by Colleen Ely

Created on: October 30, 2008   Last Updated: February 14, 2011

Dr. Lynch Grave Secrets, a mystery creation by Oberon Media, will tempt you to slap on your detective hat before suddenly realizing, "Hey! I see a calculator in that tree!" Yes, it is one of those mystery games. Give it a little time; however, and you will find you are sucked into still life discovery and even cheering when you finally spot the last acorn in a smelly old work boot. The graphics are smooth and at times, you will even wonder how something so out of place can look so amazingly natural. If the imagery is so natural that you cannot find a particular item, you can snag a hint. Be careful though, because you are allotted only so many.

The story line begins with an archaeological dig on sacred ground, but the real story is the ghost unleashed on the locals. Some seem a little scared of the ghost, some seem sympathetic and others do not believe it is a ghost at all; however, all seem willing to toss a hint or two your way. It is your job to search high and low for the ghost and relieve the locals of their haunting. Along the way, you will gather clues and cards that are kept nicely for you in your handy dandy virtual briefcase. You can review the clues at any time, and a quick click on the cards reveal brief conversations you have had with the locals.

One of the more interesting parts of this game is items can be used which are not clues at all. It is like a puzzle within a puzzle, and they will not be discovered intentionally; not too shabby if you like puzzles. There are also bonus items you can find, and bonus puzzles you can decipher for even more clues. The information can be a little daunting but continue the investigation, and things will become more clear.

Visually, Dr. Lynch Grave Secrets is creatively interesting, and even pleasant to view. The interface is simple to navigate, and despite generously timed puzzles, will not have you feeling pressure on any level. If low stress puzzles are your speed, this game will be a fun escape. If you prefer a more intensely thorough challenge, put dynamite under your chair because it is the only way you are going to feel any heat.

Overall, I give it 2 hidden monkeys out of 5.

Learn more about this author, Colleen Ely.
Click here to send this author comments or questions.