Summary
- Release Year: 2009
- Genres: Adventure, Point-and-click
- Platforms: PC (Microsoft Windows)
- Developers: City Interactive
- Publishers: City Interactive
Art of Murder: Hunt for the Puppeteer (2009)
Introduction
Art of Murder: Hunt for the Puppeteer is a full 3-D adventure game played from a third-person perspective. Developed by Frogwares and published by Focus Home Interactive, the game was released in 2009 for Microsoft Windows, Nintendo DS, Wii, and PlayStation 2.
Players take on the role of Nicole Bonnet, a young detective investigating a series of murders linked to a mysterious puppeteer. The game features a unique blend of mystery, adventure, and puzzle-solving, as players explore real-life locations, interview witnesses, and gather evidence to track down the killer.
Gameplay
Art of Murder: Hunt for the Puppeteer is played from a third-person perspective, with players controlling Nicole Bonnet as she investigates a series of murders. The game world is fully 3-D, and players can freely explore each environment, interacting with objects and characters.
To progress through the game, players must interview witnesses, collect evidence, and solve puzzles. The game features a variety of puzzles, including mechanical puzzles, slider puzzles, and logic puzzles. Players must use their wits and observation skills to solve these puzzles and progress through the game.
The game also features a time limit mechanic. Some game stages have a time limit that, if not completed, is punishable by the character’s death. If a character dies, the player’s progress is saved automatically, and the player may start over from their last save.
Story
The story of Art of Murder: Hunt for the Puppeteer follows Nicole Bonnet, a young detective investigating a series of murders linked to a mysterious puppeteer. The murders are gruesome and ritualistic, and Nicole quickly realizes that she is dealing with a serial killer.
As Nicole investigates the murders, she uncovers a dark and twisted world of secrets and lies. She learns that the puppeteer is a powerful and dangerous figure who will stop at nothing to achieve his goals.
Nicole must use all of her skills and resources to track down the puppeteer and stop him before he kills again. Along the way, she will encounter a cast of colorful characters, including a mysterious antiquarian, a brilliant forensic scientist, and a troubled medium.
Characters
- Nicole Bonnet: The protagonist of the game, Nicole is a young detective investigating a series of murders linked to a mysterious puppeteer. She is intelligent, resourceful, and determined to bring the killer to justice.
- Nicolas Delacroix: A mysterious antiquarian who helps Nicole with her investigation. He is knowledgeable about the occult and the history of the puppeteer.
- Dr. Emily Patterson: A brilliant forensic scientist who helps Nicole analyze the evidence in the case. She is a skilled scientist and a valuable asset to Nicole’s investigation.
- Sarah Walker: A troubled medium who has visions of the puppeteer’s crimes. She is a powerful ally to Nicole, but her visions can be difficult to interpret.
- The Puppeteer: The main antagonist of the game, the Puppeteer is a powerful and dangerous figure who is responsible for the murders. He is a master of disguise and manipulation, and he will stop at nothing to achieve his goals.
Setting
The game is set in a variety of real-life locations, including Paris, New Orleans, and Havana. Each location is meticulously recreated, and players will feel like they are actually exploring these cities.
The game’s environments are dark and atmospheric, and they perfectly capture the mood of the story. Players will feel a sense of unease as they explore the crime scenes and uncover the secrets of the puppeteer.
Reception
Art of Murder: Hunt for the Puppeteer received positive reviews from critics. The game was praised for its engaging story, well-developed characters, and challenging puzzles. Many critics also praised the game’s unique blend of mystery, adventure, and puzzle-solving.
The game was also a commercial success, selling over 1 million copies worldwide. It was followed by a sequel, Art of Murder: The Secret Files, in 2011.
Conclusion
Art of Murder: Hunt for the Puppeteer is a thrilling and atmospheric mystery adventure game that will keep you on the edge of your seat from beginning to end. With its well-developed characters, challenging puzzles, and gripping story, the game is a must-play for fans of the genre.
Review Score
8.5/10
Art
Cover Art
Screenshots
