Mystery Case Files: Prime Suspects Review - Strong Sequel
In an interesting attempt to leverage the strong momentum of hit game Mystery Case Files: Huntsville (see earlier review here), as well as to combat the "clone plague" (other publishers bringing out very similar games soon after launch), BigFish Games has already released a sequel, entitled Mystery Case Files: Prime Suspects (download free trial here). As with many sequels, this is an expanded version of the previous game, keeping the same overall successful theme while adding in a couple of minor new features such as need to use a flashlight or x-ray machine in certain scnearios, and tweaking the "Clue Computer" finale to each section with a couple of new twists. It's a good move for MCF fans, mixing in just the right amount of new game play while keeping the experience very familiar for those who purchased the previous one - will definitely be another hit.
Although I applaud GameFish for leveraging its hits and attacking the clone issue, I am not sure what this means for the casual game business since a need to release sequels so quickly may point the way to a shorter life span for hit games than previously where some titles would in the top 10 for over a year, generating a tremendous return on investment. I probably would have released the sequel at a higher price point while the original was selling so well at $20, then brought it down after a few months as momentum slowed on the original.
For other casual game reviews. try the new site BlueStub at www.bluestub.com
i wanna play it
Posted by: Aroop | April 30, 2006 at 09:55 AM
I really like MCF-Prime Suspects but am frustrated by the ending that doesn't seem to be solveable.
Posted by: patetc | July 27, 2006 at 01:48 PM
I agree about the ending. If anyone has a solution to opening the gem box at the end, please let me know.
Posted by: Nan | August 09, 2006 at 07:09 AM
IVE PLAYED BOTH MYSTERY CASE FILES MANY TIMES ALONG WITH MY SISTER WE ARE BOTH WAITING FOR THE NEXT ONE COULD YOU TELL ME WHEN IT WILL BE COMING OUT?
Posted by: NARDA CARROLL | August 29, 2006 at 12:13 PM