Vampireville

After sets of poor hidden object games, we yearned for something new and intriguing. So, Vampireville, all-new hidden object and adventure hybrid developed by Nevosoft, will please our belly-pinched heart.

According to the storyline you are to take on the role of a property appraiser who has been obliged to evaluate the old Margley Castle. Do you find it rather simple? By the way, the previous appraisers sent there have gone insane. Are you able to accomplish your job without going mad, and reveal more about this strange castle and what is driving your colleagues crazy?

It is rather rare when one hidden object title can boast its plot. As for Vampireville, its amazing storytelling gives this issue such a strong appeal and unique feel. The story progresses chapter by chapter just as it would in a well-written mystery novel. There you can find full voice-acting for all the dialogues and cutscenes. What is especially surprising is that Nevosoft’s team has even included 3D animations of the heroes! Oh, and the protagonist looks like Keanu Reeves!

Vampireville’s gameplay is more of a point-and-click adventure game than a classical I-spy game. There are piles of tasks in the game as well, ranging from jigsaws to logic puzzles. Fortunately, the developers have added a bit of originality to the puzzles, keeping them fresh and interesting. Rather than looking at two photos and doing the old spot-the-differences thing, this time you have to look at two different photos and try to spot the similarities!

Honestly, all puzzles are easy enough but not so easy as to be boring. This seems to be one of those games that you need to click a lot around to move things and progress one or another chapter. Surely, it stands out above the crowd of similar titles. Thank Nevosoft very much for Vampireville.

16, March 2010