DSOM by SouthPeak Interactive, for ages 13+, a Science Fiction Adventure
Made for PC, 6 discs, (also comes on DVD, I think). System Requrements:
Windows 98/98, Direct X 5.0 (9ncluded), 165 MHz Processor, 32 MB RAM, 8x CD-ROM Drive, 16 Bit Windows Compatible Sound Card, 150 MB of Free Space on C:\Drive, 2MB SVGA Graphics for 640x480 High Color (16-Bit), Microsoft Compatible Mouse or Other Pointing Device.
I had trouble during the first part of disc 1 with 'raster lines' appearing on my monitor and then I could not see to play the game. The only way to stop this - I had to shut the computer down to get out of the game, restart and reboot. Technical support from the company was not forthcoming since this is an older game (they did however reply to my email request and were pleasantly surprised when I emailed them back the solution). Assistance was acquired here on GB, the solution (which worked for discs 1 thru 5) was to 'lower hardware acceleration'. I had to repeat the process for disc 6 and lower it one more notch (see posting in Adventure Games Discussion for he step by step solution, look under 'for igos'. This solved the problem and I happily played on.
It has some animated violence. Using crystals or sound devices to destroy monsters or aliens. No bloody scenes.
Use of the inventory was easy and pleasant. No hang ups there. However, there was so much in it by the middle/end of the game that it sure got heavy! This did not cause me too much discomfort since I sorta floated thru this game. Love the way movement was so easily accomplished, even hanging off a cable holding onto a 'mag belt', it didn't hurt a bit.
Use of the menu/s was also easy. No problems there. Unlimited Saves. I did not have to change discs every time I put my computer to bed and restarted. Just left the current disc (sequence) in and accessed LOAD from where I left off. If there was a 'change to disc #' sequence coming up next it fell into place where it was supposed to.
I liked the use of the VDA for incoming interstellar phone messages, etc. but neglected to thoroughly investigate it and its contents. Found out late in the game that there was an, albeit incomplete, map of the underground caverns and hallways. It helped a little, but Witchen provided me with a map with the important areas indicated which helped 100%. Thanks Witchie.
Jake (me or you) is on board a shuttle to Luna Crystal (a moon somewhere out there) to check out his inheritance from his uncle Jacob, a claim on the moon, and to find out why his uncle appeared to commit suicide (the sequence is on a video with the Security department). He meets Kit, Casino Dealer, and Whistler, a mysterious character, Hunter the bartender, Grice Head of Security, Janous CEO of the mining company, Gilly a crusty old lady miner, Londie and his mother - two important Cepheids and friends of Uncle Jacob.
During Jake's exploration of the facilities on the moon he gets to enter the Casino and play blackjack (I just loved this part - played and replayed this sequence until I figured out how not to lose money (credits). Hint: SAVE, SAVE, SAVE!
I followed a walkthrough for this game (as I always do) but if you don't, be sure to write down any number codes or word codes and be sure to investigate everything. I did get 'killed' two or three times, but the game automatically gives a second (and maybe a third etc) chance to correct your misstep. I seemed to learn my lesson the first time and did not repeat what I did wrong.
A very easy game to move around in and tasks to accomplish were not difficult. No SLIDERS! Some minor MAZES easy to figure out until you get lost just once in the caverns. Use the map in the VDA and try to draw it on paper so you can mark where things are - like the ALTAR, CRYSTAL CHAMBER, STEPS, etc. Or see the post from Witchen and print out her map, it was a lifesaver.
All in all I would recommend this game, even with the glitch which was easily fixed.
Love, Betty Lou
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