pennmom36's Profile
Stat Summary
- Average Rating:3.7
- Helpful Votes:358,445
- Reviews Submitted:4713
- First Review:December 10, 2012
- Most Recent Review:May 8, 2025
- Featured reviews0
Status:
Solve 120 enchanted mosaics! Bring the prince and kingdom back to normal before the final enchanted rose petal falls!
Overall rating
2
/
5
18 of 22 found this review helpful
JUST MORE OF THE SAME
PostedMay 8, 2018
pennmom36
fromAt least the pictures have changed!
Skill Level:Expert
Fun Factor
2
/
5
Visual/Sound Quality
2
/
5
Level of Challenge
2
/
5
This is yet another Mosaic Puzzle by 8 Floor Games, with the same features as all the other Mosaic puzzle games they offer. If you've played one, you've played them all, because they never change a single feature in any game the release, ever! I will say that I liked these pictures better than the ones offered in Fairytail Mosaics 1: Beauty and the Beast.
There are 6 different Mosaic Worlds and each has 20 puzzles available. There is a left-hand mode as well as a Relaxed feature that automatically gives you the Key and points for finishing the game, no matter how long it takes you to finish the puzzle. In Normal Mode, you will receive one Key for Completing the puzzle, a second Key if you make no Mistakes, and the third Key if you Complete the puzzle within the Allotted Time, which isn't as easy as it sounds! You will earn coins for each completed puzzle and can use the coins to buy extra time or instantly refill the hint feature, you can also unlock other levels and worlds, but it costs a ridiculous amount of coins ranging from 25,000 coins to a whopping 195,000 coins, and I doubt you could earn that many coins beforehand anyway.
The object of the game is to correctly place available mosaic puzzle pieces located on the right side of the puzzle. Some puzzle pieces are already placed on the board as "clues" and more pieces are added until the puzzle is complete. All of this sounds really easy, but when you are trying to place the pieces wicked fast and without making a mistake, it can be mind-blowing. You can replay the puzzle as often as you want to try to earn a better score, but each time the puzzle will reset with different puzzle pieces as clues.
As I said earlier, these pictures are more appealing than the last one, but if you've bought any of the mosaic puzzles offered by this dev, there's probably no need to buy another. Each time you re-play a puzzle, different pieces are shown at the beginning which is another reason not to need another mosaic puzzle, because each time you play it is different than the last. but Alice's Patchwork and Mosaics Galore are much prettier if you have to choose one over the other.
I don't recommend this game.
Play as both members of the Fletcher family to crack the case!
Overall rating
3
/
5
49 of 75 found this review helpful
TELL ME 'BOUT THE GOOD 'OLE DAYS***like that time you were arrested for murder!
PostedMay 7, 2018
pennmom36
fromWhy are the graphics and items getting so LARGE and drab?
Skill Level:Expert
Current Favorite:
Phantasmat Collector's Edition
(100)Fun Factor
3
/
5
Visual/Sound Quality
3
/
5
Level of Challenge
3
/
5
Storyline
3
/
5
Welcome to Pine Hills, New England Aaron and Mary Fletcher, a quaint little town where everybody knows each other by name. You're just in time for the annual neighborhood party at Mayor William Greenwald's house. Bring a bottle of your favorite wine, and don't forget to don your mustache, this will be the perfect time to meet and greet your new neighbors and tell them a little bit about yourselves. They get to know you fairly well all right! Enjoy your first night's stay at your new home in Pine Hills. Unfortunately, your accommodations will be less than ideal, because the Mayor's wife has just been murdered, and you're the prime suspect!
I had high expectations of this new series entry because of the title alone. It sounded like it would be similar to a tv series called Wayward Pines where the residents of this idyllic town pretended that life here was normal when in reality, they were surrounded by an electrically fortified fence. Anyone who tried to escape was executed in the town square. Because they were so intimidated, they were terrified of breaking the rules, so they acted as if everything was perfect, and wouldn't speak about all the "rules" they were forced to obey.
Unfortunately, Pine Hills is nowhere near that interesting, and I don't understand why this game is any different than a Dead Reckoning game by this same dev. If I had to guess, I think they simply couldn't "imagine" a completely new storyline plot, so they decided to create a new series that they know will sell, just because it's a new game series. You will switch between characters (mom & dad) but this is a feature that was perfected in the (censored) series a long time ago, so this wasn't a feature to get overly excited about.
The graphics are horrible! Once again, the graphics are faded with a whitewashed appearance, everything is huge and lacks detail. It's impossible to make a connection with a game when the graphics are cold and uninviting, they look like the graphics you'd expect from an older "video game console" you just picked up at a garage sale for a buck! As far as a CE worthiness, this game falls short there as well, offering a hidden Present in each scene and Morphs within the HOP's. The presents are impossible to overlook, they are brightly colored (especially in contrast to the dull yellowish colored scenery) and to make it more obvious, they have a huge red bow and ribbon around each present. (what do presents have to do with a murder or anything for that matter? Once again a huge disconnect) I'm sure many will love this who-dun-it mystery, but it just didn't float my boat.
The Hidden Object Scenes vary with just about every type, Interactive List finds, Keywords in Sentences, Multiple Item finds, Silhouetted Shape finds, Replacing items into the scene, and Progressive Interactive Silhouetted Shape finds where you find an item that matches the Silhouetted Shape, and then use that item within the scene Interactively to find the next item. In this CE version, each HOP has a Morphing Object. Some of the HOP's are well done, however, the graphics aren't that impressive and one of the HOP's with keywords didn't make a whole lot of sense as far as related items go.
The Mini-Games aren't bad for the most part, some of which are new or have newish twists. Below are brief descriptions of some of the games you'll encounter in the demo and a few after the demo:
1) Replicate a signal pattern using arrows to change sections.
2) Select when footprints are on a stable section.
3) Move plate to keep balance within the outer circle.
4) Rotate 3 disks to fill the center entirely.
5) Move thru a maze to pick up and use items to progress.
6) Rotate numbered tiles to correct combination slots.
7) Draw a continuous line by selecting gems to match the map
8) Swap plates on the bottom to match the information on top.
9) Guide ball to the top using knobs & arrows to direct airflow.
2) Select when footprints are on a stable section.
3) Move plate to keep balance within the outer circle.
4) Rotate 3 disks to fill the center entirely.
5) Move thru a maze to pick up and use items to progress.
6) Rotate numbered tiles to correct combination slots.
7) Draw a continuous line by selecting gems to match the map
8) Swap plates on the bottom to match the information on top.
9) Guide ball to the top using knobs & arrows to direct airflow.
This Collector's Edition version has 8 Wallpapers, (very uninteresting picture choices) 8 Concept Art pictures (simplistac pictures of characters/actors standing or sitting in midair) 5 Music Soundtracks (who cares?) 6 Movie Cutscenes) 15 re-playable Hidden Object Scenes, a Secret Room, Mahjong Games (boring) 18 re-playable Min-Games, 33 not-so-hidden Presents, 24 Achievements to earn (most of which are automatically earned just for progressing in the game and doing things you have no choice to do to progress) 15 Morphing Objects (HOP's only!) 4 Chapters +Bonus Chapter and a built-in Strategy Guide.
I recommend this game!
Can you save the city from a tattoo artist’s magical ink?
Overall rating
3
/
5
46 of 54 found this review helpful
CHAPTER 2 BORING, CHAPTER 3 BORING, CHAPTER 4 BORING...
PostedMay 7, 2018
pennmom36
fromWhy are the graphics and items getting so LARGE and drab?
Skill Level:Expert
Current Favorite:
Phantasmat Collector's Edition
(100)Fun Factor
3
/
5
Visual/Sound Quality
2
/
5
Level of Challenge
2
/
5
Storyline
4
/
5
I was hoping this game would pick up the pace a bit, but man it's boring! It's the same thing over and over, you progress to a new chapter but you don't progress to any new tasks. You just do the same thing you did in the last scene, zoom into an area of interest, pick up an item that's wedged into a puzzle (wbtw is missing 2 pieces) then you scurry back to exactly one previous scene, place the previously wedged piece, solve a mini-game to open the door, find another wedged piece, go back one scene, place the pieces, pick up another wedged piece...lather, rinse, repeat. The only thing that changes is the shape of the puzzle piece.
The last 4 games I've played, have a Doberman or Rottweiler viciously guarding his turf and won't budge until you give him food or a bone, then, of course, he disappears completely. Doesn't anybody ever provide food for these poor little guys? Can't these devs come up with any other obstacle other than "throwing the dog a bone" or giving a bird something shiny in exchange for that famous puzzle piece inside her nest? Or giving berries to a bird to make them fly away, or a cookie to a raccoon so they'll go inside their den and bring you back a key that somehow you knew they had in the first place? In the end, this is another mediocre game with an awesome storyline that could have been an awesome game, but it's as if they ran out of ideas or didn't think this one through. Here's a recap of my review to help you decide which version, if either, is right for you:
Rachel was looking forward to meeting Chris at the Red Cape Bar because just next door is her new apartment. Rachel decided to get a brand new tattoo to celebrate the occasion, but little did she know that the tattoo ink was breaking news, and her life would never be the same! Chris Andersen's life is about to be turned upside-down as well when he finds himself knee-deep in a tattoo conspiracy with deadly consequences! The deeper Chris delves into this case, the more he realizes that he already knows too much, the truth is out there, Rachel is out there, but the truth is never what it seems..........
I wish they would have included a few more tasks per scene (and didn't repeat the tasks over and over) because there isn't much to do, a puzzle or HOP here and there, and perhaps picking up or placing an item, is all you get to do. I just think there was a lot of missed opportunities. In the CE version, there are Little Red Riding Hood Signs to find in each scene, but most of them are not very well hidden, in fact, in the third chapter one of them was sitting in the middle of the floor! And of course, the CE also has the famous HOP Morphing Object to find, but that's about it for bling, other than the wallpapers, music, SG normalities.
The Hidden Object Scenes include variations of Listed Items, Multiples of the same Items, (such as 9 Stamps) Riddle Descriptions, Black & White picture finds, Pictures in Color finds, and Silhouetted Shape finds. There isn't a lot of interaction with the items, such as finding and using objects interactively, but I liked the creativity of some of the scenes, such as a TV, or Mail Box slots in an apartment complex. Each of the HOP's has a Morphing Object to find (CE version) and I will admit that some of them are quite tricky to spot!
The Mini Games are for the most part, unique and some are very creative, although I'd prefer them to be a bit more complex and a tad bit longer. I really enjoyed the Fuses puzzle and the Fire Escape puzzle, but just when you get engrossed in the puzzle it ends! Here's a list of brief descriptions that you'll come across in the demo:
1) Move the patterned discs to their matching slots.
2) Swap stones to complete the design.
3) Connect + to - fuses to create a current using slider bars.
4) Point arrows to symbols a specified number of times.
5) Select levers to adjust ladders and bridges to create a path
6) Swap color-coded discs to their matching slots.
2) Swap stones to complete the design.
3) Connect + to - fuses to create a current using slider bars.
4) Point arrows to symbols a specified number of times.
5) Select levers to adjust ladders and bridges to create a path
6) Swap color-coded discs to their matching slots.
The Collector's Edition version has 8 Wallpapers, 8 Concept Art pictures, 9 Music Soundtracks, 17 re-playable Puzzles, 16 re-playable Hidden Object Scenes, 24 Collectible Souvenirs, 41 Hidden Little Red Riding Hood Signs, 16 Morphing Objects within the Hidden Object Puzzles, 5 Main Chapters + Bonus Chapter (Three Little Pigs) and a built-in Strategy Guide.
I don't recommend this game.
Return Egypt to its former glory and win the favor of the gods in this time management adventure game!
Overall rating
4
/
5
73 of 80 found this review helpful
THIS IS NO ORDINARY TIME MANAGEMENT GAME
PostedMay 7, 2018
pennmom36
fromWeird thing happened, when I played the CE I was able to choose a name, with this SE version, it only accepted numbers for my name choice?????
Skill Level:Expert
Fun Factor
4
/
5
Visual/Sound Quality
4
/
5
Level of Challenge
5
/
5
Storyline
4
/
5
Technically this game isn't what I consider to be a TM game, because it requires more strategy than time management. A Time Management game is actually a sub-genre of a Strategy game, which focuses on gathering resources in a consequent order to fulfill level goals, whereas a Strategy game, requires you to make specific decisions of what and where to build and in which order, and can potentially have several different outcomes.
Ramses: Rise Of Empire, requires you to make several decisions per level (50 levels total) which buildings to keep, which ones to destroy (and when) which buildings to build that will give you the most return, and when to upgrade. Most of the board has grid patterns, and each building, or religious item, takes up a different amount of grid space, so it may be more beneficial to destroy a smaller hut, for example, that may clear the grid and enable you to place 2 houses, which will earn more money.
Strategically placing Religious items means the gods will favor those surrounding it, so you'll have to decide if the religious item will help you meet the level goals faster than placing a structure there. You also need to know when to sell the property and when to buy it back (for more money of course) There's way more to this game than simply clicking resource after resource along a given path, and building a sawmill, farm or mine.
You can play this game in a Relaxed or Normal difficulty mode, to earn up to 3 stars per level, and the levels are re-playable. You will earn Utens for each level completed which allows you to build the Great Pyramid (9 different items) or study and learn the Sciences which will basically give you bonuses of faster construction, netting more money, cheaper construction, increased population, buy and sell faster etc.
There are two different components to this game, and two different icons to switch between. The Building Tab has different structures to choose from, and tabs within for Huts, Houses, Villas, Estates, and Palaces. Once you construct a building, you can upgrade it to a 3-star upgrade which gives you more income and more population, you can also Sell the property, or demolish it, and they will break down and need to be repaired after time. There is also a Religion tab that allows you to buy various statues and monuments, each one has different strengths or value. There is an Icon for Production materials, that you will need to buy in order to construct buildings. The stone is available in different amounts, the bigger the quantity, the cheaper the material. You can also hire more workers, from 1-5, and again, the more workers you hire at once, the cheaper the labor.
Is this a complicated game? Yep! But like all games, once you get the hang of it, it's easily navigated. It can be challenging because there are so many decisions to make, it's not a game for everyone, and really can't be compared to strictly a Time Management game, where most of the time, you can't make a wrong decision.
As far as the decision to buy this Standard Edition versus this Collector's Edition, the only feature I think may be of value (because of the complexity) is with the Strategy Guide, otherwise a few cartoon picture, music, and Bios you can read about on the internet, don't seem worth paying twice as much, in my opinion. If you are tired of TM games that require very little thought and a lot of speed, you really should try this game, by the end of the tutorial you will have gotten the hang of it.
The Collector's Edition version has 6 Concept Art pictures, 6 Music Soundtracks, 7 Amulets to find, 7 Character Bios, 30 Achievements to earn, and a built-in Strategy Guide, enjoy!
I recommend this game!
Can you save Dupin from a malevolent murderer in time?
Overall rating
2
/
5
39 of 47 found this review helpful
THE DEMO IS BUT AN ILLUSION-YOU'RE GETTING SLEEPY-VERY SLEEPY zzzzzz
PostedMay 4, 2018
pennmom36
fromJean Eugène Robert-Houdin, a french clockmaker preformed the first magic show when he opened a theatre to display mechanical animals he had created that appeared to be alive.
Skill Level:Expert
Current Favorite:
Phantasmat: Crucible Peak Collector's Edition
(111)Fun Factor
1
/
5
Visual/Sound Quality
1
/
5
Level of Challenge
1
/
5
Storyline
2
/
5
Once again, Dark tales has hypnotized me into believing things have changed. What you see in the demo is merely an illusion and with each new chapter, I could visually see the irrelevant ERS ways returning. Amax is falling into a Pit that they may never be able to claw their way out of. The hand-drawn graphics are out-dated and "old-school" you can't differentiate this game from the last one, in fact, if Dupin wasn't a familiar character, you absolutely wouldn't be able to distinguish a Dark Tales game from a Redemption Cemetery game, or a Shadow Wolf Mysteries game, from a Grim Facade game. The characters look exactly the same as they did in 2009 when the first Dark Tales game was released, and they too look the same as every other game series by this dev. These games are old-fashioned and dated, and Amax refuses to upgrade, they refuse to listen to criticism and adapt to the changing times. We aren't the same HOPA fans that started this revolution because we have evolved while they remain in the year 2009.
I originally thought that this game was different, that this game had promise, but I was wrong, and for that mistake, I apologize! The cliffhanger demo ending, left me wanting to continue onwards...oh no Dupin, what happened? By the middle of the third chapter, I felt connected to the plot, not because it drew me into the game-play, but because I felt like I had been hypnotized as well. I just wanted it to end, I wanted to fall asleep! The same ole same ole features returned and I soon realized that "they were back" they being Amax/ERS, were back, meaning a return to their old ways. This games only redeeming feature was with the CE Morphing Objects and Collectible Cards! Here's a recap of my review to help you decide which version, if either, is right for you:
Zula the Illusionist will be entertaining the guests at the Pendulum estate this evening, by invitation only. Detective Dupin will be a special guest star participant, so this will be a party to die for! Dupin had a bad feeling about this performance and begged Zula to reconsider, but "the show must go on" until it doesn't, and it did! It's a good thing you made it to the show on time, unfortunately, this show will be the Grand Final, but is it just an elaborate Grand Illusion?
I will admit that the Morphing Objects become a bit more elusive after the demo, some of which are difficult to spot. I liked how they tied the Morphs into the Collectible Cards. There are 9 Collectible Cards that give a brief description of various "bad guys" in a "before" scenario. To learn about the "now" scenario, you must find all 3 Morphing Objects shown at the bottom of each card to unlock the current situation of that person. I've never seen this feature, so I have to give credit where credit is justly deserved!
The Hidden Object Scenes are just okay, nothing spectacular, nothing really new., and basically the same as they have been for the last 9 years. There are Interactive List finds, Keywords in Sentence finds, Progressive Interactive finds, and several Zoom Zone HOP's where you are tasked with finding 5 Fragments to receive an inventory item.
The Mini-Games are pretty easy to solve, even on the Hard difficulty setting. Typically, I don't really care how hard or easy puzzles are, as long as they are fun, and I did enjoy some of them before and after the demo. Below are brief descriptions of some of the games you'll encounter during the demo:
1-Slide buttons to correct positions according to clue shown.
2-Drag latch through symbol without touching borders.
3-Match both card sections correctly within their categories.
4-Select all pictured items to receive the safe code.
5-Turn safe wheel to the correct numbers shown on the clue.
6-Use numbered buttons to push tokens into place.
7-Click when both tokens are aligned (progressive speed)
8-Navigate through a dark maze, picking up and using items.
2-Drag latch through symbol without touching borders.
3-Match both card sections correctly within their categories.
4-Select all pictured items to receive the safe code.
5-Turn safe wheel to the correct numbers shown on the clue.
6-Use numbered buttons to push tokens into place.
7-Click when both tokens are aligned (progressive speed)
8-Navigate through a dark maze, picking up and using items.
The Collector's Edition version has 6 Wallpapers, 8 Concept Art pictures, 5 Screensavers, 4 Music Soundtracks, 12 Movie Videos, 16 re-playable Mini-Games, 12 re-playable Hidden Object Scenes, 16 Achievements to earn, 26 Morphing Objects, 9 Collectible Illusionist Cards, 5 Main Chapters +Bonus Chapter and a built-in Strategy Guide.
DARK TALES: EDGAR ALLAN POE'S GAMES AVAILABLE:
Title***Collector's Edition Release Date***Average Rating
Title***Collector's Edition Release Date***Average Rating
1-Murder's In The Rue Morgue (December 17-2009) 3.7
2-The Black Cat (September 16-2010) 4.4
3-The Premature Burial (October 7-2011) 4.5
4-The Gold Bug (January 10-2013) 3.8
5-The Masque Of The Red Death (April 25-2013) 4.4
6-The Fall Of The House Of Usher (March 20-2014) 4.0
7-The Mystery of Marie Roget (February 19-2015) 4.1
8-The Tell-Tale Heart (November 14-2015) 2.7
9-Metzengerstein (July 21-2016) 3.5
10-The Raven (December 29-2016) 3.2
11-Lenore (August 10-2017) 2.9
12-Morella (December 16-2017) 3.7
13-The Pit and the Pendulum (April 5-2018) 3.2
2-The Black Cat (September 16-2010) 4.4
3-The Premature Burial (October 7-2011) 4.5
4-The Gold Bug (January 10-2013) 3.8
5-The Masque Of The Red Death (April 25-2013) 4.4
6-The Fall Of The House Of Usher (March 20-2014) 4.0
7-The Mystery of Marie Roget (February 19-2015) 4.1
8-The Tell-Tale Heart (November 14-2015) 2.7
9-Metzengerstein (July 21-2016) 3.5
10-The Raven (December 29-2016) 3.2
11-Lenore (August 10-2017) 2.9
12-Morella (December 16-2017) 3.7
13-The Pit and the Pendulum (April 5-2018) 3.2
by: Amax Interactive Games: Ukraine founded March 25-2006
(Changed name from ERS Games to Amax Interactive in 2016)
(Changed name from ERS Games to Amax Interactive in 2016)
Dark Tales: Edgar Allan Poe's (ERS games 1-9 *Amax games 10-12) Haunted Legends, Puppet Show, Redemption Cemetery, Spirits of Mystery, Grim Facade, Shadow Wolf Mysteries, Queen's Tales, Twilight Phenomena, Reveries, Christmas Eve, Maestro, Ghosts of the Past, Forgotten Books, Beyond the Unknown, Haunted Halls, Flights of Fancy, Azada (games 3-4) Reality Show, Phantasmat (Crucible Peak only), Gothic Fiction, Dark Alley's, Nightfall, Hidden Wonders of the Depths, Pathfinders, Sarah Maribu, Steve the Sheriff, Many Years Ago, Mysterious Travel
I don't recommend this game.
Ann and Jim must venture underground to rescue Ann’s father in this time management adventure!
Overall rating
3
/
5
32 of 35 found this review helpful
DOESN'T HAVE A GOOD RE-PLAY VALUE BUT DECENT FIRST TIME THROUGH
PostedMay 3, 2018
pennmom36
fromI really liked the morphing chameleons in the second game, I may have thought differently about the CE version!
Skill Level:Expert
Current Favorite:
Haunted Domains
(48)Fun Factor
3
/
5
Visual/Sound Quality
4
/
5
Level of Challenge
3
/
5
Storyline
3
/
5
Some Time Management games are fun to play over and over, but this one gets a bit repetitive. The graphics are really good but items tend to be a bit small, so that could be an issue for some players. As I've said several times now, I rarely see the need for a CE version of a TM game, and I'm glad I waited for this SE version because it still has a lot of features I thought would only be available in the CE, such as the Vases to break open, Relics and Photo Album. Other than a few pictures, some collectibles, and 10 extra levels, you probably won't miss what's missing.
In Chase for Adventure: The Lost City, Ann Windsdoe retraced her father's archaeological expedition in Madagascar, where he disappeared over 20 years ago. Unfortunately, she wasn't able to locate her father and returned to the university empty-handed. In the second episode, Ann embarked on another adventure to locate The Iron Oracle, an ancient device that is able to locate anyone in the world. Ann and her sidekick Jim, along with the help of the Oracle, have pinpointed her fathers' whereabouts, imprisoned within the hollow Earth! It's time to Chase another Adventure, as we travel to Easter Island, The Devil's Triangle and Stonehenge, to uncover the gate which leads to the Underworld!
Although I'm not a fan of a Collector's Edition TM game,(especially with a $13.99 price tag) I gotta give the devs credit for including several collectibles and hidden items, in the CE version of this game. If you don't mind paying twice as much, you'll probably be thrilled with the quantity of collectible's, but there are only 10 extra levels (55 vs. 45) The CE version and the SE version both have hidden Ancient Vases in some of the scenes, which give you resources, artifacts, and other interesting objects. When you spot a vase, you'll need to click on it 3 times to break it open, and they are easily overlooked because there are so many items in each scene.
Although I'm not a fan of a Collector's Edition TM game,(especially with a $13.99 price tag) I gotta give the devs credit for including several collectibles and hidden items, in the CE version of this game. If you don't mind paying twice as much, you'll probably be thrilled with the quantity of collectible's, but there are only 10 extra levels (55 vs. 45) The CE version and the SE version both have hidden Ancient Vases in some of the scenes, which give you resources, artifacts, and other interesting objects. When you spot a vase, you'll need to click on it 3 times to break it open, and they are easily overlooked because there are so many items in each scene.
I like this TM game series in general because the tasks and goals are different than in most TM series games. You have to first find a Shovel to dig up piles of sand, and you have to find a Lantern before you can explore the Ancient Barrows or chase away mischevious monkeys. Some of the sites have a few Camera Icons that are located near important landmarks or other discoveries, and you have to place the camera first, then you have to take the picture, if there is more than one object to photograph, you'll have to click on the camera again, in order to move it to the new site. You will need to strategically construct the correct buildings that will give you the resources you need such as housing for Workers, Sawmills for Wood Canteens to supply Food, or Pumping Stations for Water. Some supplies are constantly being delivered in small amounts by helicopter, mostly food or wood.
There is a Bonus Meter at the bottom of the screen that has to fill up before you can use the bonuses, such as, Faster Workers, Extra Resources, more storage etc. There is also a meter at the top, which shows you your level Star position, but any level can be replayed if you don't earn all 3 Stars.
There are 3 modes of difficulty available, a Relaxed, un-timed mode as well as a Normal or Professional mode for experts.
There are 3 modes of difficulty available, a Relaxed, un-timed mode as well as a Normal or Professional mode for experts.
The Collector's Edition version has 8 Wallpapers, 8 Concept Art pictures, 20 Photo Album pictures, High Score Tracker, 28 Hidden Relics, 55 hidden Spheres, 55 hidden Amulets, 45 Main Levels + 10 CE Bonus Levels and a Strategy Guide, enjoy!
CHASE FOR ADVENTURE GAMES AVAILABLE
Title***Collector's Edition Release Date***Average Rating
Title***Collector's Edition Release Date***Average Rating
1-The Lost City SE (October 5-2016) 3.3
2-The Iron Oracle (August 1-2017) 2.9
3-The Underworld (April 3-2018) 3.9
2-The Iron Oracle (August 1-2017) 2.9
3-The Underworld (April 3-2018) 3.9
by: Growing Grass Studios
Growing Grass Games Available:
Chase For Adventure, Elven Legend
Chase For Adventure, Elven Legend
I recommend this game!
Can you prove that the town’s creatures are innocent?
Overall rating
3
/
5
126 of 166 found this review helpful
WHERE'S THE CHIMERA???
PostedMay 3, 2018
pennmom36
fromA Chimeras is a female mythological creature with a lioness' body a fire-breathing goat head and a serpent tail. Her father is Typhon, mother Echidna, siblings are Cerberus Hydra Ladon & the Sphinx. She was killed by Bellerophon & his trusty steed Pegasus
Skill Level:Expert
Current Favorite:
Chimeras: Tune of Revenge Collector's Edition
(127)Fun Factor
3
/
5
Visual/Sound Quality
3
/
5
Level of Challenge
3
/
5
Storyline
3
/
5
I realize there have to be entry level games introduced to get new people onboard the HOPA train, but this game has every cliche imaginable not to mention the fact that I completed the demo itself with 24 minutes remaining! Great story, I'm sure others will love it, but why is this game, or the last several games, part of the Chimeras series? Where are the Chimeras?
Paperclip to open a broken zipper, check, oil can to remove 35 years of corrosion, check, a ring to open a secret compartment, check, a new drawer pull because the original one fell off when you gave it a tug,(and yet the new one not only aligns perfectly with the holes, but doesn't fall off when you gave it a tug?) an item stuck in the crack of a billboard, check, an angel statue missing a wing, check (why does the dragon have the missing wing from someone else's humble abode?) an item at the bottom of a drain, check, a spider's web covering an important item, check (not to mention the spider is always the size of a grapefruit) boarded up windows and doors, check (why would I assume there's an item of necessity behind something boarded up for years?) lanterns requiring a small, thin object to open the latch which is always on the inside (how did it get locked from the inside in the first place?) a candle to see in the dark (I see a not so hidden object puzzle in the making) missing emblems from every box, gate and cache in the entire town, including inside everyones houses, check, a clogged drain, check (and always clogged with 1/3 puzzle piece needed) missing water valves, check, locked house doors, check (yet the keys to every resident's locked house is laying inside the local fountain or inside a bird's nest?) missing quill and ink, check (don't worry the bird will give you her feather once you scare the bajeebers out of her whilst stealing her prized key) torn fragments missing from the family portrait, check, loose brick hiding 5-6 items behind it which doesn't cause the brick to stick out further than the rest, check, large objects entangled by thorny vines, check, gates with complicated puzzles, check (hope the fire department can solve those puzzles quickly) anyone and everyone you meet is carrying around a much needed puzzle piece, check (and they don't now what it is but assure you it will help your investigation) Here's one I DIDN"T see coming...a locked cabinet inside the jail cell requiring multiple items, both inside and outside of the cell to open it, not only did it contain random items, but it also contained a roll of toilet paper, good luck getting some TP prisioners! (how come jail cells never have a toilet?) .....moving on to the third scene....
Amazingly, those cliche features aren't the deal breaker for me! I've always loved the graphics by Elephant Games, Mystery Trackers, Surface, the earlier MCF (think back on Fate's Carnival) and Royal Detective, even the first Chimeras, (Tune of Revenge) had amazing graphics. Nobody did the "creepy abandoned towns" and realistic atmospheres like this dev was able to create. For some reason, they abandoned this graphics style and went with the bright and sunny whitewashed appearance. Items are large and cartoonish and lack detail. They no longer include items to interact with (turn lights on, straighten a picture, splash the water, chase away the frog, play the piano etc) The micro-details are what I miss the most from an Elephant game. Is it because their targeted group of players are aging and they feel the need to make everything large, which in turn takes away from the detail? As far as a Collector's Edition version goes, this game has Morphing Objects, collectible mythical creature Cards and some extremely large Jigsaw Puzzle Pieces to assemble 4 Screensavers. It doesn't however, have re-playable HOP's (not that I'd want to play these super easy ones) or re-playable mini-games, and even though the Bonus Chapter is long, there are only 3 main Chapters. I'm sure many will love this game because it has a good fairytale storyline, which in actuality has nothing to do with Chimeras which once again are m.i.a.
The Hidden Object scenes are super simplistic. I found every item without looking at the list. After playing the first 2 HOP's I earned an achievement for all of the HOP related awards, not once did I have to look at the list of actual items! There is no excuse for this, in my opinion, these are NOT Hidden Object Puzzles, they are items sitting out in the open, there has been no attempt to hide any of these objects! They have mostly Listed Items with no interactions, but there are also Silhouetted Shape finds and several Zoom Zone's with 6 listed items to click on (versus "finding")
The Mini-Games are fairly easy and mostly involve swapping tiles. Below are brief descriptions of some of the games you'll encounter during the demo:
1) Swap triangular shaped tiles to complete image.
2) Find 6 matching items on 3 photos.
3) Find 6 eye symbols on a picture.
4) Swap tokens to match items related to images.
5) Rotate disc sections and place keys accordingly.
6) Place shards to restore glass orb.
7) Choose correct paths in a maze using the map as a reference.
8) Rotate lock parts according to colors shown.
2) Find 6 matching items on 3 photos.
3) Find 6 eye symbols on a picture.
4) Swap tokens to match items related to images.
5) Rotate disc sections and place keys accordingly.
6) Place shards to restore glass orb.
7) Choose correct paths in a maze using the map as a reference.
8) Rotate lock parts according to colors shown.
This Collector's Edition version has 12 Wallpapers, 12 Concept Art pictures, 4 Screensavers (Four 12 piece Jigsaw Puzzles) 5 Music Soundtracks, 21 Achievements to earn, 12 Collectible Cards (mythical Creature Bios) 48 hidden Jigsaw Puzzle Pieces (to assemble 4 Screensavers ) 28 Morphing Objects, a Secret Room, 3 Main Chapters +Bonus Chapter and a built-in Strategy Guide.
CHIMERAS GAMES AVAILABLE
Title***Collector's Edition Release Date***Average Rating
Title***Collector's Edition Release Date***Average Rating
1-Tune of Revenge (February 7-2013) 4.7
2-The Signs of Prophecy (October -15-2015) 3.9
3-Cursed and Forgotten (May 26-2016) 3.8
4-Mortal Medicine (November 10-2016) 3.9
5-Mark of Death (May 4-2017) 3.3
6-Blinding Love (October 19-2017) 4.2
7-New Rebellion (May 3-2018) n/a
2-The Signs of Prophecy (October -15-2015) 3.9
3-Cursed and Forgotten (May 26-2016) 3.8
4-Mortal Medicine (November 10-2016) 3.9
5-Mark of Death (May 4-2017) 3.3
6-Blinding Love (October 19-2017) 4.2
7-New Rebellion (May 3-2018) n/a
ELEPHANT GAMES: Yoshkar-Ola Russia founded April 4-2003
("We are making, World is Playing")
("We are making, World is Playing")
Chimeras, Mystery Trackers, Haunted Hotel (games 5-16) Royal Detective, Grim Tales, Christmas Stories, Surface, Halloween Stories, Midnight Calling, Midnight Castle, Mystery Case Files (games 10-11 Dire Grove, Sacred Grove & Fate's Carnival), Riddles of Fate, Hallowed Legends, Death Pages, Unfinished Tales, Detective Quest, Found, Urban Legends, Lost In The City, Super Granny Run, Quark Attack, Up Balloon Up, Ball Craft, Wise Gal, Love Is, Real Stories, Bloom, RIP Trilogy, Road Rush, Jungle Heart, Avalon, Just Bones, Sir Match A-Lot, Ship of Bones, Masquerade Mysteries
upcoming games:
Midnight Calling: Arabella
Grim Tales: The Hunger
Midnight Calling: Arabella
Grim Tales: The Hunger
I don't recommend this game.
Nobody comes back from the Dark Side unchanged, but it’s the only way to re-light the fading flame.
Overall rating
4
/
5
33 of 37 found this review helpful
WHAT A STORY I THINK I WORKED UP A SWEAT TOWARDS THE END!
PostedMay 2, 2018
pennmom36
fromI feel horrible! I fed an electric fish to a fox that caused him to convulse then I roofied 2 rottweilers with sulfuric acid!
Skill Level:Expert
Fun Factor
4
/
5
Visual/Sound Quality
5
/
5
Level of Challenge
4
/
5
Storyline
5
/
5
I've played so many games lately where it seems like a chore to finish the entire game. There has been a rash of so many uninteresting games that I feel I have to force myself to finish them just so I've gotten my money's worth! But this game had me hook, line and sinker from beginning to end! I love post-apocalyptic storylines (Walking Dead, Jerico, The Day After) and I love how Darkness and Flame takes me on a journey. Not only did I become immersed in the plot, but at times I felt anxiety, I wanted to say "run Alice, he's coming!"
After the demo, I played one of the most amazing mini-games, one that gave me 2 minutes to escape a labyrinth of rooms and corridors, before I was captured by a newly-turned darkness victim, as he taunted me "I can smell you, I know where you are" I'm not talking about one of those games where you lead a character through a maze on a tiny board with only a small flashlight beam to see what's in front of me with. I had to figure out which door to take, which hallway to enter, I had to pick up a ladder to get to a hole in the ceiling that was practically not noticeable. I had to find tools, and figure out which items I might need, and remember where I needed to use them, and the whole time I was hearing the darkness taunt me with his creepy voice, watching the clock tick down, hearing the thump-thump of my virtual heartbeat. I've played thousands of games, but I've never felt as immersed in the game, as I did not only in this mini-game but at several climactic scenes, all the way to the cliff-hanger ending scene! Of course, it's not like that for the entire game, but if a developer is able to make a person feel ANY emotion while playing a game, then they have done their job, and done their job well, so bravo Five-BN, bravo!
Why only 4 Stars you may ask? The only reason I knocked off a Star was that I prefer the CE version over this SE version. Not only are there several Collectible categories and Morphing Objects to find in each scene, but finding all Morphs and completing a Collectible category unlock 20 Bonus Puzzles in the Extra's menu. Here's a recap of my review to help you decide which version, if either is right for you:
Alice was just an ordinary girl trying to survive in a harsh post-apocalyptic environment. In the blink of an eye, her life changed drastically, after discovering a seemingly ordinary box. The unassuming box contained a beautiful Phoenix, and from that day forward, Alice became one with the Phoenix. Her beautiful fiery red hair turned silver, and a glowing Phoenix tattoo appeared on her arm, a constant reminder that things will never be ordinary again! Alice has been chosen to be the burning Flame in the Darkness, but the Darkness is relentless. The Darkness is drawn to the Flame, and the hunt won't end until the Flame has been extinguished!
The Collector's Edition version has all the extra features a gamer could ask for, but to be honest, I would have purchased this game at full price, had I known I would enjoy it as much as I did! On the Custom Setting mode, you can disable the cursor from turning into a hand when it scans across a collectible or morph, which is a fantastic feature, for those of us who want a little more challenge. In the CE version, each scene has a Morphing Object (30) and a Collectible (42) from 6 different categories (6 Rings, 8 Origami, 8 Broaches, 7 Gold Statues, 6 Jade Frogs, 7 Lotus Flowers) The objects are small and the morphing objects morph slowly, and are blended into the scenery fairly well, unlike some games where everything sticks out like a sore thumb and practically screams "here I am"!
The Hidden Object Scenes are far and few between but it's the same way in the other two Darkness and Flame games. There are only two HOS available within the demo, a very Interactive Listed Item find and a Progressive, Interactive, Silhouetted Shape find where you find items and place them back into the scene to progress, such as finding a key to unlock a case that has an item inside that can be used on another item, and so forth. There are no alternate type puzzles, but some of the HOP's have smaller puzzles to solve. After the demo, it seems that the HOP's become even more interactive. I found myself anticipating the next HOP, a feature I rarely find entertaining in games lately, because items are just laying out in the open, they don't even attempt to make them "hidden" in today's HOPA games.
The Mini Games are decent but a bit easy to solve during the demo. After the demo, more complex puzzles are introduced, but they are all pretty doable and not too frustrating. Below are brief descriptions of some of the games you'll encounter during the demo:
1) Choose the correct stones to climb the wall.
2) Use the magnet to find scissors in the water.
3) Click arrows to move a key to the lock w/o running into obstacles.
4) Swap fan sections to complete image.
5) Swap turtles to their color-coded slots.
6) Choose 2 symbols to match the center symbol on steps.
7) Use arrows to move a ball through a maze to the hole.
2) Use the magnet to find scissors in the water.
3) Click arrows to move a key to the lock w/o running into obstacles.
4) Swap fan sections to complete image.
5) Swap turtles to their color-coded slots.
6) Choose 2 symbols to match the center symbol on steps.
7) Use arrows to move a ball through a maze to the hole.
The Collector's Edition version has 9 Wallpapers, 7 Concept Art pictures, 14 Movie Videos, 8 Music Soundtracks, 21 re-playable Mini Games, 22 Achievements to earn, 42 Hidden Collectibles (6 Rings, 8 Origami, 8 Broaches, 7 Gold Statues, 6 Jade Frogs, 7 Lotuses) 30 Morphing Objects, 7 Puzzles (earned by completing Collectible categories & Morphing Object finds) 20 Bonus Games, 6 Main Chapters + Bonus Chapter, and a built-in Strategy Guide, enjoy!
DARKNESS AND FLAME GAMES AVAILABLE
Title***Collector's Edition Release Date***Average Rating
Title***Collector's Edition Release Date***Average Rating
1-Born of Fire (June 28-2016) 4.3
2-Missing Memories (May 23-2017) 4.2
3-The Dark Side (March 31-2018) 4.6
2-Missing Memories (May 23-2017) 4.2
3-The Dark Side (March 31-2018) 4.6
by Five-BN Games: Ukraine founded in 2012
"Our games are available in 60 Countries worldwide and in over 20 languages. We have gathered a team of professionals that are able to create masterpieces. Our games are characterized by great art, elaborated cut-scenes and spectacular stories. We consider that only the best product deserves your attention."
Darkness and Flame, Lost Lands, The Legacy, New York Mysteries, Lost Island: Eternal Storm, House of 1000 Doors, Eternal Journey: New Atlantis, Sacra Terra, Forbidden Secrets: Alien Town, The Treasures of Mystery Island, Lost Island Mahjong Adventures, Mystic Journey: Tri-Peaks Solitaire, Clover Tale, The Magic Valley, Vampires Vs Zombies, Path To Success, Settlement Colossus, Sprill and Ritchie: Adventures in Time, Huru Beach Party, Masyana Beach Party Craze, Pet Show Craze, Beach Party Craze
I recommend this game!
Forest fairies cannot wait for you to discover new pictures with even more colors than before.
Overall rating
2
/
5
18 of 22 found this review helpful
I COULDN'T SEE THE FOREST FOR THE TREES
PostedMay 2, 2018
pennmom36
fromDid you find the "CODE" in Forest Riddles 2? Don't forget to enter the secret code if you did!
Skill Level:Expert
Fun Factor
2
/
5
Visual/Sound Quality
2
/
5
Level of Challenge
2
/
5
Storyline
2
/
5
I love everything about this Nonogram Griddler game, but none of that matters if you can't see the cells! The colors are too identical, I couldn't tell the difference between the dark green cells and the black cells, which is even more confusing when the dark background fills in when a row or column was completed. I couldn't tell where the tan cells started at times because of the similar colored blank cells. I love the features, I love the pictures, I love the music, but I love to solve Griddlers for relaxation, and because I couldn't "see the forest for the trees" this was anything but relaxing for me personally.
You can earn 1 Star for completing the puzzle, a second Star if you don't use the Fairy (Fairies are Hints that when chosen will fly down and fill in 2 or 3 cells for you.) and a third Star if you make no mistakes, (also referred to as Lanterns, if you make too many mistakes the lantern's light will go out) and any level can be replayed. You can choose an auto-remove option that will cross off cells one by one rather than when the entire row or column has been correctly filled.
I'm sure griddler fans will love this game IF they don't mind the added challenge of not being able to differentiate between the cell colors and backgrounds, but I found it to be frustrating.
FOREST RIDDLES GAMES AVAILABLE
Title***Release Date***Average Rating
Title***Release Date***Average Rating
1-Forest Riddles (August 22-2016) 4.6
2-Forest Riddles 2 (February 28-2018) 2.8
2-Forest Riddles 2 (February 28-2018) 2.8
by: Puzzlesea Games
Forest Riddles, Summer Basketball, Toesamoe, Blockapica, Where Are The Gems, Woopatonic, Tempoma, Megtuchu, Memogrow, Ragdoll Maze Flight.
Forest Riddles, Summer Basketball, Toesamoe, Blockapica, Where Are The Gems, Woopatonic, Tempoma, Megtuchu, Memogrow, Ragdoll Maze Flight.
I don't recommend this game.
Lost Artifacts: Soulstone Collector's Edition is an exciting strategy game based in a world of magic and myth!
Overall rating
3
/
5
44 of 52 found this review helpful
DULL TIME MANAGEMENT GAME WITH NO CURB APPEAL
PostedMay 1, 2018
pennmom36
fromThe Soulstone is capable of a great deal. What kind of deal? A shooping deal?
Skill Level:Expert
Fun Factor
3
/
5
Visual/Sound Quality
3
/
5
Level of Challenge
3
/
5
Storyline
3
/
5
Lost Artifacts has made a third attempt, but once again has failed to grab the attention of TM fans. The colors are dull, the tasks are repetitive and predictable, and there's nothing worthy enough to claim a spot in the coveted Collector's Edition category, there isn't even a Strategy Guide!
In the first Lost Artifacts game, the archaeological team was able to stop the Dark Priest from doing his Dark deeds, and the team regretfully had to say goodbye to their newfound native friends. Unfortunately, the airplane was no match for a hurricane they encountered, and they crashed on a large but remote island in the middle of the ocean. They discovered a tribe of Atlantean's that had survived when the city of Atlantis was sunk by another evil-doer, and the team had once again agreed to help them return to their beloved city, after defeating the evil-doer of course! Now the team has to face another evil-doer, a thief who has stolen the legendary Soulstone which possess unfathomable powers. The evil-doer has already used the stone to awaken a Terra-cotta emperor, and he's a bigger evil-doer than the thief himself! Can the team stop this madman before he awakens the ancient dragon and takes over the world?
There are the usual tasks to perform of gathering resources of Food, Wood, Ore, Gold, Lumber, and the usual buildings to repair such as Huts for workers, Sawmills for Lumber, Farms for food, Mills or a Blacksmith barn. You will repair bridges, remove mantraps, and trade goods at the merchant market. Some levels require that you upgrade certain buildings to a certain level. You may need to build a house to accommodate a specialized person to rid the paths from certain obstructions such as a Monks house to restore statues, defenders houses to rid the path of snakes.
If you are a seasoned Time Management fan, I think you'll find this game to be a bit bland, with not a whole lot of challenge. As for being a CE version? I don't personally see the need for a handful of music soundtracks, concept art or trophies. There are no difficulty mode options or a Strategy Guide, it does claim to have Bonus Levels, but is it worth twice as much for a handful of extra levels, that would probably have been included if this wasn't a CE?
LOST ARTIFACTS GAMES AVAILABLE
Title***Collector's Edition Release Date***Average Rating
Title***Collector's Edition Release Date***Average Rating
1-Lost Artifacts CE (July 18-2017) 3.0
Lost Artifacts SE (August 30-2017) 3.2
2-Lost Artifacts: Golden Island CE (September 19-2017) 3.0
Lost Artifacts: Golden Island SE (January 5-2018) 2.5
3-Lost Artifacts: Soulstone CE (May 1-2018) n/a
Lost Artifacts SE (August 30-2017) 3.2
2-Lost Artifacts: Golden Island CE (September 19-2017) 3.0
Lost Artifacts: Golden Island SE (January 5-2018) 2.5
3-Lost Artifacts: Soulstone CE (May 1-2018) n/a
by 8 FLOOR LTD. GAMES: London England founded 2012
"We do games"
"We do games"
Solitaire Ted & P.E.T, Picross Ted & P.E.T, Griddlers Ted & P.E.T, 1001 Jigsaw Earth Chronicles, Alice's Patchwork, Asian Riddles, Asian Mahjong, Caribbean Jigsaw, Caribbean Mahjong, Christmas Mahjong, Christmas Griddlers, Christmas Patchwork, Chronicles of Witches and Warlocks, DayD Mayhem, Detective Riddles, Dino Rage Defense, Easter Riddles, Egypt Picross, Egypt Solitaire, Elly's Cake Cafe, Fairytale Griddlers, Fairytale Mosaics, Fill and Cross Trick or Treat, Fill and Cross Royal Riddles, Fill and Cross Christmas Riddles, Fill and Cross World Contest, Forty Defense, Gems of the Aztec, Gnomes Garden, Griddlers Beach Season, Griddlers Victorian Picnic, Halloween Night Mahjong, Halloween Patchwork, Halloween Riddles, Holiday Jigsaw Christmas-Easter-Halloween-Thanksgiving-Valentine's Day, Holiday Mosaics Christmas-Halloween Puzzles, Holiday Solitaire Easter, Iron Heart, Iron Sea Defenders, Jigsaw Boom, Jigsaw Puzzle Beach Season-Women's Day, Knight's Solitaire, Lost Artifacts, Magic Griddlers, Mahjong Business Style, Mahjong Christmas, Mahjong Royal Towers, Mahjong Valentine's Day, Mahjong World Contest, Medieval Defenders, Mosaics Galore, Mysteries of the Undead: Cursed Island, Mystery Solitaire, Pirate Jigsaw, Pirate Mosaic Puzzle, Pirates Solitaire, Portal of Evil, Royal Defense, Royal Gems, Royal Jigsaw, Sakura Day Mahjong, Santa's Toy Factory Nonograms, Solitaire Beach Season, Solitaire Christmas-Solitaire Doodle God, Solitaire Christmas-Halloween, Solitaire Halloween Story, Solitaire Jack Frost, Solitaire Legend of the Pirates, Solitaire Match 2 Cards Valentine's Day, Solitaire Victorian Picnic, Spooky Mahjong, True Detective Solitaire, Valentines Day Griddlers
I don't recommend this game.