'Keepsake': Play With Abandon
Friday, August 4, 2006; Page WE44
Don't you just hate it when you show up for your first day of college and find the university completely abandoned? That's what happens to Lydia, the main character in the fantasy adventure tale "Keepsake."
Lydia finally gets accepted into the prestigious magical academy in Dragonvale, where she will study to become a mage. Her childhood friend is already at the school and is supposed to meet her there. Unfortunately, upon arrival you find the majestic and mystical grounds deserted. Thus begins your puzzle-filled questing as you seek to explore the academy, find your friend and figure out why everyone has disappeared.
  A student finds her new school deserted in "Keepsake." (Adventure Co.) |
You won't be completely alone in the castle-like complex. Very close to the beginning of the game you free a talking wolf named Zak, who claims to be a transformed dragon. Even though there are more holes in his story than a sponge, he becomes your companion for most of the rest of the game, so you won't get lonely wandering the empty halls, libraries and offices of the academy. It kind of reminds me of Harry Potter's Hogwarts school, only without any people, which is a bit creepy. You also find a jester doll, the keepsake from the title, that you gave to your missing friend years ago. From time to time, the doll will send you visions to help piece together the complex story line.
The puzzles range from simple riddles and cipher-types to moderately difficult slide-the-gear-into-place types and one or two number puzzles that are nearly impossible. Thankfully, you can click a hint button and the game will help you if you are stuck. It will eventually even solve puzzles for you if you want to throw in the towel. This makes the game playable by puzzle experts and novices alike.
-- John Breeden II
Keepsake Everyone; PC Windows ME/2000/XP ($30) Adventure Co.
