by Lisa Orme

Created on: November 01, 2008   Last Updated: March 17, 2012

Dr. Lynch Grave Secrets. Well this one is a definite one to add to my collection! The normal hidden object play is supplemented by bonus items to collect in several of the rounds. Special puzzles and mini-games intersperse each "completed investigation". Set in the English countryside, Dr. Lynch is working on an archaeological dig. There are a variety of settings including a dig site, a mansion (and several of its interior rooms), gardens, historical sites, and more.

The hidden object play is marked by detailed graphics and realistic imagery. Thankfully, the screens are not too dark to mask the hidden items, making it tedious to play, but items are hidden with a display of imagination and forethought. Items are also pretty much to scale for the scene they are hidden in. In other words, if you're looking for a tomato, its not the same size as the acorn in the same scene. Some items, however, are VERY small, and this may be taxing for some with eyestrain problems. There's a lot that makes this game different from many other hidden object games, though.

Bonus items are available on every level, or you can choose to skip them. But once you take on the challenge to finish them, you can no longer opt out! When you complete all the bonus items on a puzzle, you'll earn another hint. Be aware that hints only work in the regular hidden object play; not on the bonus items. Since you must finish any particular level in 25 minutes, if you get totally stumped on the challenge items, well, you may lose your time and have to re-do the level. When you have just two minutes left, you'll get a "gong" that reminds you every 10 seconds or so. Some may find that slightly annoying, since the game doesn't have an untimed or "relaxed" mode. The rest of the music and sounds were

There are usually three to four search screens for various objects to complete each investigation. At the end of the investigation is a special puzzle. These puzzles each require some logical thinking process, and each is completely different from the previous ones. The variety of these puzzles kept me going back to keep playing the game.

Sampling this game with the 60 minutes of free play wasn't enough to satisfy me on this game. For the lack of an untimed mode, and the sometimes overly small graphics, I give Dr. Lynch's Grave Secrets a 4/5. As for me, I'm going to have to buy this one and keep playing. This game will provide hours and hours of play for most players so if you're looking for a quick play from beginning to end, this isn't it. The forums tell me there are 16 levels of investigations and the play remains challenging throughout. I'm buying my copy. Once you've trial-played the game, I'm sure you will, too!

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