Amanda the Adventurer
- April 25, 2023
- MANGLEDmaw Games
- 4h median play time
"Amanda the Adventurer" is a game that revolves around a TV show about a brave girl named Amanda and her cowardly sheep sidekick, Wooly. The player discovers a box set of the show in their attic and the game allows them to explore and experience the adventures of Amanda and Wooly. The game is a nostalgic journey filled with problem-solving, exploration, and humor.
Reviews
- story770 mentions
- 41 % positive mentions
- 56 % neutral mentions
- 4 % negative mentions
The story of "Amanda the Adventurer" is a mix of intriguing lore and cryptic elements that require players to piece together the narrative through hidden tapes and puzzles. While many players appreciate the depth and complexity of the story, some find it lacking in resolution and coherence, often leaving them wanting more. Overall, the game is praised for its unique storytelling approach, though it may frustrate those seeking a straightforward plot.
“The story is intricate and engaging.”
“I love the lore behind the game that you still try to find and it also has some replay value as well to get the various endings and find out more to the story.”
“The game feels like a fun escape room, lots of puzzles that reward you with strange secret tapes that feed you small information on the game's backstory and helping you figure out the mystery of Amanda the Adventurer.”
“The game left me feeling very disappointed and unsatisfied with a very uninspiring story and pathetic and boring reused jump scares not worth anyone's time nor money.”
“I got 100% achievements so I'm reasonably sure I got everything there is, but the story just kind of fails to exist in my opinion.”
“If you're here for a story/mystery, well you can keep looking because half the plot threads in this game don't have an ending at all.”
- gameplay238 mentions
- 38 % positive mentions
- 56 % neutral mentions
- 6 % negative mentions
The gameplay has received mixed reviews, with many players appreciating its unique mechanics, engaging puzzles, and smooth execution, while others criticize its reliance on repetitive elements and a lack of depth in the storyline. The combination of watching tapes and solving puzzles offers a fresh experience, though some feel it can feel more like watching a video than an interactive game. Overall, while the gameplay is generally enjoyable and accessible, it may not satisfy those seeking a more complex or atmospheric experience.
“The gameplay is so fun and the fact that there are so many endings just kept me playing for longer and longer.”
“Great game design, replaying the same tapes to get back to where I was so I can use a code is a very fun gameplay loop.”
“Clever gameplay mechanics, rewarding puzzles, and just an overall suspenseful game with such well thought out lore within it.”
“I love the idea, but unfortunately due to the nature of the gameplay, you'll just end up with the same experience as watching a YouTube video.”
“I'm disappointed to say the least, after all the hype this game received and the demo, which I personally enjoyed a fair bit, this game is a disappointing letdown with a 'meh' story and poor gameplay.”
“It has lackluster gameplay, which horror games sometimes do but they usually make up for it with horror atmosphere and/or story.”
- graphics174 mentions
- 45 % positive mentions
- 52 % neutral mentions
- 3 % negative mentions
The graphics of the game have received mixed reviews, with many players praising the vibrant and stylized visuals that effectively blend retro and modern aesthetics. While some noted issues with performance and optimization, particularly on certain systems, the overall artistic design and attention to detail were highlighted as strong points that enhance the game's atmosphere. Despite some criticisms regarding polish, the unique art style and immersive graphics contribute positively to the gameplay experience.
“The graphics are great, and the storyline is amazing as well!”
“Absolutely outstanding game with a great story that keeps you hooked each second and great graphics able to immerse you in the world of this amazing game, a serious must play.”
“The game's graphics are incredible and reminiscent of a cartoon (as if from the 80s), which adds to its atmosphere.”
“Additionally, the graphics and performance in this game are poor.”
“There are minimal graphics settings and the fps cap is max 144 and can't be switched off.”
“For some reason the game runs really slow on my fast laptop, I had to turn the graphics down to low and change the resolution so it wouldn't lag (which was weird) but it was still fun!”
- atmosphere110 mentions
- 55 % positive mentions
- 42 % neutral mentions
- 4 % negative mentions
The atmosphere of the game is widely praised for its unique blend of creepiness and intrigue, effectively immersing players in a haunting environment that builds tension without relying heavily on jump scares. Many reviews highlight the effective use of sound design, visuals, and storytelling to create a sense of unease, while some note that the atmosphere is more unsettling than traditionally scary. Overall, the game is recognized for its ability to evoke a chilling ambiance that enhances the gameplay experience, despite some critiques regarding its pacing and depth.
“It's all about atmosphere for this game and it does provide a different, unique type of horror feel.”
“The atmosphere is on point and I really did just have a lot of fun with this game.”
“Atmosphere is great, building tension throughout and delivering some truly shocking and memorable moments with minimal reliance on cheap jumpscares.”
“I've no idea why the reviews are so positive, there is barely an hour's gameplay here and no atmosphere at all.”
“Unfortunately, the game's storyline is too quick and thin, and the level of horror is too small to make up for the fact that the puzzles are well-designed and occasionally tough, and the whole idea gives off an unsettling and creepy atmosphere.”
“It has lackluster gameplay, which horror games sometimes do, but they usually make up for it with horror atmosphere and/or story.”
- humor106 mentions
- 100 % positive mentions
- 0 % neutral mentions
- 0 % negative mentions
The humor in the game is a standout feature, blending dark comedy with elements of horror, often catching players off guard with its unexpected funny moments. Many reviewers noted the amusing interactions with characters like Amanda and Wooly, which enhance the overall experience, making it both entertaining and engaging. The game's ability to evoke laughter amidst its creepy atmosphere contributes to its charm, making it a memorable adventure for players.
“Wooly and Amanda's dialogue also has a number of genuinely funny moments that helped to make the horror segments all the scarier.”
“It had me laughing more than it scared me, which made for a genuinely fun experience!”
“The dark humor masked with children's TV show is quite hilarious.”
- music52 mentions
- 23 % positive mentions
- 69 % neutral mentions
- 8 % negative mentions
The music in the game receives mixed reviews, with some players praising the soundtrack for enhancing the atmosphere and gameplay, while others find it challenging due to the requirement of reading sheet music for certain puzzles. Overall, the sound design is noted as excellent, contributing to the immersive experience, though some players feel the music could be more prominent or better integrated. The catchy theme song and well-executed voice acting are highlighted as standout elements, adding to the game's unique charm.
“This game is amazing in every way; the art style, music, and gameplay are spectacular.”
“The soundtrack is amazing, and the graphics are splendid.”
“The music and sound effects add to the game's immersive experience and create an atmosphere of adventure and excitement.”
“Difficult for those that don't know how to read music.”
“Also, there are a few times where you have to know specific things in order to continue the game (such as reading sheet music and interpreting vague riddles) that make this game a bit more complicated than it otherwise should be.”
“1/10 music notes made no sense (according to chat)”
- grinding34 mentions
- 12 % positive mentions
- 47 % neutral mentions
- 41 % negative mentions
The reviews highlight a significant divide in player experiences regarding grinding in the game. Many players find the grinding aspect tedious and frustrating, particularly due to the repetitive puzzles and the need for extensive secret hunting to achieve completion. However, some players appreciate the multiple endings and secrets, finding the process rewarding rather than tedious, suggesting that enjoyment may vary based on individual preferences for exploration and achievement hunting.
“There are many endings and secrets to uncover through multiple playthroughs, and the game is just the right length to be rewarding and not tedious while you do it.”
“Getting all of the endings was exciting and not tedious at all.”
“There are many endings and secrets to uncover through multiple playthroughs, and the game is just the right length to be rewarding and not tedious while you do it.”
“You'll need a second life for grinding.”
“This game was tedious at best.”
“I love the idea of this to death, but in order to get an even acceptable ending, you have to go through a process of secret hunting and passcode entering so tedious sounding that I can't even bear the thought of getting through to the end.”
- replayability26 mentions
- 23 % positive mentions
- 65 % neutral mentions
- 12 % negative mentions
Overall, the game offers a moderate level of replayability, with multiple endings and easter eggs that enhance the lore and encourage exploration. While some players find the replay value limited after completing the main content, others appreciate the clever puzzles and engaging story that invite multiple playthroughs. However, the game's short length and relatively easy achievement completion may leave some feeling that it lacks long-term replay potential.
“The game also offers some replayability, with more story and different endings that aren't a chore to complete.”
“I love the lore behind the game that you still try to find, and it also has some replay value as well to get the various endings and find out more to the story.”
“The puzzles and dialogue are really clever, and the replay value is absolutely there.”
“For $8.99, however, it is perhaps a little overpriced given its low replay value since obtaining all achievements in two sittings is not at all a daunting task.”
“I enjoy the well thought out puzzles and spooky environment, but there's not a ton of replay value.”
“While it didn't wow me exponentially in regard to horror and doesn't have much replay value after fully completing it, Amanda the Adventurer is definitely one of the better horror options for a younger audience.”
- stability18 mentions
- 6 % positive mentions
- 6 % neutral mentions
- 89 % negative mentions
The game's stability is a significant concern, with many players reporting severe bugs and frequent crashes that can disrupt gameplay and require restarts. While some appreciate the atmospheric glitches, others find them frustrating and detrimental to the overall experience. Despite these issues, a few players have managed to complete the game without encountering major problems, indicating that stability may vary widely among users.
“Fun little game, got a hundred percent with no glitches. I would like to see a quick exit for tapes and a quick restart for the day if you want to take a different route.”
“The game is horribly buggy and unplayable.”
“Not only is it not scary, but there are numerous glitches which can force you to need to restart your entire play session.”
“This game is one of my favorite games; I just have a problem: the game always lags as soon as I press continue or new game, and as I end the tape (mostly) it instantly freezes.”
- optimization16 mentions
- 38 % positive mentions
- 0 % neutral mentions
- 63 % negative mentions
The optimization of the game has received mixed feedback, with some players experiencing significant stuttering and poor performance even at low graphics settings, while others found it to run smoothly. Overall, many reviewers noted that the graphics and animations were lacking, contributing to a less engaging experience. Despite some positive aspects, the game's performance issues detracted from its overall enjoyment.
“Otherwise, the game runs smoothly for me and is a real treat.”
“It's a good game; I do wish it was a bit more optimized because even at the very low graphics setting, I still lag at times.”
“Maybe this was just me, but moving around the attic at 144 frames had objects, like the table where I'm perpetually and uninterestingly presented with the next step in my puzzle, stuttering oddly.”
“Additionally, the graphics and performance in this game are poor.”
“The game constantly felt like it was stuttering.”
- emotional14 mentions
- 100 % positive mentions
- 0 % neutral mentions
- 0 % negative mentions
The emotional aspect of the game is characterized by a blend of child-friendly wholesomeness and underlying heartbreak, particularly in its lore. Players find Amanda to be a heartwarming and humorous character, though the game's darker elements evoke sadness and fear, leading to emotional reactions such as crying. Overall, the game balances lightheartedness with poignant themes, creating a complex emotional experience.
“A very good game, and the lore is quite heartbreaking.”
“This scary game made me cry.”
“Amanda is a heartwarming girl and really funny.”
- monetization4 mentions
- 0 % positive mentions
- 0 % neutral mentions
- 100 % negative mentions
The monetization of the game is viewed positively, with users appreciating that the creators appear to genuinely care about the project rather than treating it as a mere cash grab. This sentiment highlights a refreshing approach in the mascot horror genre, where passion and quality are prioritized over profit.
“Finally, a new mascot horror game that isn't a passionless cash grab.”
“I was expecting it to be just a generic mascot horror, but I will say that the creators seem to genuinely care about the project vs just doing it for a cash grab.”
- character development2 mentions
- 100 % positive mentions
- 0 % neutral mentions
- 0 % negative mentions
The game features strong character designs and an engaging plot that effectively piques players' curiosity, enhancing the overall character development experience.
“It has good character designs and an amazing plot that makes you even more curious to know more.”