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AGS Games => Completed Game Announcements => Topic started by: Ghostlady on Sun 19/06/2005 00:28:09

Title: Hauntings Of Mystery Manor
Post by: Ghostlady on Sun 19/06/2005 00:28:09
Hauntings Of Mystery Manor is COMPLETE.Ã,  It is a commercial game. You can view the details HERE (http://www.mysterymanor.net/HauntingsOfMysteryManor.htm)

I am referring to it as a Gothic Adventure.Ã,  Not gothic as it means today but as Websters describes it:Ã,  (Gothic:Ã,  of or relating to a style of fiction characterized by the use of desolate or remote settings and macabre, mysterious, or violent incidents)

Here is the first review from Four Fat Chicks: FFC Review (http://fourfatchicks.com/Reviews/Mystery_Manor/Hauntings.shtml)

And a walkthrough HERE (http://mysterymanor.net/walkthroughs/HauntingsOfMysteryManor/index.htm)

I would like to thank everyone here at AGS that helped me through this and especially the creators of the AGS software that allowed me to do something I didn't think was possible.

Title: Re: Hauntings Of Mystery Manor
Post by: Gord10 on Sun 19/06/2005 02:33:18
Looks really good. If only I had a credit card :(
Title: Re: Hauntings Of Mystery Manor
Post by: Candle on Sun 19/06/2005 03:21:33
http://www.adventuregamestudio.co.uk/aclegal.htm

The Manor consists of a foyer leading to 12 rooms, six upstairs and six downstairs. From some of these 12 rooms, you may go deeper into the house, or even outside. You locate items and figure out how they fit into the puzzles set by the specters, and then bring these things to the appropriate spirit. Some ghosts need more than one item; for others, you must create an item before you can hand it over. Once a soul has been freed, it disappears and the room falls quiet, a nice, clear signal that there is nothing else there for you to do.

All of the shortcomings of the game result from the Adventure Game Studio software. If you've ever played an AGS game before (better-known examples include 5 Days a Stranger, the Ben Jordan games, The Adventures of Fatmanâ€"go to the AGS site for a complete list), you'll know what I mean. The interface is clunky; to use something you have to mouse over the top of the screen to bring up some standard menu items, which are represented by ugly, giant-pixelled built-in icons, and then click on the inventory icon (a briefcase), select an item, click "OK" to close the inventory, and then apply the item.

Also, the choices of screen resolution are 320àâ€"240 or 640àâ€"480. 320àâ€"240? That's like something out of the Stone Age, at least in computer gaming terms. Even at 640àâ€"480, it's possible to see individual pixels with the naked eye on today's computer screens.

I feel like a shit for complaining about it, because AGS is a free tool that has enabled some talented people to make games where they otherwise might've lacked the technical skills to bring their ideas to fruition. And AGS games usually run beautifully right out of the box, so to speak. But still, in the case of Hauntings of Mystery Manor, the standard icons supplied within the AGS are severely at odds with the finely rendered images used in the game proper.

The largely static game screens are drawn by Ghostlady's friend Diz, a graphic designer who specializes in Victorian-flavored digital art. They are among the nicest images I have ever seen in an indie game. Each room of the Manor also has its own snippet of music; all of the pieces are chosen well and lend to the atmosphere and completely failed to irritate this increasingly cranky adventure gamer.

Of course, it was not necessary for me to spend a whole lot of time in any one roomâ€"I, I who have played at least six thousand adventure games, I who can occasionally fall prone to fits of hyberbole, finished the game in well under three hours, closer to two. Ghostlady said it had taken most of those who'd played around five hours to complete.

It's hard for me to say, since I got to play it for free, whether Hauntings of Mystery Manor is worth its $15 price tag; while it is unpretentious, well put together, and quite fun to play, it is easily finished in just one sitting. I suppose if I had forked over the $15 out of my own meager funds, I'd not have been at all disappointed in the game itself, only in its length.
Title: Re: Hauntings Of Mystery Manor
Post by: Ghostlady on Sun 19/06/2005 03:53:55
What's your point? ???
Title: Re: Hauntings Of Mystery Manor
Post by: Shane 'ProgZmax' Stevens on Sun 19/06/2005 04:11:13
He's hoping that you've checked with the makers of the various libraries ags uses before selling your product, since in some cases you can be sued without express consent a/o payment for using certain libraries in your game.
Title: Re: Hauntings Of Mystery Manor
Post by: Candle on Sun 19/06/2005 04:21:48
Quote from: ProgZmax on Sun 19/06/2005 04:11:13
He's hoping that you've checked with the makers of the various libraries ags uses before selling your product, since in some cases you can be sued without express consent a/o payment for using certain libraries in your game.
That was My Point .


And sad to see how the review made it a fact that you used a The interface is clunky etc for your  commercial game .
But thats just me .
Good luck with your game .
Title: Re: Hauntings Of Mystery Manor
Post by: Ghostlady on Sun 19/06/2005 04:28:41
Yes, I read all the legal. 

You will never please everyone.  That is just the way it is.  To me, AGS is a fantastic piece of software.  I learned sooo much, that I am ready to do it again.  This time better because of the knowledge I have now.  That is why I came back here to thank everyone.
Title: Re: Hauntings Of Mystery Manor
Post by: Gregjazz on Sun 19/06/2005 04:51:32
Wow, that is some very nice looking 3D graphics! Congratulations on the game release!
Title: Re: Hauntings Of Mystery Manor
Post by: sergiocornaga on Sun 19/06/2005 07:30:29
It looks like an awesome game, but the default AGS interface makes it seem so unfinished...
Title: Re: Hauntings Of Mystery Manor
Post by: Snarky on Sun 19/06/2005 07:34:38
Candle, you're quoting a review, but there's no indication of where it's from. Who wrote that review?
Title: Re: Hauntings Of Mystery Manor
Post by: Candle on Sun 19/06/2005 08:26:58
Quote from: Snarky on Sun 19/06/2005 07:34:38
Candle, you're quoting a review, but there's no indication of where it's from. Who wrote that review?
It was from here
http://fourfatchicks.com/Reviews/Mystery_Manor/Hauntings.shtml
Sorry should of added link .
Title: Re: Hauntings Of Mystery Manor
Post by: Rui 'Trovatore' Pires on Sun 19/06/2005 10:17:58
Heh. Did I recognize one the screenshots from Phantasmagoria? The dining room, right outside the kitchen? ::)
Title: Re: Hauntings Of Mystery Manor
Post by: Ubel on Sun 19/06/2005 12:45:04
This looks like a good game but the default interface kind of breaks it. Well, congratulations anyway and good luck with selling the game!
Title: Re: Hauntings Of Mystery Manor
Post by: dogberry on Tue 21/06/2005 22:54:18
Firstly congratulations on the release of your game.
Secondly,I'm sure it is great but I refuse to pay for a game when there are so many fantastic games on here and elsewhere that are free.

I hope that didn't sound too harsh and I really do wish you good luck with this game and any others you plan to market. :)
Title: Re: Hauntings Of Mystery Manor
Post by: Snarky on Wed 22/06/2005 00:08:09
dogberry, I can understand choosing to only play free games in order to save money. However, to "refuse" to pay money for a game, as if on principle? I don't think that's a very wise attitude.

I think ultimately, a viable market for indie adventure games will lead to better games as well as many more free amateur games. Several of the most talented AGS game creators are trying to move towards making commercial games (Tierra/AGDI/Himalaya Studios, Dave Gilbert, Yahtzee). Making high-quality games is time consuming, and without some sort of recompensation many people will find they're not able to continue doing so. Also, the prospect of one day being able to make money off computer games will attract people to the hobby.

The two most important things to increase the quantity and improve the quality of amateur adventure games, to my mind, is to recruit more people and retain the people with experience. A market for indie adventures will help with both.

Ideally, I'd like to see people across the entire spectrum from complete amateurs making free games in their spare time to complete professionals getting paid for making games as their day-time job, and the possibility to progress from one to the other.

Since this game looks good and is affordable, I will go ahead and buy it. If you don't think it will be worth the money, by all means don't. But if you are tempted, you shouldn't hesitate to spend money on an AGS game.
Title: Re: Hauntings Of Mystery Manor
Post by: dogberry on Wed 22/06/2005 18:11:48
Ok I will rephrase that,I refuse to pay for online games when they are so many great ones that are free.
I do however pay for games from shop such as CSI and silent hill.

Is that better or do I have to agree with everyone else for my opinion to be valid?
I would like to know why it isn't a wise attitude though.
Title: Re: Hauntings Of Mystery Manor
Post by: Snarky on Thu 23/06/2005 01:10:53
I just wrote a post explaining why I don't think it's a very wise attitude. You are free to have your opinions, just as I'm free to disapprove of them.

I don't think your rephrased version is any better. In fact, I think it's worse. Why are you willing to pay for commercial games in a shop, but not for games that are being distributed over the Internet? Are you actively against supporting indie games?

However, perhaps we should take this discussion elsewhere, instead of cluttering the game thread. PM me if you like.
Title: Re: Hauntings Of Mystery Manor
Post by: Ghostlady on Fri 24/06/2005 04:45:51
Everyone has a right to their own opinion and the way they spend their money or don't spend their money.Ã,  Sometimes someone's beliefs are because they don't have the full understanding of what goes on behind the scenes.Ã, 

I personally think you will see more and more commercial Indie games coming.Ã,  There have been too many horror stories with publishers and controlled gaming companies.Ã,  Snarky made some very good points.Ã, 

I personally have put a lot of money into this project.Ã,  Good graphics and production music doesn't come cheap.Ã,  I am hoping to get my money back out of it and enough to do another game.Ã,  It is, on the average, a five hour game.Ã,  I could have kept going with it but not knowing if it was viable on the market, I switched gears and made it shorter.Ã,  Seems right now, that is the only complaint I have been getting about the game.Ã,  Actually, it is quite addicting.Ã, 
Title: Re: Hauntings Of Mystery Manor
Post by: steerpike on Fri 24/06/2005 11:26:37
The screenshots are good. Are they done with DAZ3D models?

I've thought for a while that some of the DAZ items would look good as 2D backdrops in an adventure game; and that double staircase in the first screenshot looks very familiar.

Title: Re: Hauntings Of Mystery Manor
Post by: Potch on Mon 27/06/2005 19:55:33
On paying for adventure games...  It's not that I don't want to support Indie games, because I truly do...   But personally, most (not all) but most of the time, I play an adventure game once, and then I never play it again.  So, in my current financial state, buying an adventure game just isn't economically sound.  Perhaps if I was independently wealthy and had money laying around to spare, things would be different.... 

I do wish the game author lots of luck though.  The game looks great.
Title: Re: Hauntings Of Mystery Manor
Post by: on Thu 30/06/2005 05:11:51
I think that AGS is a free software.so the games which are made with this software must be free.
and I want to notice that there are many countries that the people do not use credit cards.... :-[
Title: Re: Hauntings Of Mystery Manor
Post by: Gilbert on Thu 30/06/2005 05:14:42
Nope, it's written explicitly in the AGS documents that you can make commercial games, as long as you follow several simple rules.
Title: to much
Post by: cappella on Wed 06/07/2005 10:53:07
hi ghostlady,

i saw the screenshots  and i have read the thread about your game. nice work, but not really worth 15 $ I think. the screens could have more shadow-detail... they seems too flat. sad about the icons, they could have a (ghostly) design, not the standard from ags. i like the ghosts (nice transparency)
. at last, i would play it, it looks interesting, but i would not pay 15 $ for an unfinished game (icons).
We are making a game "noah" in ags too, and we still thinking about it to make it commercial, but we dont wont you to pay for it. but, as you say, good graphics and sound are not cheap, and if we spend money in our game, it would be nice to get it back when its finished. We had spend very much tiime in the game and we will spend another year to finish it, because we have about 150 rooms and 30 hours of gameplay. 15-20 minutes of videos sequences take also a lot of our time.
3 years of production, and if we decide to make it commercial, it will cost not more than 10$.

remember, a very good game with a very low price will get more popular because more people will play it. take 15 $ for your game and only 20 people will buy it = 300$. but take 2 $ for it and 1000 people will buy it = 2000$  :-)

anyway, very good luck with selling your game...

Title: Re: to much
Post by: cappella on Wed 06/07/2005 10:55:33
so sorry, this thread had to be in "haunting of mystery manor" as a reply.
dont know why its going in a new topic,
Title: Re: to much
Post by: Ghostlady on Fri 08/07/2005 04:22:07
Hi cappella,

Just because I used the default AGS icons does not make the game unfinished.Ã,  I actually like the icons.Ã,  Different strokes for different folks.Ã,  ;)

I would not want to spend three years making a game.Ã,  You have to understand this was a one woman show and not a group of people coming together to make a game.

All the feedback I have received has been positive.Ã,  The one word that I hear continually is "Fun".Ã,  Is that not what a game is supposed to be?Ã,  I have spent $20.00 on a 40 hour game that was bug filled and spent my whole playtime walking around and getting frustrated.Ã,  I would much rather pay $15.00 for a game that was fun and memorable.Ã,  But again, different strokes for different folks.

Here is an example of what I mean:

FeedBack (http://www.gameboomers.com/ubboard/ultimatebb.php/topic/2/16700.html)

Quoteremember, a very good game with a very low price will get more popular because more people will play it. take 15 $ for your game and only 20 people will buy it = 300$. but take 2 $ for it and 1000 people will buy it = 2000$

You are so wrong.

Good luck with your game Noah, I wish you the best with it!!!

Ghostlady

Title: Re: to much
Post by: Rui 'Trovatore' Pires on Fri 08/07/2005 08:37:29
Quote
Quoteremember, a very good game with a very low price will get more popular because more people will play it. take 15 $ for your game and only 20 people will buy it = 300$. but take 2 $ for it and 1000 people will buy it = 2000$

You are so wrong.

I'm curious now. Why is he so wrong? You said so, but you didn't say why, and yet it seems like good logic. And it applies for me - it's rather steep for a game which has, supposedly, 3 hours length and did not "bother" to have a different-than-default GUI, and which ripped off at least one screen from another computer game (well, not "ripped off", you painted it over, but it's still very clearly from Phantasmagoria's dining room). Anyway, that's *my* preferences - like you said, different folks, different strokes. But I still find logic in his statement. Why is he "so wrong"?
Title: Re: to much
Post by: cappella on Fri 08/07/2005 11:52:21
Quote"you are so wrong"

as you said: different folks, different strokes " :-)

besides, we are only two people (one for the story and riddles, and me, for the graphics, movies, scripting and designs) ! and we spend three years into the game because a good story needs time.!

you said:
Quote"All the feedback I have received has been positive.Ã,  The one word that I hear continually is "Fun".Ã,  Is that not what a game is supposed to be?Ã,  I have spent $20.00 on a 40 hour game that was bug filled and spent my whole playtime walking around and getting frustrated.Ã,  I would much rather pay $15.00 for a game that was fun and memorable."

i know what you mean and you are absolutly right with that. still i think the icons in your game kills the atmosphere. anyway, i think your game is a nice work, but not ready for commercial.

keep up the good work--
Title: Re: to much
Post by: Potch on Fri 08/07/2005 15:55:33
I think his logic makes sense as well.  I think a lot more people would buy it at a lower price.  And that's the thing.  If I had the skills and creativity to make a game, and I thought it was good enough to sell, I would want the most people possible to buy it, so I would put it at a lower price.  I figure, the more people that see it, the better.  But I suppose we all have different opinions on that.  I have commented on this before.  I don't even buy mainstream games for that much.  If there is a mainstream game that I want, the highest I will pay is 10 dollars.  I'll wait till I can find it used or buy it off of EBAY. 

I'm glad that people are buying your game.  I wish that I could, because it seems very good. 
Title: Re: Hauntings Of Mystery Manor
Post by: Ghostlady on Fri 08/07/2005 22:17:52
Rui,

Quoteand which ripped off at least one screen from another computer game (well, not "ripped off", you painted it over, but it's still very clearly from Phantasmagoria's dining room).

That room was not ripped off or painted over.Ã,  It was created from scratch.Ã,  I think you should get your facts straight before you make a comment like that.Ã, 

I can't take anyone seriously when they put the word "fucking" in their signature.

Title: Re: Hauntings Of Mystery Manor
Post by: Kweepa on Fri 08/07/2005 22:39:48
About the price of the game, for downloadable games there is experimental evidence that refutes the charge less, sell more argument. In this particular case, the price cutoff was $15 - sales increased when the price was raised. One explanation for this is the perceived worth of a product. If you charge too little, people may think that it's low quality.
I don't have any references, because I heard this directly from a publisher.

I'd be curious to know how well your game is selling, if you don't mind sharing that information here.

As for the "rip off", it's easy to imagine two artists drawing a similar scene, particularly if they both used the same reference material, or had the same influences. In any case, I don't see how a render could be considered a paint over. Unless you can provide proof, Rui, I think an apology is in order?
Title: Re: Hauntings Of Mystery Manor
Post by: Ghostlady on Fri 08/07/2005 23:11:43
Thank you Steve.  I couldn't have worded it better, on all accounts.  For the sake of other adventure game developers who would like to create a Commercial game, I will share this info.

Games Sold in 3 weeks:

CD's - 86
Downloads - 14
Total:  110

That is about half of what it cost me to make it.
Title: Re: Hauntings Of Mystery Manor
Post by: Candle on Sat 09/07/2005 00:17:26
As you will surely find out you will be lucky to break even .
Title: Re: Hauntings Of Mystery Manor
Post by: Mr Jake on Sat 09/07/2005 02:00:11
It cost you $3000 to make the game? Jesus Christ. Mind explaining where it all went, so anyone else considering it knows what to expect?
Title: Re: Hauntings Of Mystery Manor
Post by: Kweepa on Sat 09/07/2005 02:13:51
Quote from: Candle on Sat 09/07/2005 00:17:26
As you will surely find out you will be lucky to break even .

Given that she's already recouped half the costs, as long as the game is kept somewhat visible, I don't foresee any difficulty. There will probably be a trickle of sales for a year or two.
Title: Re: Hauntings Of Mystery Manor
Post by: Ghostlady on Sat 09/07/2005 02:40:09
QuoteIt cost you $3000 to make the game? Jesus Christ. Mind explaining where it all went, so anyone else considering it knows what to expect?

It might not be this way for anyone else.Ã,  These were my choices.Ã,  I opted to purchase all the graphics and the production music.Ã,  There is a 30 second music loop in there that cost $65.00.Ã,  99 % of people making an adventure game would not have opted to spend that on music.Ã,  Let alone on one little piece of music.Ã,  I am the lone 1%.Ã,  But.....the music is haunting and beautiful.Ã,  The game has ATMOSPHERE.Ã,  That was created by the graphics and working the music just right.Ã, 

I believe I'll get my money out of it.Ã,  I won't become rich from it.Ã,  It is not really about the money.Ã,  I mean I don't want to loose money, I'd like to re-coup what I spent on it and use it to create another.Ã,  It is about creating an entertaining adventure game.Ã, 
Title: Re: Hauntings Of Mystery Manor
Post by: Ghostlady on Sat 09/07/2005 03:04:27
Moderator,

If this is not an acceptable post, please delete it.

I thought it might be nice to offer a couple copies of the game to the people here at AGS.  Especially to the people who have a real interest in it.  Post and let me know you are interested and I'll do the old pull the name from the hat trick.  I'll only offer it as a download and it is about 50MG. 
Title: Re: Hauntings Of Mystery Manor
Post by: Candle on Sat 09/07/2005 04:18:55
If you look at any walmart when a game comes out you will see it on the shelf for so many days
After that time they start to move in new games and they will start moving the older games down on the shelfs .
Most game companys know if they don't make their money in the first x amout of days they will call it a loss .
I don't see this game making the $3000 sorry .  Just my option ..
Once the game is downloaded or sold to someone it is only matter of time when it will be able to download for everyone . if they know where to look .
Title: Re: Hauntings Of Mystery Manor
Post by: Esseb on Sat 09/07/2005 05:00:29
Yes, I can easily imagine most people who'd consider paying $15 for an indie game would know where to illegally aquire games. Especially the esoteric sort which is only sold online to a limited audience. My bookmarks are brimming with those.
Title: Re: Hauntings Of Mystery Manor
Post by: Candle on Sat 09/07/2005 05:05:31
Quote from: Esseb on Sat 09/07/2005 05:00:29
Yes, I can easily imagine most people who'd consider paying $15 for an indie game would know where to illegally aquire games. Especially the esoteric sort which is only sold online to a limited audience. My bookmarks are brimming with those.
Bright .. geeee why didn't I think of it ..
Title: Re: Hauntings Of Mystery Manor
Post by: Barbarian on Sat 09/07/2005 05:20:47
GhostLady:
My respects to you.

So far, everything I've seen and heard of your game, it looks and sounds amazing.
Also the storyline is really interesting too. Ã, I can appreciate all of the hard-work and effort you put into making your game, and you show a real dedication and passion in making your game to be willing to even pay for the professional art/graphics and music as you Ã, did.

I can understand that because it costs you a fair amount of money to include some of thoses elements into your game, that you would like to recover your costs and then be willing to reinvest any money from the sales of your game into making future gaming project(s). Ã, 

Perhaps a few months down the road when I get on top of some of my bills and have a few extra dollars to spare, I may purchase a copy of your game as well. Ã, 

I imagine this "Mystery Manor" project has been a real good learning experience for you (the few game projects I have worked on myself has be a great learning experience for me in many ways too). Keep an open mind about comments made by people regarding your game (good and bad), suggestions, etc.. and try to look at it as "constructive critisism" to furthur improve your game-making skills for any future projects you may work on.
I wish you all the best with your gaming projects, and I hope you will continue with making more games.

Best regards.

*Edit: Oh, Ghostlady, I just re-read your last post and noticed you might do a name-draw to give away a couple of free downloads of your game? Very generous of you. Throw my name in the "hat" as well too.  ;D
Title: Re: Hauntings Of Mystery Manor
Post by: Kweepa on Sat 09/07/2005 05:45:55
Quote from: Candle on Sat 09/07/2005 04:18:55
If you look at any walmart when a game comes out you will see it on the shelf for so many days
After that time they start to move in new games and they will start moving the older games down on the shelfs .
Most game companys know if they don't make their money in the first x amout of days they will call it a loss .

That's Walmart. If you have your own online store you can obviously afford to keep the product on sale for as long as you want.
(Anyway, games generally have a longer shelf-life than "X" days. Typically it'll be months, or years for top titles. And then it goes budget. But that's not relevant here.)
If you're determined to be negative, go ahead. I'm not quite sure why.
Title: Re: Hauntings Of Mystery Manor
Post by: Candle on Sat 09/07/2005 05:56:48
No I'm not trying to be negative . just having a discussion here .
I hope she does well .
Title: Re: Hauntings Of Mystery Manor
Post by: Mr Jake on Sat 09/07/2005 09:56:49
I'd like my name in the hat please.
I am at a financial ends right now :(

I didn't relise music was so expensive, I suppose it was worth it if it ads so much to the game.
Title: Re: Hauntings Of Mystery Manor
Post by: Rui 'Trovatore' Pires on Sat 09/07/2005 10:08:12
I do apologize, if you created it yourself. But:

1 - I had commented on it earlier. Look at the first page of posts. I got no response, so I was left to assume what I would.

2 - http://radio-canada.ca/branche/v2/classi/images/phant-ecran-grand.jpg <-- That is from Phantasmagoria. Compare it to the first screenie on the left and second from the top on the FFC review and tell me how I, or anyone, could possibly not have related it. If you'd answered to my first post this wouldn't have been happening now, now would it?

3 - Then don't take me seriously. But for your information, that "fucking" is not a gratuitous word - that's a quote from a film, and I chose to add it to my sig because it's used in a time and place and context that I not only approve of, I cheer at. So don't take things at face value. And btw, that's waaay to selective judging. What about my avatar or the rest of my sig? Wait, I know - what about my actual POST? How about taking that seriously? There's no swearing in that.

4 - I still don't get why that logic is wrong, which was the point of my post, not the "fucking" or the screenie - the *logic*.

EDIT - Indeed, now that I compare those two side-by-side, it does not look painted over at all. However, it still looks like exactly the same room, redrawn. I say again, anyone who has played Phantasmagoria makes the connection... and instead of ignoring my first post, you should have told me, there and then, that it's just a coincidence.

There, I'm done.
Title: Re: Hauntings Of Mystery Manor
Post by: ildu on Sat 09/07/2005 13:40:29
Here they are both of em':

http://fourfatchicks.com/Reviews/Mystery_Manor/0010.JPG
http://radio-canada.ca/branche/v2/classi/images/phant-ecran-grand.jpg

And I must say the resemblence is uncanny. The perspective in the mystery manor screenie is totally screwed, though.
Title: Re: Hauntings Of Mystery Manor
Post by: Kweepa on Sat 09/07/2005 14:08:33
Hey, it IS a paint over! >:(
Sorry I doubted you Rui.
Title: Re: Hauntings Of Mystery Manor
Post by: Esseb on Sat 09/07/2005 14:27:41
Quote from: Candle on Sat 09/07/2005 05:05:31
Quote from: Esseb on Sat 09/07/2005 05:00:29
Yes, I can easily imagine most people who'd consider paying $15 for an indie game would know where to illegally aquire games. Especially the esoteric sort which is only sold online to a limited audience. My bookmarks are brimming with those.
Bright .. geeee why didn't I think of it ..

What? My point was that it is extremely hard to find illegally available downloads for indie games even for someone who knows where to look, let alone for what I believe is the target audience for this game: People who are not constantly upgrading their computer so they can play the latest FPS game.

Are you're trying to inform me that you had already thought of this before making your post, or are you saying you hadn't thought of it?
Title: Re: Hauntings Of Mystery Manor
Post by: Ashen on Sat 09/07/2005 15:05:46
Esseb:
If you read your post without sarcasm (as I did), and Candle's reply with it, it makes more sense - you seem to be saying the same as he'd said in an earlier post.

That's my reading anyway, and if so I agree with Candle - if a game is made available for download (even at a price), there's nothing (besides natural honesty) to stop the downloader turning around and making it available, for free, on bittorrent/eMule/fileshare software of choice. Granted, the "target audience" in this case may be less likely to do so, and so yes indie games would be harder to find, but there's still nothing stopping them should they choose to.
EDIT1: I don't know how Hauntings Of Mystery Manor is set up, I just meant that downloads are specificly packaged for easy transfer, while a cd is slightly more awkward. (Although that probably doesn't apply to AGS games as much.)

For the record (and to get vaguely on topic), if the download-able version was handled slightly differently (I don't like PayPal), I would be willing to pay for this game.
EDIT2: Not that I can think of an alternative to PayPal, it's just that I've never been able to get the thing to work, and I'm always paranoid that I'll be charged twice for a transaction I didn't end up making. I'm also a little wary of the "e-mail me, and I'll get in touch with details" part, but again can't think of a practical alternative. And - as I said - I would really like a copy of this game. Don't take the download option away just yet, please - I might overcome my PayPal-phobia, but I'm not likely to pay for shipping. (Unless you put my name in the hat, of course ;))
Title: Re: Hauntings Of Mystery Manor
Post by: Ghostlady on Sat 09/07/2005 15:46:16
This was my first game and I am trying to take things objectively.Ã,  I'm sure I made mistakes and would do things differently the next time around. I admit I was upset when Rui said the image was painted over.Ã,  It was not.Ã,  It was designed to look like the room because I really liked the look of the room but it was not painted over.Ã,  There are a lot of rooms at the Manor and it seemed this one was being picked on.Ã,  Sorry Rui, but your post implied that people would be paying $15.00 for a game that had used screens from other games where there is just this one that was designed after one.Ã,  That is the way I took it.Ã, 

I offered the download mostly for International buyers, so they wouldn't have to pay the shipping.Ã,  It seems they want the CD mostly so I may be taking the download option off.Ã,  As far as stealing files, what is the difference if you have the files on a CD or you downloaded them?Ã,  Same files.Ã,  I don't think there is much you can do to stop that.

I used the PayPal credit processor, and you don't have to be a PalPal customer, because it was so easy to set up and tends to be the one that is most popular because so many people have PayPal accounts.Ã,  If anyone can offer suggestions of a better way to go, I'd be happy to listen.
Title: Re: Hauntings Of Mystery Manor
Post by: Esseb on Sat 09/07/2005 15:55:02
Not to discredit Ghostlady, I was merely making the observation that her game is no Quake IV. I would be quite surprised if she loses even one sale due to piracy.

That said, I'm done hijacking this thread and whatever argument I may have gotten myself into isn't worth continuing. Good luck with your game, Ghostlady. I hope you end up with a nice profit at the end of it all.
Title: Re: Hauntings Of Mystery Manor
Post by: Rui 'Trovatore' Pires on Sat 09/07/2005 15:55:36
I'd just like to point out that the only thing I implied with my post was that I would not pay $15 dollars for the game, for the three reasons I stated.
Title: Re: Hauntings Of Mystery Manor
Post by: Vince Twelve on Sun 10/07/2005 04:09:06
Ghostlady, the game looks great.  I'm hoping that you don't, as you implied, take down the download option.  As soon as I'm done pouring all my freetime into the One Room One Week competition, I'm planning on paying for the download.

I think we should all be supportive of efforts like this.  Especially within our community.  Because one successful commercial AGS could lead to more... possibly one that you are attached to.  I wish you all the best.  I'd like to try to release a commercial game at some point in the future be it AGS or some other engine and any success you can achieve gives me hope.
Title: Re: Hauntings Of Mystery Manor
Post by: lakerz on Sun 10/07/2005 06:22:03
I've heard only positive things so far about this game.  So kudos to you Ghostlady!  I'd be interested in trying out a copy of the game, so please add my name to the list as well.  8)
Title: Re: Hauntings Of Mystery Manor
Post by: Kinoko on Sun 10/07/2005 07:14:51
I just want to add that I'm with Rui on this. Good luck to you and your game, I'm sure it's great but I wouldn't pay for it and I don't think anyone should have a problem with that. It's economics. I don't have a problem with you charging for it either. If you can charge for it and make money, then obviously it worked for you! At the same time, and I know I've said this many times before and no disrespect to you Vince because you know I love you ^_-, but I don't agree with the argument that people should 'support' an industry. It's like sympathy money (to the people getting it, it makes little difference). I think if you see a game and you say to yourself honestly, "Heck, I want to buy that there game" then that's great. If you go, "Hmm, well I'm on the fence about buying it but hey, I want the industry to grow", even though you're perfectly entitled to do so, I think it's a terrible reason. The game should be good enough for you to want to pay money for it based on it's own merits. If not, then you shouldn't buy it. I mean, if we all went around buying games based on that reasoning, it's going to lessen the motivation to push ourselves in creating games of true quality.

I'm only willing to pay for a game that, aside for all the usual reasons of having a great story and arousing my interests, is comprable to a commercial game. I don't mean modern commercial games necessarilly, but something I could imagine at some stage could have been on shelves. Something I don't look at and say, "This is an independant adventure game". If I play the game and don't even THINK about whether it's independant or not, that's a game I'd (possibly) be willing to pay for... and I have. I forked over a whopping $6 to Yahtzee and I've never regretted it because when I played 5 Days when it first came out, I was utterly impressed with it's over-all professionalism (on top of the fact that I just loved it for story and everything else).

To get back to the game in question, like Rui, I wouldn't buy it even if it were perfect in every other way based on the fact that it didn't have a custom GUI because I wouldn't be able to get past seeing an amateur game. The game wouldn't seem complete, and I'd feel ripped off that I was missing out on that little bit of extra effort.

This is me. Other people don't think that way and it's fine but my point is that I just don't agree with the fact that people should feel obligated to buy a game in order to "support the industry" (and I'm not speaking to on that one Vince, I know you didn't mean that but lots of people do).

I also have to say, regardless of whether it's a paint over or not, those two screens are INCREDIBLY similar. Coincidences do happen though, and we can all be influenced by past games we've played unconciously.
Title: Re: Hauntings Of Mystery Manor
Post by: Vince Twelve on Sun 10/07/2005 09:58:56
Excellent points, Kinoko.  I wasn't saying that we should support the independent games "industry" (if you can call it that).  I was more in support of a valiant and concerted effort, which is what I see here.  If you slapped a price tag on a P3N15 award winner, I certainly wouldn't be lining up to buy.

Also, by "support" I don't mean "buy" necessarily.  Just support.  "Nice job.  Good luck."  Remember, we aren't (or shouldn't be) the target market here.  We have plenty of free games that come out to satisfy us.  There are those out there who will easily pay $15 bucks for a product like this.  From us, yes, she will get some "sympathy money" (every little bit helps) but it's from those that read the positive reviews, or hear from word of mouth, and don't know or don't care about the underground free adventure games that flow here like water, that will help her recoup her losses.

So, "Nice job. Good luck."  Don't be angry because the game isn't targetted at you. (And I'm not specifically speaking at anyone here, so don't get up in arms).

The question of quality IS an important one, however.  Being a commercial game definitely  requires a bit more attention to quality, and I would agree that the look of the GUI is a major mark against it.  But what I'm looking for is gameplay and story.  And from the reviews, they seem to be all in line.

If the two strikes against this game are length and the GUI (and on painted-over fireplace... THREE!  THREE STRIKES! ...oh bugger, I'll come in again), then it has a lot more going for it than some of the $20 budget priced games out there (not that two wrongs make a right, or anything).

Personally (and this is part of what makes me, and some of the rest of us, more in line with the target market), I pay 16 bucks for a movie ticket (stupid expensive Japan) and more for refreshments for 2 hours of entertainment and thirty minutes of ads.  I'll gladly pay $15 for five hours of fun.  I'd call it a fair trade.  If you wouldn't, "Nice job.  Good luck."
Title: Re: Hauntings Of Mystery Manor
Post by: Ghostlady on Sun 10/07/2005 17:03:25
Game Drawing:

Barbarian
Hotspot
Ashen
Rui
Lakerz
Potch
Marlamoe
Alk3Catch22
dg

If I missed anyone, please let me know.Ã,  I'll add to this post if anyone else is interested and I'll give it about a week.Ã,  Rui, I put you on the list since we started off on the wrong foot and I apologize if I got a little testy.

Note:Ã,  I am not removing the download option for awhile.Ã,  It has actually picked up in the last couple days.
Title: Re: Hauntings Of Mystery Manor
Post by: Rui 'Trovatore' Pires on Sun 10/07/2005 17:35:32
Aww, so sweet. :) No sarcasm, either. That's an attitude that caught me by surprise. And I have to apologize by the rough wording in my posts - I can't not apologize to anyone who'd do a thing like that.

Like I said, for those reasons I would not by the game. What I HAVEN'T said is that I quite admire AGS games that go commercial, and I wish everyone the best of luck in said endeavor. Obviously, someone who went through all the work you did, paid for the music and whatnot like you did, and invested so much, deserves all the praise she can get (as well as some unavoidable less savory comments from people like yours truly here - pity that one can't please everyone...). Good to know that you've already gotten half your money back - I do hope you make it all and then earn some. Honest.
Title: Re: Hauntings Of Mystery Manor
Post by: Snarky on Sun 10/07/2005 23:05:04
Quote from: Candle on Sat 09/07/2005 04:18:55
If you look at any walmart when a game comes out you will see it on the shelf for so many days
After that time they start to move in new games and they will start moving the older games down on the shelfs .
Most game companys know if they don't make their money in the first x amout of days they will call it a loss .

The reason WalMart moves it off the shelves isn't that the game won't sell any more copies. It's that other games will sell MORE copies, and therefore they'll get a better return on the shelf space (in the retailing world, profit is measured in $ per day per square foot). This is one of the main reasons why publishers tend to write off games after X number of days: they simply won't be available in many stores any more.

HOWEVER, adventure games have much longer shelf lives than most computer and video games. For instance, The Longest Journey (1999) is still available in most stores with a decent computer game section. Maybe not WalMart (I wouldn't know, I avoid the place like the plague), but in places like CompUSA, Best Buy and EB. This is probably because the adventure-buying crowd doesn't care very much about cutting-edge features and pushing their system to the limit. Anyway, it does mean that an adventure game can turn a profit after a much longer time than you would expect.

Of course, for a game that is only sold over the net, shelf space doesn't matter, and you may see a much greater longevity.Ã,  The important thing would probably be to keep up its profile: submit it to various web sites for review (or just bug them about it) at different times. Offer a "deluxe edition" after six months. Arrange a raffle on the AGS Forums where you give away a copy.Ã,  ;)

QuoteI don't see this game making the $3000 sorry .Ã,  Just my option ..
Once the game is downloaded or sold to someone it is only matter of time when it will be able to download for everyone . if they know where to look .

I rather hope that the audience for an indie game like this would not want to screw somebody who's put up the money themselves to make a small game. If you want to play indie adventure games for free, there are plenty that are available free of charge on this website.

Quote from: Kinoko on Sun 10/07/2005 07:14:51
I just want to add that I'm with Rui on this. Good luck to you and your game, I'm sure it's great but I wouldn't pay for it and I don't think anyone should have a problem with that. It's economics. I don't have a problem with you charging for it either. If you can charge for it and make money, then obviously it worked for you!

Since I spoke out upthread against someone "refusing" to pay for an indie game, maybe I should clarify that of course I don't think anyone's obliged to buy it just because it's an indie game. If you look at it and don't think it would be worth the money for you, don't buy it. But if you look at it, think it looks pretty good, and you'd probably get as much enjoyment out of it as of anything else you might spend $15 on, and you can afford it, I absolutely think you should go ahead and buy it, regardless of the fact that there are other, comparable games available for free.

QuoteAt the same time, and I know I've said this many times before and no disrespect to you Vince because you know I love you ^_-, but I don't agree with the argument that people should 'support' an industry. It's like sympathy money (to the people getting it, it makes little difference). I think if you see a game and you say to yourself honestly, "Heck, I want to buy that there game" then that's great. If you go, "Hmm, well I'm on the fence about buying it but hey, I want the industry to grow", even though you're perfectly entitled to do so, I think it's a terrible reason. The game should be good enough for you to want to pay money for it based on it's own merits. If not, then you shouldn't buy it. I mean, if we all went around buying games based on that reasoning, it's going to lessen the motivation to push ourselves in creating games of true quality.

Personally, I'm more inclined to pay money for an indie adventure than I would be for something of comparable entertainment value, because I see it as partly a donation, as well. I wouldn't call it "pity money," though. I would compare it to giving money to a political party or organization for a special cause (like an environmental group). You give it because you want to help them achieve their goal, since you share it.

Nor does this mean I'll pay money for any old crap just to "support the cause." There are a couple of for-money indie adventures that I decided not to buy because they didn't look like they'd appeal to me.

The question of whether this kind of subsidy is good for the "industry" is somewhat tricky. On the one hand I agree that it can lead to complacence, but probably only if it reaches major proportions. Given how even an apparently quite decent game like this (I've bought it but not yet got around to playing it) is seeing very small-scale sales, I don't think it's a real risk. Also, remember that both The Longest Journey and Dreamfall were/are being developed with subsidies from the Norwegian government. I can't help but feel that that's money quite well spent.
Title: Re: Hauntings Of Mystery Manor
Post by: Potch on Mon 11/07/2005 16:39:42
I would like my name in the hat as well.   That's very nice of you to offer that. :-)
Title: Re: Hauntings Of Mystery Manor
Post by: marlamoe on Mon 11/07/2005 19:00:59
I would love a piece of that action ;D
Title: Re: Hauntings Of Mystery Manor
Post by: Alk3Catch22 on Tue 12/07/2005 03:31:31
My name, your hat please ghostlady!
Title: Re: Hauntings Of Mystery Manor
Post by: Synthetique on Tue 12/07/2005 12:49:45
Quote from: Ghostlady on Fri 08/07/2005 22:17:52
That room was not ripped off or painted over.  It was created from scratch.  I think you should get your facts straight before you make a comment like that. 

"It was created from scratch." ??

This is a fact:
http://www.2dadventure.com/ags/thief.gif
Title: Re: Hauntings Of Mystery Manor
Post by: Rui 'Trovatore' Pires on Tue 12/07/2005 13:06:09
...funny that I should be the one to defend GhostLady now...

Synthetique, it is heavily based on Phantasmagoria, that is as clear as day. But GhostLady already told us it was on purpose. It was not "created from scratch" as in the room design isn't hers - that was a poor choice of words. In fact, after looking at both of them side by side (and after reading GhostLady's subsequent post) I'm now more inclined to think of it as an hommage. "Thief" is a bit strong.

EDIT - also, most AGS games ripped something, in some way or another. The fact that this is a commercial game puts it in a different perspective, I know, but... well, when another commercial game does something like this, they call it a "cameo" and an "hommage". Maybe we should look at it like this too, instead of pointing fingers - something I myself was guilty of.
Title: Re: Hauntings Of Mystery Manor
Post by: Synthetique on Tue 12/07/2005 14:15:36
Well.. if you take art from someone and claim that you created it.. that is a bit like stealing.
I'd hate it if that happened to me.
Title: Re: Hauntings Of Mystery Manor
Post by: ildu on Tue 12/07/2005 16:29:24
Rui got bribed ;D. Always a good way to go.
Title: Re: Hauntings Of Mystery Manor
Post by: Ghostlady on Tue 12/07/2005 22:59:46
Hauntings Of Mystery Manor Screenshots:

What game is this from?

(http://www.mysterymanor.net/MMGame/AGS/billardroom2.jpg)

What game is this from?

(http://www.mysterymanor.net/MMGame/AGS/carriagehouse2.jpg)

What game is this from?

(http://www.mysterymanor.net/MMGame/AGS/cemetaryright.jpg)

What game is this from?

(http://www.mysterymanor.net/MMGame/AGS/guestroom2.jpg)

What game is this from?

(http://www.mysterymanor.net/MMGame/AGS/conservatory2.jpg)

What game is this from?

(http://www.mysterymanor.net/MMGame/AGS/entrancehall.jpg)

Nice graphics. Huh?Ã, 

BTW, Rui was not bribed.Ã,  That post was sincere.

Synthetique, did you get permission to copy that game image from Jen at Four Fat Chicks?Ã,  A bit like stealing huh?
Title: Re: Hauntings Of Mystery Manor
Post by: Kweepa on Wed 13/07/2005 00:19:23
No-one is claiming the whole game is "stolen".
Since there is so much effort in these screens, it seems odd to cut and paste a fireplace (and not admit it).
I think it cheapens the effort - how does one know how much is original and how much is "borrowed"?

If I were in your position, I'd re-render that room with a modelled fireplace and make a new version of the game.

If I recall correctly from reading a forum, you didn't draw these, so I can forgive "Nice graphics. Huh?" despite it coming off as rather arrogant.

Quote
Synthetique, did you get permission to copy that game image from Jen at Four Fat Chicks?  A bit like stealing huh?
Now you're just being silly. It's fair use, and credited.
Title: Re: Hauntings Of Mystery Manor
Post by: Ghostlady on Wed 13/07/2005 00:44:02
Steve, you are absolutely right.Ã,  This whole thing is silly.Ã,  If anyone is interested in the game, you know where to find it.
Title: Re: Hauntings Of Mystery Manor
Post by: MillsJROSS on Thu 14/07/2005 17:49:44
I just wanted to say that having discussion within a thread in the Completed Game Announcement forums, should be deterred from happening. Not that poeple shouldn't express their views about a game being commercial and their desire or not to buy the game, but it's almost borderline obnoxious when I have to read through four pages of arguments, and have yet to find a review from someone (other than those provided on the main web page). I always thought this forum should only contain posts in which people are critisizing a game they've played. If you don't want to pay fifteen dollars for the game, then don't, and stop posting about it. Unless Ghostlady's numbers are made up, there is an apparent audience who is willing to fork out money. And afterwards, they should be able to say whether it was worth it or not, because they've played the game and have something (hopefully) constructive to say.

As for the similarities with Phantasmorgia, the graphics are changed enough to avoid any copyright issues, so what really is the problem? If she got inspiration from the game and took elements that she didn't think she could make herself, I really see no problem. Maybe crediting Phantasmorgia for inspiration, could be possible, but she hasn't done anything illegal.

My only critique (not having played the game), is using AGS's icons. Only because it's not that far of a stretch to change the graphics for them. They are intended for 256 style graphics, which your game does not fall under. It just seems a shame, only because there is so much work in the backrounds, and it's really just a simple matter of replacing the icons that existed already. But I haven't really played the game, so my oppinion can only be worth so much.

Personally, I will not be buying this game, only because I don't have the money to spend, at the moment. But I know that if I wasn't in college and had a well paying job, then I wouldn't dismiss the fifteen dollars as too much.

Good luck, and tell us when/if you break even, because I'm sure it'll bring some inspiration to those who, like myself, seek to one day make these type of games for a living. And also, don't feel shy about posting for help for things like changing your GUI, if you already program for a living, then the hardest part is really only the graphics, as everything else should come naturally to you.

-MillsJROSS

Title: Re: Hauntings Of Mystery Manor
Post by: Candle on Sat 16/07/2005 21:55:16
New review .
http://www.adventuregamers.com/article/id,547
Title: Re: Hauntings Of Mystery Manor
Post by: Ghostlady on Sun 17/07/2005 03:46:02
And another:

Quandaryland (http://www.quandaryland.com/jsp/dispArticle.jsp?index=715)

Anyone else want in the hat?Ã,  I'll pick two winners tomorrow.
Title: Re: Hauntings Of Mystery Manor
Post by: Ubel on Sun 17/07/2005 09:36:53
Quote from: Ghostlady on Sat 09/07/2005 03:04:27
I thought it might be nice to offer a couple copies of the game to the people here at AGS.Ã,  Especially to the people who have a real interest in it.Ã,  Post and let me know you are interested and I'll do the old pull the name from the hat trick.Ã,  I'll only offer it as a download and it is about 50MG.Ã, 

Are you sure you want to trust these people with this? I mean isn't it a bit silly to give your game to some people from the internet, people you don't even know, for free and expect they won't start spreading free copies of it around the internet? This is not very wise if you seriously intend to sell your game.

Just my thoughts.
Title: Re: Hauntings Of Mystery Manor
Post by: passer-by on Sun 17/07/2005 10:45:31
Quote from: Pablo on Sun 17/07/2005 09:36:53
I mean isn't it a bit silly to give your game to some people from the internet, people you don't even know, for free and expect they won't start spreading free copies of it around the internet?

What is the difference if they buy it instead? Can't they still distribute free copies or make it downloadable somewhere online?

edit
Why don't we take this discussion to the general forums?
Title: Re: Hauntings Of Mystery Manor
Post by: Ozzie on Sun 17/07/2005 12:09:14
Just wanted to say that I would recommend you Ghostlady to replace the default GUI with one that you have drawn yourself. You can then create a patch with Patch Maker (http://www.clickteam.com/English/patch_maker.htm) for example. I think this problem is very easy to fix and would convince those people to buy it who think caused of this that not enough effort was put into the game or that it would disturb the experience.

Think about it.
Title: Re: Hauntings Of Mystery Manor
Post by: switcharoo on Sun 17/07/2005 16:05:22
Quote from: Ghostlady on Sun 17/07/2005 03:46:02
Anyone else want in the hat?  I'll pick two winners tomorrow.

Could you put my name in the hat? I've heard a fair bit about the game and I'd be very interested in playing it.

I would part with the cash but I'm a student (and so completely skint  :P )
Title: Re: Hauntings Of Mystery Manor
Post by: Ghostlady on Sun 17/07/2005 17:42:30
Hi Pablo,

QuoteAre you sure you want to trust these people with this? I mean isn't it a bit silly to give your game to some people from the internet, people you don't even know, for free and expect they won't start spreading free copies of it around the internet? This is not very wise if you seriously intend to sell your game.

The first day I put the game up for sale, I had my first download order from someone in Germany.Ã,  By the next day, the game was up on a German site and they were selling it without my permission or knowledge.Ã,  We have since solidified that mess after a few threatening emails.Ã,  When buying the CD, the instructions are to copy the files to your hard drive.Ã,  What is there to stop anyone from putting the files up on the internet.Ã,  I wish there was a way to be able to play the game directly off of the CD, but I haven't seen anything that will allow that.

Hi Ozzie,

QuoteJust wanted to say that I would recommend you Ghostlady to replace the default GUI with one that you have drawn yourself. You can then create a patch with Patch Maker for example. I think this problem is very easy to fix and would convince those people to buy it who think caused of this that not enough effort was put into the game or that it would disturb the experience.

I have to tell you that this is an excellent idea.Ã,  I looked at your link and I will explore it further.

Hi dg,

Your name has been added!

Title: Re: Hauntings Of Mystery Manor
Post by: Ubel on Sun 17/07/2005 17:50:24
Quote from: Ghostlady on Sun 17/07/2005 17:42:30
The first day I put the game up for sale, I had my first download order from someone in Germany.Ã,  By the next day, the game was up on a German site and they were selling it without my permission or knowledge.Ã,  We have since solidified that mess after a few threatening emails.Ã,  When buying the CD, the instructions are to copy the files to your hard drive.Ã,  What is there to stop anyone from putting the files up on the internet.Ã,  I wish there was a way to be able to play the game directly off of the CD, but I haven't seen anything that will allow that.

Hmm, well okay then, it was just my thoughts about it.
Title: Re: Hauntings Of Mystery Manor
Post by: Ghostlady on Sun 17/07/2005 18:17:23
They were good thoughts.Ã,  :)
Title: Re: Hauntings Of Mystery Manor
Post by: Ghostlady on Mon 18/07/2005 00:19:17
The first name out of the hat was Marlamoe and the second was Alk3Catch.  You should be able to email me through my profile on this board, and I will send you the link. 
Title: Re: Hauntings Of Mystery Manor
Post by: marlamoe on Mon 18/07/2005 00:49:02
Quote from: Ghostlady on Mon 18/07/2005 00:19:17
The first name out of the hat was Marlamoe and the second was Alk3Catch.Ã,  You should be able to email me through my profile on this board, and I will send you the link.Ã, 


Wow, I don't think I've ever won anything in my life.  Thanks SO much.
Title: Re: Hauntings Of Mystery Manor
Post by: Jimtbrit on Mon 18/07/2005 17:24:08
Views on the game by paying individual

Unlike so many games that have been created using AGS, The Hauntings Of Mystery Manor is one which I will find memorable.

The use of eerie music combined with the use of some excellent backdrops creates a spooky game which was fun and challenging to play.Ã,  I found that even the GUI with the bone white hand added to this atmosphere and at the same time meant that the first person view used throughout the game could have been male/female,white/black, asian/European, etc. (I guess I am trying to say that the white hand provides a marker that can be easily seen without discriminating against sex or race.)

The puzzles in the game vary from being very easy to tough to ambiguous, I found that all of which came with the satisfying feeling once you had solved them.

I do not want to rate this game because it is very difficult knowing what to compare it to, if compared to other AGS games the investments in professional graphics and music put it in a different callibre, and the the fact that there is only one other AGS game on the market to my knowledge that is for sale means that there is not yet enough to do a significant comparison.
Ã, 
There are a few disappointing apsects to the game (for example with one of the puzzles items with the same icon and description having to be used in particular locations) but it could be argued that these aspects are puzzles in themselves and add to the atmosphere and playability of the game.Ã, 
The disappointments are outweighed by the high standard of graphics and music supported by puzzles which identifys with the characters and storyline.

It is certainly a game which I will recommend to others and through getting so much enjoyment from the game I do not begrudge paying the £15.00 price tag and believe that and effects of doing so are two-fold:
Through supporting Ghostlady she may go on to be the next Jane Jensen (Gabriel Knight Series) or Roberta Williams (Kings Quest Series).
Supporting Ghostlady will show Companies such as Lucasarts and Sierra that the adventure genre isn't dead and there is still a market for adventure games.

I look forward to seeing more games from Ghostlady and other individuals who make the bold step of going commerial with their games.