catbag8717's Profile
Stat Summary
- Average Rating:3.3
- Helpful Votes:8,793
- Reviews Submitted:584
- First Review:April 27, 2012
- Most Recent Review:September 23, 2020
- Featured reviews0
Status:
Follow the trail of the mysterious woman in white and discover the secret behind her terrible task!
Overall rating
2
/
5
1 of 5 found this review helpful
This Game Can't SERIOUSLY be by Elephant, Can It?
PostedJune 20, 2013
catbag8717
fromTasmania, Australia
Skill Level:Intermediate
Favorite Genre(s):Hidden Object, Time Management
Current Favorite:
Nightmares from the Deep: The Cursed Heart
(163)Fun Factor
2
/
5
Visual/Sound Quality
4
/
5
Level of Challenge
4
/
5
Storyline
1
/
5
While waiting for new titles from Elephant, I decided that I would try this one. This was nowhere near the standard we’re used to, and I was very disappointed.
To be honest, the opening was one of the worst I’ve seen, especially the first part. I mean, it was a guy opening a book- WOW! SO EXCITING! Some of the characters are just ridiculous- a talking magpie with glasses (with a science degree too!). From then on, the story isn’t interesting at all. Rubbing salt in to the wounds, the demo is a laughable 25 minutes, which doesn’t give us any time to actually get in to the story. I’d tell you what happens in the demo, but there’s nothing to tell.
The graphics, however, are what is to be expected of Elephant. They are wonderfully clear, very realistic and the artwork was beautifully done. The character design is great too. It’s sad to think that the graphics were better than the story.
The HOS were good. They were standard of Elephant Games. They were fairly easy and included interactive objects. Not much of a challenge there. I can’t fault Elephant on this though, as this is pretty much what you’d expect from all games.
I only encountered one puzzle during my demo and to my surprise; I was able to solve it. Granted that it did take some time, but nonetheless, I persevered. Congrats to the developers on that one.
I only encountered one puzzle during my demo and to my surprise; I was able to solve it. Granted that it did take some time, but nonetheless, I persevered. Congrats to the developers on that one.
FEATURES
- Diary to keep track of events
- Taskbar of some sorts. Showed you what your next task was.
- There is an interactive map that saves a lot of time that would’ve otherwise been spent back tracking.
- 3 modes to play- I played Casual.
- Hint and skip recharge fast on Casual mode, and the hint is very helpful outside the HOS.
- At the end of the demo, you acquired a “Book of Fire.” The title is pretty self-explanatory, with its main use to melt ice to get to the next scene.
- The talking raven also acted as a carrier. As stated before, this character did get annoying very quickly.
- Diary to keep track of events
- Taskbar of some sorts. Showed you what your next task was.
- There is an interactive map that saves a lot of time that would’ve otherwise been spent back tracking.
- 3 modes to play- I played Casual.
- Hint and skip recharge fast on Casual mode, and the hint is very helpful outside the HOS.
- At the end of the demo, you acquired a “Book of Fire.” The title is pretty self-explanatory, with its main use to melt ice to get to the next scene.
- The talking raven also acted as a carrier. As stated before, this character did get annoying very quickly.
So, overall, this game barely scrapes in with a two star rating. I absolutely hated this story, and I can say that with no bias, as I am an Elephant fan. Sorry Elephant, this game hasn’t won me.
I don't recommend this game.
Can you stop a puzzle-loving killer before he strikes again?
Overall rating
4
/
5
31 of 35 found this review helpful
I Really Enjoyed This One! Very Under-rated Game!
PostedJune 18, 2013
catbag8717
fromTasmania, Australia
Skill Level:Intermediate
Favorite Genre(s):Hidden Object, Time Management
Current Favorite:
Nightmares from the Deep: The Cursed Heart
(163)Fun Factor
4
/
5
Visual/Sound Quality
4
/
5
Level of Challenge
4
/
5
Storyline
4
/
5
Those wanting an adventure, turn back now. This is a mostly Hidden Object Game with a great story, that produced a great demo. This, for me, is very under-rated!
The story is a good old-fashioned murder mystery that gets creepier and creepier. The story progresses chronologically and grips you from the word go, despite there being no voice-overs, so credit to the developer for that. Unlike most games, this game lets you play the entire hour trial. I got through 2 chapters and had just started the third when the game cut off. I don’t know how many chapters there are, but this indicates a short-medium length game.
There were quite a lot of HOS that were pretty easy for me. There were no interactive objects in the HOS itself, but rather in the gameplay. I pretty much knew exactly what I was going to get from each scene, but I wasn’t particularly fussed about that. There was one thing that irked me though: Unnecessary HOS. At the end of chapter 2, we have to go back to get the bloody letters. Instead of letting us just grab them, the game decided we would have to go through an entire HOS.
The puzzles, though, were anything but easy. I skipped every single one of them. They were a huge challenge for me! It’s got nothing to do with instructions, as they were clear, more just my ability.
The puzzles, though, were anything but easy. I skipped every single one of them. They were a huge challenge for me! It’s got nothing to do with instructions, as they were clear, more just my ability.
The graphics were alright. Standard for today, not fascinating, but not dull either. Everything was clear though, so I can’t complain.
I must point out that there were some illogical things about this game. In the early stages of the game, we needed to get the parts for a tap. The first part was nowhere to be found in the house, but rather in an alley on the street! I mean, what would that be doing there of all places? I know Hidden Object Games are illogical, but that’s ridiculous!
I must point out that there were some illogical things about this game. In the early stages of the game, we needed to get the parts for a tap. The first part was nowhere to be found in the house, but rather in an alley on the street! I mean, what would that be doing there of all places? I know Hidden Object Games are illogical, but that’s ridiculous!
FEATURES
- Quick recharging hint and skip. Unlike one reviewer said, the hint is actually helpful outside HOS.
- Diary, which keeps track of clues and tasks.
- No map.
- Quick recharging hint and skip. Unlike one reviewer said, the hint is actually helpful outside HOS.
- Diary, which keeps track of clues and tasks.
- No map.
There are hardly any features in this game, and with the lack of voice-overs and lots of HOS, some might be turned off, but I thought this game was really well done, much better than some of the mainstream games we've seen. I might buy this on sale. I highly recommend it!
I recommend this game!
Save the kingdom and reunite Princess Isabella with her prince in the exciting conclusion to the Princess Isabella trilogy!
Overall rating
5
/
5
26 of 31 found this review helpful
Brilliant! Loved The Demo!
PostedJune 17, 2013
catbag8717
fromTasmania, Australia
Skill Level:Intermediate
Favorite Genre(s):Hidden Object, Time Management
Current Favorite:
Nightmares from the Deep: The Cursed Heart
(163)Fun Factor
5
/
5
Visual/Sound Quality
4
/
5
Level of Challenge
4
/
5
Storyline
4
/
5
I’ve never liked this series before, and it’s no secret that I don’t like Gogii, but this game is absolutely amazing! From beginning to end, I was hooked. I will definitely buy this one.
Yeah, the story is not the best, but it grips you and doesn’t let go. The story is a classic fairytale setting, with evil witches, magic and princesses, and has been done many times before, but this game, for some reason, did it better than any of the others. I really have to know how this one ends!
Throughout the game, you free your godmothers from their curse by collecting portrait pieces. This game must have been made just for me, as I love this type of game! Only trouble is, the portrait pieces seem to be collected too quickly.
Throughout the game, you free your godmothers from their curse by collecting portrait pieces. This game must have been made just for me, as I love this type of game! Only trouble is, the portrait pieces seem to be collected too quickly.
The HOS were all right. They were mostly easy and I breezed through them. I hardly had to use the hint, with the most being twice a HOS. I did use it at least once in each though.
The puzzles, again, were fairly easy. I was able to play and complete most of them, with just the one requiring me to skip. I love when developers take gamers like me who aren’t the best at puzzles in to consideration!
The puzzles, again, were fairly easy. I was able to play and complete most of them, with just the one requiring me to skip. I love when developers take gamers like me who aren’t the best at puzzles in to consideration!
The graphics were standard for this time. They were clear, nothing was hazy. The artwork was well-done (far better than I could do), so I can’t complain.
The voice-overs were good too, but I have one complaint. The fairy, who you meet at the beginning of the game, talked way too fast. Lucky there were subtitles, or I wouldn’t have been able to understand what she was saying.
The voice-overs were good too, but I have one complaint. The fairy, who you meet at the beginning of the game, talked way too fast. Lucky there were subtitles, or I wouldn’t have been able to understand what she was saying.
This is becoming an increasing trend in games- the game has a ‘custom’ difficulty setting where players can alter the hint and skip recharge rates to their liking. I loved this as it let gamers play the game at their own pace.
FEATURES
- Hint and Skip- able to customize the speed to your liking.
- Diary to keep track of events. The diary is not referred to a lot in the game.
- No map, which was disappointing. From experience, this indicates a short game.
- Magic wand- helpful for a lot of things in the game, especially for collecting portrait pieces
- Dragon flute- used to call the Dragon to lift heavy objects.
- Collectable portrait pieces- the amount you need to collect rises with each portrait. For me, these pieces were being collected a little too quickly.
- Hint and Skip- able to customize the speed to your liking.
- Diary to keep track of events. The diary is not referred to a lot in the game.
- No map, which was disappointing. From experience, this indicates a short game.
- Magic wand- helpful for a lot of things in the game, especially for collecting portrait pieces
- Dragon flute- used to call the Dragon to lift heavy objects.
- Collectable portrait pieces- the amount you need to collect rises with each portrait. For me, these pieces were being collected a little too quickly.
It almost seems as if this game was tailor made to suit me. This game has everything I like, with collectable portrait pieces and custom difficulty settings and special abilities. I can’t see anything to dislike about the game. I will definitely buy this when another sale comes up. CE or SE, you’re guaranteed a great one!
I recommend this game!
The Queen has chosen your sister as her successor.
Overall rating
2
/
5
22 of 39 found this review helpful
I Hate To Be The One To Disagree, But...
PostedJune 14, 2013
catbag8717
fromTasmania, Australia
Skill Level:Intermediate
Favorite Genre(s):Hidden Object, Time Management
Current Favorite:
Nightmares from the Deep: The Cursed Heart
(163)Fun Factor
2
/
5
Visual/Sound Quality
4
/
5
Level of Challenge
4
/
5
Storyline
4
/
5
This game was so poor compared to its predecessor Ice Rose. Everything about it was worse than last time. It was as if some other developer had taken it over…
The story was pretty much the only decent thing of the game. It involves legends such as the Snow Queen and Snow White, adding frozen elements to it. The cutscene at the beginning drew me in a little, and the timeline had a chronological sequence to it. The story was well thought of and a unique twist, but was not as good as Ice Rose.
The HOS were good, and I enjoyed their challenge. The HOS included a number of extra step objects, and there was even one with silhouette objects. The scenes were clear, so finding things was not much of a problem graphic-wise.
One thing I noticed about the extra step objects: They were highlighted in orange, however when you did the first step of finding them, the colour did not change. This left me confused for a while as I wasn’t sure if I’d completed the first step yet.
The puzzles were very challenging for me, and I found myself waiting for the skip to charge. Some puzzles weren’t able to be skipped (for example, the circle one) and I had to refer to the strategy guide for solutions.
One thing I noticed about the extra step objects: They were highlighted in orange, however when you did the first step of finding them, the colour did not change. This left me confused for a while as I wasn’t sure if I’d completed the first step yet.
The puzzles were very challenging for me, and I found myself waiting for the skip to charge. Some puzzles weren’t able to be skipped (for example, the circle one) and I had to refer to the strategy guide for solutions.
The graphics were good and the artwork was done well and had some great detail to it. The graphics were what you’d expect from a 2013 game and from someone who had made Ice Rose.
Voice-overs were standard, what you’d expect. You can’t really judge the developer for these.
FEATURES
- Hint and skip- Both take a little too long to recharge on Casual, but they are still helpful.
- Diary to keep track of events. Diary also holds clues to puzzles.
- Map is interactive
- Collectable coins to upgrade stuff for your pet, which you acquire early in the game. I didn’t really explore this much as I wanted to focus on the game.
- Achievements (unsure if this is CE Exclusive)
- Built-in Strategy Guide (CE Exclusive)
The Bonus Content is unlockable at the end of the main game and includes:
- Bonus chapter
- Screensavers
- Wallpapers
- Music (play the music of the game)
- Concept Art
- Movies (replay movies of the game)
- Puzzles (replay the puzzles of the game)
- Hidden Objects (replay the HOS of the game)
Voice-overs were standard, what you’d expect. You can’t really judge the developer for these.
FEATURES
- Hint and skip- Both take a little too long to recharge on Casual, but they are still helpful.
- Diary to keep track of events. Diary also holds clues to puzzles.
- Map is interactive
- Collectable coins to upgrade stuff for your pet, which you acquire early in the game. I didn’t really explore this much as I wanted to focus on the game.
- Achievements (unsure if this is CE Exclusive)
- Built-in Strategy Guide (CE Exclusive)
The Bonus Content is unlockable at the end of the main game and includes:
- Bonus chapter
- Screensavers
- Wallpapers
- Music (play the music of the game)
- Concept Art
- Movies (replay movies of the game)
- Puzzles (replay the puzzles of the game)
- Hidden Objects (replay the HOS of the game)
This review seems full of comparisons to Ice Rose, but that’s what a sequel review is for me. In comparison, this game is very poor and really not worth the time or money. I won’t even wait for the CE. I am very disappointed…
I don't recommend this game.
Something’s driven everyone away from Linden Shades.
Overall rating
4
/
5
5 of 6 found this review helpful
Solid. Great Entertainer.
PostedJune 11, 2013
catbag8717
fromTasmania, Australia
Skill Level:Intermediate
Favorite Genre(s):Hidden Object, Time Management
Current Favorite:
Nightmares from the Deep: The Cursed Heart
(163)Fun Factor
4
/
5
Visual/Sound Quality
5
/
5
Level of Challenge
4
/
5
Storyline
4
/
5
I was a little reluctant to try this game at first, but I’m glad I did! The story showed some great promise during the demo, and while not perfect, this is one I’d definitely consider playing on!
First off, the cutscenes in the story use real actors and real footage, not just cartoon animated cheap stuff we’ve seen lately. On the subject of the actual story, it was something that I really enjoyed. The story got better and better as I got through the demo, but the demo ended so quickly that I thought I didn’t get enough. Voice-overs are used sparingly; only in the tapes and intro.
The HOS I thought were really good, although I thought there were a few too many of them. I really enjoyed the amount of extra step objects. There were 3 per HOS, with one taking multiple steps to complete. This was a first from what I can recall, and I hope this makes future appearances.
I encountered 4 puzzles during the demo, and they were a mix of super easy and more challenging. The first 2 were very, very easy and the other 2 were a little harder. So the puzzles were simple, and would be good for a beginner.
I encountered 4 puzzles during the demo, and they were a mix of super easy and more challenging. The first 2 were very, very easy and the other 2 were a little harder. So the puzzles were simple, and would be good for a beginner.
The graphics, I have to say, were great. The artwork was done brilliantly, so well that I thought some of it was real. You can clearly tell that the developers have put in a lot of effort to try and please us.
I was disappointed with how sparingly the voice-overs were used. There was the intro, chatting to a character, then nothing during the demo except for the tapes. This was a little disappointing for me…
I was disappointed with how sparingly the voice-overs were used. There was the intro, chatting to a character, then nothing during the demo except for the tapes. This was a little disappointing for me…
FEATURES
- 3 modes of play: Casual, Advanced, Insane (I played Casual)
- Hint and Skip- fast recharge and the hint is a great help
- Interactive Map
- Diary to keep track of events. Also holds objectives and tapes.
- Collectable tapes to further the investigation
- NO strategy guide
- Achievements- always adds fun (CE Exclusive)
- Bonus Chapter (CE Exclusive)
- Replay HOS (Bonus Content)
- Bonus HOS (Bonus Content)
- Replay Puzzles (Bonus Content)
- Bonus Puzzle (Bonus Content)
- 3 modes of play: Casual, Advanced, Insane (I played Casual)
- Hint and Skip- fast recharge and the hint is a great help
- Interactive Map
- Diary to keep track of events. Also holds objectives and tapes.
- Collectable tapes to further the investigation
- NO strategy guide
- Achievements- always adds fun (CE Exclusive)
- Bonus Chapter (CE Exclusive)
- Replay HOS (Bonus Content)
- Bonus HOS (Bonus Content)
- Replay Puzzles (Bonus Content)
- Bonus Puzzle (Bonus Content)
This game was solid and a great time filler. I really enjoyed my demo, but will probably wait for the SE.
A solid four for me.
A solid four for me.
I recommend this game!
Track down a missing detective and fight an evil curse!
Overall rating
1
/
5
11 of 22 found this review helpful
Horrible. Couldn't Delete Fast Enough. SO not worth the wait.
PostedJune 8, 2013
catbag8717
fromTasmania, Australia
Skill Level:Intermediate
Favorite Genre(s):Hidden Object, Time Management
Current Favorite:
Nightmares from the Deep: The Cursed Heart
(163)Fun Factor
1
/
5
Visual/Sound Quality
4
/
5
Level of Challenge
2
/
5
Storyline
3
/
5
This game is perhaps a candidate for the worst game of 2013. I really didn’t like it. From the start I was put off, and there were multiple things that I found wrong with this game.
To begin with, the story actually wasn’t that interesting. I was very disappointed. It’s something to do with a cursed map. The cutscenes are a little blurry at times, and are just BORING. I felt like I was about to fall asleep.
The HOS were terrible. The game tries to trick you in to thinking you’ll get the normal junkpile scenes, but after that there are these scenes where you interact with the objects. I got stuck a lot, and it annoyed me that the hint recharged at one minute, which is a bit long for casual mode, and annoyed me more because I was getting stuck a lot.
Some of the puzzles were EXTREMELY hard, and it annoyed me that the skip recharged at somewhere between 1 minute 45 seconds to 2 minutes. That is seriously WAY too long. Adding to the fact that there is no strategy guide since it’s a SE, I was forced to just sit and wait it out.
Some of the puzzles were EXTREMELY hard, and it annoyed me that the skip recharged at somewhere between 1 minute 45 seconds to 2 minutes. That is seriously WAY too long. Adding to the fact that there is no strategy guide since it’s a SE, I was forced to just sit and wait it out.
The graphics were decent. A lot of it was clear, but there were some scenes that were hazy. Some improvement should have been made.
FEATURES
- Hint and Skip- took way too long, even on casual. Skip is about 2 minutes, hint is 1. That’s just ridiculous.
- Diary to keep track of events. It is very helpful
- Map. Not interactive
- Hint and Skip- took way too long, even on casual. Skip is about 2 minutes, hint is 1. That’s just ridiculous.
- Diary to keep track of events. It is very helpful
- Map. Not interactive
I’ve never given a mainstream game a one before, but this game truly deserves it. Everything about it was awful, and I couldn’t get it off my computer fast enough.
Enigma Agency, YOU FAIL!
Enigma Agency, YOU FAIL!
I don't recommend this game.
Dark Dimensions: City of Ash Collector's Edition
A dark dimension has fallen over Phoenix Hill, turning its residents into volcanic ash. Help them rise from the ashes.
Overall rating
3
/
5
1 of 1 found this review helpful
Worth Playing, Enjoyed the Demo.
PostedJune 8, 2013
catbag8717
fromTasmania, Australia
Skill Level:Intermediate
Favorite Genre(s):Hidden Object, Time Management
Current Favorite:
Nightmares from the Deep: The Cursed Heart
(163)Fun Factor
4
/
5
Visual/Sound Quality
5
/
5
Level of Challenge
4
/
5
Storyline
3
/
5
It seems this developer just can’t wow me- They can make some good games sure, but not one of those thrillers than makes me want to buy it and complete the game. I did enjoy the demo, but not once did I consider buying.
The problem I had with the first two games was that I didn’t know what my purpose was. This game was different as I knew what my purpose was from the start. The storyline was a little different, and I enjoyed it, but it didn’t suck me in. The storyline is very similar to the Mount Vesuvius disaster in Pompeii, so historians might enjoy this.
The story takes a great turn towards the end of the demo, and I was really starting to like this evil character.
The story takes a great turn towards the end of the demo, and I was really starting to like this evil character.
I couldn’t help but notice how stupid some parts of this game were. For example, I picked up a valve and used it on something, then got it back to use something else. That never happens in other games, and I doubt it would happen in real-life.
Also, during one of the HOS, one of my interactive items was pizza. You had to put pepperoni on the pizza to make it a complete object (stupid already- since when is pizza a Hidden Object) but to add to the stupidity, the “pizza” was just rolled out dough. HAHAHAHAHAHA! I was spending all this time trying to find an actual pizza, only to discover that it was rolled out dough.
Also, during one of the HOS, one of my interactive items was pizza. You had to put pepperoni on the pizza to make it a complete object (stupid already- since when is pizza a Hidden Object) but to add to the stupidity, the “pizza” was just rolled out dough. HAHAHAHAHAHA! I was spending all this time trying to find an actual pizza, only to discover that it was rolled out dough.
While I’m on the subject of HOS, they appeared frequently, not too much, just frequent. I liked them, as they were a good challenge for me and included a number of extra step objects (one of which required two steps), so, kudos to the developer for the challenge there.
The puzzles were a little different though. 2 of them were foolishly easy, (the coin one and the triangle one) and others were a little hard. Lucky for me, I had a Strategy Guide and quick recharging hint and my disposal. I must admit, the math one stumped me!
The puzzles were a little different though. 2 of them were foolishly easy, (the coin one and the triangle one) and others were a little hard. Lucky for me, I had a Strategy Guide and quick recharging hint and my disposal. I must admit, the math one stumped me!
The graphics were much improved from the first two games. The artwork was clear and well done, with the HOS being exceptionally clear. These graphics were outstanding. I can’t really fault the developer on those.
The voice-overs were standard. The acting was standard, not over-done, which was good. The voice-overs were a good fit for this game.
The voice-overs were standard. The acting was standard, not over-done, which was good. The voice-overs were a good fit for this game.
FEATURES
- Hint and Skip- fast recharge. Hint is very helpful
- 3 modes of difficulty- Casual, Advanced and Hard (I played casual)
- Diary to keep track of events. Can flip between past and present, also contains spoilers for the other two games
- Map, which is interactive and saves time backtracking.
- Built in Strategy Guide (CE Exclusive)- This was great for solving puzzles.
- There are Collections but there is no mention of what they are or how to get them
- Bonus Chapter (Bonus Content, CE Exclusive)
- Concept Art (Bonus Content, CE Exclusive)
- Music (Bonus Content, CE Exclusive)
- Wallpapers (Bonus Content, CE Exclusive)
- Hint and Skip- fast recharge. Hint is very helpful
- 3 modes of difficulty- Casual, Advanced and Hard (I played casual)
- Diary to keep track of events. Can flip between past and present, also contains spoilers for the other two games
- Map, which is interactive and saves time backtracking.
- Built in Strategy Guide (CE Exclusive)- This was great for solving puzzles.
- There are Collections but there is no mention of what they are or how to get them
- Bonus Chapter (Bonus Content, CE Exclusive)
- Concept Art (Bonus Content, CE Exclusive)
- Music (Bonus Content, CE Exclusive)
- Wallpapers (Bonus Content, CE Exclusive)
While this game has some great CE Extras, the game itself is not gripping. While I enjoyed the demo, I don’t think I will be buying this game. That being said, I’m happy to recommend it.
I recommend this game!
A simple murder investigation in Spain becomes a puzzling whodunit filled with intrigue.
Overall rating
4
/
5
6 of 7 found this review helpful
Great Quality. Short Game. Bad Ending.
PostedJune 3, 2013
catbag8717
fromTasmania, Australia
Skill Level:Intermediate
Favorite Genre(s):Hidden Object, Time Management
Fun Factor
5
/
5
Visual/Sound Quality
4
/
5
Level of Challenge
4
/
5
Storyline
4
/
5
REVIEW OF COMPLETED GAME
‘Cause I liked the trial, I decided to purchase this game on sale, and I really enjoyed it, but I was disappointed in 2 things:
1) The game was very short, even for me
2) The game’s ending wasn’t very good, and looked like it should have continued (This is what the CE is for!)
‘Cause I liked the trial, I decided to purchase this game on sale, and I really enjoyed it, but I was disappointed in 2 things:
1) The game was very short, even for me
2) The game’s ending wasn’t very good, and looked like it should have continued (This is what the CE is for!)
The story was really good though, and was originally what attracted me to the game as I love a good old-fashioned murder mystery. The story takes many twists and turns and has an unexpected conclusion (even if it was an open end) and I really appreciated this story. I also enjoyed the little fennec fox that occasionally popped up from time to time. That being said, I still wasn’t impressed with the length of this story, my estimate being 2-3 hours of gameplay, which simply is not enough.
As is custom with the current ERS games these days, there were 2 different types of HOS: Junkpile & Silhouette. Both were good and challenging, with silhouette being the most challenging for me. I found myself constantly using the hint for that!
The junkpile HOS features 2-3 extra step objects per scene, with two collectable fans in each scene also. The fans are used for instant hints, which you can use at any time, otherwise you must wait for the hint to recharge.
The puzzles were a mixture of good and hard. To my surprise, I was able to complete most of them. There were multiple sucker dart puzzles, which I enjoyed. There were some of the puzzles, for example, the chain puzzle, that I didn’t like though and found to be too hard. One annoying thing that I feel I have the obligation to point out: If you leave the puzzle accidently, the skip button resets and it has to charge again!!
The junkpile HOS features 2-3 extra step objects per scene, with two collectable fans in each scene also. The fans are used for instant hints, which you can use at any time, otherwise you must wait for the hint to recharge.
The puzzles were a mixture of good and hard. To my surprise, I was able to complete most of them. There were multiple sucker dart puzzles, which I enjoyed. There were some of the puzzles, for example, the chain puzzle, that I didn’t like though and found to be too hard. One annoying thing that I feel I have the obligation to point out: If you leave the puzzle accidently, the skip button resets and it has to charge again!!
The graphics and voice-overs were standard for ERS games these days. Everything was clear and the artwork was well done. Voice-overs were not over-done, luckily, as I cannot stand over-acting. Overall, standard. I can’t complain
FEATURES
- Diary to keep track of events
- No map
- Suspect file, which is located in the Diary. Keeps track of suspects, motives and evidence.
- Fast recharging hint and skip, although the skip resets if you exit out of the puzzle. There are some fans to collect that give you instant hints.
- Collectable coins to buy items. You can find coins scattered throughout the game or win some in the sucker dart game.
- Diary to keep track of events
- No map
- Suspect file, which is located in the Diary. Keeps track of suspects, motives and evidence.
- Fast recharging hint and skip, although the skip resets if you exit out of the puzzle. There are some fans to collect that give you instant hints.
- Collectable coins to buy items. You can find coins scattered throughout the game or win some in the sucker dart game.
Overall, I was extremely impressed with the story and quality of this game, but very disappointed with the length. This game gets a four overall, although I give it 5 for enjoyment.
I recommend this game!
Azada's saga continues when its precious elements are stolen!
Overall rating
2
/
5
9 of 11 found this review helpful
ERS Have Given Us Some Masterpieces. This Is Not One Of Them.
PostedMay 31, 2013
catbag8717
fromTasmania, Australia
Skill Level:Intermediate
Favorite Genre(s):Hidden Object, Time Management
Fun Factor
2
/
5
Visual/Sound Quality
4
/
5
Level of Challenge
3
/
5
Storyline
3
/
5
Once I heard that ERS had taken over Azada, I was excited to try this game. Shortly after, however, the excitement wore off and I began to realize what a bore this was.
The story is a little confusing, but is gripping in some sense. The cutscenes are dramatic and hook you a little more each time. There was great use of fairytales and magic in this story, and I thought it was okay.
The puzzles in their own right were good, although I skipped a couple of them. A lot of them had easy concepts, but I couldn’t get past the coin one, so kudos to the developer for that. All other puzzles were relatively easy though.
The HOS are a different story though, and I found them quite hard, having to use the hint multiple times. There are quite a number of extra step objects, which was very challenging for me.
The HOS are a different story though, and I found them quite hard, having to use the hint multiple times. There are quite a number of extra step objects, which was very challenging for me.
The graphics were standard ERS and were all clear, with well-drawn artwork and characters. The scenes were done well too.
The voice-overs were good, again, standard ERS. Voice-overs are hard to fault in any game unless they are annoying, a drone or just plain BORING. (for example: Phenomenon: Meteorite) so these voice-overs are just the average of what you’d expect.
The voice-overs were good, again, standard ERS. Voice-overs are hard to fault in any game unless they are annoying, a drone or just plain BORING. (for example: Phenomenon: Meteorite) so these voice-overs are just the average of what you’d expect.
FEATURES
- A pet that you get to name, decide its age & hometown, customize and dress. This was a cute, but unnecessary addition to the game.
- Diary to keep track of events (very useful)
- Map, which is interactive and shows you the tasks you have left to perform in that area
- Hint and skip- Both charged fast and were needed a lot, as I would struggle to figure out what to do next. I also needed them a lot for HOS.
- Element Amulets (which you needed to assemble)
- A pet that you get to name, decide its age & hometown, customize and dress. This was a cute, but unnecessary addition to the game.
- Diary to keep track of events (very useful)
- Map, which is interactive and shows you the tasks you have left to perform in that area
- Hint and skip- Both charged fast and were needed a lot, as I would struggle to figure out what to do next. I also needed them a lot for HOS.
- Element Amulets (which you needed to assemble)
After a promising start, this game soon diminished in to one to forget. I didn’t much like the other Azada's, and this is no exception, despite the new developer.
I don't recommend this game.
In order to save your life, your twin sister traded her soul to a witch. Now you must race through the looking glass to rescue her!
Overall rating
4
/
5
11 of 16 found this review helpful
Stunning CE Worth Every Extra Cent! (Full Rating 4.5)
PostedMay 31, 2013
catbag8717
fromTasmania, Australia
Skill Level:Intermediate
Favorite Genre(s):Hidden Object, Time Management
Fun Factor
4
/
5
Visual/Sound Quality
4
/
5
Level of Challenge
4
/
5
Storyline
4
/
5
This is ERS’ 50th Game and can almost be considered the greatest one. I really enjoyed every minute of the demo and am seriously considering playing on!
The storyline is one of the most gripping, yet cutest, storyline I have ever seen. It’s Narnia meets Once Upon A Time, and you earn a lot of animal helpers on the way. The main story centres around an evil witch, who has taken your sister after she sacrifices her soul to save you. You, of course, are having none of it and are desperate to get your sister back. This to me promises a brilliant ending, a showdown between the witch and you to get your sister back, and I can’t wait to see our heroine take down the evil witch!
The HOS, or HOP’s as the game calls them, were a lot harder than I expected! They were a serious challenge for me, and there were 3 types. The first was your classic junkpile HOS (although in this one you have to find large groups of things), Silhouette HOS (finding things based on their pictures and adding them to things to get another item and so forth) and a new one, Pairing HOS (pairing one item with another). All 3 were challenging, but the junkpile was the easiest.
The graphics, as always, were fantastic. Artwork is fantastic, and the graphics are clear. Voice-overs were great too: Cute, funny etc.
FEATURES
- Hint and Skip- both recharged quickly and the hint was very useful.
- Diary to keep track of events
- Map is interactive, and can be found inside the Diary.
- Built in Strategy Guide (CE Exclusive)
- Fortune Nuts, which I thought were extremely cute. As you collect them, they give you funny little fortunes. (I am praying this isn’t a CE Exclusive. Everyone deserves these no matter what their budget!)
- Bonus Chapter (CE Exclusive- Unlocked at the end of the game)
- Wallpapers (CE Exclusive- Unlocked at the end of the game)
- Screensavers (CE Exclusive- Unlocked at the end of the game)
- Calendars (New. CE Exclusive- Unlocked at the end of the game)
- Ability to replay HOS (CE Exclusive- Unlocked at the end of the game)
- Ability to replay Puzzles (CE Exclusive- Unlocked at the end of the game)
- Music player which plays all music in the game (CE Exclusive- Unlocked at the end of the game)
- Achievements- Ranging from HOS achievements, puzzle achievements, nut achievements, to various in game achievements. (CE Exclusive- Unlocked at the end of the game)
- Movie viewer, which plays all movies seen in the game. (CE Exclusive- Unlocked at the end of the game)
- Concept Art (CE Exclusive- Unlocked at the end of the game)
- Hint and Skip- both recharged quickly and the hint was very useful.
- Diary to keep track of events
- Map is interactive, and can be found inside the Diary.
- Built in Strategy Guide (CE Exclusive)
- Fortune Nuts, which I thought were extremely cute. As you collect them, they give you funny little fortunes. (I am praying this isn’t a CE Exclusive. Everyone deserves these no matter what their budget!)
- Bonus Chapter (CE Exclusive- Unlocked at the end of the game)
- Wallpapers (CE Exclusive- Unlocked at the end of the game)
- Screensavers (CE Exclusive- Unlocked at the end of the game)
- Calendars (New. CE Exclusive- Unlocked at the end of the game)
- Ability to replay HOS (CE Exclusive- Unlocked at the end of the game)
- Ability to replay Puzzles (CE Exclusive- Unlocked at the end of the game)
- Music player which plays all music in the game (CE Exclusive- Unlocked at the end of the game)
- Achievements- Ranging from HOS achievements, puzzle achievements, nut achievements, to various in game achievements. (CE Exclusive- Unlocked at the end of the game)
- Movie viewer, which plays all movies seen in the game. (CE Exclusive- Unlocked at the end of the game)
- Concept Art (CE Exclusive- Unlocked at the end of the game)
This CE is jam-packed full of extras, and I’d say is well worth the extra money. The game in itself is an absolute cracker and will be a joy for all fairytale lovers (especially those who like Narnia and Once Upon A Time) and fairytale haters alike, with the only reason it misses out on a 5 being because I had to use the hint so much. No matter which version you get, you are sure to love this!
I recommend this game!