pennmom36's Profile
Stat Summary
- Average Rating:3.7
- Helpful Votes:358,445
- Reviews Submitted:4712
- First Review:December 10, 2012
- Most Recent Review:April 24, 2025
- Featured reviews0
Status:
Springtime Mahjongg 2 brings the lovely sights and sounds of this incredible season to your PC!
Overall rating
2
/
5
32 of 36 found this review helpful
THE CLASSIC MODE WAS REALLY BORING BUT THE PARADE MODE WAS SLIGHTLY BETTER
PostedMay 11, 2021
pennmom36
fromNothing new here other than they uncomplicated the directions and took away the 3rd variant.
Skill Level:Expert
Fun Factor
2
/
5
Visual/Sound Quality
2
/
5
Level of Challenge
2
/
5
I didn't have any issues with the game playing but there were several instances where I had to click 2 matching tiles several times to get them to remove when playing the Classic variant, but I didn't have this issue while playing the Parade mode which simply requires you to click a single tile that matches the tiles shown at the top. The Parade variant was much more interesting because you had to remove the tiles shown at the top before they reached the end of the board.
You can choose your Resolution preference, 14 different Mahjongg tilesets including a Themed, Traditional, a Domino Style tile, and a Playing Card Style. There is a 3D view available and an Auto-Zoom feature to enable as well. The Mahjong games are available in a Casual, Normal, or Untimed Mode and require a specific number of Bonus Symbols (earned after each successful level) to unlock preceding levels.
You can choose your Resolution preference, 14 different Mahjongg tilesets including a Themed, Traditional, a Domino Style tile, and a Playing Card Style. There is a 3D view available and an Auto-Zoom feature to enable as well. The Mahjong games are available in a Casual, Normal, or Untimed Mode and require a specific number of Bonus Symbols (earned after each successful level) to unlock preceding levels.
There are only 2 Different Mahjong Categories available, Parade Mahjongg and Classic Mahjongg. You can earn up to 3 Bonus Symbols per level, the first star or bird is awarded for not using the hint, undo, redo, or mix features excessively, the second for clearing all tiles, and the third for completing the game within Par.
They did uncomplicate this version when compared to the first game, Summertime Mahjongg, but unless you really love Mahjong, there's nothing offered here to make this game worth purchasing. Please join us on my new forum at thewoodsforum.boards.net
I don't recommend this game.
A scheming businessman threatens Mary and John’s restaurant!
Overall rating
1
/
5
3 of 3 found this review helpful
LOOKS THE SAME AS THE OTHER TWO?
PostedMay 9, 2021
pennmom36
fromAt least try to make it appear that something has changed!
Skill Level:Expert
Fun Factor
1
/
5
Visual/Sound Quality
1
/
5
Level of Challenge
1
/
5
Storyline
1
/
5
New Graphics, Same Layout. New Foods (sort of) Same Tasks. New Story, Same Plot. New Achievement Names, Same Achievements. New Bonus Names, Same Bonuses. Basically, this is the same game as the last two in the series...and why do I have to do all the work while John just stands there?
I also don't appreciate having to "wait hand and foot" on customers who seem to have an attitude (and alligator arms) The customers get angry quickly on all the diner dash type of games by this developer, why would I want to play a game with angry hotheads, or with people that leave poor tips no matter how quickly they are served? We may as well have a Waitress Attitude option to make it an even playing field, such as a "refusal to serve" or "here's the door, don't let it hitcha in the..." option, that oughta make things more interesting!
This is a Point & Click, Time Management game where you serve customers for tips. You simply click the customer to give them a menu when they arrive and then click on the items they order, (pictured items are shown in their thought bubble) and re-click the customer to deliver those food items (exactly as pictured) The good news is that you don't have to drag anybody or anything, an annoying feature some TM games incorporate. When the $ sign appears, you click the customer a final time to accept payment and then scan the cursor over the coins to receive the tips they apparently throw on the ground for you to fetch. (Coins? I don't think a few coins add up to a 20% tip!?!) Each customer has a Green Smiley over their head which turns Yellow, and eventually, Red if the service is too slow because they are hotheads with no respect for servers. Their patience level also directly affects the amount of tip they are willing to leave, with either Gold, Silver, or Bronze Coins. The "Expert" Goal amount is shown before the start of each level, and there are Bonus Goals available (but not required) which are shown at the bottom, such as collecting money from three consecutive customers simultaneously.
As you progress, the Menu items increase and become more complex. The tips you earn are used to purchase Upgrades from the Shop, such as more trays or ovens to fry them up a steak in a pan. You can also purchase upgrades to speed up Mary, increase wait time moods, etc.
There are 60 Levels and 12 Trophy Achievements to earn.
The Collector's Edition Extra's include 10 "who cares about cartoon images" Concept Art Pictures, 5 Music Soundtracks, Bonus Levels that are kept under lock and key until you purchase the game? and a Walkthrough Strategy Guide, none of which make this game worthy of twice the price. Join me on my new forum thewoodsforum.boards.net
The Collector's Edition Extra's include 10 "who cares about cartoon images" Concept Art Pictures, 5 Music Soundtracks, Bonus Levels that are kept under lock and key until you purchase the game? and a Walkthrough Strategy Guide, none of which make this game worthy of twice the price. Join me on my new forum thewoodsforum.boards.net
I don't recommend this game.
A scheming businessman threatens Mary and John’s restaurant!
Overall rating
1
/
5
40 of 47 found this review helpful
WERE'S THE "NEW" CHALLENGE?
PostedMay 9, 2021
pennmom36
fromIs there a different challenge here or is it just a new title as usual?
Skill Level:Expert
Fun Factor
1
/
5
Visual/Sound Quality
1
/
5
Level of Challenge
1
/
5
Storyline
1
/
5
New Graphics, Same Layout. New Foods (sort of) Same Tasks. New Story, Same Plot. New Achievement Names, Same Achievements. New Bonus Names, Same Bonuses. Basically, this is the same game as the last two in the series...and why do I have to do all the work while John just stands there?
I also don't appreciate having to "wait hand and foot" on customers who seem to have an attitude (and alligator arms) The customers get angry quickly on all the diner dash type of games by this developer, why would I want to play a game with angry hotheads, or with people that leave poor tips no matter how quickly they are served? We may as well have a Waitress Attitude option to make it an even playing field, such as a "refusal to serve" or "here's the door, don't let it hitcha in the..." option, that oughta make things more interesting!
This is a Point & Click, Time Management game where you serve customers for tips. You simply click the customer to give them a menu when they arrive and then click on the items they order, (pictured items are shown in their thought bubble) and re-click the customer to deliver those food items (exactly as pictured) The good news is that you don't have to drag anybody or anything, an annoying feature some TM games incorporate. When the $ sign appears, you click the customer a final time to accept payment and then scan the cursor over the coins to receive the tips they apparently throw on the ground for you to fetch. (Coins? I don't think a few coins add up to a 20% tip!?!) Each customer has a Green Smiley over their head which turns Yellow, and eventually, Red if the service is too slow because they are hotheads with no respect for servers. Their patience level also directly affects the amount of tip they are willing to leave, with either Gold, Silver, or Bronze Coins. The "Expert" Goal amount is shown before the start of each level, and there are Bonus Goals available (but not required) which are shown at the bottom, such as collecting money from three consecutive customers simultaneously.
As you progress, the Menu items increase and become more complex. The tips you earn are used to purchase Upgrades from the Shop, such as more trays or ovens to fry them up a steak in a pan. You can also purchase upgrades to speed up Mary, increase wait time moods, etc.
There are 60 Levels and 12 Trophy Achievements to earn.
The Collector's Edition Extra's include 10 "who cares about cartoon images" Concept Art Pictures, 5 Music Soundtracks, some Bonus Levels that's kept a secret unless you buy the game, and a Walkthrough Strategy Guide, none of which make the CE version worthwhile so if you really like this series, opt for this SE version! Let's talk, join me at my new forum thewoodsforum.boards.net
The Collector's Edition Extra's include 10 "who cares about cartoon images" Concept Art Pictures, 5 Music Soundtracks, some Bonus Levels that's kept a secret unless you buy the game, and a Walkthrough Strategy Guide, none of which make the CE version worthwhile so if you really like this series, opt for this SE version! Let's talk, join me at my new forum thewoodsforum.boards.net
I don't recommend this game.
A frantic distress signal uncovers a mysterious disappearance at Misthill!
Overall rating
1
/
5
42 of 46 found this review helpful
ELF'S VOICE HAS BEEN FORGOTTEN!
PostedMay 8, 2021
Fun Factor
1
/
5
Visual/Sound Quality
1
/
5
Level of Challenge
1
/
5
Storyline
1
/
5
Completed Game approximately 4.5 hours
(including completion of all mini-games & CE Bonus Chapter)
17 Main Game Scene Locations +8 Bonus Chapter
Difficulty Range: Beginner
(including completion of all mini-games & CE Bonus Chapter)
17 Main Game Scene Locations +8 Bonus Chapter
Difficulty Range: Beginner
Okay, I get that Elf isn't a part of this new "young blood" Mystery Trackers team, but Elf has been around for 95% of these games and I love him, he's family. I liked the newer modern look of the inventory bar but everything else was just plain boring, I just can't get into these new characters, don't abandon everything that made Mystery Trackers what it is...or should I say was? If you want to change this series, go backward! Go back to your roots and make a game as incredible as The Void, Raincliff, or Black Isle, because these earlier editions were incredible! And while I'm at it, don't forget to add the Morphing Objects that were like they were in the earlier days of your career, back when your fans loved Elephant Games. I've said this before, no one came close to your level of graphics back then, we immediately knew we were playing an Elephant Game from the first scene, the atmosphere was always creepy, always crisp, and ALWAYS fantastic. Now I can't see anything special, can anyone else? Please listen to our reviews, our Voices should NOT be Forgotten!
Helper/Gadget:
There are no helpers, Elf doesn't exist in this game, he's not an option or even mentioned...worse decision of all time!
There are no helpers, Elf doesn't exist in this game, he's not an option or even mentioned...worse decision of all time!
Morphing Objects/Collectibles: (CE version only)
There are ZERO Morphing Objects, how's that working out for sales? There are 12 Collectibles (because 13 would be excessive, right?) that belong to the detectives...how'd they show up in places they just arrived at? Some of the Zoom Zones have a Jigsaw Puzzle Piece that allows you to complete a single Screensaver. Looks like we just have to accept that less is more nowadays?
There are ZERO Morphing Objects, how's that working out for sales? There are 12 Collectibles (because 13 would be excessive, right?) that belong to the detectives...how'd they show up in places they just arrived at? Some of the Zoom Zones have a Jigsaw Puzzle Piece that allows you to complete a single Screensaver. Looks like we just have to accept that less is more nowadays?
Hidden Object Scenes:
There are 14 Hidden Object Scenes +6 in the CE Bonus Chapter. Nothing special here folks, most items can be clicked on correctly without having to look at the list! There are Interactive List Finds, Pattern Swatch Finds, Silhouetted Shape Finds, Keywords in Sentence Finds, and Find & Replace HO's. There are several Zoom Zone HO's as well, lots of Zoom Zone HO's?!!
There are 14 Hidden Object Scenes +6 in the CE Bonus Chapter. Nothing special here folks, most items can be clicked on correctly without having to look at the list! There are Interactive List Finds, Pattern Swatch Finds, Silhouetted Shape Finds, Keywords in Sentence Finds, and Find & Replace HO's. There are several Zoom Zone HO's as well, lots of Zoom Zone HO's?!!
Mini-Games:
There are 12 Mini-Games +8 in the CE Bonus Chapter. These were either super simple puzzles, or puzzles that took a long time to complete because...well because they were lengthy, certainly not because they were difficult.
There are 12 Mini-Games +8 in the CE Bonus Chapter. These were either super simple puzzles, or puzzles that took a long time to complete because...well because they were lengthy, certainly not because they were difficult.
Bonus Chapter (Collector's Edition version only)
REDO! The dashing trio returns to Misthill College, didn't we just do this? There are 8 Scene Locations in this average-length chapter which has 8 Mini-Games and 6 Hidden Object Scenes. You will continue your search for the remaining 8 Puzzle Pieces and 2 lousy Collectibles.
REDO! The dashing trio returns to Misthill College, didn't we just do this? There are 8 Scene Locations in this average-length chapter which has 8 Mini-Games and 6 Hidden Object Scenes. You will continue your search for the remaining 8 Puzzle Pieces and 2 lousy Collectibles.
Collector's Edition Extra's
5 Wallpapers because 6 is over the top, 1 Jigsaw Puzzle Screensaver, 4 Music Soundtracks, 10 Achievements, 12 Replayable Mini-Games, 14 Replayable Hidden Object Scenes (within the Secret Room) 24 Zoom Zone Jigsaw Puzzle Pieces, an Expedition Room where you search for missed collectibles. Ironic, weren't they lost, to begin with? An Archive Room, 5 Main Chapters +Bonus Chapter, and a Built-In Strategy Guide. Come join us at my new forum! thewoodsforum.boards.net
5 Wallpapers because 6 is over the top, 1 Jigsaw Puzzle Screensaver, 4 Music Soundtracks, 10 Achievements, 12 Replayable Mini-Games, 14 Replayable Hidden Object Scenes (within the Secret Room) 24 Zoom Zone Jigsaw Puzzle Pieces, an Expedition Room where you search for missed collectibles. Ironic, weren't they lost, to begin with? An Archive Room, 5 Main Chapters +Bonus Chapter, and a Built-In Strategy Guide. Come join us at my new forum! thewoodsforum.boards.net
I don't recommend this game.
A frantic distress signal uncovers a mysterious disappearance at Misthill!
Overall rating
1
/
5
11 of 14 found this review helpful
NO ELF=NO STARS!
PostedMay 8, 2021
Fun Factor
1
/
5
Visual/Sound Quality
1
/
5
Level of Challenge
1
/
5
Storyline
1
/
5
Completed Game approximately 4.5 hours
(including completion of all mini-games & CE Bonus Chapter)
17 Main Game Scene Locations +8 Bonus Chapter
Difficulty Range: Beginner
(including completion of all mini-games & CE Bonus Chapter)
17 Main Game Scene Locations +8 Bonus Chapter
Difficulty Range: Beginner
Okay, I get that Elf isn't a part of this new "young blood" Mystery Trackers team, but Elf has been around for 95% of these games and I love him, he's family. I liked the newer modern look of the inventory bar but everything else was just plain boring, I just can't get into these new characters, don't abandon everything that made Mystery Trackers what it is...or should I say was? If you want to change this series, go backward! Go back to your roots and make a game as incredible as The Void, Raincliff, or Black Isle, because these earlier editions were incredible! And while I'm at it, don't forget to add the Morphing Objects that were like they were in the earlier days of your career, back when your fans loved Elephant Games. I've said this before, no one came close to your level of graphics back then, we immediately knew we were playing an Elephant Game from the first scene, the atmosphere was always creepy, always crisp, and ALWAYS fantastic. Now I can't see anything special, can anyone else? Please listen to our reviews, our Voices should NOT be Forgotten!
Helper/Gadget:
There are no helpers, Elf doesn't exist in this game, he's not an option or even mentioned...worse decision of all time!
There are no helpers, Elf doesn't exist in this game, he's not an option or even mentioned...worse decision of all time!
Morphing Objects/Collectibles: (CE version only)
There are ZERO Morphing Objects, how's that working out for sales? There are 12 Collectibles (because 13 would be excessive, right?) that belong to the detectives...how'd they show up in places they just arrived at? Some of the Zoom Zones have a Jigsaw Puzzle Piece that allows you to complete a single Screensaver. Looks like we just have to accept that less is more nowadays?
There are ZERO Morphing Objects, how's that working out for sales? There are 12 Collectibles (because 13 would be excessive, right?) that belong to the detectives...how'd they show up in places they just arrived at? Some of the Zoom Zones have a Jigsaw Puzzle Piece that allows you to complete a single Screensaver. Looks like we just have to accept that less is more nowadays?
Hidden Object Scenes:
There are 14 Hidden Object Scenes +6 in the CE Bonus Chapter. Nothing special here folks, most items can be clicked on correctly without having to look at the list! There are Interactive List Finds, Pattern Swatch Finds, Silhouetted Shape Finds, Keywords in Sentence Finds, and Find & Replace HO's. There are several Zoom Zone HO's as well, lots of Zoom Zone HO's?!!
There are 14 Hidden Object Scenes +6 in the CE Bonus Chapter. Nothing special here folks, most items can be clicked on correctly without having to look at the list! There are Interactive List Finds, Pattern Swatch Finds, Silhouetted Shape Finds, Keywords in Sentence Finds, and Find & Replace HO's. There are several Zoom Zone HO's as well, lots of Zoom Zone HO's?!!
Mini-Games:
There are 12 Mini-Games +8 in the CE Bonus Chapter. These were either super simple puzzles, or puzzles that took a long time to complete because...well because they were lengthy, certainly not because they were difficult.
Bonus Chapter (Collector's Edition version only)
REDO! The dashing trio returns to Misthill College, didn't we just do this? There are 8 Scene Locations in this average-length chapter which has 8 Mini-Games and 6 Hidden Object Scenes. You will continue your search for the remaining 8 Puzzle Pieces and 2 lousy Collectibles.
There are 12 Mini-Games +8 in the CE Bonus Chapter. These were either super simple puzzles, or puzzles that took a long time to complete because...well because they were lengthy, certainly not because they were difficult.
Bonus Chapter (Collector's Edition version only)
REDO! The dashing trio returns to Misthill College, didn't we just do this? There are 8 Scene Locations in this average-length chapter which has 8 Mini-Games and 6 Hidden Object Scenes. You will continue your search for the remaining 8 Puzzle Pieces and 2 lousy Collectibles.
Collector's Edition Extra's
5 Wallpapers because 6 is over the top, 1 Jigsaw Puzzle Screensaver, 4 Music Soundtracks, 10 Achievements, 12 Replayable Mini-Games, 14 Replayable Hidden Object Scenes (within the Secret Room) 24 Zoom Zone Jigsaw Puzzle Pieces, an Expedition Room where you search for missed collectibles. Ironic, weren't they lost, to begin with? An Archive Room, 5 Main Chapters +Bonus Chapter, and a Built-In Strategy Guide. Come join us at my new forum! thewoodsforum.boards.net
5 Wallpapers because 6 is over the top, 1 Jigsaw Puzzle Screensaver, 4 Music Soundtracks, 10 Achievements, 12 Replayable Mini-Games, 14 Replayable Hidden Object Scenes (within the Secret Room) 24 Zoom Zone Jigsaw Puzzle Pieces, an Expedition Room where you search for missed collectibles. Ironic, weren't they lost, to begin with? An Archive Room, 5 Main Chapters +Bonus Chapter, and a Built-In Strategy Guide. Come join us at my new forum! thewoodsforum.boards.net
I don't recommend this game.
Can you keep this bewitching case from becoming your last?
Overall rating
4
/
5
79 of 88 found this review helpful
IS GRANDMA GOING TO THE DARK SIDE?
PostedMay 7, 2021
pennmom36
fromLeaps & bounds better than the recent games by the other 2 developers, but less effort was put into this game as previous games...has me worried!
Skill Level:Expert
Fun Factor
4
/
5
Visual/Sound Quality
4
/
5
Level of Challenge
4
/
5
Storyline
4
/
5
Completed Game a little over 6.0 Hours
(including completion of all puzzles & Bonus Chapter)
18 Main Game Scene Locations +6 CE Bonus Chapter
Difficulty Range: Beginner-Intermediate
I didn't think GrandMa put forth as much effort in this game as they did the previous game Morbid Obsession. With that being said, the storyline was very interesting even though you will probably figure out the plot from the first opening cutscene. There aren't really any surprises and the gameplay is the same ole, same ole...but still better and less cookie-cutter than the other two major developers have been offering lately.
Gadgets/Helpers/Outcome Option:
There are no helpers, well technically, the Fox helps you. In true GrandMa Studios fashion, there is an infamous Amulet Gadget that is used to search for hidden Symbols.
(including completion of all puzzles & Bonus Chapter)
18 Main Game Scene Locations +6 CE Bonus Chapter
Difficulty Range: Beginner-Intermediate
I didn't think GrandMa put forth as much effort in this game as they did the previous game Morbid Obsession. With that being said, the storyline was very interesting even though you will probably figure out the plot from the first opening cutscene. There aren't really any surprises and the gameplay is the same ole, same ole...but still better and less cookie-cutter than the other two major developers have been offering lately.
Gadgets/Helpers/Outcome Option:
There are no helpers, well technically, the Fox helps you. In true GrandMa Studios fashion, there is an infamous Amulet Gadget that is used to search for hidden Symbols.
Collectibles & Morphing Objects (CE version only)
There are 48 Collectible Envelopes, one simple, and one morphing, as well as 20 Zoom Zone Jigsaw Puzzle Pieces that allow you to assemble a Jigsaw Puzzle once all pieces have been collected. You must find all of the collectibles to unlock the Secret Chapter "The Source" which is a Mini-game, but if you missed a collectible or jigsaw piece, you can return to the scene by going to the CE "Collectible" tab in the Extra's menu where you can click on any of the collectibles or jigsaws that you missed, to be taken to the scene where you can search for the missed collectible or jigsaw...Thank you Granny...this is how it should be!
There are 48 Collectible Envelopes, one simple, and one morphing, as well as 20 Zoom Zone Jigsaw Puzzle Pieces that allow you to assemble a Jigsaw Puzzle once all pieces have been collected. You must find all of the collectibles to unlock the Secret Chapter "The Source" which is a Mini-game, but if you missed a collectible or jigsaw piece, you can return to the scene by going to the CE "Collectible" tab in the Extra's menu where you can click on any of the collectibles or jigsaws that you missed, to be taken to the scene where you can search for the missed collectible or jigsaw...Thank you Granny...this is how it should be!
Hidden Object Scenes:
There are 13 Main Hidden Object Scenes and several Zoom Zone Mini-HOPs +2 in the CE Bonus Chapter. There is an alternate Match 3 game but this is the second worse Match 3 games in HOPA history, (right behind the big D-games) The tiles are round marbles which I actually liked, but there were hardly any matches available, I literally had to stare intently to find a simple Match 3, and there certainly wasn't an opportunity for any match larger than a Match 4! Because there were no large matches, I didn't get any bonuses or power-ups...assuming they were even available, which I highly doubt. So the really cool round and colorful marbles were just kind of pointless and not fun when you can't find the smallest of matches!!! As for the Hidden Object Scenes, there are Interactive List Finds, Multiples of the Same Object, and Silhouetted Shape Finds. There is also an Amulet-associated HOP where you are tasked with finding Hidden Symbols using the Amulet.
There are 13 Main Hidden Object Scenes and several Zoom Zone Mini-HOPs +2 in the CE Bonus Chapter. There is an alternate Match 3 game but this is the second worse Match 3 games in HOPA history, (right behind the big D-games) The tiles are round marbles which I actually liked, but there were hardly any matches available, I literally had to stare intently to find a simple Match 3, and there certainly wasn't an opportunity for any match larger than a Match 4! Because there were no large matches, I didn't get any bonuses or power-ups...assuming they were even available, which I highly doubt. So the really cool round and colorful marbles were just kind of pointless and not fun when you can't find the smallest of matches!!! As for the Hidden Object Scenes, there are Interactive List Finds, Multiples of the Same Object, and Silhouetted Shape Finds. There is also an Amulet-associated HOP where you are tasked with finding Hidden Symbols using the Amulet.
Mini-Games:
There are 17 Mini-Games +9 in the CE Bonus Chapter. Some, but not all of the puzzles have an Easy or Hard difficulty mode option available. The mini-games were doable on the first attempt in most cases and for the most part, were fun although they are the usual GrandMa Studios mini-games. The mini-games include arranging weights on a clock to equal the various times shown, swapping tiles to create an image, navigating maps by placing directional arrows, connecting dots, retracing shapes, and of course, lock mechanism puzzles galore.
There are 17 Mini-Games +9 in the CE Bonus Chapter. Some, but not all of the puzzles have an Easy or Hard difficulty mode option available. The mini-games were doable on the first attempt in most cases and for the most part, were fun although they are the usual GrandMa Studios mini-games. The mini-games include arranging weights on a clock to equal the various times shown, swapping tiles to create an image, navigating maps by placing directional arrows, connecting dots, retracing shapes, and of course, lock mechanism puzzles galore.
Bonus Chapter: (CE version only)
"The Cracks" turns back the hands of the clock as you play Ursula trying to help Wolf hide the grimoire for safekeeping. This is an average-length chapter that takes place over 8 Scene Locations with an additional 9 Mini-Games, 2 Hidden Object Scenes. You will continue collecting the remaining Collectible Envelopes and the final Jigsaw Puzzle Pieces as well. GrandMa does allow you to return to the scenes to pick up any missed collectibles or Jigsaw Pieces which is required to open the Hidden Chapter entitled The Source, which is basically a Mini-Game.
"The Cracks" turns back the hands of the clock as you play Ursula trying to help Wolf hide the grimoire for safekeeping. This is an average-length chapter that takes place over 8 Scene Locations with an additional 9 Mini-Games, 2 Hidden Object Scenes. You will continue collecting the remaining Collectible Envelopes and the final Jigsaw Puzzle Pieces as well. GrandMa does allow you to return to the scenes to pick up any missed collectibles or Jigsaw Pieces which is required to open the Hidden Chapter entitled The Source, which is basically a Mini-Game.
Collector's Edition Extra's:
10 Wallpapers, 10 Concept Art Pictures, 23 Movie Cutscene Videos, 8 Music Soundtracks ♪, 9 Replayable Mini-Games♙, 12 Replayable Hidden Object Scenes, 12 Achievements, 48 Collectible Objects (1 simple, 1 morphing per scene) 20 Zoom Zone Jigsaw Puzzle Pieces (used to assemble a Jigsaw Puzzle) 5 Main Chapters (The Shards) +Bonus Chapter (The Cracks) a Hidden Chapter/Mini-Game (The Source) and a Built-In Strategy Guide. You can find my series lists and so much more at my new forum, won't you join us! thewoodsforum.boards.net
10 Wallpapers, 10 Concept Art Pictures, 23 Movie Cutscene Videos, 8 Music Soundtracks ♪, 9 Replayable Mini-Games♙, 12 Replayable Hidden Object Scenes, 12 Achievements, 48 Collectible Objects (1 simple, 1 morphing per scene) 20 Zoom Zone Jigsaw Puzzle Pieces (used to assemble a Jigsaw Puzzle) 5 Main Chapters (The Shards) +Bonus Chapter (The Cracks) a Hidden Chapter/Mini-Game (The Source) and a Built-In Strategy Guide. You can find my series lists and so much more at my new forum, won't you join us! thewoodsforum.boards.net
I recommend this game!
Paint by Numbers is back with a colorful new set of puzzles! With this series, painting has never been easier!
Overall rating
4
/
5
25 of 39 found this review helpful
LOVE THE COLORS & THE BACKGROUNDS!
PostedMay 5, 2021
Fun Factor
4
/
5
Visual/Sound Quality
4
/
5
Level of Challenge
4
/
5
Storyline
4
/
5
Someone's listening because the new vivid color options are way better! I've also noticed that some of the images allow you to paint the background as well which makes the completed picture more interesting. There are still some really boring images and none of the images shown in the BF synopsis are available in the demo with the exception of the first house image. I really wish they would allow you to choose any of the pictures to color in any order, but at least there is an option to change the background colors.
There are 64 images available but you are forced to finish the first level before moving on to the next. Why do I have to finish one level before proceeding? If you won't let the player see what's in store for them they may not purchase the game based upon the images presented in the demo, you should at least place some interesting pictures on the first level!
There are 64 images available but you are forced to finish the first level before moving on to the next. Why do I have to finish one level before proceeding? If you won't let the player see what's in store for them they may not purchase the game based upon the images presented in the demo, you should at least place some interesting pictures on the first level!
They also made the cursor tip slightly smaller and less bulky and you can now drag the cursor to fill in the colors on the entire board as long as you don't let go of the mouse button. In other words, as long as you left-click & hold before dragging a color, only the current number will be filled in, all other numbers will be ignored until you release the mouse button. This is a painting game...so it would be nice to have some actual paintbrush tip options (options is the keyword here as in more than one)
There is also a Hint button that will point to any missed areas of the current color, without penalty if you don't feel like swiping over the whole board to catch missed areas.
There's not a whole lot to have to figure out, it's about as uncomplicated and basic as it gets. Paint By Numbers is a computer version of Oil or Colored Pencil Paint by Numbers, and actually closer to the real thing than the Pixel Art versions. Each area has a number and you simply chose the corresponding color bubble from the palette (also numbered) on the right side, left-click to fill in all the numbers with the correct color.
There is a Slider Bar that allows you to zoom in & out as well as a "fit" tab. You can also move the entire page around by right-clicking and dragging. There is a slider bar that allows you to change the color of the background, which now includes a full-color scale.
I'm finally seeing a little bit of progress, and I'm finally able to play these games in the full-screen mode now that they have added my resolution, so Paint by Numbers is finally looking promising! Won't you please join us on my new forum? thewoodsforum.boards.net ☯
I recommend this game!
Complete challenging solitaire puzzles and help a couple escape a zombie infestation!
Overall rating
1
/
5
88 of 94 found this review helpful
ANYONE ELSE GET EXCITED OVER THE TITLE ONLY TO BE DISAPPOINTED THAT IT'S THE SAME GAME BY THE USUAL DEVELOPER?
PostedMay 4, 2021
pennmom36
fromThe only Zombie story you'll get in this game is when you read the above synopsis!
Skill Level:Expert
Fun Factor
1
/
5
Visual/Sound Quality
1
/
5
Level of Challenge
1
/
5
Storyline
1
/
5
For a brief moment, I was excited to see a Zombie-themed Solitaire game offered today. That excitement quickly waned when I realized that it was just another ordinary solitaire game by the same developer, "stuck on the eighth floor" It seems BF is running out of decent games when they have to offer 3 solitaire games by this developer in a single month, and for the first time in history they haven't even offered a CE on Saturday's! Surely there are other developers who would love to have their game released on BF besides the handful of developers currently presented. There are literally thousands of developers and dozens of genres out there but all we get lately are 3rd rate, solitaire games, match 3 games, mosaic games that are crossing the threshold of 50 games in the series, an occasional HOPA, and a Time Management game that are hit-or-miss kind of games. What about Adventure Games, Platformer Games, Word Games, Real-time Strategy games, Shooter Games, RPGs, Open-World, Action-Adventure, Survival Games, Sandbox Games, and more importantly, Escape the Room and Puzzle-Adventure games? We never get a variety to choose from, all we get are the same few genres in the same series by the same developers. It used to be exciting to wake up to see a brand new game, now everyone just says "oh, it's just another game by..."
This particular developer mass-produces these games with little thought or consideration to the quality of the game or its features. Reviewers state over and over that they want to be able to remove all cards, not just the special cards, but they never bother to offer Solitaire games that will please "we the people" because that would require changing something besides the title and background!
Once again, there are 9 uninteresting Card Graphic Themes to choose from and 3 Font sizes (traditional, themed, and large font). The music isn't bad, but yes, it too is the same, not to mention that at times the music pauses and you're left with an awkward silence. Once again, nothing changed with these features!
As usual, the game begins with a tutorial in Newbie Mode which allows you to replay any level. After completing the tutorial or opting out by clicking on the tutorial X, you can choose the Professional Mode which only allows you to play the entire 10 level pack. These are the same level layouts as all of their other numerous solitaire games, sometimes they switch the order or the levels, sometimes they don't. Have you ever noticed that the first level's tutorial always makes you choose the worse possible cards instead of the chain that would remove more cards? You know how to play this game if you've ever played a game by this developer so click the X on the tutorial to choose the best scenario of cards on level one. Have you ever noticed that the first level can be completed by removing every single card in an attempt to make the player believe that this is how the entire game will be...that's just not the case! Have you ever noticed that level 5 of every solitaire game they offer, requires you to replay the level 10-15 times to beat it, which takes up nearly the entire demo? It's because nothing ever changes!
This is a Higher/Lower style Solitaire game (of course it is) where the only goal is to remove all of the Gold Cards. Once the gold cards have been collected, you will earn the maximum amount of points and the game ends even if other regular cards remain. You don't have a choice to continue playing at this point, it's game over! If you remove all gold cards you'll get a perfect score and the points of that level are added to the next level similar to bowling scores. You must earn the required amount of points to unlock the next location and there are 20 Locations with 10 levels per location. Yup, still the same feature!
When you remove cards with a Flower you will receive either +499 points, a Joker, a Shuffle, or Mulligan (undo) and you can buy Jokers, Shuffles, and Mulligans within the Shop with the points you have earned, at a ridiculous price point of 2500-8000-5000. Lucky us, they decided to add several more bonus cards per level which translates to an agonizing game interruption because the game freezes to show you what you have just won. Surprise, there are no surprises!
Once again, this game states that there are Achievements to earn, but I've yet to earn one, but then again, I never buy them anymore, therefore, I never play further than the demo because I have no desire to waste money on a game that has nothing new to offer, and never gives me the option to continue playing after removing all Gold Cards. I refuse to even use a PCC.
When and if they decide to change something other than the title and occasionally the background graphics, I may consider buying them, but only if they make an option that allows me to remove all of the cards, not just the Gold Cards. Until they bother to change something, anything...I will continue giving them a single star, I'd give them ZERO stars if I could! Come join me on my new forum thewoodsforum.boards.net
I don't recommend this game.
See if you can climb the Tower of Wishes in this family-friendly match-3 adventure!
Overall rating
5
/
5
121 of 141 found this review helpful
I LIKED TOWER OF GODS BUT I LOVE TOWER OF WISHES!
PostedMay 2, 2021
pennmom36
fromI love that falling tile matches don't count by default!
Skill Level:Expert
Fun Factor
5
/
5
Visual/Sound Quality
4
/
5
Level of Challenge
4
/
5
Storyline
4
/
5
Tower of Wishes is even better than its predecessor, Tower of Gods because it is a very challenging (but doable) game. This has everything I want in a Match 3 game, a difficulty mode option, an option to switch between Relaxed, Limited Time, or Limited Moves at any point in the game, decent obstacles, unusual features, replayability, and a decent amount of challenge. I also love the fact that this doesn't play like a Mobile App, large matches aren't readily available to give you a ton of Power-ups on the board to the point that the game plays itself. Expect to have to replay levels because you will run out of time or moves (unless playing in Endless mode); but this is what makes a Match 3 game a challenging, strategy-based game versus a mobile app kind of game that simply requires exploding bombs at a mindless pace!
My favorite feature is where you had to make matches in front of the statue heads to trigger a dart that would first clear the blockage or trigger chain reaction explosions, and then continue to shoot darts with every adjacent match! I also liked the levels that had locked areas that required making a specified number of matches of specified tiles to open up the areas (each blocked tile has a # next to them and they don't unlock until you have met those requirements) There are several features that for me, made the game really fun to play, and I looked forward to each proceeding level because they were always unique.
The goal is to climb all 100 levels of the Tower of Wishes which grants you a single wish, in this case, in hopes of regaining your memory) You can choose the graphics (fast or quality) and choose between a Casual or Expert difficulty mode (which I believe has more opportunities for larger matches in Casual) as well as the type of Match 3 style, a Limited Time, Limited Moves, or an Endless Mode, relaxed and timeless mode. There are 14 Achievements to earn and you can earn up to 3 Stars per level. I was super impressed that you can not only replay the current level but any previously played level at any time.
The tiles are easy to see and differentiate between. It does allow you to make fast, consecutive matches which is a feature I insist on when playing a Match 3 game. They did remove the annoying feature that required you to wait for the computer to finish playing thru the power-ups at the end of each level, which is one of the reasons I bumped up my star rating from 4-stars on Tower of God, to 5-stars on Tower of Wishes! We all have the need for speed and I just want to get on with the next level and play the game for myself, not watch the computer play!
The goal for every level is to release the Star Essences located within Treasure Chests at the bottom of the board. Getting to those chests, of course, is the difficult part because they are guarded by Stone Walls, Double Barrier Walls, Chained Tiles, Achilles Heel barriers that bounce tiles off 3 different sides (requires a match on the unprotected side), and hidden boards or nooks and crannies that require the statue heads to shoot an arrow to get to them.
Large Matches reward you with Power-ups on the board that can be swapped to an adjacent cell, or double-clicked to detonate. A match 4 gives you Dynamite, a Match 5 gives you a Rainbow Gem that can be matched with any two identical tiles for a match, and a Match T or L shape rewards you with a large Bomb that has a huge explosion radius. You can also use the Bonus Power-ups at your discretion, such as a Hammer to remove a single tile, a shuffle bonus to shuffle the tiles on the board, or the Hint icon which points to a viable move. These bonuses need to recharge after each use.
After a few Match 3 levels, you can play, or skip a Hidden Object Scene or a Mini-Game, such as Spot the Difference or Solitaire. Let's talk about games and much more on my new forum at thewoodsforum.boards.net
I recommend this game!
Polygon Art is back with more amazing Paint-by-Number puzzles and creating beautiful art has never been easier!
Overall rating
1
/
5
11 of 15 found this review helpful
I WAS TOTALLY BORED BUT THE KIDDOS LOVED IT!
PostedMay 1, 2021
Fun Factor
1
/
5
Visual/Sound Quality
1
/
5
Level of Challenge
1
/
5
Storyline
1
/
5
Although some minor changes were made on this new geometrical Polygon Art game, the developer is clearly failing to see the bigger picture...it's "all about the PICTURE" and these are dreadful pictures that are so simplistic that my 5-year old grandson was the only one who enjoyed it! Who cares about filling in a single heart or a cell phone image? Why do you force players to follow levels in a demo? IF there are better pictures on the other levels wouldn't you want players to see this?
The good stuff:
-for the 1st time, the developer is using slightly different color hue variations which gives it somewhat of a 3 dimensional appearance.
-The geometrical shapes have several advantages, it gives dimension and makes objects look like crystal, there's no need for those hideous black lines, the shapes are easier to see than most shapes in the paint by numbers games.
-I loved that only the current number was visible, the next number shows up when the previous number is complete (or the number is selected on the pad-no clutter)
-the cursor is smaller
-for the 1st time, the developer is using slightly different color hue variations which gives it somewhat of a 3 dimensional appearance.
-The geometrical shapes have several advantages, it gives dimension and makes objects look like crystal, there's no need for those hideous black lines, the shapes are easier to see than most shapes in the paint by numbers games.
-I loved that only the current number was visible, the next number shows up when the previous number is complete (or the number is selected on the pad-no clutter)
-the cursor is smaller
The bad stuff:
-The images are boring
-The polygon shapes are huge which makes the images super easy and the levels are over in a snap.
-Did I mention the picture selection is dreadful?
-Did I mention I can only choose pictures within the current level
-This is an Art game, why are all the pictures of a single item, why can't the background be involved as well?
-I appreciate that you have finally added color hue variations, but just about any modern running computer can easily identify 16,777,216 different colors...take advantage of at least SOME of them!
-Why do so many of the pictures involve fruit? Let's compromise, I'll eat fruit while playing, how about nature and animals for the pictures, preferably the ones I don't eat?
-Why can't I have more than one cursor option? (I don't eat those ;)
-The images are boring
-The polygon shapes are huge which makes the images super easy and the levels are over in a snap.
-Did I mention the picture selection is dreadful?
-Did I mention I can only choose pictures within the current level
-This is an Art game, why are all the pictures of a single item, why can't the background be involved as well?
-I appreciate that you have finally added color hue variations, but just about any modern running computer can easily identify 16,777,216 different colors...take advantage of at least SOME of them!
-Why do so many of the pictures involve fruit? Let's compromise, I'll eat fruit while playing, how about nature and animals for the pictures, preferably the ones I don't eat?
-Why can't I have more than one cursor option? (I don't eat those ;)
I don't actually see a bright side with this particular version. It may be time to call it quits on this series (Polygon Art) Please join us at my new forum, thewoodsforum.boards.net
I recommend this game!