Why The Murder of Sonic the Hedgehog?

The Murder of Sonic the Hedgehog is one of the most unexpected entries in the long-running Sonic franchise. Rather than focusing on speed, platforming, or action, this game takes the form of a visual novel-style mystery. At first glance, the idea of a “murder mystery” starring Sonic the Hedgehog might seem strange—especially given the series’ typically lighthearted tone—but the game leans fully into its premise and delivers a surprisingly charming and engaging experience.

The story begins aboard a train where Sonic and his friends are celebrating a birthday party for Amy Rose. Things quickly take a turn when Sonic is “found dead,” kicking off a playful investigation into what really happened. It’s important to note that the game is not a dark or serious murder story—it’s more of a themed party game within the story itself, which keeps the tone fun and appropriate for all ages.

You play as a new, original character who works on the train and becomes involved in solving the mystery. This perspective works well, as it allows both longtime fans and newcomers to engage with the story without needing deep knowledge of the Sonic universe. Throughout the game, you’ll interact with familiar characters like Tails, Knuckles the Echidna, and others, gathering clues and piecing together what happened.

Gameplay is primarily centered around dialogue choices, exploration, and light puzzle-solving. Players move between train cars, examine objects, and question characters to uncover inconsistencies in their stories. There are also short “thinking” mini-games that add a bit of interactivity beyond just reading text. These segments are simple but effective, helping to break up the pacing and keep players engaged.

One of the game’s biggest strengths is its writing. The dialogue is witty, self-aware, and full of personality. Each character feels true to their established traits while also being given moments to shine in a new context. The humor lands well, often poking fun at both mystery tropes and Sonic’s own history. It’s clear that a lot of care went into making the story enjoyable rather than just a gimmick.

Visually, the game features expressive 2D character art and clean, colorful environments. While it doesn’t aim for cutting-edge graphics, the art style suits the visual novel format perfectly. The soundtrack is another highlight, offering upbeat and atmospheric tracks that enhance the mystery without ever feeling too intense.

However, the game does have some limitations. It’s relatively short, with most players able to complete it in just a few hours. While this makes it accessible and easy to finish, it may leave some players wanting more depth or additional content. Replay value is also somewhat limited, as the story is mostly linear with only minor variations based on player choices.

Additionally, players who aren’t fans of visual novels or text-heavy games may find the gameplay a bit slow. There’s very little action, and much of the experience involves reading and making occasional decisions. While the mini-games help, they don’t dramatically change the overall pace.

How We Test Games

For testing games we use a Nintendo Switch firmware version 2H. Hardware includes Joy-con and Pro controller on a large screen TV. Tests are done with up to 5 players. We take turns playing and evaluating games.

Whenever possible we play multiple players. We also use a Nintendo 2DS, DS XL, and for PC games we use a Ryzen 7 1700x CPU, AMD RX580, running on Win 10. This game is up to 1-player on PC/Steam.

Pros

• Unique and creative concept for a Sonic game
• Strong writing with humor and personality
• Engaging mystery that keeps players curious
• Fun interactions with well-known characters
• Accessible for both fans and newcomers

Cons

• Short overall length
• Limited replay value
• Minimal gameplay beyond dialogue and simple puzzles
• May not appeal to players who prefer action-heavy games

Summary

Overall, The Murder of Sonic the Hedgehog is a delightful surprise that shows how flexible the Sonic franchise can be. By stepping away from traditional gameplay and embracing a narrative-driven format, it offers something fresh and memorable. While it may not have the depth or longevity of larger titles, its charm, humor, and creativity make it well worth experiencing—especially for fans of Sonic or lighthearted mystery games.

The Murder of Sonic the Hedgehog – Review brought to you by Gaming Chickadee

Chickadee loves to have family gaming days. She loves birds, unicorns, ponies She also likes the Nancy Drew Games. She loves to play as Princess Daisy in the Super Mario Games, Her favorite games change a lot but right they are: Mario Party Superstars, Super Mario Bros. Wonder and Pretty Princess Party.

Why Carmen Sandiego?

Carmen Sandiego is a thrilling revival of the classic educational detective series, bringing a modern twist to the beloved franchise. With cutting-edge graphics, immersive gameplay, and a wealth of global mysteries to solve, this game is designed to challenge players’ problem-solving skills while keeping them entertained.

For the first time ever, players get to play as the elusive master thief, Carmen Sandiego. Working for ACME, tasked with tracking down the evil band of V.I.L.E. operatives. Missions take players across the world, where they must gather clues, decipher codes, and use deductive reasoning to uncover V.I.L.E’s next move.

The gameplay incorporates a mix of exploration, puzzle-solving, and interactive dialogue with NPCs. Players must analyze geographical, historical, and cultural clues to progress, making it a great educational tool wrapped in an engaging narrative. The inclusion of branching storylines and moral choices adds replayability, ensuring that no two investigations feel the same.

Carmen Sandiego boasts vibrant, detailed environments that bring famous cities and landmarks to life. The character animations are fluid, and the art style retains the signature sleek aesthetic of the recent Netflix series. The voice acting is top-notch, featuring an impressive cast that brings both heroes and villains to life, accompanied by a dynamic soundtrack that enhances the globe-trotting adventure.

How We Test Games

For testing games we use a Nintendo Switch firmware version 2H. Hardware includes Joy-con and Pro controller on a large screen TV. Tests are done with up to 5 players. We take turns playing and evaluating games.

Whenever possible we play multiple players. We also use a Nintendo 2DS, DS XL, and for PC games we use a Ryzen 7 1700x CPU, AMD RX580, running on Win 10. This game is up to 3-players for the Nintendo Switch, PC and more.

Pros

Engaging, educational gameplay with real-world knowledge

Stunning visuals and immersive environments

Choice-driven narrative for varied experiences

Faithful adaptation of the classic franchise

Cons

Some puzzles may feel repetitive

Learning curve may be steep for younger players

Summary

Overall, Carmen Sandiego successfully reinvents the franchise for a modern audience, blending education and adventure into an exciting detective experience. Whether you’re a longtime fan or a newcomer, this game offers an engaging way to explore the world while testing your investigative skills. A must-play for mystery lovers and knowledge seekers alike!

Carmen Sandiego – Review brought to you by Gaming Chickadee

Chickadee loves to have family gaming days. She loves birds, unicorns, ponies She also likes the Nancy Drew Games. She loves to play as Princess Daisy in the Super Mario Games, Her favorite games change a lot but right they are: Mario Party Superstars, Super Mario Bros. Wonder and Pretty Princess Party.

This game’s story I gotta say, was kinda sad and stupid. I don’t know how much I can say without giving spoilers but, let’s just say there are better Nancy drew stories out there.

Why Shadow at the Water’s Edge?

Nancy Drew: Shadow at the Water’s Edge is the 23rd game installment in the popular mystery adventure game series featuring the iconic teenage detective. In this game, Nancy travels to Japan to solve a haunting mystery at a traditional ryokan (inn) that is rumored to be haunted by a vengeful ghost.

The game features stunning visuals of Japanese landscapes and traditional architecture, immersing players in the rich cultural setting. The background music and ambient sounds further enhance the eerie atmosphere of the game, adding to the tension and suspense.

The puzzles in Shadow at the Water’s Edge are challenging and require players to think critically and use their problem-solving skills to progress in the game. Throughout the game, players must uncover clues, solve riddles, and unravel the mystery behind the ghostly occurrences at the inn.

One of the standout features of this game is the introduction of a new thing called “Avatar Maker” where you can make your own avatar that shows up when you call Bess or George.

For when it comes to “scary” parts, yes at some parts. Keep reading if you when to know where they are. I don’t think they are exactly spoilers but still, if you don’t want ANY spoilers don’t read below. Spoilers below:

At one part when you see Nancy starting towards the bathroom mirror Look away!
Another part (near the end) once you click on the sword thing and everything there while in the secret basement once you turn around the puppet will grab Nancy and try to drown her so that part is scary. Once you finished it don’t click on the puppet’s hair/head or else you will see a close up of it’s face.

Okay spoilers are over. For the game length well, for us we usually take about 2 days to finish a Nancy Drew game.

It may be 1 day if you just keep referring to a guide or if you are a speed runner. Or it could take longer if you read everything and really think and pounder about it, it just depends on your style of gaming, our style is to try it then look at a guide if need be.

How We Test Games

For testing games we use a Ryzen 7 1700x CPU, AMD RX580, running on Win 10. Tests are done with up to 5 players. We take turns playing and evaluating games.

This game is only 1-player and it’s for PC/MAC. We’ve been playing together on two computers on the Steam version for this game.

Whenever possible we play multiple players. We use a Nintendo Switch firmware version 2H. Hardware includes Joy-con and Pro controller on a large screen TV. We also use a Nintendo 2DS, DS XL.

Pros

The game is set in a traditional Japanese inn, providing players with an authentic and culturally rich experience.

The game (like most Nancy Drew games) features a variety of challenging puzzles that will keep players engaged and entertained.

Nancy drew games are games that have girl power. Nancy Drew is a smart and resourceful detective who serves as a great role model for players. But this goes for all Nancy Drew games.

And one of my favorite parts of this game, avatar maker! Avatar maker is new to this game and allows you to make an avatar that will appear on Nancy’s phone when she calls someone.

Cons

This is one of the cons of all Nancy Drew video games. Once you solve the mystery, you know what happens! although after waiting so long you might forget the story, mystery and everything. So, it might be like you’re playing it for your first time.

There are a few puzzles that feel too difficult and frustrating. Like the Bento Boxes or Sudokus. -shudder-

Summary

Overall, Nancy Drew: Shadow at the Water’s Edge is a captivating and immersive mystery adventure game that will keep players engaged and entertained from start to finish. I like the Avatar Maker and the puzzles where fun. Look out for some scary bits though read the spoilers for more info about that. The story was kinda, stupid but it was still fun overall.

Nancy Drew: Shadow at the Water’s Edge – Review brought to you by Gaming Chickadee

Chickadee loves to have family gaming days. She loves birds, unicorns, ponies She also likes the Nancy Drew Games. She loves to play as Princess Daisy in the Super Mario Games, Her favorite games change a lot but right they are: Mario Party Superstars, Super Mario Bros. Wonder and Pretty Princess Party.

Why The Final Scene?

There are some great puzzles in this Nancy Drew game and I enjoyed them and so do my sisters. My sister and I like to play these Nancy Drew games together and we both think that this game is a winner.

There are the usual amount of characters in this game, you can talk to them and find out more and more about them until you know “who done it.”

I think that the story is nice. It’s fun to try and figure out “who done it” and doing the puzzles along the way.

For the Game Length for us we usually take about 2 days to finish a Nancy Drew game, but this one was my first, so it took maybe 4 days.

It may be 1 day if you just keep referring to a guide or if you are a speed runner. Or it could take longer if you read everything and really think and ponder about it, it just depends on your style of gaming, our style is to try it then look at a guide if need be.

Nancy Drew: The Final Scene is a great game in the long-running Nancy Drew video game series. In this installment, Nancy investigates the disappearance of a famed magician at a theater in St. Louis. The game features a compelling mystery with plenty of twists and turns, keeping players engaged throughout.

this game also boasts impressive production values. The puzzles are challenging but not overly difficult, striking a good balance between being solvable and satisfying to complete.

For when it comes to “Scary” this game is not. Some Second Chances may be scary to little kids or when the culprit comes out but generally no.

How We Test Games

For testing games we use a Ryzen 7 1700x CPU, AMD RX580, running on Win 10. Tests are done with up to 5 players. We take turns playing and evaluating games.

This game is only 1-player and it’s for PC/MAC. We’ve been playing together on two computers on the Steam version for this game.

Whenever possible we play multiple players. We use a Nintendo Switch firmware version 2H. Hardware includes Joy-con and Pro controller on a large screen TV. We also use a Nintendo 2DS, DS XL.

Pros

This game is like most Nancy Drew games. Fun Puzzles, Intriguing Story and fun places to explore. The game offers a decent amount of gameplay, giving players plenty to enjoy.

The Final Scene has an intriguing mystery that will keep players hooked from start to finish. It also features a variety of puzzles and challenges that will test players’ problem-solving skills.

The final reveal of the mystery is satisfying and will leave players feeling accomplished unlike some of the games, like Shadow at the Water’s Edge…

Cons

I mean there is one glitch in the game that makes it so you can’t finish which is a con. If you don’t look at something before getting to a certain point you can’t finish the game.

There are no Easter eggs in this game. Although this game was made before they put easter eggs in the games so there’s that.

Other than that, there aren’t really any cons I can think of.

Summary

I think this game is fun. There are some nice puzzles, characters to talk to. This game will always be my favorite because it was my first Nancy Drew game I ever played.

Overall, Nancy Drew: The Final Scene is a good addition to the series and a must-play for fans of mystery and puzzle-solving games. It’s a fun and engaging experience that will keep players entertained from start to finish.

Nancy Drew: The Final Scene – Review brought to you by Gaming Chickadee

Chickadee loves to have family gaming days. She loves birds, unicorns, ponies She also likes the Nancy Drew Games. She loves to play as Princess Daisy in the Super Mario Games, Her favorite games change a lot but right they are: Mario Party Superstars, Super Mario Bros. Wonder and Pretty Princess Party.

1. Nancy Drew games

Nancy Drew has loads of games starring Nancy Drew solving mysteries like Nancy Drew: Secret of Shadow Ranch or Nancy Drew: Sea of Darkness.

2. Star Stable Online

Star Stable Online is a game made just for girls. You can ride horses, do quests, and much more to show that girls are smart and capable.

3. Princess Peach Showtime

Princess Peach Showtime is a game that Stars Princess Peach. It’s 1-player and for the Nintendo Switch.

4. Barbie games

Barbie may just focus on toys and dolls but also has some games out there. For example, Barbie Explorer. I know it’s not the newest but it’s still a great game! If you want a more recent game then you should check out Barbie Dreamhouse Adventures for the Nintendo Switch.

5. Super Princess Peach

Super Princess Peach is a game that stars a Princess with her Umbrella. Princess Peach can use vibe power too.

6. Pretty Princess Party

Pretty Princess Party or Pretty Princess Magical Garden Island are great games for girls who want to be a princess in their own queendom.

7. My Little Pony

My Little Pony: A Maretime Bay Adventure is great for girls who love ponies and unicorns.

8. The Unicorn Princess

The Unicorn Princess is a great game. It has a girl as the main character and Unicorns!

9. My Riding Stables

My Riding Stables – Life with Horses is a game for those horse lovers. Watch foals grow up into horses and take care of them too.

10. Sonic Superstars

Sonic Superstars has two girls playable; Amy and Trip. It’s up to 4-players and it is super fun!

Top 10 Girl Empowering Games brought to you by Gaming Chickadee

Chickadee loves to have family gaming days. She loves birds, unicorns, ponies She also likes the Nancy Drew Games. She loves to play as Princess Daisy in the Super Mario Games, Her favorite games change a lot but right they are: Mario Party Superstars, Super Mario Bros. Wonder and Pretty Princess Party.