=$title?>
An exercise in frustration!
I didn't have any problems installing the game (other than needing to download a new driver for my video card), so I can't really complain about any technical issues. The two stars I gave this game are mainly for the graphics and music. But since I started playing, I have been severely frustrated.
I don't think I've solved any puzzle without using hints, and often the hints just confirmed what I already knew. It's very frustrating to know how to solve a puzzle and yet not be able to do it because of finicky hotspots or time limits (if I wanted a game with time limits, I would play an arcade-style game!). Some puzzles are so obscure that you're not even sure what you're supposed to do! Others are so complicated and involve so many steps that it's a wonder anyone solves them at all. In my frustration, I have had a look at some discussion groups and forums relating to the game; some people claim they spent hours on certain puzzles. Not everybody has that kind of time to waste.
I made it to Serenia and am now blocked by the asinine Dream puzzle (Ooh... flashing lights. Who designed such a boring, repetetive monstrosity?). After trying various hints, walkthroughs, instructions, etc., I still can't solve it. I no longer have a desire to.
In addition to the built-in hints, I think this game needs a "solve puzzle" option. Some of us just like wandering around, enjoying the scenery, and figuring out the solvable puzzles. As it is now, we can't do that. If you get hopelessly stuck, the game has basically ended.
Myst IV will probably sit on my hard drive for a few months until I find something else that's more enjoyable. Then it's getting uninstalled.
If there is a Myst V, I will be reading many reviews of the game before I decide whether or not to purchase it. I know I'm not the only one with these complaints. If the makers of Myst don't listen to their fans, they're going to lose some of them.
|