alphafem's Profile
Stat Summary
- Average Rating:4.6
- Helpful Votes:193
- Reviews Submitted:28
- First Review:January 18, 2013
- Most Recent Review:April 22, 2018
- Featured reviews0
During the finale of The Maze, the transmission is mysteriously stopped. Now it's up to you to find the missing contestants!
Overall rating
5
/
5
1 of 1 found this review helpful
VERY GOOD (based upon completed game)
PostedApril 22, 2018
alphafem
fromWest Coast, USA
Skill Level:Expert
Favorite Genre(s):Brain Teaser, Hidden Object, Strategy
Fun Factor
4
/
5
Visual/Sound Quality
5
/
5
Level of Challenge
5
/
5
Storyline
5
/
5
You've probably already read the Storyline in great detail, so I'll skip that, but yes, it was entertaining.
This is from Elephant Games 2011. They were very much smaller back in the day...but just as creative.
Yes, the HOP's were a bit grainy, but I'm not gonna whine, and dock them points on Visual Quality, as it was the technology of that time. The HOP's themselves were done well, and challenging enough for anyone who can appreciate a break from today's UN-hidden object games. I couldn't just blow right through these, and yes, sometimes I had to use the hint button on that last item I just couldn't find. But there it was...cleverly hidden. That's what it's about for me.
The mini-games were in a range from not so difficult, to, for me, REALLY challenging! When it comes to mini-games, I'm no ditz...the tougher the better. I had to read some of the directions more than once, and fool around a bit, before I got the hang of a few of them. And yes, some I even skipped. I'll leave those to you Mini-Game Masters out there...and doff my hat to you!
I really enjoyed this game. Will I play it again? Absolutely. I hope you enjoy your time with it as much as I did. Peace.
I recommend this game!
Uncover secrets about a murdered woman and her missing daughter.
Overall rating
4
/
5
1 of 2 found this review helpful
NOT QUITE CE WORTHY....SADLY
PostedJanuary 28, 2018
alphafem
fromWest Coast, USA
Skill Level:Expert
Favorite Genre(s):Brain Teaser, Hidden Object, Strategy
Fun Factor
5
/
5
Visual/Sound Quality
5
/
5
Level of Challenge
3
/
5
Storyline
5
/
5
The Fun Factor, Visual/Sound Quality, and Storyline were ALL excellent. Loved those.
However, some of the CE "bling" was less than stellar. These details are what I consider worth the CE price...or not.
- The Collectibles (15 coins, 15 dolls, 15 scrolls) were all basically "in your face" easy to find...if you were looking for them. The coins did add background to (I guess) games 1 and 2, but the dolls and scrolls added no game value.
-The Morphing Objects were in the list type HOP's only, and the item name "flashed" in the inventory. Hint enough?
-You could only re-play 6 of the mini-games.
-You could only re-play 8 of the HOP's.
-The Bonus Game was EXTREMELY short, and should have been added into the Main Game. It didn't offer much substance, and no added depth to the storyline.
-The Morphing Objects were in the list type HOP's only, and the item name "flashed" in the inventory. Hint enough?
-You could only re-play 6 of the mini-games.
-You could only re-play 8 of the HOP's.
-The Bonus Game was EXTREMELY short, and should have been added into the Main Game. It didn't offer much substance, and no added depth to the storyline.
All in all, it's a good game. Am I glad I bought the CE? Um, but if I had bought the SE, I'm sure I'd have given it a 5 Star rating. Yep. I would have.
Either way you go, enjoy your time! Peace.
I recommend this game!
A time-traveling killer is taking out the Gray family, one by one.
Overall rating
5
/
5
25 of 36 found this review helpful
Based on Demo.....
PostedJanuary 25, 2018
alphafem
fromWest Coast, USA
Skill Level:Expert
Favorite Genre(s):Brain Teaser, Hidden Object, Large File, Strategy
Fun Factor
5
/
5
Visual/Sound Quality
5
/
5
Level of Challenge
4
/
5
Storyline
5
/
5
I really like the Grim Tales collection. I have all but two (Graywitch and Threads of Destiny). Elephant games puts out approximately one every six months or so, and this is sooo much better than the "assembly line/cookie cutter" offerings we see too much of lately. There is an obvious pride that Elephant brings to the table. I respect that much more than mass production! Does QUANTITY over QUALITY ever really work?
This demo gave me all the hope that The Time Traveler will follow along the same awesome paths as The Legacy, The Wishes, and Crimson Hollow before it. (my three favorites). I've liked everything I've seen so far, so this is a buy for me.
As always, do what brings a smile to your heart. Peace.
I recommend this game!
A missing girl has been lured away by evil music! Stop the young prodigy and save everyone from the evil Maestro!
Overall rating
5
/
5
GREAT OLDER GAME...from 2011
PostedJanuary 22, 2018
alphafem
fromWest Coast, USA
Skill Level:Expert
Favorite Genre(s):Brain Teaser, Hidden Object, Large File, Strategy
Fun Factor
5
/
5
Visual/Sound Quality
5
/
5
Level of Challenge
4
/
5
Storyline
5
/
5
I mostly play the older games. They seem to have more quality, and less of the "cookie cutter" aspect seen of late. I don't post many reviews (most are never even seen under the Newest First heading), but have several excellent games listed in my profile. Give some a go! (click my name to the left for the ones I have written about).
I really enjoyed this game. The artwork was superb, and the music, for the most part, was wonderful. The storyline was engaging. No map. But that's okay with me...I have a note pad I use for games with no map. It helps.
The HOP's were well drawn and visually interesting. Not super challenging, but still fun. Pssst...if you want HOP Challenge try "Haunted Manor: Queen of Death". AWESOME Challenge! Again 2011. But what do I know? This game is titled "Maestro: Notes of Life". An HOP listed "drumstick" to find. I spent the longest time searching for a roasted turkey leg! DUH!! *heavy sigh*
The mini-games were in a range, to suit everyone. They fit well with the game as a whole. I did have to skip the one with the ballerinas. I am a die-hard-mini-game-junkie, and I only have a few hairs left, so it was best to let the ballerinas go.
The ending was rather abrupt. Maybe the Bonus Game in the CE went further. But all in all, this game, I'm sure you will like. Do what brings you JOY. Peace.
I recommend this game!
Dive into Haunted Manor: Queen of Death and save your sister before it’s too late! Find a powerful amulet to stop an ancient evil!
Overall rating
5
/
5
4 of 4 found this review helpful
Quite A Game!!
PostedJanuary 20, 2018
alphafem
fromWest Coast, USA
Skill Level:Expert
Favorite Genre(s):Brain Teaser, Hidden Object, Large File, Strategy
Fun Factor
5
/
5
Visual/Sound Quality
5
/
5
Level of Challenge
5
/
5
Storyline
5
/
5
This is a stellar game for ones who love detail, beauty, and a challenge!
This gem was made in 2011, but I didn't find it until 2018, thanks due to a reviewer who listed it as "Current Favorite" over to the left. Even by today's standards, it is incredible. If your're not up to a real Challenge level, don't even bother with the demo...let alone slamming the entire rating because the Challenge level is more than you comfortable with.
For you HOP Masters...these are incredibly well done. You will be pleased. The mini-games are in a range of difficulty, something for everyone, and you can skip depending on your patience level at the time.
The art work..the attention to detail..is FABULOUS! Very impressive! There is NO map, but the Storyline and locations had a flow such that one was not really needed..much. It's all good..added to the challenge.
The only benefit to the CE was the Bonus Chapter and the SG. No morphing objects, collectibles, achievements, blah, blah, blah. The Bonus Chapter was great, but not needed to complete a totally enjoyable game. The SE would also be awesome.
After this gem of a find, I also played the next one, Haunted Manor: Painted Beauties. (2014) Changes to technique were made...some positive...some not. Both are worth your preview.
Enjoy your time! You OWN that! Peace.
I recommend this game!
Haunted Manor: Painted Beauties
A peaceful day at the park becomes a journey into the surreal when you become the latest victim of a troubled artist's deal with Death!
Overall rating
4
/
5
1 of 1 found this review helpful
DESPITE THE LOWER REVIEWS.....
PostedJanuary 20, 2018
alphafem
fromWest Coast, USA
Skill Level:Expert
Favorite Genre(s):Adventure, Brain Teaser, Hidden Object, Large File
Fun Factor
3
/
5
Visual/Sound Quality
5
/
5
Level of Challenge
5
/
5
Storyline
5
/
5
I bought this game because I REALLY liked the one that came before it...Haunted Manor: Queen of Death. (2011) It seems that something happened between that release, and this one.
It's hard not to compare the two. I play many games that don't have a map, and that does't bother me. This game HAS a map - much needed as there are 32 locations, if I remember right. But the game just didn't have a "flow" to it, a cohesiveness that would lend itself to just a "bare bones" teleporting map with no other indicators. I had to make notes. It adds to the challenge, but I found it tedious at times. Hence the low Fun Factor rating.
The art work was beautiful. The HOPs were well done, but not as well done as HM:Q of D.
The REAL mystery is what happened between 2011 (HM:Q of D) and 2014 HM:PB? Did that SMALL handful of devoted devs (some doing three jobs) receive some bad advice to make their product "better"? If so, they should have been left alone to do what the reviewers state they did well.
I DO suggest buying both, as they ARE a Challenge. If you play this one first, you can appreciate the absolute beauty of Q of D better. If you go the opposite, this one will seem lacking...even tho it has more "conveniences".
Also, it seems the Devs listened to reviewers and ditched the angel GIGGLES. (a new, added, un needed feature is the angel..cute, but not here).
Remember, it's YOUR time. Do what makes you happy!
Peace.
Peace.
I recommend this game!
Can you stop an old evil from wreaking its vengeance?
Overall rating
4
/
5
17 of 23 found this review helpful
Based on Demo.....
PostedJanuary 8, 2018
alphafem
fromWest Coast, USA
Skill Level:Expert
Favorite Genre(s):Brain Teaser, Hidden Object, Large File
Fun Factor
4
/
5
Visual/Sound Quality
4
/
5
Level of Challenge
5
/
5
Storyline
5
/
5
I enjoyed the demo for this game. I have most of the games from this developer (Deep Shadows), and am looking forward to seeing how this new series plays out. They're off to a good start...and there's always room to fine tune.
The HOP's were well done, and the mini-games are plentiful and challenging.
This CE has all the CE extras: Collectibles, Morphing Objects, Achievements, Bonus Chapter. However, it does NOT give the opportunity to re-play the HOP's or mini-games, which is the main reason I buy a CE in the first place. That being said, I believe I'll wait for the SE on this one.
Either way you go, enjoy!
I recommend this game!
In this mind-expanding puzzle game it's your job to help the diminutive prof to use his brains and gadgets.
Overall rating
5
/
5
7 of 7 found this review helpful
EXCELLENT GAME FOR CHALLENGE LOVERS!!
PostedJanuary 5, 2018
alphafem
fromWest Coast, USA
Skill Level:Expert
Favorite Genre(s):Brain Teaser, Hidden Object, Large File
Fun Factor
5
/
5
Visual/Sound Quality
5
/
5
Level of Challenge
5
/
5
I don't write many reviews (too shy) but Professor Fizzwizzle merits that I abandon my comfort zone.
My first love is HOPA's. The (well done) Hidden Object scenes, the Adventure, and the Puzzle/mini-games (I'm a mini-game junkie!) THIS game feeds my "challenge" needs when most others do not. It is kind of my "go to" game, when I'm bored.
There are no time limits, and it is user friendly to the max. It WANTS you to succeed, level to level, and will help you in every way. All YOU have to provide is your love of challenge, a sense of humor, and for me...a die hard attitude!! It is a thrill, and a pleasure for me to play this game.
The question marks appear only to introduce new items needed to progress in the game...their benefits and limitations...and only appear ONCE EACH...so take heed. (but you can turn them back on, if needed to refresh your knowledge)
If you LOVE a challenge, you will truly appreciate this game! You can re-set your level at will, change levels, replay back a few jumps...you name it. Totally user friendly!! Just bring your "A-Game"!! It is very addictive!!
I recommend this game!
Help Sara find her missing husband and stop an evil pirate's ancient curse in Mystery Case Files: 13th Skull!
Overall rating
5
/
5
3 of 3 found this review helpful
HELLO?? *tapping monitor* ANYBODY OUT THERE??
PostedDecember 3, 2017
alphafem
fromWest Coast, USA
Skill Level:Expert
Favorite Genre(s):Brain Teaser, Hidden Object, Large File
Fun Factor
5
/
5
Visual/Sound Quality
5
/
5
Level of Challenge
5
/
5
Storyline
5
/
5
I have played this game several times over the years, and this is my review...#224. I don't know if anybody ever looks at the "newest first" heading, but just in case, hiya!!
I rarely play a game again, as once I know the ending the thrill is kind of gone for me, but there are a handful that I go back to, from time to time, as they stand out in my memory. This is one of those.
Fun Factor, Visual/Sound, and Storyline...all very good. The HOP's were well drawn and clever. Fit in well. Not boring.
The mini-games were excellent throughout. I rarely use a hint/skip button, and had to suffer through loosing a half dozen games of checkers before I found the three layer hints and/or skip. Oh so glad I did!! I skipped.
Your objectives/tasks are listed for you, which you need to complete...otherwise your inventory would become so large as to be unmanageable. Accomplish and proceed.
Also, you must stay alert and take note of each scene carefully. Example: Some folks, in reviews, seem to have had trouble with the toilet. The bartender has just told you that Lamont fixes the toilets. YOU'VE tried and can't figure it out, but you have seen the payphone, office with employee phone numbers, and you have a quarter in your inventory. Um, what would be your guess as to what to do?? Bingo!
The map is not teleporting, but useful to get your bearings. It is integral toward the end of the game. It is probably best if Beginners hold off on this game, but definitely remember it for later on down the road.
Try before you buy. I hope you enjoy it! Happy gaming!
I recommend this game!
Can you solve an old murder case and save your sister?
Overall rating
4
/
5
9 of 11 found this review helpful
I GENERALLY HESITATE......
PostedOctober 27, 2017
alphafem
fromWest Coast, USA
Skill Level:Expert
Favorite Genre(s):Brain Teaser, Hidden Object, Large File
Fun Factor
5
/
5
Visual/Sound Quality
4
/
5
Level of Challenge
4
/
5
Storyline
5
/
5
...to give a review after only the demo..... it seems presumptuous as some games build on that, and go up from there. But, the graphics were good, storyline... so far okay, and it did have a fun factor.
It's a Halloween offering that has some merit, but there have been much better in the past.
For "lighter hearted creepy" try these two:
"Charlaine Harris: Dying For Daylight" or
"Evil Pumpkin: The Lost Halloween"
"Evil Pumpkin: The Lost Halloween"
For a serious "creepy challenge" try the game I listed to the left.
As always, try before you buy. Happy Halloween everyone!
I recommend this game!