rainstormy's Profile
Stat Summary
- Average Rating:4.4
- Helpful Votes:19
- Reviews Submitted:63
- First Review:August 25, 2021
- Most Recent Review:August 20, 2024
- Featured reviews0
Track down missing objects as a Lost & Found Agency detective!
Overall rating
5
/
5
Classic hidden object fun. Recommended!
PostedSeptember 18, 2023
rainstormy
fromLufkin, TX
Skill Level:Intermediate
Favorite Genre(s):Brain Teaser, Hidden Object, Match 3, Puzzle, Word
Fun Factor
5
/
5
Visual/Sound Quality
5
/
5
Level of Challenge
5
/
5
Straightforward, straight up fun classic HOG – big, colorful scenes – no magnifier but you really don't need one. Most scenes have a raccoon, a “lost” object, special objects and the usual list of HOG items to find so you'll be very busy trying to locate all of these various things during most scenes. The detective you meet in the opening scene is interested in acquiring the lost items as part of an investigation of some kind (we are led to believe) but there is resolution at the end so I guess we'll never know if we helped her or not, LOL. That said, there's no plot really here at all, just a setup for a plot. That doesn't really matter that much, as this is not a HOPA game and it is not advertised as such. That's fine with me really as a more complex plot doesn't necessarily mean it's a more enjoyable game experience. There are minis between some of the scenes – some are better than others, but you can skip the ones that don't interest you without any sort of penalty. Yes, this is a foreign produced project (as most HOGs are) and some of the listed objects have rather unusual names, but most of the time you can deduce what it is they're wanting you to find. There's also a peppy little soundtrack which adds to the mood. The whole game is very smooth and polished and well done as HOGs go. There will be another Lost and Found Agency installment after this one and I look forward to that one, too. I loved it!
I recommend this game!
Save the beautiful birds of an island rainforest in this tropical puzzler!
Overall rating
5
/
5
Better than it's predessor. Fun, engaging, beautiful game.
PostedSeptember 17, 2023
rainstormy
fromLufkin, TX
Skill Level:Intermediate
Favorite Genre(s):Brain Teaser, Card & Board, Hidden Object, Match 3, Puzzle, Word
Fun Factor
5
/
5
Visual/Sound Quality
5
/
5
Level of Challenge
5
/
5
Storyline
5
/
5
This is the second installment in the Twistingo series by Mixo Games and it's an improvement over the first one. I always enjoy seeing a game series evolve for the better! In this game, you are helping to restore a tropical island and saving beautiful birds. The basic game play is the same as the original Twistingo with clutter sorting, matching pairs and of course the mainstay of the game - Zuma style bingo balls. The casino feature returns too - this time with high/low slot machines, one up/down solitaire cards and a really cool pachinko machine! I found Bird Paradise a bit more challenging than the first one - this is a good thing, since the original Twistingo was too easy, imo. Of course the lush and colorful artwork makes this game a real standout - it's just lovely, and the art is complimented so nicely with a peppy little "island inspired" soundtrack. I'm glad I gave this game a chance and you should, too. Highly recommended!
Embark on a magical adventure in Thicket Wood to help fairies in this magical hidden-object game!
Overall rating
3
/
5
It could have been great
PostedSeptember 16, 2023
rainstormy
fromLufkin, TX
Skill Level:Intermediate
Favorite Genre(s):Card & Board, Hidden Object, Match 3, Puzzle, Word
Fun Factor
3
/
5
Visual/Sound Quality
4
/
5
Level of Challenge
3
/
5
This is not the easiest game to review. On the one hand it is visually stunning. I am a fan of fantasy art and the imagery in this game is up there with the best. These are beautifully rendered pictures with gorgeous use of shadow and light and all the delightful elements of a fairy forest. These artists know what they're doing. The game mechanics are good. The jigsaws, hangman and tile swap puzzles are very very well done. However, for me it was ultimately unsatisfying, like leaving a restaurant when you still feel hungry....it's just a bit....lacking.."something". It is composed entirely of mini puzzle after puzzle after puzzle. This is one instance where having a bit of a storyline, even a weak one, would have added so much to this game. A small story - not trying to turn this into a full blown HOPA, mind you - would have been a game-changer. There were a few little glitchy gameplay errors as well which indicate that even though the artists really put their best work into this game, the rest of the team working on this project rushed their job and put it out before it was ready for showtime. There is no music or soundtrack, just cricket background sounds and a little "you completed it" fanfare - not the first Seven Sails game I've played without a score, but the right music would have enhanced these visuals to the next level. A lot of the "find the pieces" puzzles were for tiny bits of things - I had to use the dreaded hint button numerous times to complete many of those scenes. Also I kept wondering, how long is this game going to last? I had no idea how far I'd progressed nor is there any sort of goal to work towards here. it ended abruptly. Also, I keep getting kicked back to the start page again and again and having to hit "play" on the welcome page to continue, which is ...odd. The whole game is a bit odd. Since it is SO beautiful, I will have to give it three generous stars for that (the art alone is easily five stars). But these other issues mar what could have been a legendary game experience. So a three star rating it is. According to the Big Fish rating system, three stars is "OK." Had they polished it a bit more with my suggestions I am confident it would have easily been a 5 star game experience. Do I recommend it? That I'm not sure. It's complicated, hence the rambling review....but I'll say yes for the artwork alone.
I recommend this game!
Can you work with animals to save a local zoo’s celebration?
Overall rating
5
/
5
Lovely art and music - a VERY welcome change of pace!
PostedSeptember 12, 2023
rainstormy
fromLufkin, TX
Skill Level:Intermediate
Favorite Genre(s):Brain Teaser, Card & Board, Hidden Object, Match 3, Puzzle, Word
Fun Factor
5
/
5
Visual/Sound Quality
5
/
5
Level of Challenge
5
/
5
Storyline
4
/
5
Great game and a nice change-up from the usual travel HOGs I play. The color pallate and watercolor style picture rendering is gorgeous and at times, the scenes almost appear to be hand drawn (yes, I know it's computer art!). Soundtrack too, is well done - orchestral style music - the combined effect of music and art here is somewhat otherworldly - and overall quite enchanting! There's a thin mystery plot at the zoo but it's mostly a hidden object game with minis...some of the minis are a bit challenging but nothing I couldn't handle. I'm hoping they turn this into a series because I like the protagonist Artemis and would enjoy seeing her again on another cozy little animal-centered mystery game. Recommended game for sure.
I recommend this game!
Soak up the sun and have some fun!
Overall rating
5
/
5
CE version - a long, intense and very enjoyable HOG
PostedSeptember 9, 2023
rainstormy
fromLufkin, TX
Favorite Genre(s):Brain Teaser, Card & Board, Hidden Object, Match 3, Puzzle, Word
Fun Factor
5
/
5
Visual/Sound Quality
5
/
5
Level of Challenge
5
/
5
I just finished this game – it's long, it's repetitive but gosh, it's a really good no frills, straightforward hidden object game (HOG) from Point 8. It's well done – good music and graphic art - and I feel it's better than other Point 8 games I've played in the past – the scenes are bold and clear and colorful and speaking of the scenery – the pics these game designers chose are indeed, quite representative of different varied aspects of beautiful Florida. Objects are well hidden and I was not able to quickly slam through any of these scenes; they all required my close and undivided attention, even after multiple run throughs, which are required (along with finding the hidden state seals and flags) in order to unlock the Unlimited Mode. On my 17.5” laptop, the magnifier helped me a lot. Putting several hours a day into this game, it took me over four days to complete it so you do get a lot of play for your gaming dollar here. The mini games are decent, too – no coloring scenes with this publisher, thank goodness! - and even though I'm not a big fan of PC Suduko you are able to skip those after a bit of a wait (I actually like Sudoko with paper and pencil but not when I can't erase or make little scribble notes to help me solve the grid). Now that I've unlocked Unlimited I suppose I could keep playing it indefinitely but after 12+ hours already invested into the game it may be a while before I revisit it again to enjoy that mode of play. Point 8 puts out good HOGs and this is one of their better ones. Recommended for hard-core HOG fans.
I recommend this game!
Help the Park Rangers run Pinecreek Hills for another fun season!
Overall rating
5
/
5
Game of the year!
PostedSeptember 9, 2023
rainstormy
fromLufkin, TX
Favorite Genre(s):Brain Teaser, Card & Board, Hidden Object, Match 3, Puzzle, Word
Fun Factor
5
/
5
Visual/Sound Quality
5
/
5
Level of Challenge
5
/
5
So excited to play the new installment this weekend! Often imitated but never duplicated, the Park Ranger series sets the high bar for Hidden Object Games (HOGS) – there's big, bright, beautiful scenery, charming returning characters, seamless gameplay, smooth graphics, lots and lots of eye candy and plenty of fun diversions and adventures to be had! A desert island game for sure and always an instant buy! #15 does not disappoint in any way – the same game we fell in love with years ago, with lots of new “wow” factors added in to keep you glued to your PC chair and making excuses this weekend for staying in! Seriously, I'm skipping a tailgate party right now to play – it's THAT good. I'm 2/3'rds of the way through and there's not a single criticism I can come up with. Lovely scenery, cute woodland animals, a top notch soundtrack...I could go on and on, but instead of sitting there reading reviews go ahead and hit the purchase button; you won't regret it. Casual Arts – you have really hit on a winning formula – keep 'em coming!
I recommend this game!
A treasure hunt across a remote Pacific paradise!
Overall rating
4
/
5
It's okay for the older crowd
PostedSeptember 1, 2023
rainstormy
fromLufkin, TX
Favorite Genre(s):Brain Teaser, Card & Board, Hidden Object, Match 3, Puzzle, Word
Fun Factor
4
/
5
Visual/Sound Quality
5
/
5
Level of Challenge
3
/
5
First off this is a very well produced game, with high quality graphics, cute music (I always pay close attention to the soundtrack) - a nice change from the HOG's I usually play. However, it's easy and repetitive. Never had to use a hint one single time, or repeat a level so I zipped right through it. You will be playing three types of little games in order to find the tiki statues: 1) clutter sorting 2) clutter matching pairs and 3) bingo balls. I hope you like the bingo ball game 'cuz you're going to be playing a lot of it during this game. To be honest, I think this would be a great game for older players (Boomer years and up). It might even be a good therapy game for patients needing to practice on their memory skills. I don't know if video games are used for therapy purposes but if they are this game would be a good candidate for that purpose. If the others in this same series have similar gameplay, I will probably pass on those - once was more than enough for me. But four big stars for the high production level and innovation!
I recommend this game!
Experience the beauty of the natural world!
Overall rating
5
/
5
Another home run in the Nature Escapes series!
PostedAugust 29, 2023
rainstormy
fromLufkin, TX
Skill Level:Intermediate
Favorite Genre(s):Brain Teaser, Hidden Object, Match 3, Puzzle, Word
Fun Factor
5
/
5
Visual/Sound Quality
5
/
5
Level of Challenge
5
/
5
I am a big fan of this series, have also played 1-3 and even though this one is "more of the same" it does not disappoint either, so if you enjoyed the other Natures Escapes you'll like this one, too. This is a cheerful and relaxing game (when you aren't frustrated trying to track down the last "morphing object" for example!) with beautiful graphics and professional quality acoustic guitar music which enhances the game experience! A few of the animals have exotic names - it CAN be challenging to find something when you don't know what you're looking for, but this is a minor complaint. I am also not the biggest fan of some of the mini games and enjoy something more cerebral than "color the pretty picture" but hey, you can't have it all I guess. Ignore the naysayers weighing in with one star reviews here - most never actually purchased and played through the game and are hoping to steer developers to crank out more "Hidden Object Adventure" mystery games by criticizing this likeable and entertaining series: this tactic won't work as Nature Escapes has a robust fan base and hopefully there's many more installments planned! Recommended game for sure.
I recommend this game!
Find America in the vast beauty of the Great Lakes!
Overall rating
4
/
5
Fun - more of the same
PostedAugust 25, 2023
rainstormy
fromLufkin, TX
Favorite Genre(s):Brain Teaser, Hidden Object, Match 3, Puzzle, Word
It's a good game - the whole series is good - this one employs the same formula of others in the series so if you've played one from this series before, this one will be instantly familiar to you. Some of the setting choices were less than optimal. I am originally from the Midwest and think they could have done a little better research on the area before settling on a generic golf course scene and the "Minneapolis Mall" (when the largest mall in the U.S. - the Mall of the Americas - is far more famous.) More National Parks and noteworthy state parks would have been better choices too, I think. Like the other games, when you find the key it reveals a little trivia - this too, could have been done a bit better at times - no one cares if ice cream shops in Madison consider themselves "sustainable". Like the other installments in this series, some of the mini games are better than others - memory and "word guess" are my favorites and I look forward to those, but this game publisher really likes to add coloring scenes, which I consider a dull busywork activity. But don't get me wrong - it's not all bad - the scenery (such as it is) is lively and bright and there's nothing negative or scary going on here (yay!). I will continue to purchase games in this series as they are released - BoomZap - for the most part, you're doing an excellent job - keep it up!
I recommend this game!
Enjoy a happy and peaceful weekend with your pets!
Overall rating
4
/
5
1 of 1 found this review helpful
It's not terrible!
PostedAugust 8, 2023
rainstormy
fromLufkin, TX
Skill Level:Intermediate
Favorite Genre(s):Brain Teaser, Card & Board, Hidden Object, Match 3, Puzzle, Word
Fun Factor
4
/
5
Visual/Sound Quality
4
/
5
Level of Challenge
4
/
5
This isn't a horrible game, but I do understand how some reviewers dinged it for being derivative, because it really is. The graphics are very clear and big and bright, and directly inspired by the Cruise Director series. The "find the pets" was also "inspired" (perhaps!) by the I Love Finding Cats (and pups and critters) series of games. All of that said, I still consider it a "buy" because there aren't enough bright and cheerful HOGs out there (Gosh, I wish I enjoyed playing the darker, story driven HOPAs - as there's SO MANY of those - but I just don't like 'em!). The game engine mechanics are a little stiff - could be smoother. There's some weird object names. The game directs you to find a cingatula - okay, that's an armadillo. Also a candelabra is not a chandelier. I know few, if any of these games are by American developers, so I try to be patient with HOG English, lol. Also I must say that raccoons are wild animals which are not suitable as pets (in some states, it's even illegal to keep one as a pet). But they are cute. All of the animals are cute. This game is pretty fun for what it is, so I recommend it - conditionally.
I recommend this game!