Liong: The Lost Amulets Review

Liong: The Lost Amulets is an adventure based mahjong game that has you on a quest to find the lost amulets and restore harmony to nature. The game offers two modes and has mini-games laced throughout the adventure mode that can break the monotony of simply playing mahjong. As far as mahjong titles are concerned Liong: The Lost Amulets branches away from what is typically seen in this unique, adventure-packed tile pairing game.

Mahjong Gameplay

Mahjong, for those of you unfamiliar with the game, is a Chinese tile matching game. Each level presents a new layout in the game, and it is your goal to match all the tiles, leaving nothing unpaired. Mahjong combines acute calculation, skill, and strategy, as well as a great deal of luck. Often times skill can be the dominating factor in the game. Liong: The Lost Amulets incorporates traditional gameplay of mahjong, while also providing an adventuresome twist.

Time Limit But Hints Available

In the traditional style you can choose from six different playing sets. There are traditional pieces which include Chinese characters and other images, or you can choose something more vivid with lots of color and easy to see numbers.

In the traditional game you have to match like tiles in order for them to disappear. There is a time limit in which you have to complete the task. If luck and or skill is not on your side and you do not complete the puzzle you can restart the puzzle until you successfully complete it. If you need help hints are available at the cost of one jade balls. These balls are hidden throughout the game board and can be collected at anytime.

Quest Mode Adds a Story Element

The second mode of play is an adventure mode that has you on a quest to bring harmony back to nature. To do so you must find the five missing Amulets by completing different mahjong puzzles and mini-games which are dispersed throughout play. These mini-games differ in objectives but all have a mahjong and matching element. “Bingo” for example is a bingo card that has tiles stacked in each of the columns. Tiles pass through on a conveyor which you must use to clear the bingo board. If you are successful you earn bonus points and get a step closer to restoring order.

Mahjong a Bit Easier in Adventure Mode

The mahjong within the adventure mode is also a little different than typical mahjong, making it easier. Rather than have to find matches from all the tiles on the board, you are given six tiles in a tool bar that you can use to find matches. Bonus points are awarded for consecutive tiles of the same pattern. The adventure mode also provides you with the luxury of finding jade pearls and exchanging them for rewards. You can exchange for hints, new tiles, and even to have 10 to 25 tiles eliminated. The rewards are very helpful, and like in the traditional mode, the jade pearls are hidden throughout the game.

Mini Games Can Be Frustrating

Though the mini-games offer a unique element to the game, they can often be monotonous and frustrating. Having to find objects in an I Spy game or having identify 15 differences between two pictures can be more of a drag than a challenge. Yes, the games can be fun and are a nice change up to constantly playing mahjong, however, some of them can be extremely boring and slightly painful.

Some Nice Extra Features Like Online Play

Several other features missing in this game are a multiplayer mode, online play, design your own layouts, and downloadable layouts. Not having the ability to play online or download new layouts via the internet limits this game. One of the main elements of the traditional tile game is setting up your own pieces, so not being able to in this game is limiting. More layouts would be an easy addition to the game, making the game much better.

Conclusion - Extra Features Make It Much Better Than Average

On the whole Liong: The Lost Amulet is a fun adventure based mahjong game. The quest elements as well as some of the mini-games are surprisingly entertaining. Though some of the games can get old quickly, they typically do not last long, making them bearable. This game would be great for anyone just getting into mahjong, or for a seasoned player looking for a change up. Liong: The Lost Amulet is worth the time it takes to download so go ahead and give it a try.