns & rows.
3-Move token along tracks and rotate groups into correct places.
4-Navigate through the catacombs and use items to overcome obstacles while avoiding cyborgs.
5-Move chains of colored tokens along tracks to their matching colored slots.
There are 24 Mini-Games +5 in the CE Bonus Chapter, and naturally, they are mostly mechanical type puzzles ranging from easy-intermediate. Here are some of my personal favorites:
1-Place the holograms onto the map using rotational, + & - buttons to resize and place correctly, and then find 4 birds after placing each map hologram.
2-Push tokens into center slots according to the numbered slots on the columns & rows.
3-Move token along tracks and rotate groups into correct places.
4-Navigate through the catacombs and use items to overcome obstacles while avoiding cyborgs.
5-Move chains of colored tokens along tracks to their matching colored slots.
✯Bonus Chapter (Collector's Edition version only)✯
Three days prior to the main investigation, Professor Richard Kingston contacts Detective Howard after his laboratory's sophisticated security system is breached and several Mechanical Animals are stolen. Amax didn't skimp on the content of the bonus chapter, but it's basically more of the same as you retrace your steps, revisiting the same familiar 12-13 scenes from the main chapter. It would have been more appealing if at least a few of the scene locations were new! There are just 5 mini-games and 4 hidden object scenes (including smaller zoom-zones) and more back and forth running around because apparently you didn't get it out of your system in the main chapters!.
Three days prior to the main investigation, Professor Richard Kingston contacts Detective Howard after his laboratory's sophisticated security system is breached and several Mechanical Animals are stolen. Amax didn't skimp on the content of the bonus chapter, but it's basically more of the same as you retrace your steps, revisiting the same familiar 12-13 scenes from the main chapter. It would have been more appealing if at least a few of the scene locations were new! There are just 5 mini-games and 4 hidden object scenes (including smaller zoom-zones) and more back and forth running around because apparently you didn't get it out of your system in the main chapters!.
♕Collector's Edition Extra's♕
7 Wallpapers, 7 Concept Art Pictures, 8 Screensavers, 4 Music Soundtracks, 15 Achievements, 12 Replayable Mini-Games, 15 Replayable Hidden Object Scenes,10 Zoom Zone Bird Cage Keys to unlock 10 Mechanical Animals with descriptions, 4 Main Chapters +Bonus Chapter and a Built-In Strategy Guide. This doesn't look like a whole lot of CE bling to me???
7 Wallpapers, 7 Concept Art Pictures, 8 Screensavers, 4 Music Soundtracks, 15 Achievements, 12 Replayable Mini-Games, 15 Replayable Hidden Object Scenes,10 Zoom Zone Bird Cage Keys to unlock 10 Mechanical Animals with descriptions, 4 Main Chapters +Bonus Chapter and a Built-In Strategy Guide. This doesn't look like a whole lot of CE bling to me???
PUPPET SHOW SERIES LIST
Title***Collector's Edition Release Date***Average Rating
Title***Collector's Edition Release Date***Average Rating
1-Mystery of Joyville SE only (October 1-2009) 4.0
2-Souls of the Innocent (May 27-2010) 4.3
3-Lost Town (March 17-2011) 4.1
4-Return to Joyville (April 19-2012) 4.3
5-Destiny Undone (March 28-2013) 4.2
6-Lightning Strikes (August 21-2014) 3.3
7-The Price of Immortality (March 19-2015) 4.4
8-The Face of Humanity (January 21-2016) 3.7
9-Her Cruel Collection (September 15-2016) 3.4
10-Bloody Rosie (November 17-2016) 3.7
11-Arrogance Effect (July 22-2017) 2.8
12-Poetic Justice (October 5-2017) 3.3
13-The Curse of Ophelia (February 3-2018) 3.6
14-Faith in the Future (July 12-2018) 3.7
15-Porcelain Smile (January 31-2019) 3.7
16-Fatal Mistake (June 11-2020) n/a
2-Souls of the Innocent (May 27-2010) 4.3
3-Lost Town (March 17-2011) 4.1
4-Return to Joyville (April 19-2012) 4.3
5-Destiny Undone (March 28-2013) 4.2
6-Lightning Strikes (August 21-2014) 3.3
7-The Price of Immortality (March 19-2015) 4.4
8-The Face of Humanity (January 21-2016) 3.7
9-Her Cruel Collection (September 15-2016) 3.4
10-Bloody Rosie (November 17-2016) 3.7
11-Arrogance Effect (July 22-2017) 2.8
12-Poetic Justice (October 5-2017) 3.3
13-The Curse of Ophelia (February 3-2018) 3.6
14-Faith in the Future (July 12-2018) 3.7
15-Porcelain Smile (January 31-2019) 3.7
16-Fatal Mistake (June 11-2020) n/a
by: Amax Interactive
I recommend this game!