Unlock the Mysteries of the Golden Idol with "The Rise of the Golden Idol"

Similarities to the Original

At its core, "Rise" is very similar to "Case." Set in the 1970s, around 200 years after the events of the original, each case drops you into a specific moment in time, typically during or shortly after a murder. You're tasked with solving what's going on by clicking around the scene to discover relevant words and names, which you then use to solve puzzles within the case.

It's a clever system that forces you to scrutinize every detail and think about how elements of the scene are connected. Just like an elaborate jigsaw puzzle, as you solve the disparate elements of the puzzles within cases, it becomes easier to figure out the overall story.

More Layers and Recurring Characters

In addition to individual cases, there are puzzles encompassing entire chapters, typically with three or four cases within them. Recurring characters pop up across chapters, allowing the game to tell a holistic story by forcing you to understand their actions across different scenes. You don't need to have played "Case" to understand "Rise," but there are a few familiar tidbits for fans of the first game.

For example, one case might involve a man actively strangling another, while another shows a person getting electrocuted. These disturbing scenes add to the game's tension and make it a truly immersive experience.

The Puzzle System

The puzzle system in "Rise" isn't perfect, but it's still challenging and engaging. If you're off the mark after slotting in words for a specific puzzle, the game will tell you if your guess is incorrect or if you have a few words in the wrong place. Usually, this helps you reexamine your assumptions and tweak your words to get the right answer.

However, if you get stuck, the improved hint system offers up to three hints for a specific part of a case, pointing you in the right direction. It's also helpful to have pen and paper handy to write things down, especially when details are scattered across multiple areas.

Playing with Others

Playing with someone else can enhance the experience. My wife saw a bunch of things that I completely missed, and together we were able to solve the puzzles more easily. It's a great way to enjoy the game and share the excitement.

Even after more than 15 hours of gameplay, I'm still on one of the last 20 cases, and it's taking me a couple of days to figure it out. But I know that the eventual thrill of solving it all will be worth the effort.

And when I'm done with all 20 cases, there will be four DLC packs to look forward to next year, perhaps revealing even more secrets about the mysterious golden idol.

The Rise of the Golden Idol is now available for PC, PlayStation, Xbox, Nintendo Switch, and on mobile with a Netflix subscription. Don't miss out on this thrilling adventure!