Madhead & Elves & Apocalyptic Destruction, oh my! – Dawn of Hope: Skyline Review

Lest282: I think you are stuck in the same scene that I was pondering over for some time. The same thing happened to me. This is how I, with the help of the Hint Button, figured it out: *Access the interactive close-up with the giant golden statue, which is holding the weapon in its hand. *If necessary, flip the close-up around to view the side with the pesky, nippy flowers. *In your inventory, there is a rag or a piece of paper (I cannot remember if it is crumbled or not. It might have been a sheet of paper that crumbles as you feed it to the flower). *Feed the flower this item *Then use your lighter (or matches -- sorry that I can't remember exactly which it was) to light up the paper or rag. *Goodbye flower! Keep in mind that you can apply the Hint button within any close-up area, which will either point to the X ("nothing to do here" message -- close out of the close-up) or point to the exact place of action within that close-up, together with the corresponding inventory item. This developer, in my opinion, remains unsurpassed in a field in which gameplay has become repetitive and innovative ideas have become stagnant. No other developer can match the explosive story lines, the pioneering techniques, and the highly engaging gameplay that this developer establishes throughout all of their series. Gameplay is uniquely hyperactive, with a steady flow of action-rendered interactivity incorporated into your adventure. The plot takes place during a post-apocalyptic time frame, focusing on the ordeals of the survivors in finding ways to maintain the well-being of both the elven and human races. You are put in the forefront to prevent a further catastrophic event from happening that could ultimately spell the end of the world. However, as you progress, you start to realize that things might not be all like they seem. The environment is well-designed, with eye-catching visuals that lure me into this extraordinary world of fantasy. The coloration showcases light and airy tones that complement the whimsical atmosphere. The settings effectively depict the destruction caused by an apocalyptic event; for example, the crumbling and debris-ridden buildings are smothered by overgrown weeds. The dialogue is well-written, and the characters are diversified according to their distinct speech and behavioral patterns. For example, Coop, the dwarf, with his gravelly voice and thick accent, is a dear family friend, as well as a mechanic and sculptor who repairs items to benefit your journey. I get a "Lord of the Rings" vibe here, especially with those fair, fair elves. Now, if Gandalf would just show up....... You can customize your settings. The inventory is labeled and interactive; items require assembly. In custom mode, the teleport map facilitates brisk travel to labeled locations and indicates available actions. Transition between scenes is smooth and quick. No touch sensitivities in this game, for me! This developer's trademark of showcasing looped panels of action sequences, indicative of comic strips, is present. I wish more developers would follow this developer's technique of allowing us to manipulate devices/contraptions to create a palpable experience. The formats (ex. word lists) of the HOSs are ordinary; but they are intelligently and creatively designed, using altering themes relative to the storyline. They are action- and story-driven, materializing at moments that relate to certain tasks/predicaments, such as the one in which you prepare food for your father. Some of the puzzles are narrative directed, as you perform tasks in accordance with a character's guidance. Most of the puzzles are too simplistic for my taste, but they are cleverly executed. I am underwhelmed, though, by the repetitive puzzle that resurfaces each time you need to assemble the rope and hook. This particular puzzle feels disconnected from the storyline; thus, the developer could have reflected upon a more thematic type that would have better suited the storyline. The collectibles are blended into the background; pay attention to the HOSs, as well. The surprisingly short free trial aroused my curiosity enough to want to continue on this extraordinary journey. One tedium is that the main components, such as the map, are accessible from under the Menu. Other players have groused about this disruption, which causes a break in concentration and in the fluidity of advancement. To sum it up, this is a typical Mad Head game -- one that is full of intriguing drama and mesmerizing twists on gameplay. I suggest you try the free trial. Lynx Minx: too many "hotties" in the house this time! I think I've just entered the "Forbidden Zone"! Happy New Year, by the way!
Review by KimTwilight69 on Dawn of Hope: Skyline.