Samantha Swift Rose of Athena Review

Here is a wonderful example of how to properly construct a casual point and click adventure game that integrates hidden object hunting flawlessly. Samantha Swift and the Hidden Roses of Athena sets you on a quest to search for both artifacts to return to a museum and tools used to perform actions to acquire other necessary objects in the area.

You, Sam Swift, are a gifted young archaeologist in search of the lost Roses of Athens, bestowed to ancient Athens as the six virtues that were to represent the city. This quest leads across multiple continents to the far reaching corners of the globe to locate the sacred relics, from Rome to Guatemala, Tibet to Japan. Each new and diverse location is rich in color, culture, and history that adds much excitement to the game.

Interesting Objects to Collect and Use

Many of the tools collected to perform tasks are creative and will challenge your intellect, including hanging several chains and placing a column between them to knock down a road barrier. Items collected are also wonderfully diverse, including a translucent rainbow and numerous one-of-a-kind artifacts.

Unique Puzzles and Well Thought Out Game Play

One of the most noteworthy features of Athena is how well constructed game play is, with equal amounts of time being apportioned to object hunting as well as task completion. Mini-puzzles are certainly unique, such as conducting an archaeological dig or creating fire with nothing but several logs.

Some Tasks Too Simple

On the downside, some of these tasks are rather simple and straightforward, reducing the value of their uniqueness. Furthermore, the overall length of the game is disappointing, and the more experienced adventure/hidden objects gamer will likely reach the finale in the matter of a few short hours.

Conclusion - Short But Sweet

However, the game is well done with both an interesting plot and exciting locations, as well as the commendable ratio of object hunting to task completion and will keep most players entertained, both new and experienced.