2008 adventure game holiday shopping guide
Tick... tick... tick...
The countdown to Christmas is on... or the countdown to whatever holiday you observe personally, so long as it's equally over-commercialized and requires buying lots of stuff. That's right, whatever your motivation for the spirit of giving, "buying lots of stuff" is the task at hand for most of us.
What are adventure games?
Perhaps you randomly stumbled upon this site looking for tips on what games to buy this Christmas. Well, you're in the right place (welcome!). This guide is specialized in a specific genre called adventure games. These types of games are generally all about exploration and investigation, and rarely include action or complex game controls. That makes them suitable for both frequent and casual gamers. Adventure games allow you to play as a detective, explorer, attorney, ghosthunter, historical figure, and much more. Have a look at the games and links on this page for a better idea of the playing experiences that adventure games offer.
Now what to buy... that's the puzzle.
Yes, even in a little niche genre like our own, the choices can be daunting sometimes, particularly when you're being crushed by a sea of stressed humanity on all sides in game stores. The good news is, we're here to help! After all, we've been up to our eyeballs (if not in over our heads) in all-things-adventure this whole year, so who better to guide you through this purchasing quandary?
Read on, then, as we take you through the best options of the past year, plus a few timeless gems you may have overlooked. Along with each item on the list are direct links to online retailers and download sites. Most of these are affiliate links, meaning Adventure Gamers gets a small commission when you make a purchase, It's the gift that keeps on giving! But these links are purely optional, and there are many games not listed here at all, as our goal is to recommend only what we consider the top games the genre has to offer, according to varying needs. So consider this a step-by-step walkthrough, and all you need to do is point-and-click on your games of choice (or at least head forearmed back out into the teaming masses).
Oh, and just between us, if this list should simply happen to get forwarded to all those friends and family who are buying gifts for YOU, we promise we won't tell. Not that we're encouraging that or anything (cough).
This Year's Top Releases (PC)
You've probably heard the hype, read the reviews, and whipped out that credit card for some of these already, but a year is a long time to let something fall between the cracks. The following is a list of the latest and greatest adventures of 2008, and there's sure to be something here for everybody's tastes.
Comedy
If laughter is the best medicine, then you can help ensure your friends and family are in the best of health this season with these whimsical and occasionally side-splitting (in the good, totally figurative way, of course) comic adventures that should transport you back to the classics of yesteryear.
A Vampyre Story
The only game on our list not to have passed the certified AG Approval Board (namely, a review), we're prepared to go out on limb for what is easily one of the most anticipated graphic adventures in years. From its jaw-dropping art style to quirky cast of characters, it's a game that simply bleeds charm, which is handy since you'll play as a vampire and will want to drink it all in.
Where to buy: Adventure Shop, Amazon UK, Amazon US
So Blonde
With only a limited retail release so far, this coming-of-age-dragged-kicking-and-screaming tale may have escaped your shopping attention so far. Which is why we're here to remind you of the adventure set on the tropical Forgotten Island, starring the spoiled and pampered Sunny Blonde. When a shipwreck mysteriously washes Sunny up on a 17th century island filled with pirates instead of modern amenities, she'll not only need to find a way back to her own time and place, but maybe a little maturity along the way.
Our review:
“One of the most compelling adventures I have played in a long time and a journey that every adventurer worth the title should embark upon.”
Where to buy: Adventure Shop, Amazon UK, Amazon US
Sam & Max: Season Two
Tastier than a lunch special at Stinky's (which probably isn't the best analogy, I suppose), the second bite-sized season for the Freelance Police proved even more delicious than the first. And if you've been holding off until the episodes are bundled together, wait no longer! With the series complete, all five episodes are now available both as downloads and on DVD. Better yet, it kick starts with Ice Station Santa, a Christmas-themed adventure to get you in the mood. And nothing says "Christmas" like a canine shamus and hyperkinetic rabbity thing packing heat.
Our review: (of Episode 204: Chariots of the Dogs)
“A flawless adventure gaming experience that will be treasured by all.”
Where to buy: Telltale Games online store
Mystery
If comedy games don't tickle your funny bone, perhaps something a little more serious is in store. And as it just so happens, there actually are several in stores now. In fact, there are mysteries aplenty in this genre, so read on for some of this year's finest.
Nostradamus: The Last Prophecy
You'd think a 16th century murder mystery featuring Nostradamus would be over before it started, but this historical adventure casts players as the noted fortune teller's daughter Madeleine, who must do her sleuthing the hard (but much more compelling) way. A series of deaths is afflicting the French royal household, but is this the fulfillment of Nostradamus' own prophecy or something more naturally sinister? That will be for players to figure out in the dual roles of both Madeleine herself and in disguise as her own brother.
Our review:
“A fascinating escape into another time, offering a rare glimpse of one of history’s most notable characters.”
Where to buy: Amazon UK, Amazon US
Sherlock Holmes: Nemesis
Flashing forward three centuries takes us to Sir Arthur Conan Doyle's famous fictional protagonist. In the latest Sherlock Holmes mystery, also known as Sherlock Holmes vs. Arsène Lupin, the brilliant detective is challenged to match wits with Lupin, the gentleman French thief created by writer Maurice Leblanc. Lupin is determined to shame England by stealing its precious artifacts, and only Holmes, with a little help from the trusty Dr. Watson and less trusty players, can stop him from succeeding in his plan.
Our review:
“Manages to do justice to one of the most revered literary protagonists of all time... you won’t find a more detailed or enjoyable treasure hunt out there.”
Where to buy: Adventure Shop, Amazon UK, Amazon US
Overclocked: A History of Violence
History plays an important role in one of the genre's more ambitious narratives, though in a much different sense than the games listed above. This modern day psychological thriller follows the troubled tale of psychiatrist David McNamara, who must piece together the lost memories of five young people arrested for violent outbursts but with no recollection of their recent past. Only by regressing their memories piece by piece backwards does the full story unfold, and players get to live out these fragmented visions themselves.
Our review:
“A tale that keeps you engrossed from beginning to end – or more accurately, end to beginning.”
Where to buy: Adventure Shop, Amazon UK, Amazon US
Suspense
Challenges of the mind are all very well and good, but there's nothing quite like that chilling shiver running down your spine. You can usually count on the genre for at least one or two supernatural adventures a year, and this year is no exception.
Dracula 3: The Path of the Dragon
Less a horror game than a scientific exploration of the Dracula "myth", this game takes a unique approach to its timeless story. Despite the "3" in its title, the follow-up to Resurrection and The Last Sactuary tells a completely new tale of Father Arno Moriani, a priest sent to Transylvania to investigate a candidacy for sainthood. What he discovers, however, not only challenges his personal spiritual beliefs but ultimately drives him to a confrontation with the legendary vampire himself.
Our review:
A solid adventure with an intriguing mix of legend and fact.”
Where to buy: Adventure Shop, Amazon US
Science Fiction
While it seems the genre is forever looking backwards, rest assured that there will always be games that look ahead to the future. So if sci-fi is your thing, the next game should leave you beaming.
The Immortals of Terra: A Perry Rhodan Adventure
Not quite a household name like Luke Skywalker, Perry Rhodan has nevertheless lived longer and prospered more than virtually any other sci-fi series. Beginning almost 50 years ago, the Perry Rhodan novellas now count in the thousands in Germany, and the astronaut's first PC adventure, also known as Rhodan: Myth of the Illochim, came from almost nowhere to pleasantly surprise many adventure gamers this year. What begins as a personal pursuit to rescue his kidnapped friend Mondra becomes a much bigger crisis, as Mondra's secrets may just be the key to the fate of the entire universe.
Our review:
“Both engaging in its own right and a gentle introduction to a much deeper, more diverse world than many sci-fi offerings.”
Where to buy: Amazon UK, Amazon US
Younger Gamers
While many of these recommendations are suitable for all but young children, not all of them specifically cater to younger demographics. For the youthful adventurers out there, here are some suggestions that should appeal to their sense of curiosity and wonder.
Nancy Drew: The Phantom of Venice
While a newer Nancy Drew mystery has since been released in The Haunting of Castle Malloy, we can say for sure that Nancy's earlier visit to the picturesque town of Venice is a worthwhile trip. The whopping 18th adventure in the long-running series sees Nancy head to Italy during Carnevale. Going undercover, Nancy must help the police infiltrate a crime syndicate and stop a masked thief from stealing priceless artifacts.
Our review:
A solid game with all the elements we have come to rely on from Nancy Drew.”
Where to buy: Amazon US
The Hardy Boys: The Hidden Theft
Not to be outdone by their fictional female counterpart, Frank and Joe Hardy jumped into the adventure fray this year with their first PC mystery. Their task as members of the American Teens Against Crime is a little closer to home, as a local mansion has been robbed and all signs point to someone with inside access to the family's secrets.
Our review:
An entertaining mystery that will provide quite a few hours of solid gaming.”
Where to buy: Amazon UK, Amazon US
Turn the page for DS adventure games, Nintendo Wii adventure games, and more PC adventure game recommendations!
Nintendo DS adventure games
The Nintendo DS handheld system has become a popular platform for playing adventure games. According to our last survey, almost a third of AG's visitors already play adventures on the Nintendo DS. If you haven't yet climbed aboard the handheld bandwagon, this is your chance to jump on. If you already own the system, it hasn't been the strongest of years for new DS adventures, but there are still some quality suggestions for expanding your DS game collection.
Nintendo DS Lite
It's the device you need to play touchscreen-enabled DS games. It includes a stylus, built-in microphone, wireless connectivity and more. And, of course, it's entirely portable, so you no longer need to be tied to your computer to play the latest adventures.
Where to buy: Amazon UK, Amazon US
Time Hollow
One of the genre's oft-overlooked gems is Shadow of Destiny, and this year the game's creator has returned with an all-new time travelling adventure exclusively for the DS. Using the stylus, players must rip open holes in time to repair a series of problems that have wiped out all traces of the last twelve years of young Ethan Kairos' life.
Our review:
"The most engrossing, couldn't-put-it-down DS gaming experience I've had in the three years I've owned a DS."
Where to buy: Amazon US
Professor Layton and the Curious Village
While many would argue that this game is more a puzzle collection than full-blown adventure, few debate the excellence of the overall experience. The titular top-hatted archeologist and puzzle-solving extraordinaire is called to the small town of St. Mystere, whose citizens are equally infatuated with puzzles, putting players through a rigorous series of brain teasers in pursuit of a hidden treasure called the Golden Apple.
Our review:
"An engaging title with a bouquet of charm, intelligent art design, and plenty of challenge."
Where to buy: Amazon US, Amazon UK
Apollo Justice: Ace Attorney
The acclaimed courtroom series gets a new protagonist this year, as Phoenix Wright steps aside for a supporting role this time. And while the game's new ace attorney doesn't bring quite the came cachet as his predecessor, the first installment created exclusively for the DS puts another another solid entry into the palm of your hands.
Our review:
"A well written adventure filled with quirky humour, offbeat scenarios and ever-twisting plots."
Where to buy: Amazon UK, Amazon US
Nintendo Wii adventure games
The Nintendo Wii is the first-ever console with an easy-to-use pointer device, making it a perfect platform for adventure games. We still haven't seen many original adventures designed for the system, but more and more existing PC games are being ported to the Wii, giving players the chance to kick back in front of the TV and still enjoy some point-and-click classics.
Nintendo Wii
The hit game console that took the industry by surprise and shows no signs of stopping. While famous for its motion control, the system's remote controller is what makes it so ideally suited to the genre. Designed for ease and simplicity of use with even casual gamers in mind, the Wii may just be the one home console that adventure gamers can embrace.
Where to buy: Amazon UK, Amazon US
Strong Bad's Cool Game for Attractive People
While not the first original adventure to appear on the Wii, this five-episode series (with four released to date) is the first to be sold through Nintendo's WiiWare service. Also available for PC, the games represent a faithful adaptation of the popular Homestar Runner web cartoons. The quirky cast and oddball humour is something of an acquired taste, but it's a series no Wii owners should overlook.
Our review: (of Episode 1: Homestar Ruiner)
"A light, enjoyable experience that succeeds mostly as a platform for its humor."
Where to buy: Nintendo WiiWare Channel (Wii version), Telltale Games online store (PC version)
Safecracker: The Ultimate Puzzle Adventure
Hardcore puzzle fans haven't been as well served by the genre in recent years, but this title is a clear exception to the rule. Originally released for PC in 2006, the Wii port casts players in the role of an expert safecracker who must work through a complex series of puzzle-protected safes to locate the will of a deceased eccentric. (Where's Professor Layton when you need him?)
Our review: (of the PC original)
"A must-have for puzzle fans and definitely worth a look for anyone who values an intellectual challenge. "
Where to buy: Amazon US, Amazon UK
Sam & Max: Season One
These two again? You betcha. The long-awaited PC return of the Freelance Police in 2006 after a 13-year gaming hiatus proved well worth the wait, and now their particular brand of crimefighting mayhem is available for the Wii. In the six-episode collection of Season One, Sam & Max make stops at the White House, an alternate virtual reality, and even the moon as they pursue a nefarious mind-controlling villain, without caring who their DeSoto runs over in the process.
Our review:
"These games are a delightful homage to everything that's great about the franchise... an important achievement for the genre and a true must-play collection."
Where to buy: Amazon US, Amazon UK
Past Releases (multi-platform)
We already listed the best of the newer titles, but adventures are renowned for their long shelf life, so there's still time to catch up on these slightly older games that come just as highly recommended.
Syberia
This classic from Benoît Sokal and Microïds is as beautiful as it is moving; a journey of both fantasy and self-discovery; a tale of hope yet touched by melancholic sadness. Players follow the exploits of big city lawyer Kate Walker in her pursuit of a handicapped but brilliant inventor, himself on the trail of the world's last living mammoths. Now six years after release, the game is still widely available on PC, and has recently been ported to the Nintendo DS. Whatever the platform, it's an adventure not to be missed.
Our review:
"The story is so elegantly and subtly told that you feel as though you are reading poetry or being sung a sonnet that has been transformed into a game."
Where to buy: Adventure Shop, Amazon UK, Amazon US
Still Life
Another gem from the now-defunct Microïds Canada casts players in dual playable roles of FBI agent Victoria McPherson in modern day Chicago and her grandfather Gus in 1920s Prague, as each pursues a murderer whose methods and motivations bear striking similarities. With a highly-anticipated sequel due early next year, now's the perfect time to see where it all began if you missed it the first time around.
Our review:
"If it isn't an instant classic, it is nipping at the heels of the all-time greats."
Where to buy: Adventure Shop, Amazon UK, Amazon US
Dreamfall: The Longest Journey
The follow-up to one of the most beloved point-and-click adventures of all time had large shoes to fill, and further risked public backlash by moving the series to a full 3D, direct-control experience with some light action sequences. And indeed it's a much different game than its predecessor, but it's a powerful cinematic experience and a fine adventure in its own right that's well worth every gamer's attention.
Our review:
"A modern classic that falls just short of being the gaming masterpiece it could have been."
Where to buy: Adventure Shop, Amazon UK, Amazon US
Myst IV: Revelation
Considered by many to be superior to Cyan's own final Myst game, the fourth installment in the phenomenally popular series continues the fine tradition of beautiful landscapes and surreal worlds to explore, set against the narrative backdrop of family tragedy and misused power. The game is still sold separately or conveniently bundled with other Myst games in a variety of compilations.
Our review:
"A fateful return of a venerable series proves it still has legs even 10 odd years on."
Where to buy: Amazon UK, Amazon US
Bad Mojo Redux
You know the old expression: if you can't beat 'em, join 'em! For all those who have an irrational fear (or even perfectly rational loathing) of bugs, maybe you just need to become one for perspective. Or at least just to experience one of the most unique, compelling adventures to date. Controlling a cockroach, players must navigate an obstacle course of real-world challenges in order to regain human form. The "redux" re-release makes the game accessible once again and adds important technical enhancements that help the game run on modern computers.
Our review:
"An absolute must-play for any adventure fan with even a passing tolerance of insects."
Where to buy: Amazon UK, Amazon US
Turn the page for still more recommendations, including indie adventures, bargains and games in other genres that you might also enjoy!
Assorted other recommended releases
The selection so far should be plenty to get you going, but no list would be complete without a few honourable mentions.
Bargains
Like a fine wine, some adventures just seem to get better with age, or at least age gracefully. Better yet, these older adventures can often be found cheap, so even those on a tight budget should be able to scoop a bargain.
Independent adventures
The adventure genre has often been home to ambitious indie developers, but without widescale distribution, it can be hard for these games to get the exposure they deserve. Since you won't find them on regular store shelves, don't forget about these self-published titles.
| The Tales of Bingwood | Official website |
| Carol Reed: The Colour of Murder | Official website |
| Diamonds in the Rough | Adventure Shop, Official website |
| Casebook | Official website |
Genre-blending games
Everyone's definition of "adventure game" is a little bit different, and sometimes even we have difficulty knowing where one genre line ends and another begins. But tom-ay-to, tom-ah-to, whatever you want to call them, beyond the boundaries of traditional adventure fare there's even more diversity and choice. The following are games that share adventure-style elements that should appeal to those who like a little variety in their gaming experience.
PortalPart puzzler, part sim, part 3D platformer, part adventure, it all adds up to a whole must-play game. Get it as part of The Orange Box, or buy separately. |
Amazon UK, Amazon US, Steam |
BraidWhat may look like a conventional platform game is arguably the most ingenious puzzle game of the year in which you can manipulate the flow of time in strange and unusual ways. |
Xbox Live Arcade |
Fahrenheit/Indigo ProphecyThe self-proclaimed "interactive movie" raises the bar on cinematic storytelling, though its action elements may prove a challenge to some. |
Amazon UK, Amazon US |
Women's Murder Club: Death in ScarletThis hidden object game written and designed by Jane Jensen offers a layer of adventuring depth rarely seen in casual titles. |
Amazon US |
CSI: NYThe newest CSI took an unexpectedly casual turn but still manages to serve up a handful of compelling cases for fans of the TV show. |
Amazon UK, Amazon US |
World of GooBehind the simple premise and modest presentation of this physics-based puzzler is the remarkably addictive experience of leading little globs of goo across dangerous terrain. |
Amazon US |
Fallout 3One of the most heavily-hyped RPGs in recent memory, this open-ended trek through a post-apocalyptic world places a heavy emphasis on player choice to influence events, while engaging more than a few enemies in combat along the way. |
Amazon UK, Amazon US |
Little Big PlanetOne of the most delightful and inspired casual platform games that lets you play or build your own levels. A game that is guaranteed to make anyone smile, but only available for PlayStation 3. |
Amazon UK, Amazon US |
Prince of PersiaThe Prince is back in an all new iteration, facing another wave of environmental puzzles, physics-defying obstacles, and insurmountable odds. Incredibly, this time he can't die. |
Amazon UK, Amazon US |
We hope this guide has been helpful to you, and we wish you happy holidays!
