Move Over, Indiana Jones
Not only does she have a catchy name, but Samatha Swift is one of the most charming and memorable explorer characters in recent memory. There are dozens of archeology-themed computer games out there but Ms. Swift makes this latest adventure - Samantha Swift and the Hidden Roses of Athen - an instant classic. With her companion and pilot, the hilariously named Dr. Butler, Swift sets off to track down the legendary Scepter of Zeus, something her colleagues have been searching for for years.
Dr. Butler, who was Sam's father's closest friend, serves as her mentor and will help you throughout your journey by dishing out tips and tricks, as well as explaining the rules of play. This is a hidden object game, which is perfect for the archeology setting. It may be cliche, but things are generally cliches because they're true.
Finding Hidden Objects
Hidden object games remain some of the easiest things to pick up and play. Your most important tools are your eyes, but the mouse plays an important role as well. On the bottom of the screen you will see a list of all of the items that you're searching for. If you spot one, simply left-click on it to collect it. The first tip you'll receive from Dr. Butler is regarding blue items. Some of the items in your list will be written in blue text; these items can only be found through the use of tools.
The first level involves you finding all of the items that fell out of your backpack when you dropped it. Quite clumsy for an adventurer, I know. Among these items is your PDA, which is a blue item. You'll receive two tools in this level: a knife, for cutting through foliage, and a shovel, for digging. You need to use your knife to cut away leaves and vines to spot your PDA. The tool system is unique and adds a layer of depth and difficulty to an old genre.
Another unique feature that this product offers is the scanner, which you can use to see the shapes and outlines of various objects on your list. This is nothing new to the genre, but at least they employ the feature in a way that makes sense. Sam is very high-tech and uses lots of gadgets to get the job done. This is also shown by the use of her PDA, which also makes up the in-game menu screen. The entire product has a futuristic, high-tech feel.
And of course, hints are available for those non-veterans of the genre! And you can find more in each level by looking for the lightning bolts.
Four Stars!
Samantha Swift and the Hidden Roses of Athen is what hidden object adventure games are all about. A gripping story, epic gameplay, and a fantastic, charming protagonist. I smell the makings of a fantastic series. This one should absolutely be in your collection. I really hope there's a sequel and I eagerly await it!
