Return to the Mystery Case Files in the 13th Skull Collector's Edition

When Sara Lawson's husband mysteriously disappears, the town locals - including Sara's daughter, Magnolia, believe that an ancient pirate's curse is to blame. As the family's only hope, in Mystery Case Files: 13th Skull Collector's Edition, gamers must venture within their historic Louisiana mansion in effort to discover the secret of the pirate ghost, and to rescue Marcus Lawson.

Mystery Case Files: 13th Skull Collector's Edition is the latest entry in a long line of Mystery Case Files computer games. Similar to the previous titles, such as, Ravenhurst and Hunstville, in this latest title, gamers embark on hidden object gameplay while also enjoying a variety of interspersed puzzles.

As a hidden object game, gameplay is pretty standard and follows the typical formula for the genre; enter various areas (such as rooms) and find the required items on the provided list that are scattered about. Recovery of the hidden objects unlocks otherwise unavailable areas and progresses the storyline.

Standout features in the title include absolutely rich and stunning visuals, high quality sound, and lengthy challenges. In addition to high quality visuals, live action video clips featuring character actors (rather than art) are uniquely and nicely implemented within the gameplay, adding a level of realistic interactivity. While characters may provide clues to elements with conversation branches, the ability to skip dialogue is also nicely available.

For players who are new to this particular style of game will appreciate the in game help system. Controllable tutorial dialogue windows can be used as a guide to start the game off - leading players in the right direction, and the usual rechargeable hint system assists players in solving on screen challenges. An in-game case report, which acts like a journal, is also always available to brush up and review any clues and findings.

Mystery Case Files: 13th Skull Collector's Edition is available in two different editions. The Collector's Edition (CE) offers the same gameplay as the Standard Edition, but also includes bonus gameplay in the form of an additional level, and a built-in Smart Guide. The title is available as a downloadable demo, and for purchase online at Big Fish Games. A Walkthrough solution of the game is also available at the Big Fish Games Blog.

Sources/Resources:

Mystery Case Files Official Site

Mystery Case Files: 13th Skull Collector's Edition at Big Fish Games

Mystery Case Files: 13th Skull Collector's Edition Walkthrough at the Big Fish Games Blog