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:
Help Hercules uncover the secret of the messages in bottles!
Overall rating
3
/
5
54 of 67 found this review helpful
NOT A BAD GAME BUT I'LL WAIT FOR THE SE VERSION
PostedOctober 22, 2022
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
Storyline
3
/
5
This is a decent Time Management game with some interesting tasks, I loved the turtles and crabs that shoot up in the air at warp speed when you click on them...I don't know why they do it, or what its purpose was but it entertained me lol!
You can play in a Relaxed, Casual, or Expert Mode, and there is a Game Speed slider that can be set from 50-150%. You will be tasked with clearing roads, finding Messages in a Bottle, collecting wood (from dead trees or platform resources that regenerate) removing piles of sand, destroying Venus flytrap plants, collecting crystals, building farms, workshops, etc., and of course, collecting berries from bushes or wheels of cheese (hope that cheese is okay after sitting out in the sun all day?) Bonuses are available after a short recharge and there are Speed buttons to collect along the paths as well.
They ditched the Strategy Guide several games back to opt for a feature that uses a blue arrow to point to the resource or task in the correct order. Most of us only use a SG when we can't earn Gold after a few attempts and only want to use it to get us out of an occasional rut or point us in the right direction. I thought I'd give this a try on one of the levels and I followed every blue arrow correctly but failed to get gold on 3 attempts. When I gave up on the arrows and did my own thing, I got gold on the first try...just saying!
Collector's Edition Extras:
5 Bonus Levels, 1 Super Bonus Level, 9 Wallpapers, 6 Movie Cutscenes, and Hidden Puzzle Runes (somewhere close to the giant sign with a puzzle piece) that allow you to complete Jigsaw Puzzles (Pearl Hunter, Gotcha!, No Lunch Today, and Toreador) 23 Trophy Achievements, a Blue Arrow Strategy Guide (sort of?) a High Scores Leader board (per level or game total)...usually they offer most of these features on the SE version, including the puzzle runes!
5 Bonus Levels, 1 Super Bonus Level, 9 Wallpapers, 6 Movie Cutscenes, and Hidden Puzzle Runes (somewhere close to the giant sign with a puzzle piece) that allow you to complete Jigsaw Puzzles (Pearl Hunter, Gotcha!, No Lunch Today, and Toreador) 23 Trophy Achievements, a Blue Arrow Strategy Guide (sort of?) a High Scores Leader board (per level or game total)...usually they offer most of these features on the SE version, including the puzzle runes!
There's always something interesting going on at my new forum! If you miss chatting with fellow fishies from the Big Fish Forum days then grab a thermos full of coffee, throw on your favorite jeans & t-shirt, and lace up your hiking boots...ah who are we kidding...just keep your comfy fuzzy slippers on, and chillax with us by the fire at thewoodsforum.boards.net
I recommend this game!
Can you guide a tormented gamer through a trio of terrifying challenges?
Overall rating
4
/
5
57 of 76 found this review helpful
ELEPHANT GAMES DESERVES MORE CREDIT-THIS IS A GREAT GAME & NOT A COOKIE-CUTTER
PostedOctober 21, 2022
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
4
/
5
Visual/Sound Quality
5
/
5
Level of Challenge
4
/
5
Storyline
4
/
5
Completed Game in approximately 4.0 hours
(including completion of all mini-games & CE Bonus Chapter)
15 Main Game Scene Locations +8 Bonus Chapter
Difficulty Range: Beginner-Intermediate-Expert
(including completion of all mini-games & CE Bonus Chapter)
15 Main Game Scene Locations +8 Bonus Chapter
Difficulty Range: Beginner-Intermediate-Expert
The Crossroads Bar only appears to the lost and broken souls of the weary. Its neon lights shine through the dreary mist of the darkest night as fate pushes you toward your destiny. Tonight you will face your darkest fears, but first, you will face the Crossroads barkeep, Mistress Eve!
This is one of the best game series Elephant Games has had in a long time. Elephant Games deserves more credit when they offer a game that is unique and targeted at players that aren't beginners for a change! I've always said that no one does a creepy atmosphere better than Elephant Games, and I love this vibe! I loved how they stuck with this creepy vibe in the Mini-games and the Hidden Object Scenes. I love that the Choices you make matter and that it affects your Character's Traits. Although there are still a lot of statues to place, there are way fewer Emblem Motifs which have become a staple feature in games by this developer lately. Give it a fair shot, you may find a great new series with an open-mind.
GADGETS/HELPER:
There are no gadgets or helpers, however, the game is loaded with unique "choices" features to choose from throughout your adventure of destiny.
There are no gadgets or helpers, however, the game is loaded with unique "choices" features to choose from throughout your adventure of destiny.
CONVERSATION CHOICES:
As you come to Crossroads during the game you will be tasked with making multiple-choice decisions about morality.
As you come to Crossroads during the game you will be tasked with making multiple-choice decisions about morality.
CHARACTER STATUS:
Each character has a personality profile that outlines their traits, as well as relationships with the other characters. Each decision you make affects your character's traits, such as Bravery, Intelligence, Resilience, Honesty, etc.
Each character has a personality profile that outlines their traits, as well as relationships with the other characters. Each decision you make affects your character's traits, such as Bravery, Intelligence, Resilience, Honesty, etc.
Speaking of Character Status. I really don't understand the need for a particular individual to copy every aspect of my reviews. Be your own writer, and adopt your own style, it will appear more genuine if it's original, right? If not, at least give accurate information about these spotlighted features! There are 23 scenes (hence why they have 23 Puzzle Pieces, 1 in every scene) there are no replayable video sequences (I don't think E Games has offered this feature in years) just to name a few, I work hard on my reviews, and I do appreciate that you like my style but let's all do our own thing, you do you, I'll do me, & we'll all have fun :)
CHAPTERS:
There are 3 different stories, one for each chapter, so you will be portraying 3 separate characters as you enter a different video game associated with them. After completing the first chapter, you get the opportunity to choose between "Deadly Call" & "Horror on Set" My only complaint was with Olivia's whiny voice and acting like a 5 "I don't wanna do it" scenario that was really annoying!
There are 3 different stories, one for each chapter, so you will be portraying 3 separate characters as you enter a different video game associated with them. After completing the first chapter, you get the opportunity to choose between "Deadly Call" & "Horror on Set" My only complaint was with Olivia's whiny voice and acting like a 5 "I don't wanna do it" scenario that was really annoying!
COLLECTIBLES & MORPHS (CE Bonus Chapter only)
There is a Hidden Crossroads Puzzle Piece in every scene (23 total) and I thought they were nicely blended into the scene for a change. I loved that they are in the scenes themselves and not within zoom zones which is the usual MO for this developer. They allow you to assemble a cool Round-shaped jigsaw puzzle that can be used as a Screensaver.
There is a Hidden Crossroads Puzzle Piece in every scene (23 total) and I thought they were nicely blended into the scene for a change. I loved that they are in the scenes themselves and not within zoom zones which is the usual MO for this developer. They allow you to assemble a cool Round-shaped jigsaw puzzle that can be used as a Screensaver.
There are 12 Phobia Statues to collect that represent all the basic phobias, such as the fear of heights, or those blasted evil dolls! After completing the game, you can enter the Secret Room to search for missing collectibles or jigsaw puzzle pieces.
HIDDEN OBJECT SCENES:
Clearly, the devs went to great lengths to revamp their gaming image because I enjoyed these HOs for a change! The graphics are amazing and they are themed to match each chapter's plot, not to mention they appear in interesting locations with interesting variations. There are the standard Interactive List Finds, Keywords in Sentence Finds, Find & Replace, and Silhouetted Shape Finds. I loved the puzzle-like aspect of sliding compartments to search for items where you could access a different area by using different sliding combinations. I liked the areas they were located in, such as paintings on a cave wall, within a graveyard, or trying to find items covered in moss which was a nice change of pace and more challenging than Elephant Games' usual HO scenes. I know a lot of people will not feel the same, but I loved the Phone App HO where you had to find all of the missing hospital sign letters by zooming in on different sections of the picture on the phone. It was sometimes difficult to see a letter hidden in plain site!
Clearly, the devs went to great lengths to revamp their gaming image because I enjoyed these HOs for a change! The graphics are amazing and they are themed to match each chapter's plot, not to mention they appear in interesting locations with interesting variations. There are the standard Interactive List Finds, Keywords in Sentence Finds, Find & Replace, and Silhouetted Shape Finds. I loved the puzzle-like aspect of sliding compartments to search for items where you could access a different area by using different sliding combinations. I liked the areas they were located in, such as paintings on a cave wall, within a graveyard, or trying to find items covered in moss which was a nice change of pace and more challenging than Elephant Games' usual HO scenes. I know a lot of people will not feel the same, but I loved the Phone App HO where you had to find all of the missing hospital sign letters by zooming in on different sections of the picture on the phone. It was sometimes difficult to see a letter hidden in plain site!
MINI-GAMES:
Elephant Games are famous for their mechanical style puzzles, my favorite kind because they usually require a little bit of thought to solve them. Although some are solved by trial and error, most require a bit of tinkering, such as turning latches that required turning in a specific order, otherwise, they would become blocked by a different latch. A few of my favorites were adding shadows of props in the correct order to recreate the pictured image (harder than it sounds) I loved the Angel puzzle where you had to move her to available green-highlighted slots to pick up a Blue Sphere and then a Red Sphere to deposit them in the correct slots while avoiding the Reapers. I even liked the Navigation puzzle where you had to heal yourself by finding First Aid kits to survive the halls of horror!
Elephant Games are famous for their mechanical style puzzles, my favorite kind because they usually require a little bit of thought to solve them. Although some are solved by trial and error, most require a bit of tinkering, such as turning latches that required turning in a specific order, otherwise, they would become blocked by a different latch. A few of my favorites were adding shadows of props in the correct order to recreate the pictured image (harder than it sounds) I loved the Angel puzzle where you had to move her to available green-highlighted slots to pick up a Blue Sphere and then a Red Sphere to deposit them in the correct slots while avoiding the Reapers. I even liked the Navigation puzzle where you had to heal yourself by finding First Aid kits to survive the halls of horror!
BONUS CHAPTER: (Collector's Edition version only)
The tables have turned when an unexpected (or was he?) stranger bellies up to the Crossroads bar. Mistress Eve is the honored guest and must solve a series of riddles to pass the stranger's moral tests! This is an average-length Bonus Chapter spanning over 8 additional scenes with 4 Hidden Object Scenes and 7 Mini-Games, as well as a handful of smaller zoom zone HO's. You will continue your search for the final 8 Crossroads Jigsaw Puzzle Pieces and 3 Phobia Statue's Collectibles. The Round Jigsaw Puzzle Screensaver can be completed in The Secret Room, if you missed any pieces (or Collectibles) you can return to the scene to find them in the Expedition Room. After completing the BC you can enter the Archives to replay 13 HO's and 12 Mini-Games as well.
The tables have turned when an unexpected (or was he?) stranger bellies up to the Crossroads bar. Mistress Eve is the honored guest and must solve a series of riddles to pass the stranger's moral tests! This is an average-length Bonus Chapter spanning over 8 additional scenes with 4 Hidden Object Scenes and 7 Mini-Games, as well as a handful of smaller zoom zone HO's. You will continue your search for the final 8 Crossroads Jigsaw Puzzle Pieces and 3 Phobia Statue's Collectibles. The Round Jigsaw Puzzle Screensaver can be completed in The Secret Room, if you missed any pieces (or Collectibles) you can return to the scene to find them in the Expedition Room. After completing the BC you can enter the Archives to replay 13 HO's and 12 Mini-Games as well.
COLLECTOR'S EDITION EXTRA'S:
6 Wallpaper, 1 Screensaver Jigsaw Puzzle, 4 Music Soundtracks, 12 Achievements (2 achievements have 3 categories and 2 achievements have 5 categories), 12 Collectible Phobia Statues, 23 Crossroads Jigsaw Puzzle Pieces (receive a jigsaw puzzle piece for each one found) a Secret Room to complete the round Jigsaw Puzzle, an Expedition Room where you can search for any missed collectibles, and the Archives where you can replay 13 Hidden Object Scenes, and 12 Mini-Games, 3 Main Chapters +Bonus Chapter, and a Built-In Strategy Guide.
6 Wallpaper, 1 Screensaver Jigsaw Puzzle, 4 Music Soundtracks, 12 Achievements (2 achievements have 3 categories and 2 achievements have 5 categories), 12 Collectible Phobia Statues, 23 Crossroads Jigsaw Puzzle Pieces (receive a jigsaw puzzle piece for each one found) a Secret Room to complete the round Jigsaw Puzzle, an Expedition Room where you can search for any missed collectibles, and the Archives where you can replay 13 Hidden Object Scenes, and 12 Mini-Games, 3 Main Chapters +Bonus Chapter, and a Built-In Strategy Guide.
If you go down in the woods today, you're sure of a big surprise, lots of exciting Woodsy guests!...join us won't you? thewoodsforum.boards.net
I recommend this game!
A magical mystery across three of the world's largest cities!
Overall rating
4
/
5
85 of 100 found this review helpful
THE STORY GETS A LITTLE BORING AT TIMES
PostedOctober 20, 2022
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
4
/
5
Visual/Sound Quality
4
/
5
Level of Challenge
3
/
5
Storyline
3
/
5
Completed Game in approximately 4.0 hours
(including completion of all mini-games & CE Bonus Chapter)
18 Scene Locations +7 CE Bonus Chapter
Difficulty Range: Beginner-Intermediate
(including completion of all mini-games & CE Bonus Chapter)
18 Scene Locations +7 CE Bonus Chapter
Difficulty Range: Beginner-Intermediate
Detective Agatha has certainly made a name for herself after solving crimes in London, Munich, Vienna, Dublin, Budapest, and Paris. Her expertise in Dark City crimes will soon become an International reputation when her services are requested to investigate some very unusual cases in three of the World's largest cities. These are no ordinary crimes, a Phoenix has been sighted setting fires in New York, London is plagued with paranormal monsters, and statues are coming to life in Paris!
The most intriguing part about this game was the fact that it wasn't even posted until after 10 pm (EST) and then most of us spent a couple of more hours trying to actually purchase the game but all we got was a spinning wheel! Even more intriguing was that one member miraculously was able to play the entire game 20 minutes after it was released...where's Detective Agatha when we have a real mystery on our hands?
Collectibles/Morphing Objects:
Normally, this developer has some of my favorite collectibles and morphs. In most Friendly Fox games the collectibles are opaque and can be challenging to spot, (I LOVE the opaque collectibles) and their morphing objects are really good because they are not so-obvious objects like windowpanes, weather vanes or building decorations and adornments. (one FF game had a morphing moon if memory serves me correctly, genius!)
Normally, this developer has some of my favorite collectibles and morphs. In most Friendly Fox games the collectibles are opaque and can be challenging to spot, (I LOVE the opaque collectibles) and their morphing objects are really good because they are not so-obvious objects like windowpanes, weather vanes or building decorations and adornments. (one FF game had a morphing moon if memory serves me correctly, genius!)
This isn't the case this time! The Collectibles are 2 large beige-colored playing cards that can't be overlooked and the morphing objects are just additional objects added, such as a large planter. All I had to do was look for something that didn't quite match the scene's color scheme to spot them within seconds which has never been the case with this developer's games...HOWEVER, with Ukraine's current situation, I can certainly understand why their creativity was stifled, and why they need to get their games back into production! I have and always will stand with Ukraine, therefore, I stand with Friendly Fox!
There are 50 Morphing Objects and 50 Collectible Playing Cards that are used in a card game after completing the set. Each scene has 2 of each and there is a pullout tab on the left side to help you keep track of them (a feature I do LOVE)
Gadget/Helper:
Detective Agatha has two Gadgets at her disposal, a Journal and the power of Deduction! The Journal is used to collect Evidence which is done in the form of a mini-game requiring you to correctly place characters' photos onto the correct descriptions of events that took place (drag the photos from the top of the page to the blank sentences to fill in the gaps of the story with an actual name)
Detective Agatha has two Gadgets at her disposal, a Journal and the power of Deduction! The Journal is used to collect Evidence which is done in the form of a mini-game requiring you to correctly place characters' photos onto the correct descriptions of events that took place (drag the photos from the top of the page to the blank sentences to fill in the gaps of the story with an actual name)
The EYE DEDUCTION is made to draw a conclusion by playing a quick Hidden Object Scene where you are tasked with finding 4-6 pieces of evidence. Afterward, Detective Agatha recreates the scene of the crime, followed by a reenactment video clip to fill you in on the story.
Hidden Object Scenes:
The Hidden Object Scenes tend to be a bit dark, but otherwise decent. Besides the repetitive Hidden Object Scenes associated with the Eye Deduction Gadget and several smaller zoom zone HO's, they vary with Interactive List Finds, Silhouetted Shape Finds, Matching Pairs, Placing Items into the scene, and one where you place Zoo animals into their correct habitats. Some of the scenes uncover objects that are required to overcome a task, such as uncovering several silver keys required to open a locked box, and some HO scenes have quick puzzles to solve.
The Hidden Object Scenes tend to be a bit dark, but otherwise decent. Besides the repetitive Hidden Object Scenes associated with the Eye Deduction Gadget and several smaller zoom zone HO's, they vary with Interactive List Finds, Silhouetted Shape Finds, Matching Pairs, Placing Items into the scene, and one where you place Zoo animals into their correct habitats. Some of the scenes uncover objects that are required to overcome a task, such as uncovering several silver keys required to open a locked box, and some HO scenes have quick puzzles to solve.
Mini-Games:
Most of the mini-games are doable on the first attempt, and I wish some of them were a bit more complex. I love games where you have to swap fuses by following tangled, color-coded wires that match the top & bottom colors, but this particular game simply required swapping the fuses until they all lit up. Another game required selecting two different flame emblems that would join two halves of an image and the goal was to find the correct 2, but the matches were all directly opposite instead of being randomly placed :(
Most of the mini-games are doable on the first attempt, and I wish some of them were a bit more complex. I love games where you have to swap fuses by following tangled, color-coded wires that match the top & bottom colors, but this particular game simply required swapping the fuses until they all lit up. Another game required selecting two different flame emblems that would join two halves of an image and the goal was to find the correct 2, but the matches were all directly opposite instead of being randomly placed :(
Bonus Chapter: (CE version only)
You will play one of my favorite characters from the first chapter, Lieutenant Liz Brooks as she investigates the disappearance of the Treasure of the Maharaja during a charity auction, and of course, everyone is convinced that the ghost of Maharaja is responsible. There are 7 Mini-Games and 9 Hidden Object Scenes, including the Evidence Journal Mini-Game and Eye Deduction Hidden Object Scene. In reality, there are several tasks that may be considered a mini-game by some, such as entering codes or matching pairs to remove them. You will continue searching for the final 14 Morphing Objects and 14 Playing Cards which allows you to play a card game against your villainous opponent.
You will play one of my favorite characters from the first chapter, Lieutenant Liz Brooks as she investigates the disappearance of the Treasure of the Maharaja during a charity auction, and of course, everyone is convinced that the ghost of Maharaja is responsible. There are 7 Mini-Games and 9 Hidden Object Scenes, including the Evidence Journal Mini-Game and Eye Deduction Hidden Object Scene. In reality, there are several tasks that may be considered a mini-game by some, such as entering codes or matching pairs to remove them. You will continue searching for the final 14 Morphing Objects and 14 Playing Cards which allows you to play a card game against your villainous opponent.
Collector's Edition Extra's
8 Wallpapers, 11 Concept Art Pictures, 7 absolutely beautiful Screensavers, 6 Music Soundtracks, 34 Movie Video Cutscenes, 25 Achievements, 19 Replayable Hidden Object Scenes, 12 Replayable Mini-Games, 50 Collectible Playing Cards (play a card game when the collection is complete) 50 Morphing Objects, 3 Main Chapters +Bonus Chapter and a Built-In Strategy Guide.
8 Wallpapers, 11 Concept Art Pictures, 7 absolutely beautiful Screensavers, 6 Music Soundtracks, 34 Movie Video Cutscenes, 25 Achievements, 19 Replayable Hidden Object Scenes, 12 Replayable Mini-Games, 50 Collectible Playing Cards (play a card game when the collection is complete) 50 Morphing Objects, 3 Main Chapters +Bonus Chapter and a Built-In Strategy Guide.
Fellow Fishies, if you miss the Big Fish Forums then join us on my new nature-themed game forum thewoodsforum.boards.net
I recommend this game!
Explore the beauty of The Emerald Isle through more than 14,000 engaging puzzles!
Overall rating
3
/
5
55 of 67 found this review helpful
THIS IS THE DEVELOPERS 1ST ATTEMPT AT A JIGSAW PUZZLE...JUST NEED A FEW TWEAKS!
PostedOctober 18, 2022
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
4
/
5
Visual/Sound Quality
3
/
5
Level of Challenge
3
/
5
Most of you know I am a puzzle geek, jigsaws are my favorite genre and I do at least 1 computer puzzle daily, it's my Zen! I also love this developer, Tiny Little Lion, and I think this will be an amazing series...with a few tweaks. It has a ton of features, including a Swap-type Mode, good features that puzzle geeks like myself consider to be necessities, but there are a few over-sites that need to be addressed but this is their first attempt at a Jigsaw Puzzle game so this is to be expected.
Let's start with the things I think the game needs or things I didn't like because there aren't many!
-The 5 available Backgrounds are way too dark, even the light background option is a bit too dark.
-The puzzle pieces are too dark and it's nearly impossible to see the color variations or details (this seems to be the case with all new jigsaw devs)
-The "Preview" picture is way too dark, offering an opaqueness slider or % feature would solve this issue.
-There was no option to "grab" Border pieces only?
-It would be nice to have an option to organize the puzzle pieces neatly around the assembly board or preview picture.
-There are no options for large puzzles (400 piece max)
-There needs to be a folder or some type of indication for "saved" puzzles. The game does save your progress but the only way to find saved puzzles is to select the exact settings you started the puzzle with originally and a "Resume" tab will appear next to play (size, rotation, puzzle shape) Good luck remembering this!
-There is no option to create a puzzle using your own images. This option not only allows the player to choose their personal favorites, but it gives it a better value when the game is potentially endless!
-A personal request: a simple Square puzzle piece option (even better to be able to choose the size, such as 1/4" or 1/2" squares
FANTASTICAL OPTIONS (Jigsaw Puzzle Mode)
-There are 8 Categories, Scenery (15) Historic (26) Waters (18) Plants (9) Animals (14) Food (14) Rustic (13) Others (16)
-You can choose from several different puzzle shapes and the shape selected is displayed on the Image sample! Shapes Available: Animals, Artistic Cut, Blobs, Circle Jumbles, Circles & Squares, Concentric, Knobbed Triangles, Rectangle Jumble, Ripples, Shards, Sunburst Squares, Traditional, Warped Concentric, Warped Regular Traditional, Warped Traditional.
-Puzzles are available in different sizes, depending on the puzzle style but the largest seems to be only 400 pieces.
-Rotation options: Easy (only rotates 2 directions) Medium, Hard, or Off.
-Hints can be disabled or you can select Plenty, Moderate, or Minimal.
FANTASTICAL FEATURES: (once the puzzle has been selected)
-Trays: there are 4 Trays to sort pieces, which also shows the number of pieces within.
-Timer: keeps track of the time it takes to complete the puzzle
-Preview: Ghosts the image of the puzzle in the center.
-Recenter: I have no idea what this does, it doesn't organize pieces and the puzzle pieces snap into place on the board, so what exactly does it do?
-Shuffle: Shuffles puzzle pieces...why?
-All Pieces: I assume pieces in the trays are shown on the board.
-Zoom: you can also use the mouse wheel to zoom in and out.
-Hide: hides the above tabs.
FANTASTICAL OPTIONS (Swap-style Puzzle Mode)
-If jigsaws aren't your cup of tea, no worries, there are a ton of Swap Puzzle styles...some are very creative! You can choose the number of pieces, each style has a different amount of pieces available, ranging between 10-150 pieces.
-Shapes available: Bands, Circles & 1/2 Squares, Circles & 1/4 Squares, Circles & Squares, Circles & Stars, Concentric Circles, Concentric Rectangles, Double Bands, Double Split Squares, Double Strips, Octagon & Squares, Rectangle Landscape, Rectangles Portrait, Split Rectangles, Strips, Triple Bands, Triple Strips.
I do love many of the features, but as I said above, the jigsaw puzzles need some tweaking to brighten the puzzle pieces, and it needs a few features tweaked or added...however, for the normal casual Jigsaw player I think this will be the great game.
Do you miss the BF forums? If you do, I think you will love my new forum whether you are a hardcore gamer or you just want a place to chat, we've got you covered thewoodsforum.boards.net
Let's start with the things I think the game needs or things I didn't like because there aren't many!
-The 5 available Backgrounds are way too dark, even the light background option is a bit too dark.
-The puzzle pieces are too dark and it's nearly impossible to see the color variations or details (this seems to be the case with all new jigsaw devs)
-The "Preview" picture is way too dark, offering an opaqueness slider or % feature would solve this issue.
-There was no option to "grab" Border pieces only?
-It would be nice to have an option to organize the puzzle pieces neatly around the assembly board or preview picture.
-There are no options for large puzzles (400 piece max)
-There needs to be a folder or some type of indication for "saved" puzzles. The game does save your progress but the only way to find saved puzzles is to select the exact settings you started the puzzle with originally and a "Resume" tab will appear next to play (size, rotation, puzzle shape) Good luck remembering this!
-There is no option to create a puzzle using your own images. This option not only allows the player to choose their personal favorites, but it gives it a better value when the game is potentially endless!
-A personal request: a simple Square puzzle piece option (even better to be able to choose the size, such as 1/4" or 1/2" squares
FANTASTICAL OPTIONS (Jigsaw Puzzle Mode)
-There are 8 Categories, Scenery (15) Historic (26) Waters (18) Plants (9) Animals (14) Food (14) Rustic (13) Others (16)
-You can choose from several different puzzle shapes and the shape selected is displayed on the Image sample! Shapes Available: Animals, Artistic Cut, Blobs, Circle Jumbles, Circles & Squares, Concentric, Knobbed Triangles, Rectangle Jumble, Ripples, Shards, Sunburst Squares, Traditional, Warped Concentric, Warped Regular Traditional, Warped Traditional.
-Puzzles are available in different sizes, depending on the puzzle style but the largest seems to be only 400 pieces.
-Rotation options: Easy (only rotates 2 directions) Medium, Hard, or Off.
-Hints can be disabled or you can select Plenty, Moderate, or Minimal.
FANTASTICAL FEATURES: (once the puzzle has been selected)
-Trays: there are 4 Trays to sort pieces, which also shows the number of pieces within.
-Timer: keeps track of the time it takes to complete the puzzle
-Preview: Ghosts the image of the puzzle in the center.
-Recenter: I have no idea what this does, it doesn't organize pieces and the puzzle pieces snap into place on the board, so what exactly does it do?
-Shuffle: Shuffles puzzle pieces...why?
-All Pieces: I assume pieces in the trays are shown on the board.
-Zoom: you can also use the mouse wheel to zoom in and out.
-Hide: hides the above tabs.
FANTASTICAL OPTIONS (Swap-style Puzzle Mode)
-If jigsaws aren't your cup of tea, no worries, there are a ton of Swap Puzzle styles...some are very creative! You can choose the number of pieces, each style has a different amount of pieces available, ranging between 10-150 pieces.
-Shapes available: Bands, Circles & 1/2 Squares, Circles & 1/4 Squares, Circles & Squares, Circles & Stars, Concentric Circles, Concentric Rectangles, Double Bands, Double Split Squares, Double Strips, Octagon & Squares, Rectangle Landscape, Rectangles Portrait, Split Rectangles, Strips, Triple Bands, Triple Strips.
I do love many of the features, but as I said above, the jigsaw puzzles need some tweaking to brighten the puzzle pieces, and it needs a few features tweaked or added...however, for the normal casual Jigsaw player I think this will be the great game.
Do you miss the BF forums? If you do, I think you will love my new forum whether you are a hardcore gamer or you just want a place to chat, we've got you covered thewoodsforum.boards.net
I recommend this game!
Tour ten European countries from the comfort of your home!
Overall rating
3
/
5
17 of 18 found this review helpful
I WISH THIS DEVELOPER WOULD OFFER A NATURE/ANIMAL-THEMED GAME
PostedOctober 17, 2022
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
3
/
5
This is a really good Hidden Object game but I'm so tired of the Travel-themed games, it's as if the developers can't think of a different subject! The graphics are really good, it's almost identical to the much-beloved Vacation Adventure series and I think it would be more popular as a nature-themed game, versus a travel-related game. They copied the format down to every single feature of Park Ranger so they may as well use the Park theme too, perhaps visiting scenes from popular parks across the country. If they used animals, or nature-related objects instead of random objects like Paper Bags, Tablets, Ropes, Spears, and Napkins the game would be way more appealing and it would capture both animal & nature lovers.
You can only play in a Relaxed Mode, there are no Timed options to search for 16 Listed Items, as you progress there are also Multiples of the Same Object Finds, Silhouetted Shape Finds, Find & Replace Items, Descriptive Item Finds, and Placing Pictured Items Into the Scene. 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 "search woman" which I found odd, especially when the task didn't directly involve the "woman" (don't worry, it was an airport security scene location) 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.
You can only play in a Relaxed Mode, there are no Timed options to search for 16 Listed Items, as you progress there are also Multiples of the Same Object Finds, Silhouetted Shape Finds, Find & Replace Items, Descriptive Item Finds, and Placing Pictured Items Into the Scene. 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 "search woman" which I found odd, especially when the task didn't directly involve the "woman" (don't worry, it was an airport security scene location) 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, a Suitcase Item, and 3 Silhouetted Shape Finds. 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 of 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 remaining available items.
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 remaining available items.
After each Hidden Object Scene, you will play a mini-game, such as Placing sections of a picture, dragging a white pool ball along tracks so that it touches all the pool balls without backtracking, Spot The Differences, and a Memory Match game where you had to match related items versus identical objects.
This Collector's Edition version has 30 HO Scenes, 8 Extra Hidden Object Scene Locations, 30 Mini-Games, 8 Extra Mini-games, 30 Suitcase Items, 30 Postage Stamps (in an Album) 8 Extra Postage Stamps, 12 Wallpapers, and 20 Music Soundtracks.
Come join us for tons of fun at my new Nature-themed gaming forum thewoodsforum.boards.net
I recommend this game!
Develop your own tropical island in the south seas!
Overall rating
1
/
5
45 of 57 found this review helpful
AH, COCONUTS! THERE ARE SO MANY BUTTONS TO CLICK!
PostedOctober 17, 2022
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
The only challenge here is trying to remember which buttons to click! A simplistic task, such as harvesting coconut trees requires multiple extra steps because you can't just click on the coconut tree to harvest coconuts. I have to click to assign a worker, click to extract the pulp, click to sell coconuts, click to sell coconut pulp, click on how many to sell, click another tab to collect money, etc. There are so many extra steps that it just becomes annoying to play.
As if this game wasn't enough to confuse the most seasoned of Time Management players, they threw in a task that made absolutely no sense. For some odd reason, we need to collect our coconuts and then turn the field into a Sandbox where we can eventually harvest seashells...WHY?
The only feature I liked was finding the opaque Jigsaw Puzzle Pieces some of which are hidden very well. If you miss finding the jigsaw puzzle piece you can replay the level to just search for the jigsaw puzzle piece and then exit. As long as you don't click on any task, the original score earned will remain intact and you will earn that level's puzzle piece!
There are 50 Main Levels and 5 Bonus Levels which are unlocked as you find the puzzle pieces:
Level 51 requires 10 Jigsaw Pieces
Level 52 requires 20 Jigsaw Pieces
Level 53 requires 30 Jigsaw Pieces
Level 54 requires 40 Jigsaw Pieces
Level 55 requires 50 Jigsaw Pieces
Level 52 requires 20 Jigsaw Pieces
Level 53 requires 30 Jigsaw Pieces
Level 54 requires 40 Jigsaw Pieces
Level 55 requires 50 Jigsaw Pieces
This CE version has 16 Achievements, 5 Music Soundtracks, 10 really boring Concept Art sketches, 50 Hidden Jigsaw Puzzle Pieces, 50 Levels, and a whole lotta cocoa-clicking tasks.
If you miss the BF forums then check out my new forum at thewoodsforum.boards.net
If you miss the BF forums then check out my new forum at thewoodsforum.boards.net
I don't recommend this game.
Jane's Hotel is back and open for business!
Overall rating
3
/
5
43 of 57 found this review helpful
IT'S A LITTLE BIT EASY BUT I STILL ENJOYED IT
PostedOctober 16, 2022
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
3
/
5
Storyline
3
/
5
I was surprised that this game did so poorly, review-wise because I actually enjoyed the game. Yes, I get that it isn't as challenging as previous games in the series, but it was still fun and it had a nostalgic vibe. It would have been better if the levels progressed by adding a Hotel Room or two, and it definitely needed an option to replay previous levels at any point in time, versus only being able to replay immediately upon completing the level, and above all, it needs an option to create more than one profile!
I read a lot of reviews complaining that Jane can only carry 1 item at a time, such as coffee, water, or burgers. It's true that Jane can't deliver two different items like coffee & water but in reality, Jane CAN deliver multiples of the same item! Once you click on the requested item, such as the coffee maker, simply click on all characters or rooms that have the coffee cup icon and she will continue delivering the requested item to everyone checked in the queue. This goes for the Maid as well, as long as the task is the same, such as vacuuming, she will go from one room to the next room(s) that are queued with the vacuuming task, you do not have to keep clicking on the source and then the task unless the tasks are different.
I read a lot of reviews complaining that Jane can only carry 1 item at a time, such as coffee, water, or burgers. It's true that Jane can't deliver two different items like coffee & water but in reality, Jane CAN deliver multiples of the same item! Once you click on the requested item, such as the coffee maker, simply click on all characters or rooms that have the coffee cup icon and she will continue delivering the requested item to everyone checked in the queue. This goes for the Maid as well, as long as the task is the same, such as vacuuming, she will go from one room to the next room(s) that are queued with the vacuuming task, you do not have to keep clicking on the source and then the task unless the tasks are different.
The gameplay is basically the same as previous Jane's Hotel games, the story is...well, just what the title says "A New Story". Jane buys the dilapidated Hotel that her Great-Grandmother (also named Jane) built back in the day. The goals are fairly easy to reach & pretty stress-free with basically only two goals, serve X amount of customers and earn X amount of money.
There are only four rooms to deal with, and the poor maid does most of the work. Jane hands out room keys to new customers and checks them out, occasionally she serves a cup of coffee, burgers, water bottles, and Wi-fi (had to chuckle as Jane served guests a wi-fi icon on a platter) She also has the daunting task of walking all the way across the room to hand dice to a guest sitting all alone... because everyone wants to play a board game by themselves??
There are only four rooms to deal with, and the poor maid does most of the work. Jane hands out room keys to new customers and checks them out, occasionally she serves a cup of coffee, burgers, water bottles, and Wi-fi (had to chuckle as Jane served guests a wi-fi icon on a platter) She also has the daunting task of walking all the way across the room to hand dice to a guest sitting all alone... because everyone wants to play a board game by themselves??
The maid, however, is responsible for 99.5% of the tasks and I actually felt sorry for her! The maid has to vacuum rooms several times during & after the guest's Hotel stay. She also has to pick up & return their dry cleaning items and deliver extra linens, or plaid blankets...to make matters worse, she has to water the dang plants every single day, one minute they are doing perfectly fine, the next, they are brown, droopy, and losing leaves (& Hearts!) It would be nice if the developers allowed the player to anticipate various tasks because you can't water the plants before they wilt, nor can Jane return to the desk in anticipation of a guest checking out or in!
After each level you get to upgrade the Hotel, some upgrades add an extra item to serve (board games, wifi, water, etc.) some do nothing more than decorate the Hotel. My only complaint was that none of the items came with descriptions to explain what they do, such as make customers happy, etc.
The Collector's Edition version has 6 Wallpapers, Concept Art, 10 Bonus Levels, and 10 Hotel Upgrades.
If you need game help or have a tip to share, hike on over to my new forum at thewoodsforum.boards.net
If you need game help or have a tip to share, hike on over to my new forum at thewoodsforum.boards.net
I recommend this game!
The immortal legend of the Holy Grail is here!
Overall rating
4
/
5
47 of 58 found this review helpful
I LIKE THIS GAME BECAUSE IT ISN'T A COOKIE-CUTTER CLONE!
PostedOctober 14, 2022
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
4
/
5
Visual/Sound Quality
4
/
5
Level of Challenge
4
/
5
Storyline
4
/
5
6 Chapters + Bonus Chapter
40 Main Game Scene Locations
Difficulty Range: Beginner-Intermediate-Advanced
40 Main Game Scene Locations
Difficulty Range: Beginner-Intermediate-Advanced
King Arthur has summoned the Court Magician to save Queen Guinevere who was stricken with an unknown illness. The Queen's only hope lies within the Holy Grail, an artifact capable of granting eternal life. The Holy Grail is protected with a powerful medallion, it's key divided into three sections and given to the Guardians of three different worlds. Your wizardly quest takes you on a harrowing journey to the world of Druids, the Icy Magicians World, and the Water World to save your Queen!
Collectibles/Morphing Objects: (CE version only)
There are 52 Collectible Potion Bottles that are pretty hard to miss, but I can't say the same for the 40 Morphing Objects. The objects morph slowly between two different objects that are very similar so they can be quite challenging to spot. I haven't been this pleased with a morphing object in a very long time!
There are 52 Collectible Potion Bottles that are pretty hard to miss, but I can't say the same for the 40 Morphing Objects. The objects morph slowly between two different objects that are very similar so they can be quite challenging to spot. I haven't been this pleased with a morphing object in a very long time!
Gadgets/Helpers:
There are no Helpers but there is an Amulet Gadget that eventually holds 3 different Magic Runes, beginning with the Rune of Light. This gadget is used a total of 15 times throughout the game.
There are no Helpers but there is an Amulet Gadget that eventually holds 3 different Magic Runes, beginning with the Rune of Light. This gadget is used a total of 15 times throughout the game.
Hidden Object Scenes:
There is a good variety of Hidden Object Scenes, such as Listed Item Finds, Symbol Finds, Progressive-Interactive Finds, Finding & Replacing Pictured Items back into the scene, and even Silhouetted Shape Finds. You will have to recheck the HO scenes as they are usually repeated with a different variety.
There is a good variety of Hidden Object Scenes, such as Listed Item Finds, Symbol Finds, Progressive-Interactive Finds, Finding & Replacing Pictured Items back into the scene, and even Silhouetted Shape Finds. You will have to recheck the HO scenes as they are usually repeated with a different variety.
Mini-Games:
The mini-games are mostly quick puzzles such as rotating & swapping torn fragments, Repeating Sequences, Moving tokens in a specific pattern, or moving tokens along a track to their color-coded slot.
The mini-games are mostly quick puzzles such as rotating & swapping torn fragments, Repeating Sequences, Moving tokens in a specific pattern, or moving tokens along a track to their color-coded slot.
Collector's Edition Extra's:
10 Wallpapers, 20 Movie Cutscene Videos, 6 Music Soundtracks, 15 Achievements, 52 Collectible Potion Bottles, 40 Morphing Objects, 6 Main Chapters, +Bonus Chapter, and a Built-In Strategy Guide.
10 Wallpapers, 20 Movie Cutscene Videos, 6 Music Soundtracks, 15 Achievements, 52 Collectible Potion Bottles, 40 Morphing Objects, 6 Main Chapters, +Bonus Chapter, and a Built-In Strategy Guide.
I missed the BF forums too, so I created a better version! Join us, you'll love it! thewoodsforum.boards.net
I recommend this game!
Can you save your sister from a carnival of monsters?
Overall rating
4
/
5
95 of 110 found this review helpful
HOLY FLYING FUDGECICLES, SHUT THE FRONT DOOR ~ IS THIS REALLY A DOMINI GAME?
PostedOctober 13, 2022
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
4
/
5
Visual/Sound Quality
4
/
5
Level of Challenge
4
/
5
Storyline
4
/
5
Completed Game in approximately 6 hours
24 Main Game Scene Locations +10 Bonus Chapter
Difficulty Range: Beginner-Intermediate
24 Main Game Scene Locations +10 Bonus Chapter
Difficulty Range: Beginner-Intermediate
I remember back in the day when developers still cared about HOPAs, how excited everyone was when BF would offer a shiny, brand-new release from Domini Games. They were just starting out and it seemed like ages between new releases, but we didn't care because we knew it was probably worth the wait, and they were! Eventually, Domini grew to meet the HOPA demands, as did their vast library of titles so they no longer had the time to seal every game with a tender-lovin' kiss...and the games certainly reflected this!
We saw the writing on the wall with each carbon-copy clone released, week after week, month after month, year after year. Our enthusiasm waned and fans were no longer head over heels in love (except for 1) and moans of disappointment replaced the whoo-hoo's of another Domini game release.
I honestly didn't think this developer would ever regain their mojo but obviously, they have because Gloomy Tales is one of the best games Domini has released in YEARS! I'm not going to complain about a thing, Thank you Domini!
Collectibles/Morphing Objects (CE version only)
There are 15 Morphing Halloween Items, 15 Awards, and 70 Circus Coupons used to purchase 15 Circus Tent items.
There are 15 Morphing Halloween Items, 15 Awards, and 70 Circus Coupons used to purchase 15 Circus Tent items.
Hidden Object Scenes:
The Hidden Object Scenes were varied with Progressive-Interactive Silhouetted Shape Finds, an arcade game where you shoot matching targets, one where you drag polaroid photo's with a missing portion over a wall of snapshots until you find the missing section, Silhouetted Shapes to find among several arms & hands adorned with tattoos, Multiple's of descriptive objects, (4 people with purple hair, etc.) and one of my favorites was finding 2 objects that when combined create a specific type of monster ( ? + ? =werewolf) AND they weren't really obvious objects so it had a bit of a challenge as well!
The Hidden Object Scenes were varied with Progressive-Interactive Silhouetted Shape Finds, an arcade game where you shoot matching targets, one where you drag polaroid photo's with a missing portion over a wall of snapshots until you find the missing section, Silhouetted Shapes to find among several arms & hands adorned with tattoos, Multiple's of descriptive objects, (4 people with purple hair, etc.) and one of my favorites was finding 2 objects that when combined create a specific type of monster ( ? + ? =werewolf) AND they weren't really obvious objects so it had a bit of a challenge as well!
Alternate Match 3 Game:
There is an alternate Match 3 Game available if you don't want to play a Hidden Object Scene...I'm not even going to complain about the M3 because I enjoyed the HO's!
There is an alternate Match 3 Game available if you don't want to play a Hidden Object Scene...I'm not even going to complain about the M3 because I enjoyed the HO's!
Bonus Chapter (CE Version Only)
The Bonus Chapter is a stand-alone story but it has the same 2 main characters and is very similar to the Main Chapter's story. There are 9 additional Mini-Games and 5 additional Hidden Object Scenes that take place over 10 additional scene locations. You will continue searching for the final 6 Morphing Halloween Items, 5 Awards, and 9 Zoom Zone Circus Tickets which allow you to purchase the final items for the Circus Tent.
The Bonus Chapter is a stand-alone story but it has the same 2 main characters and is very similar to the Main Chapter's story. There are 9 additional Mini-Games and 5 additional Hidden Object Scenes that take place over 10 additional scene locations. You will continue searching for the final 6 Morphing Halloween Items, 5 Awards, and 9 Zoom Zone Circus Tickets which allow you to purchase the final items for the Circus Tent.
Collector's Edition Extra's: (CE version only)
15 Wallpapers, 15 Concept Art Pictures, 5 Music Soundtracks, 28 Movie Video Cutscenes, 42 Achievements, 20 Replayable Mini-Games, 17 Replayable Hidden Object Scenes, Extra Side Tasks/Quests available throughout the Main Chapters (to earn points) 15 Morphing Halloween Items. 15 Awards, and 70 Zoom Zone Circus Tickets that are used to purchase 15 Circus Tent Items, 7 Main Chapters, +Bonus Chapter, and a Built-In Strategy Guide.
15 Wallpapers, 15 Concept Art Pictures, 5 Music Soundtracks, 28 Movie Video Cutscenes, 42 Achievements, 20 Replayable Mini-Games, 17 Replayable Hidden Object Scenes, Extra Side Tasks/Quests available throughout the Main Chapters (to earn points) 15 Morphing Halloween Items. 15 Awards, and 70 Zoom Zone Circus Tickets that are used to purchase 15 Circus Tent Items, 7 Main Chapters, +Bonus Chapter, and a Built-In Strategy Guide.
If you miss the BF forums, fear not! Come to my new forum which has even more features to enjoy, including game help & chats, Series Lists, Group Play Adventure Games, and lots of familiar names thewoodsforum.boards.net
I recommend this game!
Rome's citizens are turning to stone, and it's up to you to help unravel the mystery and save the city!
Overall rating
1
/
5
24 of 41 found this review helpful
I DON'T THINK THIS GAME WAS READY FOR PRIME TIME
PostedOctober 12, 2022
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
Yesterday was a weird day, Heroes of Rome 3 was listed as the day's new release for about 15 minutes before it disappeared, and Big Adventure: Trip To Europe 3 was put in its place. Later in the afternoon, Heroes of Rome 3 re-appeared on the new release's page!
I never made it past the first level. I had to wait forever for the materials to appear on the platform so I could rebuild the columns, etc. The timer just went poof while I waited so I replayed the level only to discover my materials had vanished.
I replayed the first level over and over, I tried queuing my tasks differently but it always came down to the fact that you have to have materials that are impossible to get!
Let's talk about the game, join us at my new forum thewoodsforum.boards.net
I don't recommend this game.