The PC/Mac downloadable game Destination Treasure Island (a.k.a. Destination Treasure Island 2010), originally released in 2007, has really stood the test of time. It features excellent, simplistic puzzle/problem solving elements based on “Treasure Island” by Robert Louis Stevenson and beginning four years after the book’s end.
The Hype:
- A thrilling quest: Set out in search of the incredible treasure. The sequel of R.L. Stevenson’s adventure: A tale that has fascinated millions of readers for years!
- A varied, exotic environment. Highly colored and detailed graphics to give you a real taste for travel.
- A treasure trail: Danger at every turn, to keep you in suspense for hours.
- An innovative game system: An interactive inventory using object combinations and a new system of knot puzzles.
- Dozens of fascinating enigmas: Resolve them or never reach the treasure.
The Reality:
The Caribbean locals and classic hand drawn map-like environment enhance the adapted narrative where an older teenage Jim Hawkins tracks down a message from Long John Silver delivered by Captain Flint, Silver’s parrot, involving riches on the Emerald Isle.
Revenge also plays into the story from Morgan, Dick, and Yellow Dog while other characters also factor in as well. Players do not have to read the book to play the game, but the story and character elements certainly provide extra incentives like the state of the three antagonists at the end of the Stevenson book. Characters can fail or die throughout the game without graphic violence or disturbing content. After a failure, players begin again at the point before a key action.
Players can easily access Long John Silver’s main messages that guide the action. Players can also find hints in the Gallery, which stores the game’s helpful and entertaining cut scenes. The fine voice acting really helps players pay attention to the information while entertaining music, textured graphics, and ambient sounds complete the atmosphere.
Most action involves puzzles and problem solving, which means gathering items and using objects to achieve each action. Players usually must complete exhaustive search in all areas using the 360 movements. Some items appear underneath previously searched areas.
Kheops Studio game developers use a gear, hand, or face icon to prompt object/character interaction, otherwise players usually see an arrow. The eye icon reminds players to take a closer look. The wrench icon informs players when objects can be assembled or disassembled. Players just left click on the object then left click on the wrench icon. Some usable items do not transform into a special icon, but are selectable anyway because they have an immediate use in the current scene.
The inventory management system (a.k.a. Transit Area), helps players address the game’s biggest challenge – item use and modification. Players can right click on each object slot to read the related information. Left click to pick up the object and use it.
The puzzles have common sense solutions and, best of all, no time limit. Each puzzle has a low to medium challenge level. For example, a potentially extensive knot tying challenge turns into a simple choice between two options, and sometimes even one, to advance. Other more extensive puzzles avoid tricks and traps to utilize a straightforward challenge for all ages. Puzzle fans might need more challenge, but players still get some mild mental stimulation without the potentially frustrating, time-consuming vices.
Also available at a great price on iPad. View the game trailer here.
Review: Destination: Treasure Island
Where to Buy: Kheops Studio Web Shop
Price: currently at $14.95 on PC and $19.90 on Mac
What I Like: Expanded storyline from classic base material, memorable characters, engaging item collection/inventory management.
What Needs Improvement: The puzzles could be more challenging.
Source: Review code provided by publisher