Neroli's Opinion: It's a super-easy hidden object game, where all the objects glow when you hoover.  The story is okay, the graphics are a mixed bag, and the font is awful.

Game Genre: Hidden Object

Release Date: July 14, 2009

Platform/OS: Windows XP/Vista

Screenshot:

Game Review:

Keys to Manhattan starts with Emily's dilemma. Her Uncle Stanley's home is going to be demolished, unless she can help restore it by finding hidden items...like a pirate hat and a donkey? While she's at it, she will need to find her missing Uncle, too. Considering how much junk is laying all over the city, he could be hiding anywhere.

In true hidden object game style, the scenes are cluttered and full of objects. Now, about those objects. This is where it gets wierd. When you use your mouse to scroll over the objects, they become highlighted and stick out. This makes the game very easy, in most cases, since you can see everything simply by moving your mouse along. However, some objects are completely hidden (like a cat sleeping in a chair which is not facing you). You can only spot these objects if you happen to hold the mouse over the right spot, forcing the object to pop out. This isn't good...how are you supposed to know that an item is behind something if you can't see it?

As for the graphics, it's a mixed bag. The backgrounds are really nice, but the character art is hand drawn and very simplistic. And the story font is awful – all squiggly and barely ledgible. It doesn't match, and makes it tough to even read the story.

This is far from the first game set in Manhattan. Dream Day Wedding: Married in Manhattan and CSI: NY - The Game come to mind, along with most of the Law & Order games, and too many others to count. Keys to Manhattan does take you to a lot of NY locations, but as a proud NYer, it didn't seem familiar to me.

It has a certain charm, sort of like a B movie, but I wouldn't recommend it if you want something polished. There are far too many other hidden object games with more to offer.

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

DOWNLOAD TRIAL

Big Fish: $6.99

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