"Bravo" To "Ce Voyage À Paris"! – Donna Brave: Paris Strangler Review

If there is one developer who frequently demonstrates the exceptional talent and divergent thinking to break out of the conventional formulas comprising most HOAs, leading to novel ideas and unordinary twists on gameplay, it is, in my opinion, Madhead Games. This game is a fresh beginning to a captivating new series. This developer's stimulative storytelling techniques satisfy my yearning for a well-constructed plot, rousing my curiosity as it unfolds. Another area where this developer shines is their ability to develop robust characters. The characters are compelling, with each character exhibiting distinct personalities as every human does. The artistic design of the environment demonstrates the Art Deco period of 1920s Paris. Art Deco was an architectural and decorative style characterized by geometric patterns, featuring bold and clashing colors; and this artistic fashion is presented in furniture upholstery, carpets, screens, posters, wallpaper, and fabrics. The quaint ambiance of Parisian life is, in my opinion, realistically rendered, through the depictions of charming terraces and cafes; old architectural buildings; and eerie underground catacombs, saturated with burning candles and skeletal remains. The music fits the time period, evoking a seductively sophisticated aura, such as the soothing melodies on the piano. The varied HOSs are sometimes story-driven, with one such scene having you find items in accordance with narrative backstory. The creativity presented within the HOSs is customary for Madhead, but I do not detect any hints of novelty. I like the one in which you find symbols on abstract, neon-colored patterns, switching between each pattern. The puzzles are clever, and they suit the theme of storyline; I like the puzzle in which you need to beat the peddler in a game of forming the most paired items. A few puzzles are of medium-level difficulty; however, most are too elementary for my preference. You collect two sets of collectibles. The "trademark" set blends into the atmosphere; the other set morphs within the HOSs. I do have a trivial grouse: you must individually drag over each inventory item of the same kind instead of applying them all simultaneously — an old-school practice. Overall, it is a solid production, one that I find to be satisfying. My true rating is 4 stars, mainly deducting a full star for the lack of challenge of both the gameplay — only two scenes are active at a time — and the puzzles.
Review by KimTwilight69 on Donna Brave: Paris Strangler.