pennmom36's Profile
Stat Summary
- Average Rating:3.7
- Helpful Votes:358,445
- Reviews Submitted:4700
- First Review:December 10, 2012
- Most Recent Review:January 15, 2025
- Featured reviews0
Status:
Can you uncover the truth behind a deadly shadow entity in time?
Overall rating
3
/
5
43 of 70 found this review helpful
IS ELEPHANT GAMES RICKROLLING US?
PostedMarch 24, 2023
pennmom36
fromRemembering you is easy, I do it every day. Missing you is a heartache that never goes away, until we meet again on the Rainbow Bridge one day. დ Loki
Skill Level:Expert
Fun Factor
3
/
5
Visual/Sound Quality
3
/
5
Level of Challenge
4
/
5
Storyline
3
/
5
Completed Game in approximately 5.0 hours
(including completion of all mini-games & CE Bonus Chapter)
17 Main Game Scene Locations +8 Bonus Chapter
Difficulty Range: Beginner-Intermediate
(including completion of all mini-games & CE Bonus Chapter)
17 Main Game Scene Locations +8 Bonus Chapter
Difficulty Range: Beginner-Intermediate
RICK ROGERS IS BACK! Oh, never mind, false alarm...again!?! Hang on a minute. You sure look like Rick; let me take a closer look; I hope you don't mind standing there while I poke you in your blue eyeball and examine that huge scar on your face...I sware, it's barely noticeable; seriously, I'm sure no one else notices. I can't believe there is an actual Parallel World here! Are you telling me that this has been here the whole time we were looking for Real Rick? I'm having a hard time wrapping my head around the whole parallel world scenario; it seems so unbelievable...but that Phoenix over there is an entirely different ballgame! He just lit my incense...now that's really impressive!
Happy 20th Anniversary Elephant Games! This is a wonderful way to kick off the event. I loved the sci-fi mystery theme and the unusual camera angles used. The graphics gave the game a modern, crisp look; everything about this game seemed different than previous games in the series.
I have to admit that at first, I thought it was ridiculous that Rachael was still searching for Real Rick 14 years later, not to mention it's been the same MO for three games in a row. How long was this missing-person storyline going to drag out? But, as the game progressed, I realized that it was a darn good plot and that finding Real Rick would be anti-climatic at this point, so I understand why Elephant Games has temporarily ditched the main character.
As I said, the storyline is darn good, but I can't say the same for the gameplay. Elephant Games loves Emblems, and this game still has its fair share of Emblem-placing to go along with the abundance of cliche tasks.
웃 Gadgets/Helper: 웃
In the past, Real Rick Rogers' tattoo was a gadget, but since Real Rick is MIA, we have no need for a gadget. I did find it strange that when we were comparing Real Rick to Wrong Rick, we didn't check for his tattoo?
In the past, Real Rick Rogers' tattoo was a gadget, but since Real Rick is MIA, we have no need for a gadget. I did find it strange that when we were comparing Real Rick to Wrong Rick, we didn't check for his tattoo?
♪Audio/Visuals:♪
I've always loved the graphics in Elephant Games. Even though they took a drastic turn a few years ago, you can certainly see a shift lately with graphics that look more realistic and more up-to-date.
I've always loved the graphics in Elephant Games. Even though they took a drastic turn a few years ago, you can certainly see a shift lately with graphics that look more realistic and more up-to-date.
☽☾ Collectibles & Morphing Objects (CE Version Only): ☼
Unfortunately, there are no Morphing Objects...a huge disappointment :(
There are 12 Character Statues that are pretty hard to miss; they look like an award from the Oscars.
Each scene has a fairly well-hidden Collectible Eye (25 total) that converts to a Jigsaw Puzzle piece, allowing you to assemble a single Jigsaw Puzzle Screensaver.
Unfortunately, there are no Morphing Objects...a huge disappointment :(
There are 12 Character Statues that are pretty hard to miss; they look like an award from the Oscars.
Each scene has a fairly well-hidden Collectible Eye (25 total) that converts to a Jigsaw Puzzle piece, allowing you to assemble a single Jigsaw Puzzle Screensaver.
◔ Hidden Object Scenes: ◕
The Hidden Object Scenes are better than they have been in the past, but really nothing to write home about. They have the usual Listed Items, Silhouetted Shape Finds, Keywords, or Multiples of items within a background story, or find & replace.
The Hidden Object Scenes are better than they have been in the past, but really nothing to write home about. They have the usual Listed Items, Silhouetted Shape Finds, Keywords, or Multiples of items within a background story, or find & replace.
♙ Mini-Games: ♙
I loved most of the Mini-games because they required multiple steps or planning a few steps forward to get the right solution. Most of the games are doable, although you may have to reset the puzzle to try a different solution.
I loved most of the Mini-games because they required multiple steps or planning a few steps forward to get the right solution. Most of the games are doable, although you may have to reset the puzzle to try a different solution.
✯ Bonus Chapter (CE Version Only) ✯
You will return to the World Mysteries shop playing as Rachael as she encounters ghosts whose contracts were voided by Fake Rick. Rachael must navigate a series of Room mazes in her ongoing quest to find the Real Rick in an additional 8 Locations. There are 7 additional Mini-Games and 4 Hidden Object Scenes, and you will continue your search for the final 8 Collectible Eyes and 3 Character Statues.
You will return to the World Mysteries shop playing as Rachael as she encounters ghosts whose contracts were voided by Fake Rick. Rachael must navigate a series of Room mazes in her ongoing quest to find the Real Rick in an additional 8 Locations. There are 7 additional Mini-Games and 4 Hidden Object Scenes, and you will continue your search for the final 8 Collectible Eyes and 3 Character Statues.
♕ Collector's Edition Extra's: (CE version only) ♕
5 Wallpapers, 1 Screensaver Jigsaw Puzzle (when all Eyes have been collected), 5 Music Soundtracks, 8 Achievements with several sub-categories, 13 Replayable Mini-Games, 13 Replayable Hidden Object Scenes, 25 Hidden Eyes, 12 Character Statues, 5 Main Chapters, +Bonus Chapter, and a Built-In Strategy Guide.
5 Wallpapers, 1 Screensaver Jigsaw Puzzle (when all Eyes have been collected), 5 Music Soundtracks, 8 Achievements with several sub-categories, 13 Replayable Mini-Games, 13 Replayable Hidden Object Scenes, 25 Hidden Eyes, 12 Character Statues, 5 Main Chapters, +Bonus Chapter, and a Built-In Strategy Guide.
Reconnect with long-lost forum friends and become an official Woosdey when you join us on my new forum at thewoodsforum.boards.net
I recommend this game!
Get ready to investigate another ghostly case in a new solitaire mystery game!
Overall rating
1
/
5
36 of 64 found this review helpful
PERFECT SCORE?
PostedMarch 22, 2023
pennmom36
fromRemembering you is easy, I do it every day. Missing you is a heartache that never goes away, until we meet again on the Rainbow Bridge one day. დ Loki
Skill Level:Expert
Fun Factor
1
/
5
Visual/Sound Quality
1
/
5
Level of Challenge
1
/
5
Storyline
1
/
5
I'm past the notion that the solitaire games by this developer will ever change or add features that appeal to most solitaire fans. A perfect score is a game where you are able to remove all cards from the board, not just a few special cards.
The game is over the second you remove the Gold Cards, there is no option to continue playing, and they arrange the special cards specifically so you cannot possibly remove other cards before removing the special cards, which lay on top of several other cards.
I'm worried about BF; they can't seem to get new developers, so we're left with some pretty lame daily game choices by the same handful of devs. Good luck with that!
Join the fun at my new forum at thewoodsforum.boards.net
The game is over the second you remove the Gold Cards, there is no option to continue playing, and they arrange the special cards specifically so you cannot possibly remove other cards before removing the special cards, which lay on top of several other cards.
I'm worried about BF; they can't seem to get new developers, so we're left with some pretty lame daily game choices by the same handful of devs. Good luck with that!
Join the fun at my new forum at thewoodsforum.boards.net
I don't recommend this game.
Enjoy a memorable vacation to The Golden City!
Overall rating
2
/
5
48 of 75 found this review helpful
MACARONI IS A NOODLE-THERE'S NO "I" IN A MACARON (or Macaroon with coconut)
PostedMarch 20, 2023
Fun Factor
2
/
5
Visual/Sound Quality
3
/
5
Level of Challenge
2
/
5
Storyline
2
/
5
Looks like the Macaroni disguised as a Macaron has returned! This developer may want to start reading reviews because everyone was complaining about not being able to find Macaroni in the last game, and here we are with the same misspelled item in game number two! Lord help the player who starts with the Missing Vowel or Scrambled Letter Mode!
I don't know about you, but I'm getting tired of all the travel-themed games! It's bad enough that the devs always choose New York first, followed by California (we have 50 states, ya know), but why do they have to use the same tourist locations in every game? How many times do we have to find hidden objects spewed about The Aquarium on the Bay? Surely, there is more than one stock photo available for this massive aquarium?
I get that developers have to use non-licensed iStock images, but can't they think outside the box and choose something other than Hats, Fans, Ropes, Neckties & Bowties, Keys, Microphones, Shovels, Pipes, Bats, Wheels, Frogs, Crowbars, Baguettes, Shoes, Flutes, and Hangers as the HO objects?...and definitely not Macaroni-Macarons!
I don't know about you, but I'm getting tired of all the travel-themed games! It's bad enough that the devs always choose New York first, followed by California (we have 50 states, ya know), but why do they have to use the same tourist locations in every game? How many times do we have to find hidden objects spewed about The Aquarium on the Bay? Surely, there is more than one stock photo available for this massive aquarium?
I get that developers have to use non-licensed iStock images, but can't they think outside the box and choose something other than Hats, Fans, Ropes, Neckties & Bowties, Keys, Microphones, Shovels, Pipes, Bats, Wheels, Frogs, Crowbars, Baguettes, Shoes, Flutes, and Hangers as the HO objects?...and definitely not Macaroni-Macarons!
You can play in a Relaxed mode with no timer or opt for a 10-minute or 3-minute Timed mode. You will earn a single Gold Star when you complete a scene, and those stars unlock the next destination. Eventually, you will have to replay the scenes to unlock the other scenes. You can choose which HO mode to play, such as Listed Items, Missing Vowels, Silhouetted Shapes, Scrambled Letters, or Mirrored Mode, where the words, as well as the scene itself, is a mirrored image (like seeing the word ambulance thru your rearview mirror)
Each scene has two Zoom Zones (look for glints in the scene) as well as at least one Recyclable object shown as a Silhouetted Shape. Obviously, we don't want to leave a footprint because being environmentally conscious is the right thing to do...just try to overlook the "Other" trash that we aren't being asked to remove...Also, you're going to want to carefully step over those sleeping bags & camping gear as it appears someone has decided to make the hallway of the Aquarium their permanent residence!?
Each scene has two Zoom Zones (look for glints in the scene) as well as at least one Recyclable object shown as a Silhouetted Shape. Obviously, we don't want to leave a footprint because being environmentally conscious is the right thing to do...just try to overlook the "Other" trash that we aren't being asked to remove...Also, you're going to want to carefully step over those sleeping bags & camping gear as it appears someone has decided to make the hallway of the Aquarium their permanent residence!?
SCENE LOCATIONS:
Golden Gate-Aquarium By The Bay-Academy of Science-Chinatown-Ferry Building Marketplace-Golden Gate Park-Alcatraz-High Tea-Japanese Tea Garden-Little Italy-Lombard Street-Fisherman's Warf Pier 39-Market Street-San Francisco Bay-San Francisco Zoo
When you get back from San Francisco, come join us at my new Nature-themed forum at thewoodsforum.booards.net
Golden Gate-Aquarium By The Bay-Academy of Science-Chinatown-Ferry Building Marketplace-Golden Gate Park-Alcatraz-High Tea-Japanese Tea Garden-Little Italy-Lombard Street-Fisherman's Warf Pier 39-Market Street-San Francisco Bay-San Francisco Zoo
When you get back from San Francisco, come join us at my new Nature-themed forum at thewoodsforum.booards.net
I don't recommend this game.
Overall rating
3
/
5
32 of 56 found this review helpful
RATHER GLITCHY!
PostedMarch 19, 2023
Fun Factor
2
/
5
Visual/Sound Quality
3
/
5
Level of Challenge
2
/
5
Storyline
3
/
5
I chose to play in the Hard Mode, which has penalties for misclicks, and boy, was I penalized! The game didn't accept some of my clicks for 2-3 tries before it would finally remove the listed item. It wouldn't be so bad, but when I had to triple-click on the whale, for example, the first two clicks penalized me -500 points each! It got worse by the time I got to the second scene, or the "Evening" scene on the golf course, which required me to find matching pairs. Obviously, you have no clue what those items were, so I clicked on a snowflake. The snowflake did not have a matching pair, so I was penalized with another -500 points, but then I had to wonder if the snowflake did actually have a match because, in the first HO, I had to click on some of the objects 3-4 times?!?
I'm not sure if this is a translation issue, but some of the objects had weird names for common items, such as a Spanner=Wrench, and a Bunting=Flag Banner (I thought it was a bird?), not to mention searching for a mouse that was clearly a rat.
One would think that the scenes in a Hawaiian-themed game would be very lush and exotic. I was expecting scenes to show how beautiful Hawaii is, but the first scene takes place in a resort room, and the next is on a typical golf course, followed by a close-up of a floatplane, which is no different than a scene in every other Hidden Object Game. The fun facts bored me to tears with facts about resorts & their owners, golf courses, planes, and political offices, not to mention a weird fun fact about syphilis & gonorrhea! You would think they would focus on the beautiful Islands' history or features?!
Several interactions are available in most scenes, such as dragging one item to another to complete a task. They also added a locked zoom zone that requires a "key," but the key may actually be a simple decal that needs to be found and placed on the door. They have added a small puzzle in each HO scene as well. There are several Hidden Object Modes to choose from, Listed Items-Riddled Descriptions-Silhouetted Shapes-Missing Vowels-Matching Pairs-Pictured Items-Scrambled Letters, which is my favorite!
Each scene has a "?" to find to receive a fun fact. There are five fun facts per scene which means that you have to replay the same scene five different times. The items to find are usually different each time, and you get to choose between seven different HO varieties, but unfortunately, the mini-game feature they added to each scene doesn't change. It wasn't so bad to replay the memory match card game because the card images were random (same images but in different spots), but when playing a simple puzzle like the mermaid puzzle, it was almost unbearable to have to assemble the same puzzle five times in a row!
The Hidden Object Scenes weren't bad; I just thought the scene locations could have been less ordinary...we should have taken one look at the scene and said, "that's definitely Hawaii"; instead, we get a scene with an ordinary golf cart on a golf course as if Hawaii is only known for their golf courses. When I find a fun fact, I want to learn about Hawaii's culture or unique attractions or how the Islands were formed; Hawaiian legends would have been extremely interesting, too...who cares when the first resort was opened in Hawaii or who the first Asian-American politician was! Don't get me wrong, this is history to be proud of, but this is a travel-themed game about Hawaii, so the fun facts should have been more touristy-related...we're talking about Hawaii here!
Collector's Edition Extras:
6 Bonus Chapters, 18 Achievements (16 Achievements in the SE version), 12 Wallpapers, 11 Soundtracks, 40 Photo Journal replayable Mini-games (26 Mini-Games in the SE version), 5 Fun Facts per Scene (120 Fun Facts in the SE Version), and an Unlimited Play Mode (24 Hidden Object Levels in the SE Version).
6 Bonus Chapters, 18 Achievements (16 Achievements in the SE version), 12 Wallpapers, 11 Soundtracks, 40 Photo Journal replayable Mini-games (26 Mini-Games in the SE version), 5 Fun Facts per Scene (120 Fun Facts in the SE Version), and an Unlimited Play Mode (24 Hidden Object Levels in the SE Version).
After your trip to Hawaii, head on over to the Woods Forum and become an official Woodsy at thewoodsforum.boards.net
I don't recommend this game.
Without darkness, the stars would be invisible.
Overall rating
2
/
5
80 of 117 found this review helpful
WOW-WOW-WOW-BUT NOT IN A GOOD WOW WAY!
PostedMarch 18, 2023
pennmom36
fromRemembering you is easy, I do it every day. Missing you is a heartache that never goes away, until we meet again on the Rainbow Bridge one day. დ Loki
Skill Level:Expert
Fun Factor
2
/
5
Visual/Sound Quality
3
/
5
Level of Challenge
2
/
5
Storyline
2
/
5
The fact is that Domini is one of the best HOPA developers that entered the market, and they used to be on my personal top 3 developers list, back in the day. We all know what they are capable of, but they were backed into a corner by Big Fish to spew out games at a reckless, unsustainable pace.
With that being said, I think Domini Games is making a good business decision by releasing simplistic Hidden Object Games. If they are able to lighten the load by tossing out a few HOGs, this should allow them to focus on the quality of their HOPAs! I've already seen a slight improvement on their last few HOPA releases, so I think games like The Intersection of Worlds are a good idea!
Games like Magic Stars may not be everyone's cup of tea, love it or hate it, take it or leave it, but keep in the back of your mind that the HOPA you were anticipating today, may just be a better quality game tomorrow because they released The Intersection of Worlds series!
Games like Magic Stars may not be everyone's cup of tea, love it or hate it, take it or leave it, but keep in the back of your mind that the HOPA you were anticipating today, may just be a better quality game tomorrow because they released The Intersection of Worlds series!
HIDDEN OBJECT SCENES:
The HO's vary from scene to scene with Listed Item Finds, Silhouetted Shape Finds, Progressive-Interactive Finds, Spot the Difference Finds, Matching Pairs, Descriptive Clue Finds, Find & Replace, and Fill in the Blanks (? + ? =__) or Combo Finds where you find objects that are created when you combine 2 different objects. Basically, you will play a Hidden Object Scene, earn a Star, buy an item in the Carnival Room, play another HO, and possibly a mini-game...lather-rinse-repeat.
The HO's vary from scene to scene with Listed Item Finds, Silhouetted Shape Finds, Progressive-Interactive Finds, Spot the Difference Finds, Matching Pairs, Descriptive Clue Finds, Find & Replace, and Fill in the Blanks (? + ? =__) or Combo Finds where you find objects that are created when you combine 2 different objects. Basically, you will play a Hidden Object Scene, earn a Star, buy an item in the Carnival Room, play another HO, and possibly a mini-game...lather-rinse-repeat.
MINI-GAMES:
There are only 24 Mini-games in the Main Chapters and 8 additional mini-games in the CE Bonus Chapter. Although the graphics have been changed, they are basically the same games we've played hundreds of times, such as sliding icons to create the same chain of icons shown at the bottom.
There are only 24 Mini-games in the Main Chapters and 8 additional mini-games in the CE Bonus Chapter. Although the graphics have been changed, they are basically the same games we've played hundreds of times, such as sliding icons to create the same chain of icons shown at the bottom.
BONUS CHAPTER (CE Version only)
The Bonus Chapter contains additional Hidden Object Scenes and 8 additional Mini-Games. If you like this game, I would wait for the SE version because the "extras" just don't seem worth the price. You could literally buy both games in this series in the SE version for the price of 1 CE and have more gameplay than just getting a few extra levels in a CE version.
The Bonus Chapter contains additional Hidden Object Scenes and 8 additional Mini-Games. If you like this game, I would wait for the SE version because the "extras" just don't seem worth the price. You could literally buy both games in this series in the SE version for the price of 1 CE and have more gameplay than just getting a few extra levels in a CE version.
CE EXTRAs (CE version only)
15 Wallpapers (which appear to be taken from each of the HO scenes), 15 Concept Art, 5 Music, 25 Achievements, and a Strategy Guide that only shows the solution for the Mini Games and the location of the Collectible Bracelets.
15 Wallpapers (which appear to be taken from each of the HO scenes), 15 Concept Art, 5 Music, 25 Achievements, and a Strategy Guide that only shows the solution for the Mini Games and the location of the Collectible Bracelets.
We all miss the BF forums, so I created a nature-themed forum where BF gamers could connect with others who have similar interests from across the globe. Come join us it's Free to join and lots of fun! thewoodsforum.boards.net
I don't recommend this game.
Who could turn down an opportunity to change the past?
Overall rating
5
/
5
215 of 339 found this review helpful
THIS IS PROBABLY GRANDMA'S BEST GAME TO DATE, AS FAR AS THE GAMEPLAY & MECHANICS GO...but, there's always a but....
PostedMarch 16, 2023
Fun Factor
5
/
5
Visual/Sound Quality
5
/
5
Level of Challenge
5
/
5
Storyline
5
/
5
Completed Game: a little over 5.0 Hours
(including completion of all puzzles & Bonus Chapter)
19 Main Game Scene Locations +7 CE Bonus Chapter
Difficulty Range: Beginner-Intermediate-Advanced
(including completion of all puzzles & Bonus Chapter)
19 Main Game Scene Locations +7 CE Bonus Chapter
Difficulty Range: Beginner-Intermediate-Advanced
Charles Dalimar wanted nothing more than to be a good boy growing up. His mother, Abigail, worked at the Madame Fate Carnival as "The Fattest Lady Alive," while his father Alister, spent his days and nights trying to become immortal. Abigail was abusive to Charles, causing him to spend all of his free time constructing intricate locks to help him feel safe in his own home. Charles didn't stand a chance of living a normal life. Like his father before him, Abigail placed this 11-year-old child in the Manchester Provincial Asylum, where he would spend the next 10 years of his life!
Charles was no longer interested in being a good boy; he was only interested in following in the footsteps of his father, Alister, and continuing his work to become immortal...but in the end, he didn't succeed...or did he? Master Detective will never be the same after walking a mile in the shoes of a madman, Charles Dalimar!
Charles was no longer interested in being a good boy; he was only interested in following in the footsteps of his father, Alister, and continuing his work to become immortal...but in the end, he didn't succeed...or did he? Master Detective will never be the same after walking a mile in the shoes of a madman, Charles Dalimar!
This game had me on the fence. On one hand, I felt that this was Grandma Studios' finest work of art. The mechanics were flawless, and the game moved at a good pace, never boring and never repetitive. The Collectible Medallions were well blended for the most part, one of which Morphed at a slow enough rate to make it a great extra challenge. I found myself looking forward to the Hidden Object Scenes, which is a very rare occurrence nowadays! Although the "Rube Goldberg" puzzles were technically just multiple mini-games, they were perfect games; they fit the theme perfectly, and with a little patience, they are doable non-frustrating puzzles.
On the other hand, the story was good but should have been a little more Ravenhearsty. It should have taken place in a creepier Manor with way less green glow! It should have been edgier, with all the props of a Ravenhearst Manor kind of game. Mystery Case Files has always been the kind of game that pushed the envelope and had an environment that made you feel as if you were being watched by one of the sick and twisted Dalimar's...and it was also the series that put Big Fish on the map...so why should the envelope stop moving now?
HELPERS/GADGET
There are no infamous MCF gadgets. Technically, there is a Robot sidekick, but he comes and goes throughout the game.
COLLECTIBLES & MORPHING OBJECTS (CE version only)
Grandma did not disappoint in the Collectibles/Morph department. Each scene has two heart-shaped Medallions, one static and one that morphs. They did a pretty good job blending the medallions into the scenery, and I felt the morphing medallion was a great challenge in some of the scenes because it morphed slowly!
On the other hand, the story was good but should have been a little more Ravenhearsty. It should have taken place in a creepier Manor with way less green glow! It should have been edgier, with all the props of a Ravenhearst Manor kind of game. Mystery Case Files has always been the kind of game that pushed the envelope and had an environment that made you feel as if you were being watched by one of the sick and twisted Dalimar's...and it was also the series that put Big Fish on the map...so why should the envelope stop moving now?
HELPERS/GADGET
There are no infamous MCF gadgets. Technically, there is a Robot sidekick, but he comes and goes throughout the game.
COLLECTIBLES & MORPHING OBJECTS (CE version only)
Grandma did not disappoint in the Collectibles/Morph department. Each scene has two heart-shaped Medallions, one static and one that morphs. They did a pretty good job blending the medallions into the scenery, and I felt the morphing medallion was a great challenge in some of the scenes because it morphed slowly!
There are also 20 Zoom Zone Jigsaw Puzzle Pieces that allow you to assemble a Jigsaw. They are actually tough to spot at times, but unfortunately, they can't be accidentally overlooked because the zoom zoom won't close until you click the puzzle piece.
There is a pull-out tab on the left that keeps track of the Collectibles, but if you missed a collectible or Jigsaw Puzzle Piece, you could return to the scenes to collect them (after completing the Main Game) by clicking on the puzzle piece, or Medallion...love this ability!
HIDDEN OBJECT SCENES:
There are only 10 Hidden Object Scenes (and a small zoom zone HO) +3 in the CE BC, but they are really enjoyable and located in interesting locations. The majority of HO scenes are Interactive List Finds, but they have unique aspects that make them feel fresh and somewhat different...you will notice this right from the get-go! There are also Fragment Finds, Related Pairs that resets if you make a mistake (I loved this one!), a really cool Swatches HO that had unusual interactions with beautiful flowers, Stained Glass where you rotate sections to align the HO's, one where you pull ropes to swivel chalkboards, and Silhouetted Shape Finds...very well done @Grandma!
MINI-GAMES:
As I said earlier, the DOOR puzzles were not technically Rube Goldberg puzzles where each action activates a different part of the puzzle and must be solved by figuring out subtle clues on the door itself...BUT...they were multi-layered puzzles that were hands down the best Grandma has ever created! There are five Door puzzles in the main chapters and a total of 19 mini-games +5 in the CE BC. I didn't find any of the mini-games frustrating, and really, the only game I didn't like was one where you had to fill the board with your tokens by jumping or moving tokens to multiply them while your opponent was doing the same, but that just my personal nemesis!
BONUS CHAPTER: (CE version only)
The One That Got Away should have been the name of this BC! This is played as Angelica, the maid that escaped toward the end of the game. I don't want to explain further because it will ruin the plot. This is an average-length Bonus Chapter that spans over 7 scene locations, with five additional Mini-games and two Hidden Object Scenes. You will continue your search for the final 14 Medallions and 5 Jigsaw Puzzle pieces to assemble a single Jigsaw Puzzle.
COLLECTOR'S EDITION EXTRAS:
10 Wallpapers, 10 Concept Art Pictures, 12 Movie Cutscene Videos, 8 Music Soundtracks ♪, 11 Replayable Mini-Games♙, 10 Replayable Hidden Object Scenes, 15 Achievements, 52 Collectible Medallions (1 Morphing-1 Static), 20 Jigsaw Puzzle Pieces, a Jigsaw Puzzle to assemble, 4 Main Chapters (Past Atrocities) +Bonus Chapter (Escape) and a Built-In Strategy Guide.
HIDDEN OBJECT SCENES:
There are only 10 Hidden Object Scenes (and a small zoom zone HO) +3 in the CE BC, but they are really enjoyable and located in interesting locations. The majority of HO scenes are Interactive List Finds, but they have unique aspects that make them feel fresh and somewhat different...you will notice this right from the get-go! There are also Fragment Finds, Related Pairs that resets if you make a mistake (I loved this one!), a really cool Swatches HO that had unusual interactions with beautiful flowers, Stained Glass where you rotate sections to align the HO's, one where you pull ropes to swivel chalkboards, and Silhouetted Shape Finds...very well done @Grandma!
MINI-GAMES:
As I said earlier, the DOOR puzzles were not technically Rube Goldberg puzzles where each action activates a different part of the puzzle and must be solved by figuring out subtle clues on the door itself...BUT...they were multi-layered puzzles that were hands down the best Grandma has ever created! There are five Door puzzles in the main chapters and a total of 19 mini-games +5 in the CE BC. I didn't find any of the mini-games frustrating, and really, the only game I didn't like was one where you had to fill the board with your tokens by jumping or moving tokens to multiply them while your opponent was doing the same, but that just my personal nemesis!
BONUS CHAPTER: (CE version only)
The One That Got Away should have been the name of this BC! This is played as Angelica, the maid that escaped toward the end of the game. I don't want to explain further because it will ruin the plot. This is an average-length Bonus Chapter that spans over 7 scene locations, with five additional Mini-games and two Hidden Object Scenes. You will continue your search for the final 14 Medallions and 5 Jigsaw Puzzle pieces to assemble a single Jigsaw Puzzle.
COLLECTOR'S EDITION EXTRAS:
10 Wallpapers, 10 Concept Art Pictures, 12 Movie Cutscene Videos, 8 Music Soundtracks ♪, 11 Replayable Mini-Games♙, 10 Replayable Hidden Object Scenes, 15 Achievements, 52 Collectible Medallions (1 Morphing-1 Static), 20 Jigsaw Puzzle Pieces, a Jigsaw Puzzle to assemble, 4 Main Chapters (Past Atrocities) +Bonus Chapter (Escape) and a Built-In Strategy Guide.
MCF fans, unite and join us at my new forum for great company and tons of fun. Check out the Game Series Lists, find gaming help & share tips, or just chillax by the campfire and enjoy nature at thewoodsforum.boards.net
I recommend this game!
What would someone do for a taste of unfathomable power?
Overall rating
1
/
5
73 of 93 found this review helpful
OH, HO, HO, IT'S NOT MAGIC...IT'S BROOOKE
PostedMarch 15, 2023
Fun Factor
1
/
5
Visual/Sound Quality
1
/
5
Level of Challenge
1
/
5
Storyline
1
/
5
Maybe Domini needs to slow down a bit and make sure their games are actually playable because it seems no one was able to make it past the werewolf attack without the game locking up! After this glitch, the game starts over as if you had never played it. How is it possible that everyone is experiencing this game-ending glitch? Doesn't Big Fish have someone to vet the games and ensure they work properly before releasing them? I don't understand why anyone would give this game a high rating when they can't complete the game they paid for?
DIALOGUE CHOICES:
First of all, there is a ton of dialogue in this game, and the dialogue doesn't really progress the game. It's mostly insignificant chit-chat that doesn't help you make a connection with the characters. In just about every other scene, you are forced to "choose" a dialogue question or answer and warned that these choices would affect the storyline. One question/answer is usually pretty straightforward, and the last selection is usually downright rude or snarky. If the choices were a little more varied and you didn't have to choose between sounding like an idiot or being arrogant, this feature probably would have more merit!
First of all, there is a ton of dialogue in this game, and the dialogue doesn't really progress the game. It's mostly insignificant chit-chat that doesn't help you make a connection with the characters. In just about every other scene, you are forced to "choose" a dialogue question or answer and warned that these choices would affect the storyline. One question/answer is usually pretty straightforward, and the last selection is usually downright rude or snarky. If the choices were a little more varied and you didn't have to choose between sounding like an idiot or being arrogant, this feature probably would have more merit!
COLLECTIBLES/MORPHING OBJECTS (CE version only)
Can't they come up with anything different to add or change? There are 14 Royal Paraphernalia items, 14 Morphing Magical Artifacts, and 70 Zoom Zone Runes that are used to purchase 15 uninteresting Boudoir items. (with the exception of a Crow)
Can't they come up with anything different to add or change? There are 14 Royal Paraphernalia items, 14 Morphing Magical Artifacts, and 70 Zoom Zone Runes that are used to purchase 15 uninteresting Boudoir items. (with the exception of a Crow)
HIDDEN OBJECT SCENES:
Nothing new or unusual here, folks. There are Listed Items, Silhouetted Shapes, Spot the Differences, Find & Replace, Multiples of the same Object, and Keywords in Sentence Finds. Most of the HO were so boring and located in uninteresting locations (such as a suitcase) that I opted to play the Alternate Match 3 game which was slightly less boring.
Nothing new or unusual here, folks. There are Listed Items, Silhouetted Shapes, Spot the Differences, Find & Replace, Multiples of the same Object, and Keywords in Sentence Finds. Most of the HO were so boring and located in uninteresting locations (such as a suitcase) that I opted to play the Alternate Match 3 game which was slightly less boring.
ALTERNATE MATCH 3 GAME:
There is an alternate Match 3 Game available if you don't want to play a Hidden Object Scene. The M3s still don't allow you to make consecutive matches quickly because you have to wait for all tiles to stop falling before you can make the next match, and they are the same boards with the same tiles used in every Do Game for the past decade!
There is an alternate Match 3 Game available if you don't want to play a Hidden Object Scene. The M3s still don't allow you to make consecutive matches quickly because you have to wait for all tiles to stop falling before you can make the next match, and they are the same boards with the same tiles used in every Do Game for the past decade!
MINI-GAMES:
These were the simplest games Do games have yet to offer; we've done these a million times before! Once again, they offered a Card game against Tervenir to collect High Cards by making groups of four identical cards before your opponent does...only they don't bother to explain this scenario; they just tell you High Cards beat low cards, basically! Following the card game was a familiar game of clicking up/down arrows to align pegs to insert a key after creating a straight path. I do like the mini-game where you click a starting cell and click on the direction of each arrow shown, such as 3 cells to the right, 1 cell up, etc. The problem was that you could basically start from any cell, so all you were doing was counting cells.
These were the simplest games Do games have yet to offer; we've done these a million times before! Once again, they offered a Card game against Tervenir to collect High Cards by making groups of four identical cards before your opponent does...only they don't bother to explain this scenario; they just tell you High Cards beat low cards, basically! Following the card game was a familiar game of clicking up/down arrows to align pegs to insert a key after creating a straight path. I do like the mini-game where you click a starting cell and click on the direction of each arrow shown, such as 3 cells to the right, 1 cell up, etc. The problem was that you could basically start from any cell, so all you were doing was counting cells.
BONUS CHAPTER (CE Version Only)
I can't comment on the Bonus Chapter because, like everyone else, the game can't be completed due to the glitch. But I can tell you about the features. There are 8 additional Mini-Games and 4 Hidden Object Scenes taking place over 7 additional scene locations. You will continue searching for the final 4 Morphing Royal Paraphernalia, 3 Magical Artifacts, and 14 Zoom Zone Runes to purchase the final items for the Boudoir...whoo-hoo, my life is complete now!
I can't comment on the Bonus Chapter because, like everyone else, the game can't be completed due to the glitch. But I can tell you about the features. There are 8 additional Mini-Games and 4 Hidden Object Scenes taking place over 7 additional scene locations. You will continue searching for the final 4 Morphing Royal Paraphernalia, 3 Magical Artifacts, and 14 Zoom Zone Runes to purchase the final items for the Boudoir...whoo-hoo, my life is complete now!
COLLECTOR'S EDITION EXTRAS: (CE version only)
15 Wallpapers, 15 Concept Art Pictures, 5 Music Soundtracks, 35 Movie Video Cutscenes, 34 Achievements, 25 Replayable Mini-Games, 20 Replayable Hidden Object Scenes, 14 Royal Paraphernalia items, 14 Morphing Magical Artifacts, and 70 Zoom Zone Runes that are used to purchase 15 uninteresting Boudoir items. (with the exception of a Crow), 5 Main Chapters, +Bonus Chapter, and a Built-In Strategy Guide.
15 Wallpapers, 15 Concept Art Pictures, 5 Music Soundtracks, 35 Movie Video Cutscenes, 34 Achievements, 25 Replayable Mini-Games, 20 Replayable Hidden Object Scenes, 14 Royal Paraphernalia items, 14 Morphing Magical Artifacts, and 70 Zoom Zone Runes that are used to purchase 15 uninteresting Boudoir items. (with the exception of a Crow), 5 Main Chapters, +Bonus Chapter, and a Built-In Strategy Guide.
We have a blast in the woods! Come join the fun at thewoodsforum.boards.net
I don't recommend this game.
What would someone do for a taste of unfathomable power?
Overall rating
1
/
5
7 of 13 found this review helpful
DOES THE WEREWOLF WIN?
PostedMarch 15, 2023
Fun Factor
1
/
5
Visual/Sound Quality
1
/
5
Level of Challenge
1
/
5
Storyline
1
/
5
Maybe Domini needs to slow down a bit and make sure their games are actually playable because it seems no one was able to make it past the werewolf attack without the game locking up! After this glitch, the game starts over as if you had never played it. How is it possible that everyone is experiencing this game-ending glitch? Doesn't Big Fish have someone to vet the games and ensure they work properly before releasing them? I don't understand why anyone would give this game a high rating when they can't complete the game they paid for?
DIALOGUE CHOICES:
First of all, there is a ton of dialogue in this game, and the dialogue doesn't really progress the game. It's mostly insignificant chit-chat that doesn't help you make a connection with the characters. In just about every other scene, you are forced to "choose" a dialogue question or answer and warned that these choices would affect the storyline. One question/answer is usually pretty straightforward, and the last selection is usually downright rude or snarky. If the choices were a little more varied and you didn't have to choose between sounding like an idiot or being arrogant, this feature probably would have more merit!
COLLECTIBLES/MORPHING OBJECTS (CE version only)
Can't they come up with anything different to add or change? There are 14 Royal Paraphernalia items, 14 Morphing Magical Artifacts, and 70 Zoom Zone Runes that are used to purchase 15 uninteresting Boudoir items. (with the exception of a Crow)
HIDDEN OBJECT SCENES:
Nothing new or unusual here, folks. There are Listed Items, Silhouetted Shapes, Spot the Differences, Find & Replace, Multiples of the same Object, and Keywords in Sentence Finds. Most of the HO were so boring and located in uninteresting locations (such as a suitcase) that I opted to play the Alternate Match 3 game which was slightly less boring.
DIALOGUE CHOICES:
First of all, there is a ton of dialogue in this game, and the dialogue doesn't really progress the game. It's mostly insignificant chit-chat that doesn't help you make a connection with the characters. In just about every other scene, you are forced to "choose" a dialogue question or answer and warned that these choices would affect the storyline. One question/answer is usually pretty straightforward, and the last selection is usually downright rude or snarky. If the choices were a little more varied and you didn't have to choose between sounding like an idiot or being arrogant, this feature probably would have more merit!
COLLECTIBLES/MORPHING OBJECTS (CE version only)
Can't they come up with anything different to add or change? There are 14 Royal Paraphernalia items, 14 Morphing Magical Artifacts, and 70 Zoom Zone Runes that are used to purchase 15 uninteresting Boudoir items. (with the exception of a Crow)
HIDDEN OBJECT SCENES:
Nothing new or unusual here, folks. There are Listed Items, Silhouetted Shapes, Spot the Differences, Find & Replace, Multiples of the same Object, and Keywords in Sentence Finds. Most of the HO were so boring and located in uninteresting locations (such as a suitcase) that I opted to play the Alternate Match 3 game which was slightly less boring.
ALTERNATE MATCH 3 GAME:
There is an alternate Match 3 Game available if you don't want to play a Hidden Object Scene. The M3s still don't allow you to make consecutive matches quickly because you have to wait for all tiles to stop falling before you can make the next match, and they are the same boards with the same tiles used in every Do Game for the past decade!
MINI-GAMES:
These were the simplest games Do games have yet to offer; we've done these a million times before! Once again, they offered a Card game against Tervenir to collect High Cards by making groups of four identical cards before your opponent does...only they don't bother to explain this scenario; they just tell you High Cards beat low cards, basically! Following the card game was a familiar game of clicking up/down arrows to align pegs to insert a key after creating a straight path. I do like the mini-game where you click a starting cell and click on the direction of each arrow shown, such as 3 cells to the right, 1 cell up, etc. The problem was that you could basically start from any cell, so all you were doing was counting cells.
BONUS CHAPTER (CE Version Only)
I can't comment on the Bonus Chapter because, like everyone else, the game can't be completed due to the glitch. But I can tell you about the features. There are 8 additional Mini-Games and 4 Hidden Object Scenes taking place over 7 additional scene locations. You will continue searching for the final 4 Morphing Royal Paraphernalia, 3 Magical Artifacts, and 14 Zoom Zone Runes to purchase the final items for the Boudoir...whoo-hoo, my life is complete now!
COLLECTOR'S EDITION EXTRAS: (CE version only)
15 Wallpapers, 15 Concept Art Pictures, 5 Music Soundtracks, 35 Movie Video Cutscenes, 34 Achievements, 25 Replayable Mini-Games, 20 Replayable Hidden Object Scenes, 14 Royal Paraphernalia items, 14 Morphing Magical Artifacts, and 70 Zoom Zone Runes that are used to purchase 15 uninteresting Boudoir items. (with the exception of a Crow), 5 Main Chapters, +Bonus Chapter, and a Built-In Strategy Guide.
There is an alternate Match 3 Game available if you don't want to play a Hidden Object Scene. The M3s still don't allow you to make consecutive matches quickly because you have to wait for all tiles to stop falling before you can make the next match, and they are the same boards with the same tiles used in every Do Game for the past decade!
MINI-GAMES:
These were the simplest games Do games have yet to offer; we've done these a million times before! Once again, they offered a Card game against Tervenir to collect High Cards by making groups of four identical cards before your opponent does...only they don't bother to explain this scenario; they just tell you High Cards beat low cards, basically! Following the card game was a familiar game of clicking up/down arrows to align pegs to insert a key after creating a straight path. I do like the mini-game where you click a starting cell and click on the direction of each arrow shown, such as 3 cells to the right, 1 cell up, etc. The problem was that you could basically start from any cell, so all you were doing was counting cells.
BONUS CHAPTER (CE Version Only)
I can't comment on the Bonus Chapter because, like everyone else, the game can't be completed due to the glitch. But I can tell you about the features. There are 8 additional Mini-Games and 4 Hidden Object Scenes taking place over 7 additional scene locations. You will continue searching for the final 4 Morphing Royal Paraphernalia, 3 Magical Artifacts, and 14 Zoom Zone Runes to purchase the final items for the Boudoir...whoo-hoo, my life is complete now!
COLLECTOR'S EDITION EXTRAS: (CE version only)
15 Wallpapers, 15 Concept Art Pictures, 5 Music Soundtracks, 35 Movie Video Cutscenes, 34 Achievements, 25 Replayable Mini-Games, 20 Replayable Hidden Object Scenes, 14 Royal Paraphernalia items, 14 Morphing Magical Artifacts, and 70 Zoom Zone Runes that are used to purchase 15 uninteresting Boudoir items. (with the exception of a Crow), 5 Main Chapters, +Bonus Chapter, and a Built-In Strategy Guide.
We have a blast in the woods! Come join the fun at thewoodsforum.boards.net
I don't recommend this game.
Step into a tale of mystery, intrigue, deceit, and murder!
Overall rating
3
/
5
15 of 17 found this review helpful
GOOD THING SHE DOESN'T TRUST PEOPLE
PostedMarch 14, 2023
Fun Factor
3
/
5
Visual/Sound Quality
3
/
5
Level of Challenge
3
/
5
Storyline
3
/
5
Completed Game in about 3.5 hours
(including completion of all mini-games & CE Bonus Chapter)
17 Main Game Scene Locations +6 Bonus Chapter
Difficulty Range: Beginner-possibly Intermediate
(including completion of all mini-games & CE Bonus Chapter)
17 Main Game Scene Locations +6 Bonus Chapter
Difficulty Range: Beginner-possibly Intermediate
When you get a warning stating, "WARNING: This game features graphic depictions of violence that some may find disturbing. It is not for the faint of heart." you automatically expect to get a game that's "disturbing.' Instead, we get a game that insinuates graphic violence is taking place in the game's opening cutscene. In reality, the game is about an older, grieving widow who decides to lift her spirits by playing the role of an investigative journalist...while podcasting to friends and neighbors. Most of the investigative work involves finding shaped motifs to snoop through everyone's cabinets and personal belongings. This snooping even takes place in the local Hospital while everyone goes about their business as if a stranger isn't committing a crime...while she's trying to solve a crime! Am I missing something spectacular here?
GADGET/HELPERS:
There are two Gadgets, a Cellphone, and a Voice Recorder. Both gadgets have a huge gold button on the top left of the screen that will pulsate whenever a gadget is needed. Personally, I found this to be one of the most ridiculous gadgets ever offered in a game. If I have to use a cell phone, why can't they just put the cell phone in or near the inventory bar? I realize Emily is an elderly woman, but I am not; I can use my cellphone as a voice recorder; if a cellphone doesn't have this capability, there are a ton of apps that work just as well. That's all besides the point; these gimmicky devices were added to make the game appear "cutting-edge"... it was not a cutting-edge kind of game (nor did it require a "warning"). It's even more annoying when the characters stand there staring at you, patiently waiting for you to fumble around and turn on a voice recorder. The African Grey Parrot was much more amusing!
There are two Gadgets, a Cellphone, and a Voice Recorder. Both gadgets have a huge gold button on the top left of the screen that will pulsate whenever a gadget is needed. Personally, I found this to be one of the most ridiculous gadgets ever offered in a game. If I have to use a cell phone, why can't they just put the cell phone in or near the inventory bar? I realize Emily is an elderly woman, but I am not; I can use my cellphone as a voice recorder; if a cellphone doesn't have this capability, there are a ton of apps that work just as well. That's all besides the point; these gimmicky devices were added to make the game appear "cutting-edge"... it was not a cutting-edge kind of game (nor did it require a "warning"). It's even more annoying when the characters stand there staring at you, patiently waiting for you to fumble around and turn on a voice recorder. The African Grey Parrot was much more amusing!
MORPHING OBJECTS/COLLECTIBLES: (CE version only)
There are no Morphing Objects once again, a feature that Elephant Games have always had in the past...#disappointed-appointed-disappointed-appointed-disappointed (...wait for it....aha!)
There are no Morphing Objects once again, a feature that Elephant Games have always had in the past...#disappointed-appointed-disappointed-appointed-disappointed (...wait for it....aha!)
There are 24 Zoom Zone Jigsaw Puzzle Pieces. The puzzle pieces allow you to assemble a single Jigsaw Puzzle. This is a 24-piece jigsaw puzzle because, obviously, we are not worthy of anything larger. There are also 12 Collectible Items. Just for grins & giggles, Elephant Games decided it would be best if the player had no clue what collectible they were supposed to look for in the scenes. To make it even more challenging, the collectibles are normal everyday household items...just like all the other everyday household items in the scenery. (yes, I'm being sarcastic) NOTE: you get an opportunity to return to scenes to find missing collectibles & puzzle pieces in the Expedition Room.
HIDDEN OBJECT SCENES:
The Hidden Object Scenes are varied, which is a good thing, but I gotta admit that half the time, I was clueless as to what I was expected to do. There was a scene in the 3rd chapter that required clicking on various pictures on a cell phone, but the pictures were doubled up, so it was confusing, especially when I was tasked with finding the number 186, which apparently was a huge blurred area? Also, in the 3rd chapter was a HOS that simply said, "This rolled out of his pocket," and you literally guess at which objects they are referring! Another scene in the BC required me to find a "bloody murder" while thumbing thru a case file folder. The bloody murder was just a blood stain? There are Listed Items, Interactive Lists, Silhouetted Shapes, Matching Symbols, Swatches, Multiples of the same objects, and Keywords in Sentence Finds as well.
The Hidden Object Scenes are varied, which is a good thing, but I gotta admit that half the time, I was clueless as to what I was expected to do. There was a scene in the 3rd chapter that required clicking on various pictures on a cell phone, but the pictures were doubled up, so it was confusing, especially when I was tasked with finding the number 186, which apparently was a huge blurred area? Also, in the 3rd chapter was a HOS that simply said, "This rolled out of his pocket," and you literally guess at which objects they are referring! Another scene in the BC required me to find a "bloody murder" while thumbing thru a case file folder. The bloody murder was just a blood stain? There are Listed Items, Interactive Lists, Silhouetted Shapes, Matching Symbols, Swatches, Multiples of the same objects, and Keywords in Sentence Finds as well.
MINI-GAMES/PUZZLES:
One thing I usually love about the puzzles from Elephant Games is that they are usually multi-step puzzles, such as setting gauges or figuring out the correct moves several steps later. These mini-games were more like simple puzzles, rotating squares, swapping puzzle strips, recreating images by sliding tiles, using an empty slot, swapping pictures to the correctly shaped outlines, placing objects into a suitcase based on the size & shape, etc. The only puzzle that stood out in my mind in the entire game was a lock puzzle requiring you to rotate elements on a grid to recreate the pattern shown. (tokens with 1-4 arms) I liked this particular puzzle, but it has been offered in almost every Elephant game lately.
One thing I usually love about the puzzles from Elephant Games is that they are usually multi-step puzzles, such as setting gauges or figuring out the correct moves several steps later. These mini-games were more like simple puzzles, rotating squares, swapping puzzle strips, recreating images by sliding tiles, using an empty slot, swapping pictures to the correctly shaped outlines, placing objects into a suitcase based on the size & shape, etc. The only puzzle that stood out in my mind in the entire game was a lock puzzle requiring you to rotate elements on a grid to recreate the pattern shown. (tokens with 1-4 arms) I liked this particular puzzle, but it has been offered in almost every Elephant game lately.
BONUS CHAPTER: (Collector's Edition version only)
The police have asked Emily to join forces with them to track down a convicted murderer who somehow managed to escape prison and disappear without a trace. There are five additional Mini-Games and six Hidden Object Scenes that take place over six additional scene locations. You will continue your search for the three remaining Collectibles and six Jigsaw Puzzle Pieces that allow you to finish the single Jigsaw Puzzle. After completing the Bonus Chapter, the Expedition Room becomes available, which allows you to search for any missing collectibles and jigsaw puzzle pieces.
The police have asked Emily to join forces with them to track down a convicted murderer who somehow managed to escape prison and disappear without a trace. There are five additional Mini-Games and six Hidden Object Scenes that take place over six additional scene locations. You will continue your search for the three remaining Collectibles and six Jigsaw Puzzle Pieces that allow you to finish the single Jigsaw Puzzle. After completing the Bonus Chapter, the Expedition Room becomes available, which allows you to search for any missing collectibles and jigsaw puzzle pieces.
COLLECTOR'S EDITION EXTRAS:
6 Wallpapers, 1 Screensaver, 4 Music Soundtracks, 21 Achievements, 12 Collectibles, 24 Jigsaw Puzzle Pieces, 1 Jigsaw Puzzle in the Secret Room (the puzzle pieces can be assembled as you find each piece, it isn't necessary to wait until game completion) 13 Mini-Games & 13 Hidden Object Scenes, an Expedition Room which allows you to return to the scenes to search for missed collectibles & puzzle Pieces, 3 Main Chapters +Bonus Chapter, and a Built-In Strategy Guide.
6 Wallpapers, 1 Screensaver, 4 Music Soundtracks, 21 Achievements, 12 Collectibles, 24 Jigsaw Puzzle Pieces, 1 Jigsaw Puzzle in the Secret Room (the puzzle pieces can be assembled as you find each piece, it isn't necessary to wait until game completion) 13 Mini-Games & 13 Hidden Object Scenes, an Expedition Room which allows you to return to the scenes to search for missed collectibles & puzzle Pieces, 3 Main Chapters +Bonus Chapter, and a Built-In Strategy Guide.
Miss the forums and familiar friends? Come join us at my new forum for game talk, general chats, and great company at thewoodsforum.boards.net
I don't recommend this game.
Step into a tale of mystery, intrigue, deceit, and murder!
Overall rating
3
/
5
8 of 11 found this review helpful
EXCELLENT CONCEPT BUT NOT EXECUTED VERY WELL
PostedMarch 14, 2023
pennmom36
fromIt appears you aren't willing to stop, I tried to warn you, out of my hands now.
Skill Level:Expert
Fun Factor
3
/
5
Visual/Sound Quality
3
/
5
Level of Challenge
3
/
5
Storyline
3
/
5
Completed Game in about 3.5 hours
(including completion of all mini-games & CE Bonus Chapter)
17 Main Game Scene Locations +6 Bonus Chapter
Difficulty Range: Beginner-possibly Intermediate
(including completion of all mini-games & CE Bonus Chapter)
17 Main Game Scene Locations +6 Bonus Chapter
Difficulty Range: Beginner-possibly Intermediate
When you get a warning stating, "WARNING: This game features graphic depictions of violence that some may find disturbing. It is not for the faint of heart." you automatically expect to get a game that's "disturbing.' Instead, we get a game that insinuates graphic violence is taking place in the game's opening cutscene. In reality, the game is about an older, grieving widow who decides to lift her spirits by playing the role of an investigative journalist...while podcasting to friends and neighbors. Most of the investigative work involves finding shaped motifs to snoop through everyone's cabinets and personal belongings. This snooping even takes place in the local Hospital while everyone goes about their business as if a stranger isn't committing a crime...while she's trying to solve a crime! Am I missing something spectacular here?
GADGET/HELPERS:
There are two Gadgets, a Cellphone, and a Voice Recorder. Both gadgets have a huge gold button on the top left of the screen that will pulsate whenever a gadget is needed. Personally, I found this to be one of the most ridiculous gadgets ever offered in a game. If I have to use a cell phone, why can't they just put the cell phone in or near the inventory bar? I realize Emily is an elderly woman, but I am not; I can use my cellphone as a voice recorder; if a cellphone doesn't have this capability, there are a ton of apps that work just as well. That's all besides the point; these gimmicky devices were added to make the game appear "cutting-edge"... it was not a cutting-edge kind of game (nor did it require a "warning"). It's even more annoying when the characters stand there staring at you, patiently waiting for you to fumble around and turn on a voice recorder. The African Grey Parrot was much more amusing!
MORPHING OBJECTS/COLLECTIBLES: (CE version only)
There are no Morphing Objects once again, a feature that Elephant Games have always had in the past...#disappointed-appointed-disappointed-appointed-disappointed (...wait for it....aha!)
There are two Gadgets, a Cellphone, and a Voice Recorder. Both gadgets have a huge gold button on the top left of the screen that will pulsate whenever a gadget is needed. Personally, I found this to be one of the most ridiculous gadgets ever offered in a game. If I have to use a cell phone, why can't they just put the cell phone in or near the inventory bar? I realize Emily is an elderly woman, but I am not; I can use my cellphone as a voice recorder; if a cellphone doesn't have this capability, there are a ton of apps that work just as well. That's all besides the point; these gimmicky devices were added to make the game appear "cutting-edge"... it was not a cutting-edge kind of game (nor did it require a "warning"). It's even more annoying when the characters stand there staring at you, patiently waiting for you to fumble around and turn on a voice recorder. The African Grey Parrot was much more amusing!
MORPHING OBJECTS/COLLECTIBLES: (CE version only)
There are no Morphing Objects once again, a feature that Elephant Games have always had in the past...#disappointed-appointed-disappointed-appointed-disappointed (...wait for it....aha!)
There are 24 Zoom Zone Jigsaw Puzzle Pieces. The puzzle pieces allow you to assemble a single Jigsaw Puzzle. This is a 24-piece jigsaw puzzle because, obviously, we are not worthy of anything larger. There are also 12 Collectible Items. Just for grins & giggles, Elephant Games decided it would be best if the player had no clue what collectible they were supposed to look for in the scenes. To make it even more challenging, the collectibles are normal everyday household items...just like all the other everyday household items in the scenery. (yes, I'm being sarcastic) NOTE: you get an opportunity to return to scenes to find missing collectibles & puzzle pieces in the Expedition Room.
HIDDEN OBJECT SCENES:
The Hidden Object Scenes are varied, which is a good thing, but I gotta admit that half the time, I was clueless as to what I was expected to do. There was a scene in the 3rd chapter that required clicking on various pictures on a cell phone, but the pictures were doubled up, so it was confusing, especially when I was tasked with finding the number 186, which apparently was a huge blurred area? Also, in the 3rd chapter was a HOS that simply said, "This rolled out of his pocket," and you literally guess at which objects they are referring! Another scene in the BC required me to find a "bloody murder" while thumbing thru a case file folder. The bloody murder was just a blood stain? There are Listed Items, Interactive Lists, Silhouetted Shapes, Matching Symbols, Swatches, Multiples of the same objects, and Keywords in Sentence Finds as well.
HIDDEN OBJECT SCENES:
The Hidden Object Scenes are varied, which is a good thing, but I gotta admit that half the time, I was clueless as to what I was expected to do. There was a scene in the 3rd chapter that required clicking on various pictures on a cell phone, but the pictures were doubled up, so it was confusing, especially when I was tasked with finding the number 186, which apparently was a huge blurred area? Also, in the 3rd chapter was a HOS that simply said, "This rolled out of his pocket," and you literally guess at which objects they are referring! Another scene in the BC required me to find a "bloody murder" while thumbing thru a case file folder. The bloody murder was just a blood stain? There are Listed Items, Interactive Lists, Silhouetted Shapes, Matching Symbols, Swatches, Multiples of the same objects, and Keywords in Sentence Finds as well.
MINI-GAMES/PUZZLES:
One thing I usually love about the puzzles from Elephant Games is that they are usually multi-step puzzles, such as setting gauges or figuring out the correct moves several steps later. These mini-games were more like simple puzzles, rotating squares, swapping puzzle strips, recreating images by sliding tiles, using an empty slot, swapping pictures to the correctly shaped outlines, placing objects into a suitcase based on the size & shape, etc. The only puzzle that stood out in my mind in the entire game was a lock puzzle requiring you to rotate elements on a grid to recreate the pattern shown. (tokens with 1-4 arms) I liked this particular puzzle, but it has been offered in almost every Elephant game lately.
BONUS CHAPTER: (Collector's Edition version only)
The police have asked Emily to join forces with them to track down a convicted murderer who somehow managed to escape prison and disappear without a trace. There are five additional Mini-Games and six Hidden Object Scenes that take place over six additional scene locations. You will continue your search for the three remaining Collectibles and six Jigsaw Puzzle Pieces that allow you to finish the single Jigsaw Puzzle. After completing the Bonus Chapter, the Expedition Room becomes available, which allows you to search for any missing collectibles and jigsaw puzzle pieces.
COLLECTOR'S EDITION EXTRAS:
6 Wallpapers, 1 Screensaver, 4 Music Soundtracks, 21 Achievements, 12 Collectibles, 24 Jigsaw Puzzle Pieces, 1 Jigsaw Puzzle in the Secret Room (the puzzle pieces can be assembled as you find each piece, it isn't necessary to wait until game completion) 13 Mini-Games & 13 Hidden Object Scenes, an Expedition Room which allows you to return to the scenes to search for missed collectibles & puzzle Pieces, 3 Main Chapters +Bonus Chapter, and a Built-In Strategy Guide.
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One thing I usually love about the puzzles from Elephant Games is that they are usually multi-step puzzles, such as setting gauges or figuring out the correct moves several steps later. These mini-games were more like simple puzzles, rotating squares, swapping puzzle strips, recreating images by sliding tiles, using an empty slot, swapping pictures to the correctly shaped outlines, placing objects into a suitcase based on the size & shape, etc. The only puzzle that stood out in my mind in the entire game was a lock puzzle requiring you to rotate elements on a grid to recreate the pattern shown. (tokens with 1-4 arms) I liked this particular puzzle, but it has been offered in almost every Elephant game lately.
BONUS CHAPTER: (Collector's Edition version only)
The police have asked Emily to join forces with them to track down a convicted murderer who somehow managed to escape prison and disappear without a trace. There are five additional Mini-Games and six Hidden Object Scenes that take place over six additional scene locations. You will continue your search for the three remaining Collectibles and six Jigsaw Puzzle Pieces that allow you to finish the single Jigsaw Puzzle. After completing the Bonus Chapter, the Expedition Room becomes available, which allows you to search for any missing collectibles and jigsaw puzzle pieces.
COLLECTOR'S EDITION EXTRAS:
6 Wallpapers, 1 Screensaver, 4 Music Soundtracks, 21 Achievements, 12 Collectibles, 24 Jigsaw Puzzle Pieces, 1 Jigsaw Puzzle in the Secret Room (the puzzle pieces can be assembled as you find each piece, it isn't necessary to wait until game completion) 13 Mini-Games & 13 Hidden Object Scenes, an Expedition Room which allows you to return to the scenes to search for missed collectibles & puzzle Pieces, 3 Main Chapters +Bonus Chapter, and a Built-In Strategy Guide.
Miss the forums and familiar friends? Come join us at my new forum for game talk, general chats, and great company at thewoodsforum.boards.net
I don't recommend this game.