Magic Encyclopedia [Game Download]

2010/03/29

Magic Encyclopedia [Game Download]

Magic Encyclopedia [Game Download] Review

This game is a beautifully made hybrid of the hidden object and adventure genres. The objects you seek are broken up into many pieces. Some pieces can be placed in their proper locations when they are reconstituted, but others must be used alone or in combination with other pieces to unlock the next door, rather like the escape-the-room games such as Trapped: The Abduction and Escape the Museum. The pieces are well-hidden but are not tiny, and the scenes are uncluttered, so you're not dredging through large heaps of items lying all over.

There is an adequate hint system, so you shouldn't find yourself stuck and frustrated often. The puzzles are challenging and some require concentration and patience, so this is a game for older kids or adults; a five-year old might not have the skills yet to complete some of the tougher tasks.

The game is a good value in that the time it takes to complete it is greater than most seek and find games, and it is challenging enough to play well several times. If you enjoy this kind of game, try also the second in the series, Magic Encyclopedia: Moon Light, which is equally worthy of your time. Other similarly made games include the two Mortimer Beckett offerings and Mystery Case Files: Return to Ravenhearst, Campfire Legends: The Hookman, Department 42, and Vampire Saga: Pandora's Box. This new hybrid genre is growing rapidly, and these are among the best to date.