
System: PC
Dev: 10tacle Studios
Pub: Strategy First
Release: April 15, 2008
Players: 1
ESRB Rating: Teen
Review by Jonathan Marx
Visually the game is quite engaging. The environments are all very detailed and do a good job of conjuring up an awesome sense of adventure. The caves, coves, towns, characters, and buildings are all fantastical in their imagining, and the exaggerated and vibrantly colored look of the title is very pleasing to the eye. Of course, solid graphics should be expected considering just how static the backgrounds really are. As a result, there isn't a hint of frame rate issues. Nevertheless, computing rigs that just meet the recommended specifications will only be able to play the game on its lowest settings. It's a bit unfortunate, but if your hardware falls into that category you are probably used to it by now.

There are no multiplayer or online features offered in the game. As such, there isn't any replayability to be found in the title. Once you beat the game, you might as well just give it away. However, that shouldn't deter you from picking it up. After all, the game plays and feels like a quality animated movie. Moreover, there are quite a few hours of fun to be had and it will still work out to be significantly less expensive than going to the cinema.
I enjoyed many aspects of the title, but I can't help but reiterating that it's not for everyone. There were many times when I nearly became incensed by the silly object-based puzzles. Typically, the puzzles are straightforward and quickly bested. However, there are a number of tasks that you will have to perform that either feel like superfluous busy work or simply make no sense whatsoever. These nonsensical puzzles are only completed after laboriously clicking around the same scene until you've exhausted all options. Lamentably, after finishing these tasks you probably won't feel accomplished, but rather simply fed up! There were a number of times when I had to turn off the game after finishing a task because I was so disgusted and tired. Fortunately, these trying moments represent the exception to the rule and shouldn't hinder your journey too often.
Jack Keane is a nice adventure that many should enjoy. Most likely, players will find themselves having a love-hate relationship with the title, but ultimately they will be delighted by its varied charms. The presentation of the title is very well done and effectively communicates the feel and adventure of the Victorian era. If you enjoy the point-and-click adventures of years past and have several hours to burn, then Jack Keane is a nice gaming option. It could be the perfect title if you plan on taking a long trip this summer to an exotic locale.
By
Jonathan Marx
CCC Lead Contributor / News Director
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