Dark Arcana: The Carnival HD is the latest in the long line of HOA games from G5 Entertainment, so if you have played any of the others then you likely know what to expect, great graphics, cool background music, and various puzzles that will have you scouring ever pixel on your iPad for various items concealed in the complex backgrounds.
Dark Arcana: The Carnival has a rather sinister theme about it. Personally, carnivals are creepy enough already but when you throw in this supernatural twist along with some truly diabolical graphics and uncomfortable settings, this was one of the few iPad games to have me squirming in my seat. You’ll play as a detective in search of a mother who mysteriously vanishes into a mirror when she takes her daughter to the carnival.
The game does a great job of creating unique locations and puzzles that are all themed after the carnival element as well as specific amusements you’d find on the boardwalk. Early on, you will gain the invaluable assistance of a monkey who can help you during your investigation.
As always, the puzzles include both finding objects in the background as well as assembling key items to solve more elaborate puzzles. The hidden objects aren’t terribly difficult to find, but if you are having trouble or just want to ease the eye strain you can play a card-matching game that will earn you the same objects you could have found otherwise. It’s very similar to the Mahjong game from Nightmares from the Deep that did the same thing. Another great feature borrowed from Nightmares is the inclusion of a map that outlines the carnival and places that need visiting, and limits random wandering and needless backtracking.
Dark Arcana: The Carnival HD looks amazing on the iPad with full retina support. The backgrounds were so incredibly detail I never had need to use the zoom function to find anything. The combination of colors and detail created a unique blend of magical enchantment and supernatural evil that was quite unique, and the eerie soundtrack and sinister sound effects always kept me on the edge of my seat.
These games are nothing without a good story and The Carnival has a great one that will keep you glued to your iPad until it’s over, and with three modes, Casual, Advanced, and Expert, you can tailor the game to your own experience level. Expect 4-5 hours of chilling gameplay, although once finished you likely won’t return anytime soon. Even so, Dark Arcana: The Carnival HD is one of the best HOA games I’ve played this year.
