Solving Mysteries Across the Pond
Everyone's favorite gumshoe, Mystery P.I., is back in an all-new caper - The London Caper, to be exact. Our hero has solved mind-bending cases all over the United States, in some of its biggest cities, but now trouble is brewing in jolly ol' England and M.P.I. has been called upon to act. We're going international this time around!
The Crown Jewels - yes, those crown jewels that belong to the Royal Family, have gone missing. The thieves have demanded a huge ransom. We aren't told how much they want, but it doesn't matter, because they're not going to get it. The family has hired you to track down the jewels before the 17 hour deadline is up. I guess you made a better name for yourself than you thought if the Royal Family asks for your help!
If you succeed, your reward will be 10 million British Pounds, which converts to a little over $15 million USD. So yes, this is kind of a big job.
Welcome to London
One of the most enjoyable features of the past M.P.I. games have been the beautiful locales. I've always enjoyed my virtual vacations courtesy of the series and this time around isn't any different. London is a breathtaking city and the environments are absolutely amazing. Some of the levels are famous landmarks, such as the famous Big Ben at the Palace of Westminster, while others are simple locations like a double decker bus or a fish and chips shop, but all of them are wonderful.
Not only does the game act as a virtual getaway, but in some instances it takes you places that you just couldn't go in real life, like inside of Big Ben! The actual innards of the clock tower have been recreated and you've been granted special access as Mystery P.I. to go exploring here! You're a private investigator on a mission! You deserve special access!
The Hunt For Clues
Mystery P.I.'s setup has to be one of the most clever interfaces in the whole hidden objects genre. You have your trusty PDA that tells you all sorts of useful information, including all of the clues that need to be found in the current scene. All of your detective work is on this small handheld computer and you carry it around with you wherever you go, so you have always have access to your info.
The gameplay is accessible for anyone. Find an object that's on your list and click it, it's as simple as that. Each level also hides a key and a crown. Long-time fans of the series will know where I'm going with this. If you find all of these items, you'll unlock two bonus modes: Unlimited Seek and Find and the Match 3 Bonus Game.
Mystery P.I. Still Has it!
Mystery P.I. - The London Caper stays true to the series' quality roots. The gameplay is top notch, the locations are fabulous, and additional modes give you even more bang for your buck. This is a shining example of why this hidden objects series is one of the best around.