Magic Tricks for Dummies?
This is no sleight of hand, folks. If you're a fan of the hidden objects genre of casual games, but want something that's a little different than the rest of the crowd, then you should definitely check out Magician's Handbook.
With his new encyclopedia of magic spells in tow, you will embark on a creepy journey through forests, abandoned buildings, and scary cemeteries, because these are the only places where you will be able to find the quirky items on your list of ingredients. You do want to become a masterful sorcerer, do you not?
A Two-Pronged Process
In order to cast a spell -- each chapter in the book reveals a new potion and incantation for you to perform -- you must fulfill two primary requirements. First, depending on the complexity of the spell, you will need to collect a certain number of hidden objects. This number starts out at 15, but quickly increases as you improve your expertise in wizardry. These items are interspersed over several locations, so a little local travel will be needed. Simply tap the items with your magic wand and move on.
Secondly, after tapping all the necessary components, you will have to complete a certain puzzling incantation. For example, you may be presented with an array of strange items and you must link them together in a certain way. Other times, a huge field of what appear to be nonsense words will fill the screen, and you must sift out the four phrases that must be uttered. This additional challenge adds tremendously to the value of this game.
A Just Reward for a Just Task
You didn't think that all your hard work would go unrewarded, now did you? Quite the contrary! Each time you complete a chapter in the magician's handbook, you will unlock a spell that you can cast in future chapters. These spells are designed to help you in your increasingly difficult adventure, easing your way through the object-finding journey.
For example, the first chapter will teach you the "Repel" spell, which will temporarily remove any distractions from a given scene for a short amount of time. You see, most of the time, there may be some ambient noise or animated creatures at your locations and these may make it more difficult for you to complete the task at hand. They're fun to look at, but you've got work to do! The "Repel" spell helps to clear the mind and focus your attention.
With thirteen chapters in all to challenge your object-finding ability, there are plenty of new spells for you to attempt and deploy. Even after finishing the main story mode -- which can be told in a full tale or a shorter version for a quick read -- you can re-visit these locations with new powers in tow!
Simply Spellbinding!
From its stunning graphics to the mood-setting sound effects, Magician's Handbook: Cursed Valley is a whole lot of fun to play. The cursed valley is filled with black crows, crawling rats, and the odd skeleton, and these elements truly add to the atmosphere which can only be described as macabre. If you've ever been curious about the black arts, check this title out. It might even cast a spell on you!
