Developer: Presto Studios

Whacked! (2002)

by Nish October 15, 2024

written by Nish 4 minutes read

Summary

Release Year: 2002
Genres: Puzzle, Strategy
Platforms: Xbox
Developers: Presto Studios
Publishers: Microsoft Game Studios

Whacked! (2002): A Chaotic Party Game That’s a Blast from the Past

Released in 2002, Whacked! is a multiplayer party game that pits up to seven players against each other in a free-for-all battle royale. The game’s objective is simple: be the last player standing. However, the path to victory is anything but straightforward, as players must use power-ups, weapons, and their wits to outlast their opponents.

Whacked! features a variety of game modes, including:

Deathmatch: A classic free-for-all mode where players fight to be the last one standing.
Team Deathmatch: Two teams of three players compete to see which team can eliminate the other team first.
Capture the Flag: Players must capture the opposing team’s flag and return it to their own base.
King of the Hill: Players must control a central point on the map for as long as possible.
Chicken Run: Players must collect chickens and return them to their base while avoiding being attacked by man-eating chickens.

Whacked! also features a variety of power-ups and weapons that players can use to gain an advantage over their opponents. These include:

Giant Stapler: A powerful melee weapon that can be used to crush opponents.
Rubber Ducky Grenade: A throwable explosive that explodes into a swarm of rubber duckies.
Banana Peel: A slippery peel that can be used to make opponents slip and fall.
Shrink Ray: A weapon that can be used to shrink opponents, making them easier to kill.
Invisibility Potion: A potion that can be used to make the player invisible for a short period of time.

With its over-the-top violence and chaotic gameplay, Whacked! is a party game that is sure to get your adrenaline pumping. The game’s simple controls and easy-to-learn mechanics make it accessible to players of all ages, while its variety of game modes and power-ups ensures that there is always something new to experience.

Critical Reception

Whacked! received generally positive reviews from critics upon its release. Many praised the game’s chaotic and over-the-top gameplay, as well as its variety of game modes and power-ups. However, some critics found the game’s graphics to be dated and its single-player mode to be lacking.

Legacy

Whacked! was a commercial success, selling over 1 million copies worldwide. The game has been praised for its innovative gameplay and its ability to provide hours of chaotic fun. Whacked! has been cited as an influence on several other party games, including Gang Beasts and Super Smash Bros. Ultimate.

Re-release

In 2023, Whacked! was re-released on Nintendo Switch, PlayStation 4, and Xbox One. The re-release features updated graphics and online multiplayer support.

Conclusion

Whacked! is a chaotic and over-the-top party game that is sure to get your adrenaline pumping. With its simple controls, easy-to-learn mechanics, and variety of game modes and power-ups, Whacked! is a game that is accessible to players of all ages. Whether you’re a seasoned pro or a newcomer to the party game genre, Whacked! is a game that you’re sure to enjoy.

Review Score

8.5/10

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The Journeyman Project 2: Buried in Time (1995)

by Nish May 23, 2024

written by Nish 5 minutes read

Summary

Release Year: 1995
Genres: Adventure, Point-and-click, Puzzle
Platforms: Mac, PC (Microsoft Windows)
Developers: Presto Studios
Publishers: Sanctuary Woods

The Journeyman Project 2: Buried in Time (1995)

Prepare for a thrilling adventure through the annals of time as we revisit the groundbreaking 1995 video game, The Journeyman Project 2: Buried in Time. Developed by Presto Studios and published by Red Orb Entertainment, this captivating sci-fi adventure game captivated gamers with its immersive gameplay, stunning visuals, and a gripping storyline that pushed the boundaries of interactive storytelling.

A Temporal Odyssey

The Journeyman Project 2: Buried in Time thrusts players into the role of Agent #5, an operative of the Temporal Security Agency (TSA). Falsely accused of tampering with Earth’s history, Agent #5 embarks on a perilous journey across different time periods to uncover the truth and clear his name.

The game’s narrative is a masterfully crafted blend of science fiction, history, and conspiracy. As Agent #5 travels through time, he encounters a diverse cast of characters, both allies and adversaries, who aid or hinder his quest. The story is rich in twists and turns, keeping players on the edge of their seats from beginning to end.

Groundbreaking Visuals and Technology

For its time, The Journeyman Project 2: Buried in Time showcased cutting-edge graphics and technology. The game’s environments were rendered in beautiful 3D, creating immersive and believable settings for players to explore. The use of live-action video sequences seamlessly integrated with the gameplay, adding a cinematic flair to the experience.

The game’s innovative use of CD-ROM technology allowed for vast amounts of data to be stored, resulting in hours of engrossing gameplay. The three CD-ROMs that comprised the game contained stunning visuals, detailed character models, and an immersive soundtrack that enhanced the overall experience.

Challenging Puzzles and Immersive Gameplay

The Journeyman Project 2: Buried in Time is not just a visual spectacle; it also offers challenging puzzles and immersive gameplay. Players must use their wits to solve a variety of puzzles, ranging from logic-based challenges to riddles and historical conundrums.

The game’s point-and-click interface allows players to interact with the environment and engage with characters in a natural and intuitive way. The seamless integration of puzzles into the narrative ensures that players remain engaged throughout their journey.

A Legacy of Innovation

The Journeyman Project 2: Buried in Time left an indelible mark on the adventure game genre. Its groundbreaking visuals, engrossing storyline, and innovative use of technology set a new standard for interactive storytelling. The game received widespread critical acclaim, winning numerous awards and accolades.

The game’s legacy extends beyond its initial release. It has been hailed as a pioneer in the use of live-action video in video games and has been cited as an inspiration for future adventure games. The Journeyman Project 2: Buried in Time remains a beloved classic among fans of the genre.

Conclusion

The Journeyman Project 2: Buried in Time is a timeless masterpiece that continues to captivate gamers today. Its immersive gameplay, stunning visuals, and gripping storyline have stood the test of time. Whether you’re a seasoned adventure game enthusiast or a newcomer to the genre, this classic title is an essential experience. So, prepare to embark on an epic journey through time and uncover the secrets that lie Buried in Time.

Review Score

9/10

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Myst III: Exile (2001)

by Christopher May 8, 2024

written by Christopher 5 minutes read

Summary

Release Year: 2001
Genres: Adventure, Point-and-click, Puzzle
Platforms: Mac, PC (Microsoft Windows), PlayStation 2, Xbox
Developers: Presto Studios
Publishers: Cyan Worlds

Myst III: Exile: A Journey into Surrealism and Redemption

Introduction

Myst III: Exile, the third installment in the groundbreaking Myst series, takes players on an introspective journey through surreal and enigmatic worlds. Released in 2001, Exile introduces a new villain, Saavedro, who seeks revenge for the destruction of his homeland by Atrus’ sons. The player must navigate through a series of surreal Ages, solving puzzles and uncovering the truth behind Saavedro’s motives. Only then can they avert disaster and determine who was right and who was wrong.

Gameplay

As in previous Myst games, Exile is played from a first-person perspective. The player explores various Ages, each with its own unique environment and puzzles. The game’s puzzles are varied and challenging, requiring players to use their wits and problem-solving skills to progress.

One of the most striking features of Exile is its surreal and otherworldly environments. The Ages range from lush forests to barren deserts, from floating islands to underwater cities. Each Age is meticulously crafted to immerse the player in a world that is both beautiful and unsettling.

Story

Exile’s story is complex and engaging. The player takes on the role of the Stranger, who is summoned to the Age of Myst by Atrus, the protagonist of the previous Myst games. Atrus reveals that his sons, Sirrus and Achenar, have been experimenting with powerful linking technology and have accidentally destroyed Saavedro’s homeland.

Saavedro, played by Academy Award nominee Brad Dourif, is a complex and sympathetic villain. Driven by a thirst for revenge, he pursues the Stranger through the Ages, leaving a trail of destruction in his wake. The player must confront Saavedro and uncover the truth behind his motives.

Themes

Exile explores several themes, including the nature of good and evil, the consequences of unchecked ambition, and the power of redemption. Saavedro’s character arc is particularly poignant, as he struggles with his desire for revenge and his longing for redemption.

The game also examines the relationship between fathers and sons. Atrus and his sons have a strained relationship, and the player must navigate this dynamic in order to resolve the conflict between them.

Visuals and Sound

Exile’s visuals are stunning, even by today’s standards. The game’s environments are rendered in rich detail, with vibrant colors and intricate textures. The character models are also well-animated, and the game’s cutscenes are cinematic in quality.

The game’s soundtrack is equally impressive. The music is atmospheric and evocative, creating a sense of mystery and wonder. The sound effects are also top-notch, adding to the game’s immersive experience.

Reception

Myst III: Exile was a critical and commercial success. The game won several awards, including Adventure Game of the Year from the Academy of Interactive Arts & Sciences. It was also a commercial success, selling over 1 million copies worldwide.

Critics praised the game’s stunning visuals, engaging story, and challenging puzzles. However, some critics found the game’s pacing to be slow and its ending to be unsatisfying.

Legacy

Myst III: Exile is considered one of the greatest adventure games of all time. It helped to popularize the genre and set a new standard for storytelling and visuals. The game’s surreal and otherworldly environments continue to inspire artists and game designers to this day.

Conclusion

Myst III: Exile is a masterpiece of the adventure game genre. Its stunning visuals, engaging story, and challenging puzzles make it a must-play for fans of the series and adventure games in general. The game’s surreal and otherworldly environments continue to inspire and amaze, and its themes of good and evil, redemption, and the relationship between fathers and sons are timeless.

Review Score

8.5/10

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The Journeyman Project (1993)

by Nish April 27, 2024

written by Nish 5 minutes read

Summary

Release Year: 1993
Genres: Adventure, Puzzle
Platforms: DOS, Mac, PC (Microsoft Windows)
Developers: Presto Studios
Publishers: Bandai, Presto Studios, Sanctuary Woods

The Journeyman Project: A Timeless Masterpiece of Time-Traveling Adventure

Released in 1993, The Journeyman Project was a groundbreaking adventure game that captivated players with its innovative use of photorealistic 3D graphics, mind-bending puzzles, and a gripping time-travel narrative. Developed by Presto Studios and published by Broderbund, The Journeyman Project set a new standard for interactive storytelling and remains a beloved classic in the gaming community.

A Journey Through Time

The game follows the adventures of Agent #5, a Temporal Security Agency (TSA) operative tasked with safeguarding history from sabotage. In the year 2318, a rogue agent known as Dr. Sinclair has tampered with the timeline, creating paradoxes and threatening the very fabric of reality. As Agent #5, players must travel through different time periods to correct Sinclair’s distortions and restore the proper course of history.

Stunning Visuals and Immersive Environments

The Journeyman Project was one of the first games to use photorealistic 3D graphics, and the results were nothing short of stunning. The game’s environments were meticulously crafted, with intricate details and textures that brought the past and future to life. Players could explore ancient Egyptian tombs, Victorian London streets, and futuristic cities, all rendered with an unprecedented level of realism.

The game’s use of 3D technology also allowed for a truly immersive experience. Players could freely navigate the environments, examining objects and interacting with characters. The game’s camera system provided a variety of perspectives, allowing players to explore the world from different angles and viewpoints.

Challenging Puzzles and Engaging Gameplay

In addition to its stunning visuals, The Journeyman Project was also known for its challenging puzzles. The game’s puzzles were cleverly designed and integrated into the narrative, requiring players to think critically and solve problems in order to progress. Players had to decipher codes, solve logic puzzles, and manipulate objects in the environment to overcome obstacles and advance the story.

The game’s gameplay was also engaging and varied. Players could interact with a wide range of characters, each with their own unique personalities and motivations. The game also featured action sequences and stealth elements, adding to the overall gameplay experience.

A Compelling Narrative with Historical Depth

The Journeyman Project’s story was one of its strongest aspects. The game’s time-travel premise allowed for a wide range of historical settings and characters, and the writers did a masterful job of integrating real-world events and historical figures into the narrative. Players could interact with Leonardo da Vinci, witness the signing of the Declaration of Independence, and explore the ruins of ancient Rome.

The game’s story also explored the ethical implications of time travel and the dangers of altering the past. Players had to make difficult choices that could have far-reaching consequences, adding to the game’s overall depth and complexity.

Legacy and Impact

The Journeyman Project was a critical and commercial success, winning numerous awards and accolades. The game’s innovative use of 3D graphics and immersive gameplay set a new standard for adventure games, and its compelling narrative and historical depth resonated with players.

The game’s legacy continues to this day. The Journeyman Project is considered one of the greatest adventure games of all time, and it has been praised for its groundbreaking visuals, challenging puzzles, and engaging story. The game has been re-released on multiple platforms, and it continues to be enjoyed by a new generation of gamers.

Conclusion

The Journeyman Project is a timeless masterpiece of interactive storytelling. Its stunning visuals, challenging puzzles, and compelling narrative have captivated players for decades. The game’s innovative use of 3D technology and its exploration of historical themes make it a truly unique and unforgettable experience. Whether you’re a longtime fan or a newcomer to the game, The Journeyman Project is a must-play for anyone who appreciates classic adventure games and the magic of time travel.

Review Score

9/10

The Journeyman Project 3: Legacy of Time (1998)

by Christopher December 6, 2018

written by Christopher 7 minutes read

Summary

Release Year: 1998
Genres: Adventure, Point-and-click, Puzzle
Platforms: Mac, PC (Microsoft Windows)
Developers: Presto Studios
Publishers: Red Orb Entertainment

The Journeyman Project 3: Legacy of Time (1998)

The Journeyman Project 3: Legacy of Time is a science fiction adventure game developed by Presto Studios and published by Red Orb Entertainment. It was released for Microsoft Windows and Macintosh in 1998. The game is the third installment in The Journeyman Project series, and it follows the protagonist, Gage Blackwood, as he travels through time to prevent a catastrophic event.

The game is played from a first-person perspective, and the player controls Gage as he explores various time periods and interacts with historical figures. The game features a unique 360-degree pre-rendered 3D CGI interaction system, which allows the player to freely explore the game world.

The Journeyman Project 3: Legacy of Time was a critical and commercial success. It was praised for its innovative gameplay, stunning visuals, and engaging story. The game was also nominated for several awards, including Adventure Game of the Year at the 1999 Academy of Interactive Arts & Sciences Awards.

Gameplay

The Journeyman Project 3: Legacy of Time is a point-and-click adventure game. The player controls Gage Blackwood, a time traveler from the year 2342. Gage’s mission is to prevent a catastrophic event that will destroy the Earth. To do this, he must travel through time and collect a series of artifacts.

The game is played from a first-person perspective, and the player uses the mouse to interact with the game world. The player can move Gage around the environment, examine objects, and talk to other characters. The game also features a unique 360-degree pre-rendered 3D CGI interaction system, which allows the player to freely explore the game world.

Plot

The game begins in the year 2342. Gage Blackwood is a time traveler who has been sent back to the past to prevent a catastrophic event. Gage’s mission is to collect a series of artifacts that will help him to stop the event from happening.

Gage travels to a variety of time periods, including the American Civil War, the Victorian era, and the future. He meets a variety of historical figures, including Abraham Lincoln, Charles Dickens, and Nikola Tesla. Gage must use his wits and charm to convince these figures to help him on his mission.

As Gage collects the artifacts, he learns more about the catastrophic event that he is trying to prevent. He discovers that the event is caused by a group of rogue scientists who are trying to create a new world order. Gage must stop the scientists before they can carry out their plan.

Characters

Gage Blackwood: The protagonist of the game. Gage is a time traveler from the year 2342. He is sent back to the past to prevent a catastrophic event.
Dr. Augustine: A scientist who helps Gage on his mission. Dr. Augustine is an expert on time travel.
Emily Carter: A journalist who helps Gage on his mission. Emily is a brilliant investigator.
Abraham Lincoln: The 16th President of the United States. Gage meets Lincoln during the American Civil War.
Charles Dickens: A famous English writer. Gage meets Dickens during the Victorian era.
Nikola Tesla: A famous inventor. Gage meets Tesla in the future.

Development

The Journeyman Project 3: Legacy of Time was developed by Presto Studios and published by Red Orb Entertainment. The game was developed using a custom game engine. The game’s development team was led by John and Brenda Romero, who had previously worked on the first two games in the series.

The game’s development was ambitious, and it took several years to complete. The team used a variety of cutting-edge technology to create the game’s stunning visuals and immersive gameplay.

Reception

The Journeyman Project 3: Legacy of Time was a critical and commercial success. The game was praised for its innovative gameplay, stunning visuals, and engaging story. The game was also nominated for several awards, including Adventure Game of the Year at the 1999 Academy of Interactive Arts & Sciences Awards.

The game was a commercial success, selling over 500,000 copies worldwide. It was one of the best-selling adventure games of its time.

Legacy

The Journeyman Project 3: Legacy of Time is considered to be a classic adventure game. The game’s innovative gameplay, stunning visuals, and engaging story have made it a favorite among fans of the genre. The game has also been praised for its educational value, as it teaches players about history and science.

The Journeyman Project 3: Legacy of Time has been ported to a variety of platforms, including iOS and Android. The game is also available on GOG.com and Steam.

Conclusion

The Journeyman Project 3: Legacy of Time is a classic adventure game that is still enjoyed by fans today. The game’s innovative gameplay, stunning visuals, and engaging story make it a must-play for fans of the genre.

Review Score

8.5/10