Dark Tales: Edgar Allan Poe's The Fall of the House of Usher > iPad, iPhone, Android, Mac & PC Game

Overall rating

5 / 5

148 of 173 found this review helpful

The House That Makes You Homesick!

PostedApril 18, 2014

pennmom36

fromIs Dr. Morris going to stand by that tree my whole investigation?

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Skill Level:Expert

Favorite Genre(s):Adventure, Hidden Object, Match 3, Time Management, Puzzle

Current Favorite:

Cadenza: Music, Betrayal and Death Collector's Edition

(237)

Fun Factor

5 / 5

Visual/Sound Quality

5 / 5

Level of Challenge

5 / 5

Storyline

5 / 5

I don't like to brag, but Detective Dupin has once again asked for my services to help solve the case of the Usher Twins! Madeleine Usher is nowhere to be found and because of this, Roderick is becoming ill. Dr. Morris has filled us in a bit, it would seem that the Usher twins, Madelein and Roderick, share a physical bond, when one of the twins is injured the other will feel this same pain, to the ...Show more

I don't like to brag, but Detective Dupin has once again asked for my services to help solve the case of the Usher Twins! Madeleine Usher is nowhere to be found and because of this, Roderick is becoming ill. Dr. Morris has filled us in a bit, it would seem that the Usher twins, Madelein and Roderick, share a physical bond, when one of the twins is injured the other will feel this same pain, to the point of physical impossibility, if one is given a vaccination they both bleed! As we investigate further we learn that both twins have a rare illness, even stranger is the fact that whenever they leave the estate they become deathly ill, and must return immediately. Estelle has been caring for the twins since their mother died giving birth, but she doesn't even seem upset that Madeleine is missing so for now we must keep a suspicious eye on this mysterious lady.

A few things have changed with this latest edition of Dark Tales, the graphics are still beautiful, but it seems a bit on the cartoonish side to me, it's not bad just different. There is a new addition of a rat on a perch to the left of the screen. I must admit I found it entertaining when he fell off the perch or drug a huge sunflower seed up to nibble on, but, the purpose of this rat is an unsolved mystery to both Detective Dupin and myself Detective pennmom36! The journal and map are located just behind the rat so perhaps he is standing guard. Roderick has given us a code handed down from his Grandfather and naturally we know how to solve this ancient riddle and find "the Reborn One" who is able to turn anything made of stone into reality. I'm pretty sure the reborn one isn't in Edgars version, and again why didn't anyone freak out when the stone crows came to life and took over the foyer?

The hidden object games were fantastic and genuinely fun. The first HOS was actually in riddle form. Every item to be found was put in the form of a riddle one at a time such as what has several arms and only one leg with the answer being a fork. There were also regular list items, slightly interactive such as putting a sugar cube into a cup of tea to make sweet tea, and there were HOS that required you to find 12 feathers for example. The mini games are very easy such as matching up alike doves on a gate but the one I liked the best was training the mouse in a series of mazes. The first maze was simple just guiding the mouse from the starting point to the end and the second maze added keys of different colors so you had to guide the mouse to the green key and through the green door then get the blue key and exit out of the blue door and the third and final maze added some swinging doors that would trap you into a gridlock with the key behind a shut door. You have to tinker with it a bit by opening certain paths that would allow you to keep the door to the key open. There is also a series of photos that you discover with a partial message on the back and you need to place these photos into their natural place to reveal something not seen before. This is a great Edgar Allen Poe adaptation into a great Hidden Object Adventure, enjoy! Show less

I recommend this game!

+123points

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Overall rating

5 / 5

78 of 98 found this review helpful

Curiously Creepy Case

PostedApril 18, 2014

JustTheFacts

fromRural Western Australia

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Skill Level:Intermediate

Favorite Genre(s):Adventure, Hidden Object, Puzzle

Fun Factor

5 / 5

Visual/Sound Quality

5 / 5

Level of Challenge

5 / 5

Storyline

5 / 5

BASED ON COMPLETED GAME

FIRST IMPRESSIONS
One of the lovely things about this series is that each story stands alone, and is sufficient in itself, while they also linked by the illustrious career of the famous detective M. Dupin, and of course, ourselves. With each new mystery our role has grown, and now we have a fully fledged detective agency.

SIGHTS & SOUNDS
Beautiful hand painted graphics, ...Show more

BASED ON COMPLETED GAME

FIRST IMPRESSIONS
One of the lovely things about this series is that each story stands alone, and is sufficient in itself, while they also linked by the illustrious career of the famous detective M. Dupin, and of course, ourselves. With each new mystery our role has grown, and now we have a fully fledged detective agency.

SIGHTS & SOUNDS
Beautiful hand painted graphics, clear and colourful, with excellent cut scenes. The acting is very good, in particular the melancholy twins are very convincing. The locations are richly detailed and varied, a delight to the eye.

The soundtrack is great. The series signature tune is played, at times, by piano solo at first, and sounds wonderful. It is joined by mysterious but mild music, that is relaxing as well as atmospheric. The voiceovers are nicely done, although some of the accents were a little too broadly American for my taste. In some locations, there are the creepiest whispers and giggles. Enough to curdle the blood. *grin*

WHAT’S HAPPENING?
We have been called to the estate home of the Usher family by their doctor. The last survivors of the family are twins who have been ailing all their lives with a mysterious illness. As well, each suffers whatever befalls the other, and they are both continually weakened by it.

Now, Roderick is deathly ill, and Madeline has disappeared! It is up to us to find answers before the twins bring about the Fall Of The House Of Usher. The back story is delivered to us in various ways, some character reminiscences, combined with sepia animated sketching. I feel the explanation for all this, when it comes, is unclear and somehow unsatisfying. I think there should have been more evidence pointing in that direction.

GAMEPLAY
Fun stuff here! There are a lot of things to do and to find. The HOPs (12) come in several flavours: interactive word list, riddles, silhouettes, fragmented objects, matching pairs and multiples of, also dioramas . Some scenes are visited twice, but when you return to a scene, it will be with a different search method. If you wish, you can play a very intriguing and original Match-3 game that is easy to learn but fun to master. Definitely good. There are mostly easy puzzles (13), some with a new twist, and a few hard ones. You can make some of them more difficult by choosing that option within the puzzle itself.

As with all the Dark Tales, this game is not particularly hard, but we can customise the difficulty levels. And there is plenty of help for those who want it. We have an interactive map and directional hint. There's the journal, which was left behind by a previous investigator. He took photos, so matching them to the scene, gives us valuable pointers about where to go next. Parts of a message appear on the back of each photo and the message is compiled in the journal. At one point, even the Usher’s black cat gives us a nudge in the right direction.

Early in the game we come upon a “Reborn One”, who takes the role of the normally cute companion (but we already have M. Dupin!). Certainly not cute, it is interesting and visually striking. Its particular skill is to ‘create life’. The Reborn One is an interesting character visually, but has nothing to say for itself. There is a helpful mouse with us for part of the investigation, and the weirdest thing. A very amusing and active but ugly rat, who sits to the left of the (lockable) inventory bar for the entire game, without making any contribution whatsoever other than comic relief.

COMBINED IMPACT
I’m officially hooked on the remarkable M. Dupin, and am sure it is only a matter of time before the detective agency becomes a family business. So I am necessarily biased. But this is an exceptional game regardless, and delightfully dark. Although all of Edgar Allan Poe’s stories are creepy, Dark Tales games usually haven’t been so much creepy as mysterious. This one is the creepiest of the series, sometimes scary, often startlingly unexpected. Also lovely, involving and intriguing. And most of all, fun. Show less

I recommend this game!

+58points

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Overall rating

5 / 5

32 of 41 found this review helpful

SUPERB

PostedApril 18, 2014

rosekaufmann

fromLos Angeles

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Skill Level:Expert

Favorite Genre(s):Hidden Object

Current Favorite:

Surface: Mystery of Another World

(224)

Fun Factor

5 / 5

Visual/Sound Quality

5 / 5

Level of Challenge

5 / 5

Storyline

5 / 5

This is a superb game with outstanding voice overs, crisp graphics, sound and logical but complex nonlinear gameplay, plenty to do and see. Compelling music and cutscenes. HOS are only mildly crowded - I like the clue-driven object finds. There are alternative games to play in lieu of the HOS. Puzzles are many and vary widely in difficulty. This is one Poe book I didn't read - it's mysterious, ...Show more

This is a superb game with outstanding voice overs, crisp graphics, sound and logical but complex nonlinear gameplay, plenty to do and see. Compelling music and cutscenes. HOS are only mildly crowded - I like the clue-driven object finds. There are alternative games to play in lieu of the HOS. Puzzles are many and vary widely in difficulty. This is one Poe book I didn't read - it's mysterious, fascinating and a little scary of what comes next. Visual and sound effects are easily award winners. This may well be the best Edgar Allan Poe game from ERS to date, which says a lot. They outdid themselves. Show less

I recommend this game!

+23points

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Overall rating

5 / 5

12 of 14 found this review helpful

Much Better Than "Gold Bug"

PostedMay 26, 2014

Yanie1020

fromIowa, USA

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Skill Level:Expert

Favorite Genre(s):Adventure, Hidden Object, Large File, Strategy, Marble Popper, Puzzle

Fun Factor

5 / 5

Visual/Sound Quality

5 / 5

Level of Challenge

5 / 5

Storyline

5 / 5

This game was much longer and much better than Dark Tales, the Gold Bug. Really had fun with this one. Not a huge number of HOS's, which is fine with me. Puzzles were fairly good, but some were a little too easy. I always like the music in ERS games, and this is no exception. The game was quite long. I got my money's worth. ERS is still right up there with Eipix for my favorite developers.

I recommend this game!

+10points

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Overall rating

5 / 5

48 of 72 found this review helpful

An Excellent SE GAME

PostedApril 18, 2014

Nilosh

fromIstanbul, Turkey

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Off the Record: The Italian Affair Collector's Edition

(69)

Fun Factor

5 / 5

Visual/Sound Quality

4 / 5

Level of Challenge

5 / 5

Storyline

5 / 5

I wrote a 5 star review for CE version of this game and decided to play the demo for the Standard version as well. Unfortunately the RAT is back, perched right there in the left side of my screen, squirming around and occasionally nibbling on a seed. I know that graphics, sounds and visuals remain a constant with these developers, almost becoming a signature trade mark, but to tell you the truth, ...Show more

I wrote a 5 star review for CE version of this game and decided to play the demo for the Standard version as well. Unfortunately the RAT is back, perched right there in the left side of my screen, squirming around and occasionally nibbling on a seed. I know that graphics, sounds and visuals remain a constant with these developers, almost becoming a signature trade mark, but to tell you the truth, I don’t mind as much as I did. I have come to expect the same type of artwork, voice-overs and music and I have to admit, their games continue to entertain me and thrill me.

I have missed Dupin and his adventures and at last, I find myself assisting him in what is one of my favorite Poe tales: The Fall of the House of Usher. I recall reading this novel when I was very young and couldn’t sleep alone in my bed for two nights. I also remember Vincent Price’s version of the House of Usher and recommend it to fans of the classic Horror film. In this game, our story begins with a new case which involves the disappearance of Madeleine, twin sister of Roderick. We learn of the strange disease shared by the twins that is rather unsettling and soon discover that there is a link between the illness and the old estate. You also come across a mysterious power that is called the Reborn One that has the ability to bring stone to life and what that has to do with all that is going on is a mystery in itself. More people begin to disappear on your watch and so it is up to you and your colleague, Detective Dupin, find Madeleine and unlock the secret that plagues the House of Usher and all who are connected to it.

Once again, main menu offers you three game modes along with customized settings which is much appreciated. Game tools include your inventory bar that can be locked, a journal and a map that will allow for travel which now seems to be a given with most games. You have you also have the bottle with the Reborn One that has the power to being life to stone. What is missing is the FG and to tell you the truth, I enjoy playing a game without having easy access to help.

The game offers challenging puzzles along with interesting HO scenes that come in variations with the option to switch to a very cool and rather difficult M3 game instead. There are no extras which sometimes I do prefer if the game holds enough challenge which this game does. There are no coins to collect like in the CE which actually did not bother me. I loved the mini-games that come in hard or casual mode to choose when solving. Adventure game play was interesting and surprisingly challenging and somewhat confusing if you opt to disable your blackbar tips. As always, you have dark corners to explore and items to find in order to unlock doors and solve puzzles. You and Dupin occasionally exchange quips and in this version, there is no camera to take photos instead you come across them and no lab to buy equipment.

Mini-games were interesting and as customary with these developers, some were even challenging and required some time and effort to solve and I think that is what these developers excel in. What can I say, I love Dupin, I love Poe and I love these developers, and despite the RAT on my screen, I loved this game as a CE and for those who wish to try a simpler version without any distraction, they may find the game play a bit more challenging and interesting. Once again a five star game from our five star group and from our five star game site, BFG Show less

I recommend this game!

+24points

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Overall rating

5 / 5

10 of 12 found this review helpful

I'm lovin' the Fall - of the House - of the Ushers

PostedDecember 30, 2014

VirginiaPat

fromWytheville, VA

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Skill Level:Intermediate

Favorite Genre(s):Adventure

Current Favorite:

Christmas Stories: Hans Christian Andersen's Tin Soldier

(36)

Fun Factor

5 / 5

Visual/Sound Quality

5 / 5

Level of Challenge

4 / 5

Storyline

4 / 5

I've been a fan of BFG games, since I received a free coupon for Ravenhurst in a Woman's Day magazine about 6 years ago. I was in my 60's then and had never played a "computer game," and I was instantly hooked! Still enjoy them, and The Fall of the House of Usher is a great game. I especially like the interaction in the HO scenes, and I found the puzzles fascinating, both in their appearance in ...Show more

I've been a fan of BFG games, since I received a free coupon for Ravenhurst in a Woman's Day magazine about 6 years ago. I was in my 60's then and had never played a "computer game," and I was instantly hooked! Still enjoy them, and The Fall of the House of Usher is a great game. I especially like the interaction in the HO scenes, and I found the puzzles fascinating, both in their appearance in the game, and the difficulty I had in solving several of them.
I really think BFG might consider having all reviewers state their approximate ages, ie., under 20, 20 to 35, 36 to 50, etc. because I can read some of the very negative reviews and am likely to discount them if they seem to be written in a teen-age snit - so to speak! A review is, after all, only a personal opinion, not a blanket hatred of any game!
Detective Dupin and I have enjoyed the Fall of Usher because it requires some thought as to what to do next, and the puzzles were well thought out. In MHO, this is a great game! Show less

I recommend this game!

+8points

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Overall rating

5 / 5

4 of 5 found this review helpful

Poe Stories Always Provide Great Psychological Fun

PostedJanuary 8, 2017

upsysydaisy

fromOcala, FL

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Skill Level:Expert

Favorite Genre(s):Adventure, Card & Board, Hidden Object, Large File, Puzzle, Strategy, Word

Fun Factor

5 / 5

Visual/Sound Quality

5 / 5

Level of Challenge

5 / 5

Storyline

4 / 5

I have read the book and saw the original movie many years ago. It was so creepy back then, given I was much younger. I have since enjoyed all the Poe books and movie adaptations. However my favorites have always been the dark, sad poems.

I was delighted to find these games on Big Fish, although they are very lightly based on the novels. Really had fun with this one, it was challenging and ...Show more

I have read the book and saw the original movie many years ago. It was so creepy back then, given I was much younger. I have since enjoyed all the Poe books and movie adaptations. However my favorites have always been the dark, sad poems.

I was delighted to find these games on Big Fish, although they are very lightly based on the novels. Really had fun with this one, it was challenging and included many wonderful HOGs and puzzles. The graphics were stellar and rich with appropriate items and design for that time period along with perfect coloring. It added so much to the experience.

Detective Dupin certainly was a nice addition, which is always the case. The story had a suitable ending. This was a quality purchase and I am looking forward to playing all the other Dark Tales games. Yep, I went overboard and purchased all of them !! I don't think I will be disappointed. Hopefully you have fun with The Fall of the House of Usher, too !

By the way, the are a couple of cute little games VERY loosely based on this Poe story. Check out "The House on Usher" for some different fun on this subject.

God Bless Everyone ! Show less

I recommend this game!

+3points

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Overall rating

5 / 5

3 of 5 found this review helpful

one of the best HOG games ever!!

PostedMarch 21, 2016

afarrell

fromNSW Australia

Skill Level:Intermediate

Favorite Genre(s):Puzzle, Hidden Object, Time Management, Match 3

Current Favorite:

Dark Tales: Edgar Allan Poe's The Fall of the House of Usher

(27)

Fun Factor

5 / 5

Visual/Sound Quality

5 / 5

Level of Challenge

5 / 5

Storyline

5 / 5

I am usually hopeless when it comes to hidden object games. This game has everything you could want in a game. If you are like me and find hidden object games to hard at times , this might be the game for you as it also has a type of match 3 game you can play instead. Great story line and visual effects. The game was a lot longer than other hidden object games I have tried to play. Anyone thinking ...Show more

I am usually hopeless when it comes to hidden object games. This game has everything you could want in a game. If you are like me and find hidden object games to hard at times , this might be the game for you as it also has a type of match 3 game you can play instead. Great story line and visual effects. The game was a lot longer than other hidden object games I have tried to play. Anyone thinking of buying this game wont be disappointed. 10 out of 10 Big Fish! Show less

I recommend this game!

+1point

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Overall rating

5 / 5

17 of 32 found this review helpful

Stunning graphics!

PostedApril 18, 2014

patrickjoseph

fromGalway, Ireland.

Skill Level:Expert

Favorite Genre(s):Adventure, Hidden Object

Fun Factor

5 / 5

Visual/Sound Quality

5 / 5

Level of Challenge

4 / 5

Storyline

5 / 5

Like all of the Edgar Allan Poe's.....this is terrific! Might treat myself to this one over the weekend x

I recommend this game!

+2points

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Overall rating

5 / 5

4 of 7 found this review helpful

Great Game !

PostedMay 11, 2014

tutortime

fromFlorida

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This "Key Contributor" plays, rates, and reviews a lot of games. We think you'll trust their thoughts and opinions about games.
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Fun Factor

5 / 5

Visual/Sound Quality

5 / 5

Level of Challenge

5 / 5

Storyline

5 / 5

I love all the Dark Tales series and this one does not disappoint.

I recommend this game!

+1point

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Dark Tales: Edgar Allan Poe's The Fall of the House of Usher

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	, share your thoughts about this game! Dark Tales: Edgar Allan Poe's The Fall of the House of Usher What evil inhabits the House of Usher? Heres what your review will look like once it’s posted. Click Submit if you’re happy. Your review should appear soon. To make changes, use the Edit or Cancel buttons. Thanks for sharing your thoughts about this game! You’ve already shared your thoughts about this game. Thanks for submitting the review below.