Paranormal Files: Trials of Worth – Review

Rick Rogers is back for a new thrilling case in the fifth chapter of the popular Paranormal Files series from Elephant Games. Two archeologists are found in catatonic states after they came across mysterious artifacts during their expedition. Can you help Rick solve this paranormal case and not get under the influence of this mythic force himself?

Paranormal Files: Trials of Worth revolves around the story of the Sandman, an evil presence that puts all those that come near into endless slumber. Although this is not the first time that the character Sandman is used in a HOPA game (notably Whispered Stories: Sandman and Endless Fables: Shadow Within), it still feels fresh enough to warrant another twisted retelling. The main protagonist, Rick Rogers, is also as charming and likable as ever, which serves as a central magnetic force that drives the game from start to finish.

In terms of the gameplay, Paranormal Files: Trials of Worth is less impressive. While there is nothing inherently wrong with the gameplay, there is nothing particularly memorable either. The adventure mechanics are predictable, the hidden object scenes are quite standard, and the puzzles are just average. Given such a strong storyline and character work, Paranormal Files: Trials of Worth has the potential to leverage those qualities and deliver much more intriguing gameplay, but fails to do so.

The production of Paranormal Files: Trials of Worth is also rather disappointing. Elephant Games is often known for its superb visuals that stand head and shoulders above other HOPA studios, but that is not evident here. The visuals lack the intricacy and the creativity that are needed to elevate the game to new heights, not to mention that the at-times fuzzy graphics and the sub-par animations. On the other hand, the voice-overs perfectly capture the personality of the characters and the background music greatly adds to the suspense of the game.

Paranormal Files: Trials of Worth has a decent length of just a little over four hours and the bonus chapter clocks in at the 50-minute mark. The Collector’s Edition comes with a strategy guide, a strategy guide, wallpapers, concept art, soundtracks, replayable hidden object scenes, replayable puzzles, achievements, collectibles, morphing objects, character biographies, and a secret room.

Paranormal Files: Trials of Worth is the series’ weakest entry to date, despite its engrossing plot and solid foundation.

In this series:

• Paranormal Files: Fellow Traveler
• Paranormal Files: The Tall Man
• Paranormal Files: Enjoy the Shopping
• Paranormal Files: The Hook Man's Legend
• Paranormal Files: Trials of Worth
• Paranormal Files: The Trap of Truth