Theey have really captured the atmosphere of the Sherlock Holmes stories in this set of investigations. The detective work feels purposeful and fluid giving the game a great sense of momentum. You will feel challenged, but rarely stuck. The mini games are often very difficult, but they can be skipped. I wish Frogware had stuck with this style. Chapter One just does not appeal to me.
I think this is the first time that I have experienced a role playing campaign and not simply a game. Kingmaker ebbs and flows with tension and down time. The systems award real understanding - you will find yourself analysing individual attack results. I am currently about a third of the way through and have 130 hour in this game. Expect to be with these characters for a very long time.
I have just completed Gabriel Knight (with the help of three or four hints and one quick alteration to on config file). I was so impress by just how well this classic stands up to similar games of today. The story has real depth and the subject matter is certainly towards to adult end of the market. It is not an easy game to beat. Even though I recalled some of the puzzles from my first play through many years ago, I still had to rack my brains to sustain progress. If you pay attention, all the clues are there. But, more than the challenge, it is the amazing atmosphere that stands out. I am pleased that others are enjoying the HD version, but to anyone who remembers GK from the first time around, this will always be the definitive version; the voice acting is just the best.
I would not like to think how many years ago I first played - and completed - this game. When I saw it here on GOG, I became just a little intrigued. Could I possibly enjoy playing an adventure game from the late 1980's. Well, now I can give that question a resounding YES!!! The feeling of achievement on giving Laura Bow a useful command, with what nowadays may appear like a Tweet, is palpable. The graphics are charming and surprisingly effective. The sound is also used amazingly well. This is a game about small details. The plot is clearly influenced by Agatha Christie - And Then There Were None in particular. It is also a game about people. Having just played over 69 hours of a modern medieval strategy game that relies upon you influencing other, it was somewhat remarkable to see the roots of such gaming ideas at play in this much overlooked adventure. You can not ask this game to provide stunning visuals, however if your are a fan of mystery, rich characters and mansion full of secrets, please spend a little of your hard earned cash on The Colonels Bequest - I promise you will not be disappointed!!!
