pennmom36's Profile
Stat Summary
- Average Rating:3.7
- Helpful Votes:358,445
- Reviews Submitted:4706
- First Review:December 10, 2012
- Most Recent Review:March 1, 2025
- Featured reviews0
Status:
Welcome to Catstown, a scenic village with beautiful views, quaint cobblestone pathways, and stunning architecture!
Overall rating
3
/
5
80 of 111 found this review helpful
MEOWSER
PostedMarch 10, 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 soon. დ Loki
Skill Level:Expert
Fun Factor
3
/
5
Visual/Sound Quality
3
/
5
Level of Challenge
3
/
5
Storyline
3
/
5
Completed Game in about 4.5 hours
(including completion of all mini-games & CE Bonus Chapter)
18 Main Game Scene Locations +6 Bonus Chapter
Difficulty Range: Beginner-possibly Intermediate
(including completion of all mini-games & CE Bonus Chapter)
18 Main Game Scene Locations +6 Bonus Chapter
Difficulty Range: Beginner-possibly Intermediate
There was something familiar about this game when I started playing Knight Cats; it hit me once they said they were in Catstown. If you played the CE Bonus Chapter of Christmas Stories: The Christmas Tree Farm, you will probably remember the story about foul play in Catstown when they started receiving fake presents. I just have one question, what does "Leaves on the Road" have to do with this game's plot?
I'll be honest, when I first saw this game advertised a while back, I was hoping a new developer created it. It didn't seem like the usual genre by the usual two developers. Unfortunately, it is an Elephant Game. I say "unfortunately" because even though it has a unique theme with cats depicted as people, it's the same Elephant Games M.O. that didn't do this game any justice! Most of the tasks can be completed in the same scene. You'll find an object and use that object within the same scene, and most of those tasks simply require the player to find and place shaped motifs. I don't mind a short game; I prefer a short game over a game with a zillion mind-numbing, repetitive tasks, designed to stretch out a game and give it the appearance of length, as offered in games by the other developer.
GADGET/HELPERS:
There are no helpers in the game, but you do have a special skill set (technically, all cats have this skill), the ability to see in the dark. The Cat Vision feature is used 8 times during the Main Chapters and twice in the CE Bonus Chapter. It isn't obtrusive because it simply lights up a dark area when you click the Eye Icon on the top left corner.
There are no helpers in the game, but you do have a special skill set (technically, all cats have this skill), the ability to see in the dark. The Cat Vision feature is used 8 times during the Main Chapters and twice in the CE Bonus Chapter. It isn't obtrusive because it simply lights up a dark area when you click the Eye Icon on the top left corner.
MORPHING OBJECTS/COLLECTIBLES: (CE version only)
There are no Morphing Objects once again, a feature that Elephant Games have always had in the past :(
There are 24 Shields that convert to Jigsaw Puzzle Pieces. The puzzle pieces allow you to assemble a single Screensaver. There are 12 Collectible Weapons that are easily spotted because they are large and seem out of place. NOTE: you get an opportunity to return to scenes to find missing collectibles in the Expedition Room.
There are no Morphing Objects once again, a feature that Elephant Games have always had in the past :(
There are 24 Shields that convert to Jigsaw Puzzle Pieces. The puzzle pieces allow you to assemble a single Screensaver. There are 12 Collectible Weapons that are easily spotted because they are large and seem out of place. NOTE: you get an opportunity to return to scenes to find missing collectibles in the Expedition Room.
HIDDEN OBJECT SCENES:
The Hidden Object Scenes were fairly well done. I particularly enjoyed the scene where you had to select two buildings at a time to match objects on the list, each cubby had several items, and you had to re-match one cubby with another to match all the objects. There are Listed Item Finds, Silhouetted Shape Finds, Pictured Items to Find & Replace, Swatch Finds, Multiples of the same Item Finds, Matching & Related Pairs, Keywords in Sentence Finds, and scenes with 3 different locations requiring you to use directional arrows. and a handful of smaller Zoom Zone HO's. There are no alternate games available in lieu of the HOs.
.
MINI-GAMES/PUZZLES:
The mini-games were good, but some of them I found to be more frustrating than fun, such as restoring an image by selecting arrows on columns & rows. Other games were super simple such as swapping square tiles, swapping strips to recreate an image, or rotating circles.
The Hidden Object Scenes were fairly well done. I particularly enjoyed the scene where you had to select two buildings at a time to match objects on the list, each cubby had several items, and you had to re-match one cubby with another to match all the objects. There are Listed Item Finds, Silhouetted Shape Finds, Pictured Items to Find & Replace, Swatch Finds, Multiples of the same Item Finds, Matching & Related Pairs, Keywords in Sentence Finds, and scenes with 3 different locations requiring you to use directional arrows. and a handful of smaller Zoom Zone HO's. There are no alternate games available in lieu of the HOs.
.
MINI-GAMES/PUZZLES:
The mini-games were good, but some of them I found to be more frustrating than fun, such as restoring an image by selecting arrows on columns & rows. Other games were super simple such as swapping square tiles, swapping strips to recreate an image, or rotating circles.
BONUS CHAPTER: (Collector's Edition version only)
The Bonus Chapter is a continuing story, playing as Alvin, the Mayor of Fishtown, a town you visited in the Main Chapter. Alvin is preparing for a date with his beloved Valerie when it becomes clear that she has been kidnapped. There are five additional Mini-Games and five Hidden Object Scenes that take place over six additional scene locations. You will continue your search for the three remaining Collectible Weapons and six Shields that convert to puzzle pieces. After completing the Bonus Chapter, the Expedition Room becomes available, which allows you to search for any missing collectibles, and you can complete the jigsaws in the Secret Room. (FYI: the jigsaw puzzles can be placed as you collect them, you do not have to wait to complete the Main Game!)
The Bonus Chapter is a continuing story, playing as Alvin, the Mayor of Fishtown, a town you visited in the Main Chapter. Alvin is preparing for a date with his beloved Valerie when it becomes clear that she has been kidnapped. There are five additional Mini-Games and five Hidden Object Scenes that take place over six additional scene locations. You will continue your search for the three remaining Collectible Weapons and six Shields that convert to puzzle pieces. After completing the Bonus Chapter, the Expedition Room becomes available, which allows you to search for any missing collectibles, and you can complete the jigsaws in the Secret Room. (FYI: the jigsaw puzzles can be placed as you collect them, you do not have to wait to complete the Main Game!)
COLLECTOR'S EDITION EXTRAS:
5 Wallpapers, 4 Music Soundtracks, 22 Achievements, 12 Collectible Weapons, 24 Collectible Shields that convert to Jigsaw Puzzle Pieces, (in the Secret Room) 13 Mini-Games & 13 Hidden Object Scenes, an Expedition Room which allows you to return to the scenes to search for missed collectibles, a Secret Room to assemble a 24 piece Screensaver, 3 Main Chapters +Bonus Chapter, and a Built-In Strategy Guide.
5 Wallpapers, 4 Music Soundtracks, 22 Achievements, 12 Collectible Weapons, 24 Collectible Shields that convert to Jigsaw Puzzle Pieces, (in the Secret Room) 13 Mini-Games & 13 Hidden Object Scenes, an Expedition Room which allows you to return to the scenes to search for missed collectibles, a Secret Room to assemble a 24 piece Screensaver, 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 recommend this game!
A dark story is creeping into the streets of Paris.
Overall rating
2
/
5
116 of 157 found this review helpful
WHY IS HALF MY INVENTORY BURIED IN THE DIRT?
PostedMarch 9, 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 soon. დ Loki
Skill Level:Expert
Fun Factor
2
/
5
Visual/Sound Quality
2
/
5
Level of Challenge
2
/
5
Storyline
2
/
5
Completed Game in about 4.5 hours
22 Main Game Scene Locations +9 Bonus Chapter
Difficulty Range: Beginner-Intermediate
22 Main Game Scene Locations +9 Bonus Chapter
Difficulty Range: Beginner-Intermediate
Ah-hoo, werewolves of London, Ah-hoo, Animages in London again. The names have been changed to protect the innocent developer from appearing to rehash the same old story. Be prepared to tape wires, feed cute little animals, remove mysterious goo, fix and even forge new keys, unlock several two-pronged locks, and of course, dig several inventory items buried in the dirt...you know, all the cliche tasks Do loves to throw at us in every game.
Collectibles/Morphing Objects (CE version only)
There are 15 Morphing Building Models, 15 Creature Dolls, and 70 Zoom Zone Tokens that are used to purchase 15 Boudoir items that are extremely uninteresting.
There are 15 Morphing Building Models, 15 Creature Dolls, and 70 Zoom Zone Tokens that are used to purchase 15 Boudoir items that are extremely uninteresting.
Hidden Object Scenes:
There are Listed Items, Silhouetted Shapes, Find & Replace, _ + _ = a Silhouetted Shape, Multiples of the same Object, and Related Pairs. 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!
There are Listed Items, Silhouetted Shapes, Find & Replace, _ + _ = a Silhouetted Shape, Multiples of the same Object, and Related Pairs. 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!
Mini-Games:
These were the simplest games Do games has yet to offer! Swap sections to create a path of wires, rotate arrows to point at various icons, repeat a pattern, untangle wire, rotate rings of a round maze, recreate symbols, fix the steps by placing boards, move spiders along the web to their color-coded slots, click on symbols in the correct order...we've done these a million times before!
These were the simplest games Do games has yet to offer! Swap sections to create a path of wires, rotate arrows to point at various icons, repeat a pattern, untangle wire, rotate rings of a round maze, recreate symbols, fix the steps by placing boards, move spiders along the web to their color-coded slots, click on symbols in the correct order...we've done these a million times before!
Bonus Chapter (CE Version Only)
The story continues with more cliche tasks and repetitive gameplay! There are 10 additional Mini-Games and 6 Hidden Object Scenes taking place over 9 additional scene locations. You will continue searching for the final 4 Morphing Building Models, 5 Creature Dolls, and 9 Zoom Zone Tokens to purchase the final items for the Boudoir...whoo-hoo, my life is complete now!
The story continues with more cliche tasks and repetitive gameplay! There are 10 additional Mini-Games and 6 Hidden Object Scenes taking place over 9 additional scene locations. You will continue searching for the final 4 Morphing Building Models, 5 Creature Dolls, and 9 Zoom Zone Tokens to purchase the final items for the Boudoir...whoo-hoo, my life is complete now!
Collector's Edition Extra's: (CE version only)
10 Wallpapers, 15 Concept Art Pictures, 5 Music Soundtracks, 28 Movie Video Cutscenes, 38 Achievements, 23 Replayable Mini-Games, 25 Replayable Hidden Object Scenes, an Extra Footage/Gameplay option, 15 Morphing Building Models, 15 Creature Dolls, 70 Zoom Zone Tokens used to purchase 15 Boudoir items, 4 Main Chapters, +Bonus Chapter, and a Built-In Strategy Guide.
There's nothing better than de-stressing and chillaxing by the campfire so stroll on over to my new Woodsy-themed forum at thewoodsforum.boards.net
10 Wallpapers, 15 Concept Art Pictures, 5 Music Soundtracks, 28 Movie Video Cutscenes, 38 Achievements, 23 Replayable Mini-Games, 25 Replayable Hidden Object Scenes, an Extra Footage/Gameplay option, 15 Morphing Building Models, 15 Creature Dolls, 70 Zoom Zone Tokens used to purchase 15 Boudoir items, 4 Main Chapters, +Bonus Chapter, and a Built-In Strategy Guide.
There's nothing better than de-stressing and chillaxing by the campfire so stroll on over to my new Woodsy-themed forum at thewoodsforum.boards.net
I don't recommend this game.
Can you uncover the truth behind a deadly shadow entity in time?
Overall rating
4
/
5
23 of 31 found this review helpful
RACHAEL DIDN'T THINK TO SEARCH THE WORLD'S MYSTERIES SHOP WHERE RICK DISAPPEARED UNTIL 14 YEARS LATER. MAYBE SHE SHOULD HIRE A PROFESSIONAL DETECTIVE?
PostedMarch 8, 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 soon. დ Loki
Skill Level:Expert
Fun Factor
4
/
5
Visual/Sound Quality
4
/
5
Level of Challenge
3
/
5
Storyline
5
/
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
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!
(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?
♪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.
☽☾ Collectibles & Morphing Objects (CE Version Only): ☼
Unfortunately, there are no Morphing Objects...a huge disappointment :(
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?
♪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.
☽☾ 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.
◔ 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.
♙ 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.
✯ 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.
♕ 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.
Reconnect with long-lost forum friends and become an official Woosdey when you join us on my new forum at thewoodsforum.boards.net
◔ 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.
♙ 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.
✯ 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.
♕ 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.
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!
Join Alice for a snowy time management adventure to Wonderland!
Overall rating
4
/
5
19 of 31 found this review helpful
OH HAPPY DAY
PostedMarch 8, 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 soon. დ Loki
Skill Level:Expert
Fun Factor
4
/
5
Visual/Sound Quality
5
/
5
Level of Challenge
4
/
5
Storyline
4
/
5
I haven't been able to play any game from Big City Lab since Ray of Hope because they weren't compatible with my new 38" Curved monitor. I really wanted to play this game, so I contacted the developer, and ta-dah! When I finally got to play Fire And Ice, it was a great feeling tackling those old familiar mechanics and interacting with all the characters of Alice's Wonderland...from the twin Tweedles to the sarcastic grin of the Cheshire cat! I just want to Thank Big City Lab once again; they are obviously a small enough company to still care about the player and large enough to give us amazing quality!
What I love about Alice's Wonderland is that it is truly a strategy-based game. Although not impossible to complete if you queue tasks or construct the wrong resource building at the wrong time, you will have a difficult time earning all 3 stars because you will wind up waiting too long for specific resources to become available.
I also love that the Normal mode of difficulty gives you just the right amount of time to complete the levels. Of course, I've had to restart some of the levels when it was clear that I was going to lose a star, but I'm okay with this type of challenge...unlike last week's Emergency/Rescue game which had such a stingy timer, it became frustrating from the get-go!
I did find it a bit distracting that the music kept cutting in and out, and at times, there were no sounds whatsoever for long periods of time, and then it would start up again as if it never stopped; what's up with that?
I am still waiting for the Collector's Edition Version update to purchase the full game because I really want the Strategy Guide more than anything else. The CE version also has 12 Bonus Levels, hidden Puzzle Pieces and Art Palettes in each scene, and supposedly a grand Art Piece if you ace all the levels. I know it takes a while for BF to update the developer fixes so I will wait patiently!
In the meantime, meander on over to The Woods and check out my new forum, designed for casual gamers like you and me, @ thewoodsforum.boards.net
What I love about Alice's Wonderland is that it is truly a strategy-based game. Although not impossible to complete if you queue tasks or construct the wrong resource building at the wrong time, you will have a difficult time earning all 3 stars because you will wind up waiting too long for specific resources to become available.
I also love that the Normal mode of difficulty gives you just the right amount of time to complete the levels. Of course, I've had to restart some of the levels when it was clear that I was going to lose a star, but I'm okay with this type of challenge...unlike last week's Emergency/Rescue game which had such a stingy timer, it became frustrating from the get-go!
I did find it a bit distracting that the music kept cutting in and out, and at times, there were no sounds whatsoever for long periods of time, and then it would start up again as if it never stopped; what's up with that?
I am still waiting for the Collector's Edition Version update to purchase the full game because I really want the Strategy Guide more than anything else. The CE version also has 12 Bonus Levels, hidden Puzzle Pieces and Art Palettes in each scene, and supposedly a grand Art Piece if you ace all the levels. I know it takes a while for BF to update the developer fixes so I will wait patiently!
In the meantime, meander on over to The Woods and check out my new forum, designed for casual gamers like you and me, @ thewoodsforum.boards.net
I recommend this game!
Take an amazing trip to Europe's most iconic locations!
Overall rating
3
/
5
44 of 60 found this review helpful
OH LOOK, ANOTHER TRAVEL HOG...sigh
PostedMarch 8, 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 soon. დ Loki
Skill Level:Expert
Fun Factor
3
/
5
Visual/Sound Quality
3
/
5
Level of Challenge
3
/
5
Storyline
3
/
5
This is a decent HOG, but there isn't really anything new when compared with the last 3 Big Adventure: Trip To Europe games. I'm just growing weary of all the travel-themed HOGs offered lately. It's as if none of the developers can come up with a different theme idea!
You can only play in a Relaxed Mode, there are no Timed options, and no penalties for using the Hint or Mega Hint features. The HO scenes vary with Listed Items, Multiples of the Same Object Finds, Silhouetted Shape Finds, Matching Pairs, Find & Replace Items, and Descriptive Item Finds. Items in "pink" text are hidden in or behind other objects (a magnifying glass appears over these areas), and items listed in "blue" are objects that require a task such as "placing a flag." Each scene has two Zoom Zones that will appear and disappear as the objects shown on the list are found or added, collectibles can be found in the Zoom Zones as well.
Each HO scene has a Collectible Raccoon, a Postage Stamp, and 3 Silhouetted Shape Finds for extra points. (what are the points used for?) I ran into a glitch on the beach location, and there was no box showing the silhouetted shapes; therefore, I couldn't earn the third star! Some scenes have a Souvenir Item; however, you'll either have to guess or go to the souvenir shelf and search for the item by scene location. You will earn a Red Star for completing the Hidden Object location, a Blue Star for finding all of the Silhouette Contours, and a Yellow Star for finding all the Collectibles.
There is no Magnifying Glass or zoom enlargement feature, but there is a Hint Feature that will show you the location of a single random object and a Super Hint feature that briefly shows you all the remaining available items.
After each Hidden Object Scene, you will play a mini-game, such as swapping numbers on a clock using a set point to swap 2 numbers, placing matching flowers on each row using directional arrows on each column & row, or rotating a gear to place the ball in the center hole.
The Collector's Edition version has 30 scene locations (across 15 countries), 8 Bonus Hidden Object Scene Locations, 8 Bonus Mini-games, 20 Collectible Souvenir's, 30 Postage Stamps (in an Album), 8 Bonus Postage Stamps, 12 Wallpapers, 20 Music Soundtracks. This SE version still offers the collectible Postage Stamps, the Raccoon, the Silhouetted Shapes, and the Souvenirs.
Travel on over and join us for tons of fun at my new Nature-themed gaming forum thewoodsforum.boards.net
I don't recommend this game.
Complete wonderful works of art, and let your creativity shine!
Overall rating
1
/
5
7 of 21 found this review helpful
WHAT HAPPENED TO NUMBER 24?
PostedMarch 7, 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 soon. დ Loki
Skill Level:Expert
Fun Factor
1
/
5
Visual/Sound Quality
1
/
5
Level of Challenge
1
/
5
Storyline
1
/
5
Once again, the pictures are pretty basic. The first picture I selected was a Macaw because I thought surely they would choose a Scarlet Macaw or at the very least, a Green-winged Macaw because they are both so brightly colored with scarlet red hues; alas, it was just a Blue & Gold Macaw :(
Why do several colors grey out instead of just the number you are working on? I selected number 1 and all the number 1 cells greyed out, but so did numbers 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 11, 15, and 19! Is there a method to this madness?
Why can't I choose a color other than a scale of grey to black, for the background AND the numbered cell I am working on currently?
Why can't I at least see all of the pictures included in this game? I get that you have to complete one chapter to move on, but wouldn't it make more sense to allow us to see what is in store for us if we decide to purchase the game? The pictures I can see aren't that great so one can only assume the rest are just as unappealing!
Why aren't there any Cell counters to tell me how many cells remain in a particular color?
Why isn't there a Hint button? I wouldn't need a hint button if only the current cell greyed out!
Why do I have to click to expand the color numbers, why can't I see the whole box at the same time? It gets pretty annoying having to click back & forth to get to a desired number!
Why are you waiting? Come join the fun at my new forum thewoodsforum.boards.net
Why do several colors grey out instead of just the number you are working on? I selected number 1 and all the number 1 cells greyed out, but so did numbers 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 11, 15, and 19! Is there a method to this madness?
Why can't I choose a color other than a scale of grey to black, for the background AND the numbered cell I am working on currently?
Why can't I at least see all of the pictures included in this game? I get that you have to complete one chapter to move on, but wouldn't it make more sense to allow us to see what is in store for us if we decide to purchase the game? The pictures I can see aren't that great so one can only assume the rest are just as unappealing!
Why aren't there any Cell counters to tell me how many cells remain in a particular color?
Why isn't there a Hint button? I wouldn't need a hint button if only the current cell greyed out!
Why do I have to click to expand the color numbers, why can't I see the whole box at the same time? It gets pretty annoying having to click back & forth to get to a desired number!
Why are you waiting? Come join the fun at my new forum thewoodsforum.boards.net
I don't recommend this game.
Experience the beauty and wonder of the wilderness!
Overall rating
3
/
5
14 of 30 found this review helpful
JUST ANOTHER TRAVEL HOG
PostedMarch 6, 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 soon. დ Loki
Skill Level:Expert
Fun Factor
3
/
5
Visual/Sound Quality
4
/
5
Level of Challenge
3
/
5
Storyline
2
/
5
I just finished playing today's Travel-themed game, and in my review, I made the comment that the market is over-saturated with Travel-related HOGs. They are basically all the same; they even have the same collectible extras and features. Interestingly, none of the travel HOs push past the 3-star average rating mark, yet many developers continue to stick with this theme!?
I wish BoomZap would scrap the HOGs and go back to making the incredibly unique HOPA games as they did in the past! It is long overdue...Maybe Big Fish has changed their mind after all these years and realizes that we would LOVE to see the release of the long-awaited Otherworld: The Eternal Winter
There are 24 Levels with various HO modes: Standard Listed Items mode, Picture mode, Silhouetted Shapes mode, Missing Vowels mode, Riddles mode, and scenes where you have to find items that seem out of place. There is a single Morphing Object in every scene and two Interactive Tasks per scene, such as "Catch the Butterfly."
Each Hidden Object Scene has a Hidden Key that unlocks a scene-related Fun Fact. If desired, you can replay levels to get a new fun fact (5 keys/fun facts per location, 120 Fun Facts total). Each scene also has a collectible Star that will unlock that specific level in the Unlimited Play mode, 24 Levels total.
After playing three Hidden Object Scenes, a mini-game becomes available, such as placing shaped puzzle pieces of a Bald Eagle or a Paint-by-Numbers variation. As you complete the mini-games in the main game, those mini-games become available for replay in the Subgames tab, 38 mini-games total.
I noticed a significant improvement compared to the series' first game. The game mechanics have improved, and the objects are blended better. The Collectible Stars & Keys, in particular, were way less obvious... as they should be! They are designed to be an added "off-the-list challenge," so this was a smart move on BoomZap's part.
COLLECTOR'S EDITION EXTRAS:
38 Hidden Object Levels (24 Levels in the SE version) 14 CE Bonus Chapters, 13 Achievements (both versions) 15 Wallpapers, 11 Soundtracks, 50 Re-playable Subgames (38 in the SE version), 5 Fun Facts per level (120 fun facts in the SE version as you find hidden Keys), an Unlimited Play Mode (each HO scene becomes available to replay as you find hidden Stars)
I noticed a significant improvement compared to the series' first game. The game mechanics have improved, and the objects are blended better. The Collectible Stars & Keys, in particular, were way less obvious... as they should be! They are designed to be an added "off-the-list challenge," so this was a smart move on BoomZap's part.
COLLECTOR'S EDITION EXTRAS:
38 Hidden Object Levels (24 Levels in the SE version) 14 CE Bonus Chapters, 13 Achievements (both versions) 15 Wallpapers, 11 Soundtracks, 50 Re-playable Subgames (38 in the SE version), 5 Fun Facts per level (120 fun facts in the SE version as you find hidden Keys), an Unlimited Play Mode (each HO scene becomes available to replay as you find hidden Stars)
Let's talk about Otherworld: The Eternal Winter and why it was never released :( thewoodsforum.boards.net
Take a truly challenging trip to a tropical paradise!
Overall rating
3
/
5
25 of 54 found this review helpful
I'M GONNA BE THE ODD MAN OUT HERE
PostedMarch 6, 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 soon. დ Loki
Skill Level:Expert
Fun Factor
3
/
5
Visual/Sound Quality
5
/
5
Level of Challenge
3
/
5
Storyline
3
/
5
@karema..FYI: the Nursery is beside the main workers building & not part of the build popup wheel, which has the kennel option used on the upper level.
This game would be fantastic if it had an in-between difficulty mode with a longer timer! Personally, I have no desire to play a Time Management game in an untimed mode because, for me, that's just playing a game to be playing a game. It's just going through the motions without rhyme or reason if there's no challenge and no way to lose. (this is just a personal preference!)
When I play a TM game, I thoroughly expect to have to replay a level a time or two, but when I can't get a single star on Level Two even when I follow the Strategy Guide, after several attempts, I realize there's no way I'm going to be able to earn all three stars on any of the progressive levels ahead!
I love Strategy-based games, even if it means I have to restart a level multiple times after realizing I didn't queue the tasks in the correct order and won't be able to progress. However, that's not the case with Perfect Getaway. You can play in an Easy or "Normal" Mode of difficulty, but the timer in the Normal Mode is way too short-fused for a game that is so complex. No, it's not complicated; it's just complex, given the fact that you have to pull up a wheel with several building options several times per level.
This game would be fantastic if it had an in-between difficulty mode with a longer timer! Personally, I have no desire to play a Time Management game in an untimed mode because, for me, that's just playing a game to be playing a game. It's just going through the motions without rhyme or reason if there's no challenge and no way to lose. (this is just a personal preference!)
When I play a TM game, I thoroughly expect to have to replay a level a time or two, but when I can't get a single star on Level Two even when I follow the Strategy Guide, after several attempts, I realize there's no way I'm going to be able to earn all three stars on any of the progressive levels ahead!
I love Strategy-based games, even if it means I have to restart a level multiple times after realizing I didn't queue the tasks in the correct order and won't be able to progress. However, that's not the case with Perfect Getaway. You can play in an Easy or "Normal" Mode of difficulty, but the timer in the Normal Mode is way too short-fused for a game that is so complex. No, it's not complicated; it's just complex, given the fact that you have to pull up a wheel with several building options several times per level.
Once you construct a building, such as a Kitchen, Workshop, Separator, Kennel, or Headquarters, you may literally have to demolish it seconds later and construct a different building option...not to mention the fact that production halts quite often, requiring you to hit the play button to resume production.
Don't get me wrong; I love these complex abilities in a Time Management game. I don't love a game when I'm having difficulty completing these tasks within such a short time frame! When I can't earn a single star on the second level, the game suddenly becomes frustrating...when it should be designed to be fun. This could easily be solved by offering 3 difficulty modes!
The CE version has 7 Wallpaper Skins, 9 Music Soundtracks, 16 Achievements, 50 Main Levels, and 10 Bonus Levels. I strongly suggest opting for the CE version just for the Strategy Guide alone because you're probably going to need it!
Need game help or have suggestions for other gamers? Join us at my new forum thewoodsforum.boards.net
Don't get me wrong; I love these complex abilities in a Time Management game. I don't love a game when I'm having difficulty completing these tasks within such a short time frame! When I can't earn a single star on the second level, the game suddenly becomes frustrating...when it should be designed to be fun. This could easily be solved by offering 3 difficulty modes!
The CE version has 7 Wallpaper Skins, 9 Music Soundtracks, 16 Achievements, 50 Main Levels, and 10 Bonus Levels. I strongly suggest opting for the CE version just for the Strategy Guide alone because you're probably going to need it!
Need game help or have suggestions for other gamers? Join us at my new forum thewoodsforum.boards.net
I don't recommend this game.
Pack your bags for an inspiring hidden-object trip around the world!
Overall rating
3
/
5
45 of 85 found this review helpful
FIVE STARS FOR THE HANGMAN GAME!
PostedMarch 6, 2023
Fun Factor
3
/
5
Visual/Sound Quality
3
/
5
Level of Challenge
3
/
5
I loved the Hangman game that was available after every Hidden Object Scene and would love to see Seven Sails create a Hangman Game (without the HOs) and offer the Trivia games that were available in the Animal Kingdom game in between Hangman levels! There are so many Travel-themed Hidden Object games; they are all basically the same, even though some have better graphics than others. I believe this developer would do well with a series of these niche Word and Trivia games, a genre, I might add, that doesn't have a lot of competition!...this is your wheelhouse @sevensails...roll with it!
In Travel Along 2, I noticed a difference in quality. The scene locations were more appealing, the scenes were less cluttered with a barrage of random objects, and some of the objects were blended into the scenery...or at least in less obvious places.
The Magnifying Glass zoom feature should have been a bit smoother to control. When you click the +Magnifier, the scene zooms in, and as you move the mouse Left & Right or Up & Down, it tends to get stuck and requires a bit of coaxing to get the screen to move when you are near the edges or corners.
I played in the Hard Mode, which has a 3-minute timer. Once again, it doesn't allow you to replay the level! If you run out of time, big red letters appear saying FAILED! Then you are whisked back to the level map, which shows that failed location with a green checkmark that you cannot reopen. I'm pretty sure most people want a chance for redemption until they earn all three stars; no one wants to wait until they complete the entire game just to replay the level!
Each scene has a Passport Stamp and a Morphing Postcard. There is a suitcase at the top of the screen that keeps track of the collectibles, and you can replay the scenes to search for missed collectibles once you complete the game.
After completing a Hidden Object Scene you play a round of Hangman based on various key categories. The Hangman game was way more fun than the HOGs, in fact, I kept playing the HO scenes just so I could get to the Hangman Game!
If you love Hangman games too, join us at my new forum thewoodsforum.boards.net
The Magnifying Glass zoom feature should have been a bit smoother to control. When you click the +Magnifier, the scene zooms in, and as you move the mouse Left & Right or Up & Down, it tends to get stuck and requires a bit of coaxing to get the screen to move when you are near the edges or corners.
I played in the Hard Mode, which has a 3-minute timer. Once again, it doesn't allow you to replay the level! If you run out of time, big red letters appear saying FAILED! Then you are whisked back to the level map, which shows that failed location with a green checkmark that you cannot reopen. I'm pretty sure most people want a chance for redemption until they earn all three stars; no one wants to wait until they complete the entire game just to replay the level!
Each scene has a Passport Stamp and a Morphing Postcard. There is a suitcase at the top of the screen that keeps track of the collectibles, and you can replay the scenes to search for missed collectibles once you complete the game.
After completing a Hidden Object Scene you play a round of Hangman based on various key categories. The Hangman game was way more fun than the HOGs, in fact, I kept playing the HO scenes just so I could get to the Hangman Game!
If you love Hangman games too, join us at my new forum thewoodsforum.boards.net
I recommend this game!
Help Ellie and a cast of charming characters through a memorable mosaic story!
Overall rating
3
/
5
24 of 57 found this review helpful
BRIGHT & COLORFUL-ONE OF THE BEST IN THIS SERIES, but...
PostedMarch 5, 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
4
/
5
Level of Challenge
4
/
5
The last game in this series, Moto-Trip, was a bit too easy for my taste, but this one felt a bit more challenging (after the first few levels). I loved the bright, vibrant colors, and that the completed images were easily recognizable. I would give this game more stars, but like the other four games in the series, it does not save your progress if you can't complete a level for whatever reason!
You can choose from 6 various Tile sets, and there are two different Hint options, one that fills a single random cell and one that fills in a cross-formation (your choice). There are five Locations and 30 puzzles per location. As you complete the levels, you'll earn camping gear sections that must be dragged into the silhouetted shape, which allows you to pitch your tent in that particular location.
Kick off your hiking boots, and pop a squat by the campfire at my new forum. The bears will keep your seat warm till ya get there... thewoodsforum.boards.net
You can choose from 6 various Tile sets, and there are two different Hint options, one that fills a single random cell and one that fills in a cross-formation (your choice). There are five Locations and 30 puzzles per location. As you complete the levels, you'll earn camping gear sections that must be dragged into the silhouetted shape, which allows you to pitch your tent in that particular location.
Kick off your hiking boots, and pop a squat by the campfire at my new forum. The bears will keep your seat warm till ya get there... thewoodsforum.boards.net
I recommend this game!