Neroli's Opinion: Hostile Makeover is a hidden object fashion-themed game that has you investigating a super model's murder. The plot is based off a chick-lit mystery novel, and the story is good, but the game is otherwise typical. Objects are tough to spot, and some are very tiny. < p>

Game Genre: Hidden Object

Release Date: October 15, 2009

Platform/OS: Windows XP/Vista

Screenshot:

Game Review:

Hot on the heels of JoJo's Fashion Show: World Tour comes another stylish fashion game, Hostile Makeover. Hostile Makeover is a hidden object game that has you investigating the murder of a notorious supermodel. Lots of people wanted Amanda dead, especially given her history of smacking employees and stealing fashion designs. Reporter Lacey Smithsonian feels guilty for not taking Amanda's fear for her life seriously, so she decides to go out and help find her killer. Playing as Lacey, your job to find out whodunit, all while keeping up your stylish appearance.

If it sounds familiar, that's because the plot is based off a chick lit mystery novel, Hostile Makeover: A Crime of Fashion Mystery, by Ellen Byerrum. The narrative isn't as smooth as the book, but the plot holds true.

You can play in timed or untimed mode, and you get unlimited reloading hints. You'll need them, because this game is tough. Objects are teeny-tiny, and many are color blended. It's very difficult to spot them. Some are clear, but others are hard to make out at all.

Overall, the graphics are okay, but the control system is slightly awkward. It's not a fatal flaw, but clicks must be precise, and making a few wrong ones results in the mouse turning color (so clicks aren't registered).

What's neat is that the game appears non-linear. You can play different locations and investigate different suspects.

Hostile Makeover is a typical hidden object game, which doesn't really stand out in the sea of other fashion games, although the game does have a good story. If you're a fashion junkie, you might like it, but otherwise it's around average.

Where to get the game, or play the free demo:

DOWNLOAD TRIAL

Big Fish: $6.99
iWin: $9.99 ($6.99 with Club iWin)

Disclaimer: Casual game companies change their prices like most people change socks! Always check before you buy.