PGC NEWS

Hidden object games have a long and rich history, yet few modern titles receive the development attention they deserve. While slaying dragons and exploring dungeons offers their own thrills, the satisfaction of finding a hidden needle in a haystack of pixels provides a unique kind of joy. Hidden Through Time, a new release from an independent studio, attempts to recapture this classic gameplay. Does it succeed in joining the ranks of hidden object greats like Grim Legends, Hidden Folks, and The Room? Let’s delve into its strengths and weaknesses.

alt: A screenshot from Hidden Through Time showing a Stone Age scene with various characters and objects.

A Purely Classic Hidden Object Experience

Many modern hidden object games intertwine the core gameplay with puzzles. Find item A to solve puzzle B. While this approach can be engaging, it sometimes strays from the simple pleasure of pure hidden object gameplay. Hidden Through Time embraces this classic formula, offering a relaxing experience perfect for short bursts of play.

The gameplay is reminiscent of hidden object puzzles found in magazines. You’re presented with a cluttered scene and tasked with finding specific items. Helpful, often humorous, clues guide your search. For instance, in the Stone Age level, the clue for a wolf might be “He’s always jealous of others,” leading you to a wolf eyeing his companions enjoying a meal.

alt: A screenshot from Hidden Through Time depicting a medieval scene with numerous interactive elements.

A Journey Through History

While lacking a narrative, Hidden Through Time presents a cohesive theme: the history of humankind. The game progresses through four distinct eras: the Stone Age, Ancient Egypt, the Middle Ages, and the Wild West. Each era features unique visuals and object placement, requiring a brief adjustment period as you navigate each new setting.

Even with your best efforts, some items may remain stubbornly hidden. Thankfully, the game allows you to progress without finding every object, eliminating frustration and maintaining a relaxed pace. Logical placement of items further enhances the gameplay. Pots are found in kitchens, axes near trees, and insects buzzing around fruit. This logical approach minimizes the need to rely solely on hints.

A Short-Lived Adventure

The most significant drawback of Hidden Through Time is its brevity. The main game can be completed in around two hours, even less for experienced players. While the Map Editor and online modes offer some extension, the overall experience feels somewhat short-lived.

alt: A scene from Hidden Through Time showcasing the Wild West setting with various characters and interactive objects.

The repetitive background music, while pleasant enough, can become tiresome over extended play. The lack of penalties for random clicking also detracts from the challenge. At times, finding hidden objects feels more like a test of mouse-clicking endurance than a genuine puzzle.

alt: A medieval scene in Hidden Through Time displaying a variety of objects and interactive characters.

Conclusion

Hidden Through Time delivers a charming and accessible hidden object experience. Its beautiful visuals, intuitive gameplay, and historical theme make it a delightful pastime. However, the short playtime and repetitive music detract from its overall appeal. While it may not dethrone the genre’s heavy hitters, Hidden Through Time offers a refreshing return to classic hidden object gameplay, perfect for players seeking a relaxing and visually appealing puzzle experience.