Given the response received to the April Fool's Day joke, it makes me wonder if we've ever considered other Nancy characters in a lead role. Now Nancy has the mystery market pretty well covered, so what kind of games would some of the others do?
Bess Marvin's Shopping Sim? Perhaps a sports title burgeoned by George's name. And maybe Ned could be the star in his own adventure series, with Nancy as a phone friend. ^.~ That's to say nothing of the minor characters we love. The possibilities are endless!
After yesterday's post, I realized it might be slightly difficult to coordinate on puzzles given the lack of MB support. Keep going sleuths, I have faith that you can solve it.
Have a great Tuesday!
- Novel -
Tuesday, April 6, 2010
Monday, April 5, 2010
MB news
Oh hey!
Don't forget, the message board will be updating for the next couple of days. You'll still be able to read and surf the boards, but you can't post. Sorry for the inconvenience, but they assure me it's for some "snazzy new servers." I'll still be buzzing around here if ya need somewhere to holler. Catch ya on the flip side.
- Novel -
Don't forget, the message board will be updating for the next couple of days. You'll still be able to read and surf the boards, but you can't post. Sorry for the inconvenience, but they assure me it's for some "snazzy new servers." I'll still be buzzing around here if ya need somewhere to holler. Catch ya on the flip side.
- Novel -
Many Things
It was a rainy weekend, but that just means more sunshine in our future, right? We had some good fun last week. I hope you enjoyed our little April's Day prank. We're in to a bit of clowning about here in the office too. We've had all sorts of fiascoes in the past, but this year was a bit tame. Only a few re-arranged chairs and misplaced office supplies. Still the spirit of the office was lively. We're going to hold onto that!
Oh, as an aside... April is National Poetry Month! I'm a big fan of writing, so you know I'm excited. It's an excuse to get out there and create. Speaking of which, we're still running the Nancy Drew Art contest. I'd love to see even more entries, give it a shot!
As for a puzzle update, it looks like you've latched on to a particularly interesting solution. Unfortunately it isn't the right one. >.< I've managed to come up with a small hint for you.
Good luck with the puzzle! Adieu~
- Novel -
P.S. I read an interesting post today by a user, Safecracker. I guess I should say that my mind has been read! In fact we have already begun production on such an "adventure." I can't say that you'll see it in a game, but perhaps we've got a few creative uses lined up!
Oh, as an aside... April is National Poetry Month! I'm a big fan of writing, so you know I'm excited. It's an excuse to get out there and create. Speaking of which, we're still running the Nancy Drew Art contest. I'd love to see even more entries, give it a shot!
As for a puzzle update, it looks like you've latched on to a particularly interesting solution. Unfortunately it isn't the right one. >.< I've managed to come up with a small hint for you.
- Puzzle 48 Hint -
To solve this puzzle you only need one code.
--
To solve this puzzle you only need one code.
--
Good luck with the puzzle! Adieu~
- Novel -
P.S. I read an interesting post today by a user, Safecracker. I guess I should say that my mind has been read! In fact we have already begun production on such an "adventure." I can't say that you'll see it in a game, but perhaps we've got a few creative uses lined up!
Thursday, April 1, 2010
Puzzle Four-Eight
I hope everyone had a fun week! Designer Ben is taking a break this week, but we've still got a puzzle for you to work on. It should dazzle you too much, enjoy!
- Puzzle 48 -
48 + 61 + 4e + 6e + 102 + 125 =
29b + A3 + 1db + 206 + 1f9 =
--
Good luck, we'll see ya soon.
- Novel -
- Puzzle 48 -
48 + 61 + 4e + 6e + 102 + 125 =
29b + A3 + 1db + 206 + 1f9 =
--
Good luck, we'll see ya soon.
- Novel -
Wednesday, March 31, 2010
First, An April Announcement
We’re super excited today to announce the first ever Sonny Joon PC Adventure title,
Those of you who don’t know the world-class artist and conspiracy theorist, hints of his exploits can be found in many of our previously released Nancy Drew titles, such as Danger by Design or Ransom of the Seven Ships. You may even have his wallpaper on your desktop. This year we thought it would be a great idea to take Sonny from out of the shadows and give him his own game. With his knowledge of aliens and love of KoKo Kringle he’ll travel the stars in search of adventure and fun!
What can you expect in the Sonny Joon Adventure Series? Well you’ll get to play with fantastical creatures, escape from mundane desk jobs, and create your very own doodles in Sonny’s travel journal. We’ll be bringing Sonny’s world right into your PC! Who knows what kind of trouble he’ll get into next!
Hope you have Happy April Fool’s Day!*
-Novel-
The Spacey Adventures of Sonny Joon
Those of you who don’t know the world-class artist and conspiracy theorist, hints of his exploits can be found in many of our previously released Nancy Drew titles, such as Danger by Design or Ransom of the Seven Ships. You may even have his wallpaper on your desktop. This year we thought it would be a great idea to take Sonny from out of the shadows and give him his own game. With his knowledge of aliens and love of KoKo Kringle he’ll travel the stars in search of adventure and fun!
What can you expect in the Sonny Joon Adventure Series? Well you’ll get to play with fantastical creatures, escape from mundane desk jobs, and create your very own doodles in Sonny’s travel journal. We’ll be bringing Sonny’s world right into your PC! Who knows what kind of trouble he’ll get into next!
Hope you have Happy April Fool’s Day!*
-Novel-
Snappy Instructions
Now I know many of you don't know exactly what the offices here look like. Maybe you've been able to form a sort of picture based on the various photos we've posted over the years. But I imagine many of you probably don't know your way around. So I was slightly surprised to see the following map.
I'm going to give you the brass tacks on this... it in no way reflects the layout of our offices at all. Amusingly an employee left this at the front desk as instructions for the UPS (per writing on it). Though I'd wager more than a cookie that said mail carrier never arrived at the given destination.
It may not be the most valid of set-ups, but this does represent the week at large. Slack instructions. We've been determined to continue efforts on all fronts, but after the glee of a GM (in this case, TOT) dies down, the office moves a touch slower. People find spaces to work in peace, and it's that kind of a day, with many in "work bubbles." Still, there are good things happening. I've seen new packaging designs, talked some shop with the ND23 design team, and got to see some preliminary footage of the TOT Teaser (I know, finally, right?)
Entries for the art contest are coming in slower now. Don't forget that we're accepting both photographs (of you) and artwork you've created! Many people have entered only one or the other. We're offering two chances to get in, you don't want to miss out. ^.~
Adios!
- Novel -
I'm going to give you the brass tacks on this... it in no way reflects the layout of our offices at all. Amusingly an employee left this at the front desk as instructions for the UPS (per writing on it). Though I'd wager more than a cookie that said mail carrier never arrived at the given destination.
It may not be the most valid of set-ups, but this does represent the week at large. Slack instructions. We've been determined to continue efforts on all fronts, but after the glee of a GM (in this case, TOT) dies down, the office moves a touch slower. People find spaces to work in peace, and it's that kind of a day, with many in "work bubbles." Still, there are good things happening. I've seen new packaging designs, talked some shop with the ND23 design team, and got to see some preliminary footage of the TOT Teaser (I know, finally, right?)
Entries for the art contest are coming in slower now. Don't forget that we're accepting both photographs (of you) and artwork you've created! Many people have entered only one or the other. We're offering two chances to get in, you don't want to miss out. ^.~
Adios!
- Novel -
Tuesday, March 30, 2010
Puzzle 47 Solution
Your second solution of the day is for #47.
-- Puzzle 47 Answer --
1. Seven Sailed.
This clue refers to [sailing the 7 seas.] Simply replace [ sea with "C" ] to discern the tile.
2. It's common.
An old saying for sure, but this one is about [ common sense. ] Again with the [ homophone ] replace the missing word with [ ¢ (the sign for cents) ]
3. If you said this was a necessary piece, I might think you had misread it.
Yet more wordplay [ ∫ is a sign for the mathematical concept of integrals,] often pronounced as [ integral, a synonym for necessary or required ]
4. Opposite of the beginning.
Easily solved; the opposite of beginning is [ end ] often denoted by [ Ω, the sign of omega. ]
5. Apples, Cherries, and Pecans.
These three have something in common, they're all [ pies, or in this case π (pi) ]
6. And 'lo we did feast.
A fancy way of saying [ ate, a homophone of the number, 8 ]
7. What we put between Bread and Butter.
What we put there was [ the word "and" ] which can be seen as a tile with this symbol [ & ]
8. Not exactly the sign for where a catcher stands...
A tad tricky, but a catcher stands on [ a base ]. Following the theme of the puzzle, you'll notice a
[ bass clef (homophone) ] which isn't exactly the right sign.
9. Used to be.
You could say it's the former, or [ an "ex",] which is represented by the [ X ] tile.
10. (This step is its own hint.)
This means the hint is [ 10 ] which is [ X in Roman numerals ]
11. How you begin Calculations.
Calculations always begins with [ a "C" ].
12. Forever sideways
Forever can also be written as [ ∞ ] which, if turned sideways looks more like an [ 8 ]
Now [ mark off all of the tiles ] and looks at your work. Notice what you've got? [ 17 ]. Now back to our original question, "Which game?" Well there's only one answer here:
[ Legend of the Crystal Skull ]
--
Excellent work detectives! This is indeed the game of the month for April! So keep your eyes peeled for specials and downloads centered around it. I've got to say, it is one of my personal favorites. ^.~
- Novel -
-- Puzzle 47 Answer --
1. Seven Sailed.
This clue refers to [sailing the 7 seas.] Simply replace [ sea with "C" ] to discern the tile.
2. It's common.
An old saying for sure, but this one is about [ common sense. ] Again with the [ homophone ] replace the missing word with [ ¢ (the sign for cents) ]
3. If you said this was a necessary piece, I might think you had misread it.
Yet more wordplay [ ∫ is a sign for the mathematical concept of integrals,] often pronounced as [ integral, a synonym for necessary or required ]
4. Opposite of the beginning.
Easily solved; the opposite of beginning is [ end ] often denoted by [ Ω, the sign of omega. ]
5. Apples, Cherries, and Pecans.
These three have something in common, they're all [ pies, or in this case π (pi) ]
6. And 'lo we did feast.
A fancy way of saying [ ate, a homophone of the number, 8 ]
7. What we put between Bread and Butter.
What we put there was [ the word "and" ] which can be seen as a tile with this symbol [ & ]
8. Not exactly the sign for where a catcher stands...
A tad tricky, but a catcher stands on [ a base ]. Following the theme of the puzzle, you'll notice a
[ bass clef (homophone) ] which isn't exactly the right sign.
9. Used to be.
You could say it's the former, or [ an "ex",] which is represented by the [ X ] tile.
10. (This step is its own hint.)
This means the hint is [ 10 ] which is [ X in Roman numerals ]
11. How you begin Calculations.
Calculations always begins with [ a "C" ].
12. Forever sideways
Forever can also be written as [ ∞ ] which, if turned sideways looks more like an [ 8 ]
Now [ mark off all of the tiles ] and looks at your work. Notice what you've got? [ 17 ]. Now back to our original question, "Which game?" Well there's only one answer here:
[ Legend of the Crystal Skull ]
--
Excellent work detectives! This is indeed the game of the month for April! So keep your eyes peeled for specials and downloads centered around it. I've got to say, it is one of my personal favorites. ^.~
- Novel -
Puzzle 46 Solution
Warning, spoilers ahead! You'll find the steps to solving puzzle 46 below. Huge props to those who worked on this puzzle. Here we go...
-- Puzzle 46 Answer --
Odds often move to the very end
Now evens to the front we will send
Last to the front and the front to the last
Round the center they spin one time real fast
Allow one five, three four, six seven, five six swapped
Just what do you have, now that you have stopped?
Until three is reached run forward not back
Your best bet is to [ letter-mark each sentence ] and then follow the instructions [ on each line ]. Here's what it should look like.
-
A. Odds often move to the very end
B. Now evens to the front we will send
C. Last to the front and the front to the last
D. Round the center they spin one time real fast
E. Allow one five, three four, six seven, five six swapped
F. Just what do you have, now that you have stopped?
G. Until three is reached run forward not back
-
Next is to follow the instructions [ move every other line to the back, starting with the first one ] you end up with:
-
1. B
2. D
3. F
4. A
5. C
6. E
7. G
-
The next step is [ moving the even lines. ] Notice how they've all been reorganized, so use the new organization to determine [ which ones to move. ] Be sure to keep the order they're pulled in:
-
1. D
2. A
3. E
4. B
5. F
6. C
7. G
-
Now, [ spin the letters around the middle one. ] This gives you:
-
1. G
2. C
3. F
4. B
5. D
6. A
7. E
-
For this step, make sure you [ perform each move individually, not simultaneously.] If you do this, you'll end up with:
-
1. C
2. A
3. G
4. D
5. B
6. E
7. F
-
Now the command instructs us to [ swap the first and last lines, ] easily done:
-
1. F
2. A
3. G
4. D
5. B
6. E
7. C
-
This next instruction let's us know [ we are looking for a final clue with this set up. ] Scan the list and see if you notice the answer... [ The first letters of the sentences spell a word. ]
So the final answer is:
[ Journal ]
--
So, that seems like a rather non-descript kind of answer. And while that might be true, I'd also like to point out that it has a great deal to do with a release we're planning for later this year. While "mum" is still the word, I can at least tell you that it's something you'll want to keep an eye out for. ^.~
- Novel -
-- Puzzle 46 Answer --
Odds often move to the very end
Now evens to the front we will send
Last to the front and the front to the last
Round the center they spin one time real fast
Allow one five, three four, six seven, five six swapped
Just what do you have, now that you have stopped?
Until three is reached run forward not back
Your best bet is to [ letter-mark each sentence ] and then follow the instructions [ on each line ]. Here's what it should look like.
-
A. Odds often move to the very end
B. Now evens to the front we will send
C. Last to the front and the front to the last
D. Round the center they spin one time real fast
E. Allow one five, three four, six seven, five six swapped
F. Just what do you have, now that you have stopped?
G. Until three is reached run forward not back
-
Next is to follow the instructions [ move every other line to the back, starting with the first one ] you end up with:
-
1. B
2. D
3. F
4. A
5. C
6. E
7. G
-
The next step is [ moving the even lines. ] Notice how they've all been reorganized, so use the new organization to determine [ which ones to move. ] Be sure to keep the order they're pulled in:
-
1. D
2. A
3. E
4. B
5. F
6. C
7. G
-
Now, [ spin the letters around the middle one. ] This gives you:
-
1. G
2. C
3. F
4. B
5. D
6. A
7. E
-
For this step, make sure you [ perform each move individually, not simultaneously.] If you do this, you'll end up with:
-
1. C
2. A
3. G
4. D
5. B
6. E
7. F
-
Now the command instructs us to [ swap the first and last lines, ] easily done:
-
1. F
2. A
3. G
4. D
5. B
6. E
7. C
-
This next instruction let's us know [ we are looking for a final clue with this set up. ] Scan the list and see if you notice the answer... [ The first letters of the sentences spell a word. ]
So the final answer is:
[ Journal ]
--
So, that seems like a rather non-descript kind of answer. And while that might be true, I'd also like to point out that it has a great deal to do with a release we're planning for later this year. While "mum" is still the word, I can at least tell you that it's something you'll want to keep an eye out for. ^.~
- Novel -
Monday, March 29, 2010
Spoilers Due
I've been promised intel. Vague as it may be, it plucks defiantly at the "curiosity string" running from toes to frontal lobe. Plus it sounds all "James Bond-esque" which I can totally get behind. (We all are fans of snooping, are we not?) I'm going to guess it is TOT related, but I suppose I'll find that out when you do. Still, the TOT spoilers have been a long time coming, so I'm relishing when the floodgates open and we're wading deep in Press Releases.
So it looks like both puzzles have reached a state of "solvéd-ness." Which you can take to mean they've reached the apex of "solvability," where answers abound and you're give a choice of which camp's hypothesis you choose to support. I'm going to do two separate posts tomorrow, one for each puzzle, detailing out the steps involved. I've got to say though, I really enjoyed watching you all work through both of them. Kudos!
This week is going to be rockin' awesome, I just know it!
- Novel -
So it looks like both puzzles have reached a state of "solvéd-ness." Which you can take to mean they've reached the apex of "solvability," where answers abound and you're give a choice of which camp's hypothesis you choose to support. I'm going to do two separate posts tomorrow, one for each puzzle, detailing out the steps involved. I've got to say though, I really enjoyed watching you all work through both of them. Kudos!
This week is going to be rockin' awesome, I just know it!
- Novel -
Friday, March 26, 2010
Puzzle 47
Friday's come, rain and shine.
Grab a chair and get ready, cause this puzzle is a thinker! Enjoy.
1. Seven Sailed.
2. It's common.
3. If you said this was a necessary piece, I might think you had misread it.
4. Opposite of the beginning.
5. Apples, Cherries, and Pecans.
6. And 'lo we did feast.
7. What we put between Bread and Butter.
8. Not exactly the sign for where a catcher stands...
9. Used to be.
10. (This step is its own hint.)
11. How you begin Calculations.
12. Forever sideways
--
Good luck and have an extraordinary weekend!
- Novel -
Grab a chair and get ready, cause this puzzle is a thinker! Enjoy.
- Puzzle 47 -
Which game am I?
Directions:
Use the clues with the board.
Each clue equals only one tile.
Some clues equal the same tile.
Which game am I?
Directions:
Use the clues with the board.
Each clue equals only one tile.
Some clues equal the same tile.
1. Seven Sailed.
2. It's common.
3. If you said this was a necessary piece, I might think you had misread it.
4. Opposite of the beginning.
5. Apples, Cherries, and Pecans.
6. And 'lo we did feast.
7. What we put between Bread and Butter.
8. Not exactly the sign for where a catcher stands...
9. Used to be.
10. (This step is its own hint.)
11. How you begin Calculations.
12. Forever sideways
--
Good luck and have an extraordinary weekend!
- Novel -
Thursday, March 25, 2010
On Commentary
I've gone over many of the questions (commented) on the contest. So if you're looking for answers, that's a good place to start. As mentioned earlier, Wednesday was a bit of a busy day, and I missed my cues for blogging... I owe you a picture of the week. Any suggestions?
As for the news in the office, I talked to Artist Kris to get the inside track. Straight from her brain, here's the Blurb of the Week:
This week I’ve been researching a variety of visual elements for ND23. I’m very excited about this right now because I’ve been looking at all sorts of cute little animals for the better part of a day. And then I get to figure out how to translate that into game visuals for me and the rest of the artists to create. I mean, what better way to lift your spirits than to look up tons of pictures of tiny, fluffy kitties all day long.
Now that’s just not even fair. I’ve been writing boring documents for hours and she gets to check out cute and cuddly animals... some people have all the luck. ^.~
I've left a hint for the puzzlers in the post below. You'll still find a new one on deck tomorrow, but don't stop working. You've come pretty close, and I'd love for you to finish it up. Either way, I'll be stopping by tomorrow. Cheers!
- Novel (azul) -
As for the news in the office, I talked to Artist Kris to get the inside track. Straight from her brain, here's the Blurb of the Week:
This week I’ve been researching a variety of visual elements for ND23. I’m very excited about this right now because I’ve been looking at all sorts of cute little animals for the better part of a day. And then I get to figure out how to translate that into game visuals for me and the rest of the artists to create. I mean, what better way to lift your spirits than to look up tons of pictures of tiny, fluffy kitties all day long.
Now that’s just not even fair. I’ve been writing boring documents for hours and she gets to check out cute and cuddly animals... some people have all the luck. ^.~
I've left a hint for the puzzlers in the post below. You'll still find a new one on deck tomorrow, but don't stop working. You've come pretty close, and I'd love for you to finish it up. Either way, I'll be stopping by tomorrow. Cheers!
- Novel (azul) -
Slipped Hint
Wednesday slipped by without me seeing it. I'm posting a bit now, and I'll return later on. I just wanted to give you another hint since your so close to catching it!
See ya in a few!
-Novel-
- Puzzle Hint -
You're on the right track, just remember to follow a step before reading the next.
--
You're on the right track, just remember to follow a step before reading the next.
--
See ya in a few!
-Novel-
Tuesday, March 23, 2010
All's Well
Tuesday is rolling along. We've been looking expertly at TOT to insure it's ESRB review will go swimmingly. I can't imagine it being any other way. There's always so much work to be done once production has put their "seal of approval" on a game. There's post-mortem meetings (as discussed yesterday) and archiving, plus all the new work for the next projects. Besides, marketing doesn't even begin to ramp up until we've got a product in our hands. :P Speaking of which, I've seen my co-workers musing over packaging of various sorts, some for TOT, some for other mysteries...
It looks like there is a short stall on the puzzle. I asked Designer Ben stop by and offer a bit of advice. Check it out below.
Oh and I've got a myriad of comments to reply to. I've put it on my list of things to get accomplished, so you'll be hearing my voice again soon (so to speak... or not as it were.) Enjoy the rest of your day!
- Novel (tele) -
It looks like there is a short stall on the puzzle. I asked Designer Ben stop by and offer a bit of advice. Check it out below.
- Puzzle 46 Hint -
"Follow each sentence, step by step."
--
"Follow each sentence, step by step."
--
Oh and I've got a myriad of comments to reply to. I've put it on my list of things to get accomplished, so you'll be hearing my voice again soon (so to speak... or not as it were.) Enjoy the rest of your day!
- Novel (tele) -
Monday, March 22, 2010
Trick of the Eyes
Welcome to the week! We hope your visit here is a pleasant one... in fact I'm quite sure it will be, "All signs point to yes!" So let's see if I can glimpse into this week's schedule...
I've heard rumors of the beginnings of ND23... though I'm reluctant to give them any form. With TOT hot on our heels, I'd hate to divert your attention. And again I'm given assurances of tantalizing TOT news in the coming weeks... dates are still fuzzy though...
If you've been keeping up with the blogs, and newsletters, and various other media outlets we command, then you're probably aware of the contest going on. So far I've seen a lovely display of pictures and artwork. This is the kind of thing we crave people! I love it! If you're lost by this paragraph, a good waypoint is here.
Now is the time of post-production. We're closing the book on TOT and discussing all the things we've done right (and wrong!). If you didn't know any better, you'd think our company was just a bunch of people who have ludicrously long meetings... though it pains me to say, these things help us succeed. The real magic does happen outside those doors, but we need to sit and let the ideas coalesce into something tangible. Prestidigitation is all well and good for pomp and circumstance, but quite impractical for a pragmatic world, particularly one with such keen-eyed sleuths. These "post" meetings help us refine the creation process, so that each game can improve on the last one... is it working? I suppose that question is best left answered by you. ^.~
I'll see ya when tomorrow is today!
-Novel-
I've heard rumors of the beginnings of ND23... though I'm reluctant to give them any form. With TOT hot on our heels, I'd hate to divert your attention. And again I'm given assurances of tantalizing TOT news in the coming weeks... dates are still fuzzy though...
If you've been keeping up with the blogs, and newsletters, and various other media outlets we command, then you're probably aware of the contest going on. So far I've seen a lovely display of pictures and artwork. This is the kind of thing we crave people! I love it! If you're lost by this paragraph, a good waypoint is here.
Now is the time of post-production. We're closing the book on TOT and discussing all the things we've done right (and wrong!). If you didn't know any better, you'd think our company was just a bunch of people who have ludicrously long meetings... though it pains me to say, these things help us succeed. The real magic does happen outside those doors, but we need to sit and let the ideas coalesce into something tangible. Prestidigitation is all well and good for pomp and circumstance, but quite impractical for a pragmatic world, particularly one with such keen-eyed sleuths. These "post" meetings help us refine the creation process, so that each game can improve on the last one... is it working? I suppose that question is best left answered by you. ^.~
I'll see ya when tomorrow is today!
-Novel-
Friday, March 19, 2010
Puzzle 46
I hope everyone has had a good week. We'll certainly be enjoying a break this weekend. *fingers crossed for sun* Here's some brain-training for the next few days!
Good luck to everyone! Catch ya next week!
-Novel-
-- Puzzle 46 --
Odds often move to the very end
Now evens to the front we will send
Last to the front and the front to the last
Round the center they spin one time real fast
Allow one five, three four, six seven, five six swapped
Just what do you have, now that you have stopped?
Until three is reached run forward not back
--
Odds often move to the very end
Now evens to the front we will send
Last to the front and the front to the last
Round the center they spin one time real fast
Allow one five, three four, six seven, five six swapped
Just what do you have, now that you have stopped?
Until three is reached run forward not back
--
Good luck to everyone! Catch ya next week!
-Novel-
Thursday, March 18, 2010
How It's Settling
The newsletter should be working its way through cyberspace just about now. Also you've undoubtedly learned about the current contest, and everyone should definitely enter. I know there's bound to be a million questions, so just fire away as you see fit. I'll try to stay on the up-and-up with ya.
This week has been a touch crazy, so I've stopped by to ask our Production Lead Anne about all the goings on in the office. Check out the Blurb of the Week below:
This week has been just exciting. We've finished up all of our bugs, early even! And we’re just about to start the final build of TOT. Of course this also means that we're about to be overrun with meetings. But until then, we get to work on the pre-production of ND23! Well, it’s more like the “Pre-pre-production."
Sounds like I'm not the only one working up a storm. Let's hope next week is a touch easier. ^.~
You've got a puzzle headed this way tomorrow. Stop by if you get the chance.
-Novel-
This week has been a touch crazy, so I've stopped by to ask our Production Lead Anne about all the goings on in the office. Check out the Blurb of the Week below:
This week has been just exciting. We've finished up all of our bugs, early even! And we’re just about to start the final build of TOT. Of course this also means that we're about to be overrun with meetings. But until then, we get to work on the pre-production of ND23! Well, it’s more like the “Pre-pre-production."
Sounds like I'm not the only one working up a storm. Let's hope next week is a touch easier. ^.~
You've got a puzzle headed this way tomorrow. Stop by if you get the chance.
-Novel-
Wednesday, March 17, 2010
Slow to Churn
I'm running a bit behind, what with the super contest news! So here's just a few things. Newsletter is definitely tomorrow! Also be sure to check the contest posting for all the information! Lastly Happy St. Patrick's Day!
Cya tomorrow!
-Novel (verde)-
Cya tomorrow!
-Novel (verde)-
Nancy Drew Inspired Art Contest
After viewing all the excellent art submissions from our last contest we’ve decided that we want more of it! We’re running another contest to gather up some brand new creations to be placed in another release this year. We want to fill all the nooks and crannies we can with fan-created artwork, so here’s your chance to be a part of a classic Nancy Drew case!
This contest is open to anyone; young or old, near or far. There are two categories to enter, and you can submit entries for both categories. However you may only enter each of them once:
PHOTOS (due April 19th):
Strike a pose and snap that perfect picture. For this category, submit your best “yearbook-styled” photo of yourself. Photos may be mailed in or submitted digitally via email.
• Should a portrait picture.
• Photos must contain only you.
ARTWORK (due April 19th):
Create artwork inspired by Nancy Drew or the Nancy Drew games. Drawings, paintings, and anything else you can think of are allowed, just be sure to follow these few simple rules!
• Submissions must be scanned in and emailed or physically mailed via the postal system.
• Digitally created images may be emailed.
• The person submitting the work must be the creator of it.
• The artwork must contain no text.
Submissions will be accepted in both categories until April 19th after which we will pick 10 photographs and 30 pieces of artwork to be placed in an upcoming release. Email us your photos and/or scanned artwork to HIcontest@herinteractive.com along with your name, phone number, email address, and permission to post your entry online, with the subject line "Nancy Drew Art Contest." If you need to mail us a physical copy of your artwork, please use the following address:
Be sure to also include your contact information with the artwork you submit. Any artwork sent through the postal system must be received by April 19th so make sure you mail in your entry early. Winners will be individually contacted upon completion of the contest. And while we won’t have room to announce all of the winners, you can bet we’ll display a selection of the winning submissions on the Amateur Sleuth blog.
Good luck to everyone!
-Novel-
This contest is open to anyone; young or old, near or far. There are two categories to enter, and you can submit entries for both categories. However you may only enter each of them once:
PHOTOS (due April 19th):
Strike a pose and snap that perfect picture. For this category, submit your best “yearbook-styled” photo of yourself. Photos may be mailed in or submitted digitally via email.
• Should a portrait picture.
• Photos must contain only you.
ARTWORK (due April 19th):
Create artwork inspired by Nancy Drew or the Nancy Drew games. Drawings, paintings, and anything else you can think of are allowed, just be sure to follow these few simple rules!
• Submissions must be scanned in and emailed or physically mailed via the postal system.
• Digitally created images may be emailed.
• The person submitting the work must be the creator of it.
• The artwork must contain no text.
Submissions will be accepted in both categories until April 19th after which we will pick 10 photographs and 30 pieces of artwork to be placed in an upcoming release. Email us your photos and/or scanned artwork to HIcontest@herinteractive.com along with your name, phone number, email address, and permission to post your entry online, with the subject line "Nancy Drew Art Contest." If you need to mail us a physical copy of your artwork, please use the following address:
Nancy Drew Art Contest
c/o Her Interactive
1150 114th Ave. SE, Suite 200
Bellevue, WA 98004
c/o Her Interactive
1150 114th Ave. SE, Suite 200
Bellevue, WA 98004
Be sure to also include your contact information with the artwork you submit. Any artwork sent through the postal system must be received by April 19th so make sure you mail in your entry early. Winners will be individually contacted upon completion of the contest. And while we won’t have room to announce all of the winners, you can bet we’ll display a selection of the winning submissions on the Amateur Sleuth blog.
Good luck to everyone!
-Novel-
Tuesday, March 16, 2010
Down and Up
And so the real work begins. TOT spoilers have been effectively culled until April One, so I'll have to entice you with other offerings... perhaps the promise of a newsletter and a brand new contest will be enough to grab your attention. With any luck you'll be seeing them both by day's end tomorrow!
Check out the steps to solving puzzle 45 below:
I think we're all familiar with that message. But what bearing does it have on the future of Nancy Drew...? I'll leave that for you to ponder on. We'll have some awesome news tomorrow, so be sure to check back in!
Laters.
-Novel-
Check out the steps to solving puzzle 45 below:
-- Puzzle 45 Solution--
LATVUCAUVNNXF
The "house" was falsely reported to be "ablaze."
This one actually has very few steps. All you need to do is [decrypt the letters with a Vigenere cipher] using "house" [as the passphrase]. Doing so will give you the answer :
[Sonny Joon Rulz]
*As an aside the clue [falsely..."ablaze"] is a reference to [Blaise Vigenere being falsely attributed as the creator of the Vigenere cipher. ] The play is that [ the cipher is "a Blaise" (sounds like "ablaze") ]
--
LATVUCAUVNNXF
The "house" was falsely reported to be "ablaze."
This one actually has very few steps. All you need to do is [decrypt the letters with a Vigenere cipher] using "house" [as the passphrase]. Doing so will give you the answer :
[Sonny Joon Rulz]
*As an aside the clue [falsely..."ablaze"] is a reference to [Blaise Vigenere being falsely attributed as the creator of the Vigenere cipher. ] The play is that [ the cipher is "a Blaise" (sounds like "ablaze") ]
--
I think we're all familiar with that message. But what bearing does it have on the future of Nancy Drew...? I'll leave that for you to ponder on. We'll have some awesome news tomorrow, so be sure to check back in!
Laters.
-Novel-
Monday, March 15, 2010
Overhaul
Day One: again. (?)
It's not a bad one. In fact, it contains 200% more Vitamin D, direct from the best source. The spirit in the office reflects this. We've got projects bumping and moving and with GDC wrapped up and the managers back in the saddle, I'm expecting a lot of sudden meetings and last minute changes. Sometimes we get swept up in the techno-revolution (the future is [pretty much] right now.) Can you blame us?!
The puzzle was defeated. Quite soundly I might add. I'm pained to say it, but I think Designer Ben expected it to have a slightly longer lifespan. To you I'll offer a hearty, "Well done!" and I'll drop the blinds from it tomorrow. Today, I'm buried in the prospect of being buried...
Keep it easy!
-Novel (under) -
It's not a bad one. In fact, it contains 200% more Vitamin D, direct from the best source. The spirit in the office reflects this. We've got projects bumping and moving and with GDC wrapped up and the managers back in the saddle, I'm expecting a lot of sudden meetings and last minute changes. Sometimes we get swept up in the techno-revolution (the future is [pretty much] right now.) Can you blame us?!
The puzzle was defeated. Quite soundly I might add. I'm pained to say it, but I think Designer Ben expected it to have a slightly longer lifespan. To you I'll offer a hearty, "Well done!" and I'll drop the blinds from it tomorrow. Today, I'm buried in the prospect of being buried...
Keep it easy!
-Novel (under) -
Thursday, March 11, 2010
The 45th Puzzle
Hiyo, it's time to get puzzlin'! So let's dive in to Designer Ben's latest brain-buster:
Have a great weekend! And don't forget to set those clocks forward on Sunday!
- Novel -
-- Puzzle 45 --
LATVUCAUVNNXF
The "house" was falsely reported to be "ablaze."
--
LATVUCAUVNNXF
The "house" was falsely reported to be "ablaze."
--
Have a great weekend! And don't forget to set those clocks forward on Sunday!
- Novel -
One Slip in the Week
So after a quick scramble on days yesterday, I realized I forgot to post the picture of the Week. You'll find the example below, in all its fuzzy glory.
I also managed to grab our super talented writer, Nik, and asked him to give us the Blurb of the Week. This is what he had to say about this week:
"Well, I've just about put the finishing touches on the script for ND23 and it's going to be so awesome it'll literally blow the socks off your feet (through your shoes)! Also I'm pleased to announce that I fixed all my TOT bugs and let my bagels get moldy. Well I'm not pleased about the moldy bagels part, but all that happened this week..."
Thanks for the great quote Nik!
There's a puzzle headed this way tomorrow. Be sure to pop by and check it out!
Hasta luego!
- Novel (nuevo) -
Ever feel like you're being watched?
I also managed to grab our super talented writer, Nik, and asked him to give us the Blurb of the Week. This is what he had to say about this week:
"Well, I've just about put the finishing touches on the script for ND23 and it's going to be so awesome it'll literally blow the socks off your feet (through your shoes)! Also I'm pleased to announce that I fixed all my TOT bugs and let my bagels get moldy. Well I'm not pleased about the moldy bagels part, but all that happened this week..."
Thanks for the great quote Nik!
There's a puzzle headed this way tomorrow. Be sure to pop by and check it out!
Hasta luego!
- Novel (nuevo) -
Puzzle 44 Solution
It's a hefty post, so I'm boosting it up all by itself. You'll get some other words in a bit. No worries~
Qq nr pq nr pq qo
qq qo qp oo op rr
rq po rn pp nn qp
qo pn nr pq qo qq
rq pp nr pq qn rn
pq rn pq qq no qo
qp oo rn pq nq pq
qo qp rq qq pr rn
pq rn qp rp rq rp
qp no qo op rn
Dd ae cd ae cd db
dd db dc bb bc ee
ed cb ea cc aa dc
db ca ae cd db dd
ed cc ae cd da ea
cd ea cd dd ab db
dc bb ea cd ad cd
db dc ed dd ce ea
cd ea dc ec ed ec
dc ab db bc ea
A B C D E
A B C D E A
F G H I J B
K L M N O C
P Q R S T D
U V W X Y E
Good job solving this one!
- Novel -
-- Puzzle 44 Solution --
--.- --.- / -. .-. / .--. --.- / -. .-. / .--. --.- / --.- ---
--.- --.- / --.- --- / --.- .--. / --- --- / --- .--. / .-. .-.
.-. --.- / .--. --- / .-. -. / .--. .--. / -. -. / --.- .--.
--.- --- / .--. -. / -. .-. / .--. --.- / --.- --- / --.- --.-
.-. --.- / .--. .--. / -. .-. / .--. --.- / --.- -. / .-. -.
.--. --.- / .-. -. / .--. --.- / --.- --.- / -. --- / --.- ---
--.- .--. / --- --- / .-. -. / .--. --.- / -. --.- / .--. --.-
--.- --- / --.- .--. / .-. --.- / --.- --.- / .--. .-. / .-. -.
.--. --.- / .-. -. / --.- .--. / .-. .--. / .-. --.- / .-. .--.
--.- .--. / -. --- / --.- --- / --- .--. / .-. -.
First off, you need to [ convert the morse code to text ], then lay it out in a grid:
-
--.- --.- / -. .-. / .--. --.- / -. .-. / .--. --.- / --.- ---
--.- --.- / --.- --- / --.- .--. / --- --- / --- .--. / .-. .-.
.-. --.- / .--. --- / .-. -. / .--. .--. / -. -. / --.- .--.
--.- --- / .--. -. / -. .-. / .--. --.- / --.- --- / --.- --.-
.-. --.- / .--. .--. / -. .-. / .--. --.- / --.- -. / .-. -.
.--. --.- / .-. -. / .--. --.- / --.- --.- / -. --- / --.- ---
--.- .--. / --- --- / .-. -. / .--. --.- / -. --.- / .--. --.-
--.- --- / --.- .--. / .-. --.- / --.- --.- / .--. .-. / .-. -.
.--. --.- / .-. -. / --.- .--. / .-. .--. / .-. --.- / .-. .--.
--.- .--. / -. --- / --.- --- / --- .--. / .-. -.
First off, you need to [ convert the morse code to text ], then lay it out in a grid:
-
Qq nr pq nr pq qo
qq qo qp oo op rr
rq po rn pp nn qp
qo pn nr pq qo qq
rq pp nr pq qn rn
pq rn pq qq no qo
qp oo rn pq nq pq
qo qp rq qq pr rn
pq rn qp rp rq rp
qp no qo op rn
-
Next, [ perform a Rot13 shift ] to get the following set:
-
Next, [ perform a Rot13 shift ] to get the following set:
-
Dd ae cd ae cd db
dd db dc bb bc ee
ed cb ea cc aa dc
db ca ae cd db dd
ed cc ae cd da ea
cd ea cd dd ab db
dc bb ea cd ad cd
db dc ed dd ce ea
cd ea dc ec ed ec
dc ab db bc ea
-
You can then use [ a grid to and solve for each pair ]:
-
You can then use [ a grid to and solve for each pair ]:
-
A B C D E
A B C D E A
F G H I J B
K L M N O C
P Q R S T D
U V W X Y E
-
Which gets you (if you ignore the slight typo):
[ Surprisingly the manicurist murderers fingerprints were not on file. ]
--
Which gets you (if you ignore the slight typo):
[ Surprisingly the manicurist murderers fingerprints were not on file. ]
--
Good job solving this one!
- Novel -
Wednesday, March 10, 2010
Marginal Notations
I've been working on more teaser material for TOT. Information is still on restriction around here. I imagine there's a special reason, but I suppose it could always be the politics of "timing." Either way I expect at least a small leak or something. I mean we know a newsletter is coming, but is it TOT related? Not even I've got the pulse on that one. Time to hit the beat once more to see what I can find...
Speaking of hard to find... info on last Friday's puzzle...
Sorry for the obfuscation (based on lack of confirmation,) but the puzzle was indeed solved (typo and all) by a some rather crafty sleuthers. I figured this puzzle would require at least one snazzy hint. Color me impressed. Although when I spoke with Designer Ben, he remarked that you all solved it differently than he intended. I'll have to get the full scoop tomorrow, along with a walk-through. I'll see ya then!
- Novel (submerged) -
Speaking of hard to find... info on last Friday's puzzle...
Sorry for the obfuscation (based on lack of confirmation,) but the puzzle was indeed solved (typo and all) by a some rather crafty sleuthers. I figured this puzzle would require at least one snazzy hint. Color me impressed. Although when I spoke with Designer Ben, he remarked that you all solved it differently than he intended. I'll have to get the full scoop tomorrow, along with a walk-through. I'll see ya then!
- Novel (submerged) -
Tuesday, March 9, 2010
The Magic of Winning
I’ve been doing some more work with TOT (and some older games ^.~) and it has me thinking once again about how I play them. There’s something gratifying about accomplishing Nancy tasks, we’ll say like filing or perhaps organizing books. These task oriented puzzles signal a bit of a cheer from my brain when I’ve finished. “Congrats Novel, you’ve won the Bee’s Knees game. You deserve a cookie and a nap.” Now I may be the only one who has his own cheering squad, particularly for Nancy’s minor, and possibly mundane, hurdles, but this experience is very different from actually completing the game.
Often, by the time I’ve reached the confrontation scene, I’m so immersed in the story I forget I’m controlling it. I feel pride for Nancy at having caught the villain and end the nefarious scheme(s). I’m drawn back into the books, thinking that I have a passenger to Nancy’s journey, not actually driving. It is only when I’ve reached the meta-awards that I remember that I have been behind the wheel. I’ve been an unseen assistant, helping to shape the goal-at-hand. I think maybe this is the bigger accomplishment, to leave behind my ego and really step into this character’s shoes. To me, that is a true win.
We’ll talk puzzles tomorrow, I promise!
-Novel (musing) -
Often, by the time I’ve reached the confrontation scene, I’m so immersed in the story I forget I’m controlling it. I feel pride for Nancy at having caught the villain and end the nefarious scheme(s). I’m drawn back into the books, thinking that I have a passenger to Nancy’s journey, not actually driving. It is only when I’ve reached the meta-awards that I remember that I have been behind the wheel. I’ve been an unseen assistant, helping to shape the goal-at-hand. I think maybe this is the bigger accomplishment, to leave behind my ego and really step into this character’s shoes. To me, that is a true win.
We’ll talk puzzles tomorrow, I promise!
-Novel (musing) -
Monday, March 8, 2010
When we Begin
Week two of March has started off strong. We’re working up to the release of TOT. Delays can be found in the most usual of places, the bug database. Though I believe in the long run, we’ll finish right on time, as always.
Spoilers continue to be absent from the site and various social media outlets. Blessed are the tiny nibbles that we can offer, which I assure you, we do so with absolute glee. You are ravenous for them, and we are delighted to provide. We both herald the oncoming feast that will be the TOT PR parade, though its arrival date still remains a mystery, even to those in the Departments of Marketing and Predictions. (note: the dept. of predictions is currently on sabbatical.) Still, I can promise, “soon.”
- Novel -
Spoilers continue to be absent from the site and various social media outlets. Blessed are the tiny nibbles that we can offer, which I assure you, we do so with absolute glee. You are ravenous for them, and we are delighted to provide. We both herald the oncoming feast that will be the TOT PR parade, though its arrival date still remains a mystery, even to those in the Departments of Marketing and Predictions. (note: the dept. of predictions is currently on sabbatical.) Still, I can promise, “soon.”
- Novel -
Friday, March 5, 2010
Puzzle 44
Friday brings not just the promise of a weekend, but also a deliciously difficult puzzle. Time to flex those neurons, here’s your slice of the week courtesy of Designer Ben:
-puzzle 44-
“Remember my lucky number is 13”
--.- --.- / -. .-. / .--. --.- / -. .-. / .--. --.- / --.- ---
--.- --.- / --.- --- / --.- .--. / --- --- / --- .--. / .-. .-.
.-. --.- / .--. --- / .-. -. / .--. .--. / -. -. / --.- .--.
--.- --- / .--. -. / -. .-. / .--. --.- / --.- --- / --.- --.-
.-. --.- / .--. .--. / -. .-. / .--. --.- / --.- -. / .-. -.
.--. --.- / .-. -. / .--. --.- / --.- --.- / -. --- / --.- ---
--.- .--. / --- --- / .-. -. / .--. --.- / -. --.- / .--. --.-
--.- --- / --.- .--. / .-. --.- / --.- --.- / .--. .-. / .-. -.
.--. --.- / .-. -. / --.- .--. / .-. .--. / .-. --.- / .-. .--.
--.- .--. / -. --- / --.- --- / --- .--. / .-. -.
--
Good luck sleuthers!
- Novel -
-puzzle 44-
“Remember my lucky number is 13”
--.- --.- / -. .-. / .--. --.- / -. .-. / .--. --.- / --.- ---
--.- --.- / --.- --- / --.- .--. / --- --- / --- .--. / .-. .-.
.-. --.- / .--. --- / .-. -. / .--. .--. / -. -. / --.- .--.
--.- --- / .--. -. / -. .-. / .--. --.- / --.- --- / --.- --.-
.-. --.- / .--. .--. / -. .-. / .--. --.- / --.- -. / .-. -.
.--. --.- / .-. -. / .--. --.- / --.- --.- / -. --- / --.- ---
--.- .--. / --- --- / .-. -. / .--. --.- / -. --.- / .--. --.-
--.- --- / --.- .--. / .-. --.- / --.- --.- / .--. .-. / .-. -.
.--. --.- / .-. -. / --.- .--. / .-. .--. / .-. --.- / .-. .--.
--.- .--. / -. --- / --.- --- / --- .--. / .-. -.
--
Good luck sleuthers!
- Novel -
Thursday, March 4, 2010
Speaking Up
You may recall a recent rant to record the ramblings of various other employees. Today is as good a day as any to start. So for the blurb of the week, here’s what it’s been like in the Quality Assurance department.
Quote courtesy of our QA Lead Nora:
“It’s an exciting time for us because we’re about to see all the info coming in from our beta tests. We’ll get to start analyzing and applying the results to see how well people received the game.”
When I asked her if I could say that it is a “fantastically busy time,” she suggested that fantastic may not be quite the superlative she’d use, and offered substitutes like absurdly or ridiculously. Either way it sounds like they’re hard at work on the next ND title. I can hardly wait!
Tomorrow’s a puzzler, be sure to pop by.
-Novel (3)-
Quote courtesy of our QA Lead Nora:
“It’s an exciting time for us because we’re about to see all the info coming in from our beta tests. We’ll get to start analyzing and applying the results to see how well people received the game.”
When I asked her if I could say that it is a “fantastically busy time,” she suggested that fantastic may not be quite the superlative she’d use, and offered substitutes like absurdly or ridiculously. Either way it sounds like they’re hard at work on the next ND title. I can hardly wait!
Tomorrow’s a puzzler, be sure to pop by.
-Novel (3)-
Wednesday, March 3, 2010
Running Ratings
Boy howdy it is late! It has been a whirlwind of a day. So I'll just have to be short about it. I had a few minutes to lounge around midday. I was even able to catch a quick flick.
It isn't as risque as you might imagine. Mostly a lot of clarification on how they classify violence in video games. As you know, many of our games fall in the "Mild Violence" category. Now I'm quite well-versed on exactly what that means. Though you'd be hard pressed to define it in a simple sentence. The ESRB is a crafty bunch, and their system is quite helpful in determining the strength of a game's content. Perhaps I'll divulge more on this on another day.
Puzzle update: Success was in the cards for this one. You all rocked this puzzle! Here are the solving steps:
Have a good one.
- Novel (trio) -
It isn't as risque as you might imagine. Mostly a lot of clarification on how they classify violence in video games. As you know, many of our games fall in the "Mild Violence" category. Now I'm quite well-versed on exactly what that means. Though you'd be hard pressed to define it in a simple sentence. The ESRB is a crafty bunch, and their system is quite helpful in determining the strength of a game's content. Perhaps I'll divulge more on this on another day.
Puzzle update: Success was in the cards for this one. You all rocked this puzzle! Here are the solving steps:
-- Puzzle 43 Solution --
"Unlock the key in order to play fair."
[ d qlcxz netpcb smtmq d gehmneu hgobnbZ ]
First off you need to break the code in the quote. It suggests you use a [playfair cipher] and that the [key is "unlock"].
Next you need to set up your [playfair table] and decrypt the letters.
--
U N L O C
K A B D E
F G H I J
M P R S T
V W X Y Z
--
You end up with the phrase: [A snowy castle times a magical finale]. Its another clue, so multiply [TRT = snowy castle (4) by FIN = magical finale (5)]
[5 x 4 is 20] which we know as [Ransom of the Seven Ships]
--
"Unlock the key in order to play fair."
[ d qlcxz netpcb smtmq d gehmneu hgobnbZ ]
First off you need to break the code in the quote. It suggests you use a [playfair cipher] and that the [key is "unlock"].
Next you need to set up your [playfair table] and decrypt the letters.
--
U N L O C
K A B D E
F G H I J
M P R S T
V W X Y Z
--
You end up with the phrase: [A snowy castle times a magical finale]. Its another clue, so multiply [TRT = snowy castle (4) by FIN = magical finale (5)]
[5 x 4 is 20] which we know as [Ransom of the Seven Ships]
--
Have a good one.
- Novel (trio) -
Tuesday, March 2, 2010
Tagging
Writing is very awesome. Well, I think it is. Today has been a writing day. (though secretly most are ^.^) I've been doing some preliminary work on blog topics and March's newsletter (nowhere near complete.) As well as few other projects we've got hidden backstage.
The real one I'd like to poke at for today's blog is the TOT tagline. I'm sure you all are familiar with at least a few of our games taglines. Currently I'm having to create a placeholder one that may appear in some ads, so it needs to be fairly close to the real deal. This process is all about creating a short line that evokes the emotion of the game, along with some information about its content. There's a lot of brainstorming and just writing lines. I probably don't have the most award-winning technique, but guess-and-check works for me. If you've ever seen a picture of a disheveled young writer crouched over a type writer with veritable civilizations of crumpled paper rising up around him... that's me today. Only in a digital sense.
I'm still looking for the right combination of words to make do for the time being. It just has to be snappier than fake one I've been slinging around the office in previous months.
The real one I'd like to poke at for today's blog is the TOT tagline. I'm sure you all are familiar with at least a few of our games taglines. Currently I'm having to create a placeholder one that may appear in some ads, so it needs to be fairly close to the real deal. This process is all about creating a short line that evokes the emotion of the game, along with some information about its content. There's a lot of brainstorming and just writing lines. I probably don't have the most award-winning technique, but guess-and-check works for me. If you've ever seen a picture of a disheveled young writer crouched over a type writer with veritable civilizations of crumpled paper rising up around him... that's me today. Only in a digital sense.
I'm still looking for the right combination of words to make do for the time being. It just has to be snappier than fake one I've been slinging around the office in previous months.
"Nancy puts the 'fun' back in funnel cloud!"
Amusing? Yes. Effective? Not so much... We'll keep working. ^.~
- Novel -
Monday, March 1, 2010
Reporting In
Mondays are when the bees return to the hive. The weekend spent in exploration and discovery. We're ready to return and make the honey. Fresh and sweet for everyone to enjoy.
I've been thinking about voice lately. Written voice that is. I post about the things I do and see, but I thought it might be fun to hear (briefly) from a few of the other employees. As everyone is pretty busy, I was thinking of grabbing a small snapshot, like a quote or two, for some of our more energetic workers and sharing them with you. I haven't exactly decided how this is going to work out, but I think it might be nice to give you all a bit more perspective of the HI work-style. Now I've just got to get out there with my notepad and press badge. Who knows what I'll dig up!
While it looks very much like you've solved the weekend puzzle... I must unfortunately report that this is not actually the case. o.O It does mean that you're resting on the cusp of truth. I'm certain that you can discover the answer without guidance. Fantastic job so far, only inches to go!
- Novel -
I've been thinking about voice lately. Written voice that is. I post about the things I do and see, but I thought it might be fun to hear (briefly) from a few of the other employees. As everyone is pretty busy, I was thinking of grabbing a small snapshot, like a quote or two, for some of our more energetic workers and sharing them with you. I haven't exactly decided how this is going to work out, but I think it might be nice to give you all a bit more perspective of the HI work-style. Now I've just got to get out there with my notepad and press badge. Who knows what I'll dig up!
While it looks very much like you've solved the weekend puzzle... I must unfortunately report that this is not actually the case. o.O It does mean that you're resting on the cusp of truth. I'm certain that you can discover the answer without guidance. Fantastic job so far, only inches to go!
- Novel -
Thursday, February 25, 2010
Puzzle "Three and Forty"
Puzzle time! Direct from Designer Ben's brain to your desktop. Enjoy.
- Puzzle 43 -
Which game am I?
"Unlock the key in order to play fair."
[ d qlcxz netpcb smtmq d gehmneu hgobnbZ ]
--
Have a great weekend. See ya soon.
- Novel -
Inky
I've taken to writing things on my hands and arms in pen. It's a diversion I picked up in grade school, one I'm weary to break now. Of course I fear roaming the office in faux-tattooed fashion, proclaiming to all an urgency to leftovers and dry-cleaning. But such is not the case. I'm bring it up currently, as a reference to my experiences with TOT.
I'm in an office, one filled with binders, note-pads, post-its and about 30 other recording devices. I've got a veritable forest of paper products built with the sole intent of accepting my thoughts to their surface, and I'm utterly ignoring them. Twice today I've found myself scrawling notations of puzzles on my hands so I can work in secret during meetings (shhh) and while I was walking to get some lunch. Certainty of quality must be realized when a game has backed me into such a wall. Now I can't say if the puzzles are hard or not, but they have been lingering in my head, and that's no easy feat.
Speaking of puzzles, we've got a brand new one for you tomorrow. Catch ya then.
- Novel (set) -
I'm in an office, one filled with binders, note-pads, post-its and about 30 other recording devices. I've got a veritable forest of paper products built with the sole intent of accepting my thoughts to their surface, and I'm utterly ignoring them. Twice today I've found myself scrawling notations of puzzles on my hands so I can work in secret during meetings (shhh) and while I was walking to get some lunch. Certainty of quality must be realized when a game has backed me into such a wall. Now I can't say if the puzzles are hard or not, but they have been lingering in my head, and that's no easy feat.
Speaking of puzzles, we've got a brand new one for you tomorrow. Catch ya then.
- Novel (set) -
Wednesday, February 24, 2010
Midday moments
We went out for coffee today. A bold attempt to stave off those 3:00 doldrums. I'm an Americano man myself; a coffee-snob from before my Seattle days. Of course now, I think anything will do. No more quad-shots though. Being that caffeinated could result in some "shaky" 6:00 decisions.
I got my first sampling of TOT today. Now I've seen a few screens here and there, but I actually got to be in the driver's seat today. Now I haven't played too much, but I've got to say it's pretty exciting so far. Adventure, is certainly the variety of lemonade our summer stand is selling. I think you'll be pleased as punch.
We're over the hump now. Friday is already in sight.
- Novel (2U) -
I got my first sampling of TOT today. Now I've seen a few screens here and there, but I actually got to be in the driver's seat today. Now I haven't played too much, but I've got to say it's pretty exciting so far. Adventure, is certainly the variety of lemonade our summer stand is selling. I think you'll be pleased as punch.
Gifts? Or packaging solutions?
I suppose it depends on the caffeine intake...
We're over the hump now. Friday is already in sight.
- Novel (2U) -
Tuesday, February 23, 2010
Impressions
The second day of the week is about over and done with. Today has been a learning day. Our very own marketing producer, Jessica, gave a presentation at a local school. She spoke about working at HI and getting more women into the industry. It was definitely a good talk.
I've been getting a lot of forwards from our feedback channels. I think the thing I like best is how passionate and thoughtful the statements are. I'm hopeful that we can continue to improve our games. Certainly with your help, it'll be a bit easier to achieve.
And, as promised, knowledge.
- Novel -
P.S. I finally fixed my comments, so I'll be able to respond effectively now. Hooray! Although I suppose I've got a bit of a backlog to work through.
I've been getting a lot of forwards from our feedback channels. I think the thing I like best is how passionate and thoughtful the statements are. I'm hopeful that we can continue to improve our games. Certainly with your help, it'll be a bit easier to achieve.
Have you checked out the newsletter yet? It might prove interesting.
And, as promised, knowledge.
- Puzzle 42 Solution -
The clue that we gave initially was:
" Two methods speak to this puzzle; visual cues and elitist thought. "
This tells you the kind of methods you'll need to solve the puzzle, [ the visible speech and "leetspeak" ]
For all [ ASCII characters ] you need to use the [ "leetspeak" alphabet ] to replace them.
All of the other characters can be deciphered using [ visible speech ]
By performing the various substitutions you'll eventually discover the sentence:
[ Nancy caught the internet scam artist by trapping him in his own web. ]
--
The clue that we gave initially was:
" Two methods speak to this puzzle; visual cues and elitist thought. "
This tells you the kind of methods you'll need to solve the puzzle, [ the visible speech and "leetspeak" ]
For all [ ASCII characters ] you need to use the [ "leetspeak" alphabet ] to replace them.
All of the other characters can be deciphered using [ visible speech ]
By performing the various substitutions you'll eventually discover the sentence:
[ Nancy caught the internet scam artist by trapping him in his own web. ]
--
- Novel -
P.S. I finally fixed my comments, so I'll be able to respond effectively now. Hooray! Although I suppose I've got a bit of a backlog to work through.
Monday, February 22, 2010
Monday Snippet
Monday is looking good! With beta testing in full swing (results are coming in even now) and the sun shining today, we're running around quite a bit.
You'll be pleased to note that there is a newsletter appearing today. If you're looking for a sneak peek, perhaps I can offer this. Hopefully it'll provide the kind of distraction we've intended it to. ^.~
I was very thrilled to see that Friday's puzzle was solved. I'll be glad to spill the beans tomorrow. For today, just enjoy the possibilities the week provides.
Stay awesome.
- Novel -
You'll be pleased to note that there is a newsletter appearing today. If you're looking for a sneak peek, perhaps I can offer this. Hopefully it'll provide the kind of distraction we've intended it to. ^.~
I was very thrilled to see that Friday's puzzle was solved. I'll be glad to spill the beans tomorrow. For today, just enjoy the possibilities the week provides.
Stay awesome.
- Novel -
Thursday, February 18, 2010
Puzzle 42
Welcome to the end of the week. We hope you've enjoyed your travel with us this week and that you'll be returning to us shortly. As you exit the blog space, please be sure to note the Puzzle on your right.
Good luck!
- Novel -
- Puzzle 42 -
Two methods speak to this puzzle; visual cues and elitist thought.
--
Two methods speak to this puzzle; visual cues and elitist thought.
--
Good luck!
- Novel -
Totally Beta
Thursday already! We've just been working the week away. You'll be pleased to know that TOT has officially entered into its next developmental stage, Beta. We're quite proud of this one too. It isn't often we get to beta this early. We'll have lots of time to make the proper tweaks and changes from our beta data.
On a slightly more fun note, there is a newsletter coming out very very soon... Like really soon... For serious... No TOT spoilers just yet, but certainly some interesting game info I'm sure you'll enjoy seeing. Keep those eyes peeled.
And of course, following the script of yesterday here's your reveal to Puzzle forty.
Rincvegthesutheb
Ernayendnabblksc
Mewaoardwaedinrf
(1-3)
(1-4)(2-3)
(1-3)(2-5)(4-6)
(1-7)(2-4)(3-8)(5-6)
The parenthetical clues tell you [ which rows you'll need to swap ] For the first one, (1-3), you need to [ swap the first row and the last one ] this gives you the following:
-
Mewaoardwaedinrf
Ernayendnabblksc
Rincvegthesutheb
-
In order to to do the next set you'll need at least [ 4 rows ] You can do this by converting the [ 3 rows of 16 letters ] into [ 4 rows of 12 letters ]. It will look like this:
-
mewaoardwaed
inrfernayend
nabblkscrinc
vegthesutheb
-
Following the method of the first clue, [ switch (row 1 with row 4) and (row 2 with row 3,) ]and you get this:
-
vegthesutheb
nabblkscrinc
inrfernayend
mewaoardwaed
-
For the third set you need [ 6 rows of 8 letters ], so convert to that. Then continue the routine with [ switching (row 1 with 3), (row 2 with 5), and (row 4 with 6) ] Now you have:
-
lkscrinc
yendmewa
vegthesu
oardwaed
thebnabb
inrferna
-
The last group requires [ 8 rows of 6 letters ] and then [ swapping rows (1 and 7), (2 and 4), (3 and 8), and (5 and 6). ] Once completed you'll end up with:
-
nabbin
gthesu
rferna
ncyend
edtheb
oardwa
lkscri
mewave
-
Now [ write it all out ] and [ put in spaces ] to get:
[ Nabbing the surfer, Nancy ended the boardwalk’s crime wave! ]
Kudos to those of you who hung in there and solved it (beyond all of my mistakes...) We'll have another puzzle ready for you tomorrow. Till then!
- Novel -
On a slightly more fun note, there is a newsletter coming out very very soon... Like really soon... For serious... No TOT spoilers just yet, but certainly some interesting game info I'm sure you'll enjoy seeing. Keep those eyes peeled.
And of course, following the script of yesterday here's your reveal to Puzzle forty.
- Puzzle 40 Revealed -
Rincvegthesutheb
Ernayendnabblksc
Mewaoardwaedinrf
(1-3)
(1-4)(2-3)
(1-3)(2-5)(4-6)
(1-7)(2-4)(3-8)(5-6)
The parenthetical clues tell you [ which rows you'll need to swap ] For the first one, (1-3), you need to [ swap the first row and the last one ] this gives you the following:
-
Mewaoardwaedinrf
Ernayendnabblksc
Rincvegthesutheb
-
In order to to do the next set you'll need at least [ 4 rows ] You can do this by converting the [ 3 rows of 16 letters ] into [ 4 rows of 12 letters ]. It will look like this:
-
mewaoardwaed
inrfernayend
nabblkscrinc
vegthesutheb
-
Following the method of the first clue, [ switch (row 1 with row 4) and (row 2 with row 3,) ]and you get this:
-
vegthesutheb
nabblkscrinc
inrfernayend
mewaoardwaed
-
For the third set you need [ 6 rows of 8 letters ], so convert to that. Then continue the routine with [ switching (row 1 with 3), (row 2 with 5), and (row 4 with 6) ] Now you have:
-
lkscrinc
yendmewa
vegthesu
oardwaed
thebnabb
inrferna
-
The last group requires [ 8 rows of 6 letters ] and then [ swapping rows (1 and 7), (2 and 4), (3 and 8), and (5 and 6). ] Once completed you'll end up with:
-
nabbin
gthesu
rferna
ncyend
edtheb
oardwa
lkscri
mewave
-
Now [ write it all out ] and [ put in spaces ] to get:
[ Nabbing the surfer, Nancy ended the boardwalk’s crime wave! ]
Kudos to those of you who hung in there and solved it (beyond all of my mistakes...) We'll have another puzzle ready for you tomorrow. Till then!
- Novel -
Wednesday, February 17, 2010
Paper Trail
I've been looking at packaging samples and paper types for hours now. Designing books and packages can be a much more intensive process than I first imagined. Just look at a small sampling of the many paper styles I can choose from!
And that's to say nothing of thickness or texture!
But packaging is important to us. We have to create boxes and manuals that help reinforce the quality of product your receiving. So ensuring that we're meeting a high standard is of the utmost priority. I suppose I'll be wading in this stuff for a bit. Let's hope I can curb my indecisive streak long enough to make a few choices. ^.~
It looks like Puzzle 40 was solved today! Congratulations! I said I'd spoil "Forty-One" and I intend to do just that.
And that's to say nothing of thickness or texture!
But packaging is important to us. We have to create boxes and manuals that help reinforce the quality of product your receiving. So ensuring that we're meeting a high standard is of the utmost priority. I suppose I'll be wading in this stuff for a bit. Let's hope I can curb my indecisive streak long enough to make a few choices. ^.~
It looks like Puzzle 40 was solved today! Congratulations! I said I'd spoil "Forty-One" and I intend to do just that.
- Puzzle 41 Answer -
To solve this puzzle you need to use a [ "Caesar" or "shift" cipher ] The text hints at this, but also the second half of the sentence uses another term for it
[ Rot-N, or Rotation "n" ]
Once you know the key, you'll need to
[ shift each letter backwards in the alphabet by 3. ]
QQFNUVQYGDBMSJ = [NNCKRSNVDAYJPG]
If you place the letters in the URL, you get:
["http://www.HerInteractive.com/images/NN1ck3rs0n_vday.jpg"]
Click here to view it.
--
To solve this puzzle you need to use a [ "Caesar" or "shift" cipher ] The text hints at this, but also the second half of the sentence uses another term for it
[ Rot-N, or Rotation "n" ]
Once you know the key, you'll need to
[ shift each letter backwards in the alphabet by 3. ]
QQFNUVQYGDBMSJ = [NNCKRSNVDAYJPG]
If you place the letters in the URL, you get:
["http://www.HerInteractive.com/images/NN1ck3rs0n_vday.jpg"]
Click here to view it.
--
I hope you enjoyed it. I'll be listing out Puzzle 40 tomorrow I suppose. If you'd like an early spoiler you can check out the thread here.
Peace out!
- Novel -
Peace out!
- Novel -
Tuesday, February 16, 2010
Tuesday Doesn't Count
If you missed it, yesterday was President's Day (holiday!) So I hope you had a nice extended weekend as well!
Today has been filled with more planning. We've been creating schedules to help us stay on track with our daily updates. We had the tricky job of deciding all the content we'll need to make for March! It's pretty daunting to look at all the assets we'll need to make, but I suppose when you think about how it is just a little bit each day... it doesn't seem so overwhelming.
Production is tasked with its own complications... of course I refer to the wild and beautiful stallion that is TOT Beta. She's certainly skittish, fleeting at every breath, but I have faith in our staff. They'll wrangle her up by the end of the week, I can feel it.
Of course with TOT this close to beta you can start to expect some information to be leaked (by yours truly, if not some other credible "insider.") In due time, I say.
Puzzle 41 was defeated very quickly! I'll post the solving steps tomorrow. But more importantly, 40 remains unbeaten. So I've been given yet another hint to help you along. Check it out.
Okay, I guess that about wraps up this fine Tuesday. See you on the midweek.
- Novel -
Today has been filled with more planning. We've been creating schedules to help us stay on track with our daily updates. We had the tricky job of deciding all the content we'll need to make for March! It's pretty daunting to look at all the assets we'll need to make, but I suppose when you think about how it is just a little bit each day... it doesn't seem so overwhelming.
Production is tasked with its own complications... of course I refer to the wild and beautiful stallion that is TOT Beta. She's certainly skittish, fleeting at every breath, but I have faith in our staff. They'll wrangle her up by the end of the week, I can feel it.
Of course with TOT this close to beta you can start to expect some information to be leaked (by yours truly, if not some other credible "insider.") In due time, I say.
Puzzle 41 was defeated very quickly! I'll post the solving steps tomorrow. But more importantly, 40 remains unbeaten. So I've been given yet another hint to help you along. Check it out.
- Puzzle 40 Hint -
Step 3: (1 and 4)
Step 4: (2 and 3)
Step 5: 8 by 6
There are no letter substitutions.
--
Step 3: (1 and 4)
Step 4: (2 and 3)
Step 5: 8 by 6
There are no letter substitutions.
--
Okay, I guess that about wraps up this fine Tuesday. See you on the midweek.
- Novel -
Thursday, February 11, 2010
Friday Puzzle 41
Puzzle 40 remains unsolved at the moment, but we had to go ahead and post the next trick. The answer to this one will give you a special holiday treat, check it out.
Good luck and have a great Valentine's Day!
- Novel -
- Puzzle 41 -
"http://www.herinteractive.com/images/**1**3**0*_****.***"
To solve the *'s use this information:
[QQFNUVQYGDBMSJ]
Julius was okay, but the 3rd Caesar was 'rotten'
--
"http://www.herinteractive.com/images/**1**3**0*_****.***"
To solve the *'s use this information:
[QQFNUVQYGDBMSJ]
Julius was okay, but the 3rd Caesar was 'rotten'
--
Good luck and have a great Valentine's Day!
- Novel -
Even More Contest Images
With over 200 entries, I just had to show some more pictures we thought were great!
Friday's just around the bend. Cya then.
- Novel -
- Curse of Blackmoor Manor by Georgia -
- Warnings At Waverly Academy by Elizabeth -
Friday's just around the bend. Cya then.
- Novel -
Hearts Grow Fonder
I spoke briefly yesterday on the subject of Valentine's. It seems that we'll be working well into the holiday to get the TOT beta completed. This is one of those proverbial "crunch-times." Though I can almost certainly predict long days in the coming months (for bug fixes and updates) as well.
We were fortunate enough to have the distraction mentioned yesterday, but it got me thinking about love in the ND universe. Aside from Colin in The Phantom of Venice or the "beau-fiasco" in Warnings at Waverly Academy you'll almost never find romance playing a large role in our games, even though Ned is ever-present. In the books, he can sometimes be found participating first hand in all the snooping, chasing, and sleuthing. We've chosen to have him act as more of a guiding figure. He's available to provide support for his leading lady (much like the books) but he never gets any time on-stage.
Do you think we should give Ned a larger role in the games? How about a romantic mystery with Ned as a playable character?
Write back and let me know. Oh and I'll be posting more pictures soon!
-Novel-
We were fortunate enough to have the distraction mentioned yesterday, but it got me thinking about love in the ND universe. Aside from Colin in The Phantom of Venice or the "beau-fiasco" in Warnings at Waverly Academy you'll almost never find romance playing a large role in our games, even though Ned is ever-present. In the books, he can sometimes be found participating first hand in all the snooping, chasing, and sleuthing. We've chosen to have him act as more of a guiding figure. He's available to provide support for his leading lady (much like the books) but he never gets any time on-stage.
Do you think we should give Ned a larger role in the games? How about a romantic mystery with Ned as a playable character?
Write back and let me know. Oh and I'll be posting more pictures soon!
-Novel-
Wednesday, February 10, 2010
Valentine's Day Cards
We had a nice gift show up at the office today. Apparently one of our fans sent everyone in the office a personalized Valentine's Day card! I've got to say that we were truly blown away by this. You can rest assured that a gift of this magnitude will elicit a proper response. ^.^
In related news, we've been working on one or two fun Valentine's-themed content (though, I'm not much of a holiday man myself.) You'll also be pleased to know that the team has not yet been distracted by these aspirations of love and have remained true to the task at hand... TOT!
I see the puzzle is still at a standstill, so here's a tip from... well... me.
Till tomorrow. :)
- Novel -
- Fan-made cards w/ a personal greeting in each one -
In related news, we've been working on one or two fun Valentine's-themed content (though, I'm not much of a holiday man myself.) You'll also be pleased to know that the team has not yet been distracted by these aspirations of love and have remained true to the task at hand... TOT!
I see the puzzle is still at a standstill, so here's a tip from... well... me.
--
You don't need to use any math to solve this one.
--
You don't need to use any math to solve this one.
--
Till tomorrow. :)
- Novel -
Even More Entries
I've got a few more contest entries for your Wednesday. Enjoy.
Excellent stuff! See you later on.
-Novel-
-Resorting to Danger by: Maryagnes, Elinor, and Teresa -
-The Phantom of Venice by: Lisa -
Excellent stuff! See you later on.
-Novel-
Tuesday, February 9, 2010
Tuesday Check-in & An XL Hint
It's been a busy day of TOT planning. Beta is approaching so quickly! We've been working hard to get many of the kinks worked out for the big test. This is always a tense time for us. But from what I've seen of TOT, it is going to be sweet!
I asked Designer Ben to give me a hint for the weekend puzzle. This is what he had to say.
Let's see what you make of that. ^.~ Have a good one!
- Novel -
P.S. I've been having some issues with the comment box in blogger. For those of you posting I'm working on getting it fixed so I can reply to your thoughts. Bear with me. -.-
I asked Designer Ben to give me a hint for the weekend puzzle. This is what he had to say.
- Puzzle 40 Hint -
"Step one is 1 - 2. Step two is 12 x 4."
--
"Step one is 1 - 2. Step two is 12 x 4."
--
Let's see what you make of that. ^.~ Have a good one!
- Novel -
P.S. I've been having some issues with the comment box in blogger. For those of you posting I'm working on getting it fixed so I can reply to your thoughts. Bear with me. -.-
A Few Other Contest Entries
Here's a few more images from the contest that we thought were fantastic, more to come this week!
- Novel -
- Legend of the Crystal Skull by: Madlyn -
- The White Wolf of Icicle Creek (Russian) by: Julia -
Check out the winning covers here!
- The White Wolf of Icicle Creek (Russian) by: Julia -
- Novel -
Monday, February 8, 2010
Contest Winners!
I'm sure many of you have been eagerly awaiting emails and posts concerning the contest. Well right here is the first official announcement! I'm proud to announce the winner of the Cover Redesign Contest is:
We've also got five runners-up to announce! They are:
- The Phantom of Venice by: Maddy -
- Secrets Can Kill by: Erin -
- Message in a Haunted Mansion by: Emily -
- The Phantom of Venice by: Sarah -
We were delighted to do this contest and wish to thank everyone who entered. It was a pleasure to see all of the creative ideas you came up with. In fact, we loved them so much that I'll be posting a few other entries that we enjoyed through out the week as well. Ya never know, yours might pop up on the blog!
Catch you on the 'morrow.
- Novel -
- The Final Scene by: Maggie -
We've also got five runners-up to announce! They are:
- Secret of the Old Clock by: Ariessa -
- The Phantom of Venice by: Maddy -
- Secrets Can Kill by: Erin -
- Message in a Haunted Mansion by: Emily -
- The Phantom of Venice by: Sarah -
Catch you on the 'morrow.
- Novel -
Thursday, February 4, 2010
The Other Easter Eggs
It's hard to put a lot of energy into a project without adding a few extra touches of yourself. Many of our artists have passions and hobbies that permeate into their working world.
If you've played more than a few of our games, you'll know that we love to do a little "throwback" by providing names or objects from some of our older titles. It's one of the traditions we've been doing for some time now and makes for some great fun. But once in a while there's a little bit extra...
The artists are sometimes given a good amount of free reign in their environments. They'll need to create a variety of extra material to fill the game's world. Because of that, every so often, an artist will throw in a little personal flair. Maybe you'll see something reminiscent of this world in a poster for a River Heights band or as an advertisement the in latest sleuthing magazine Nancy peeks through. Some of these touches contain homage (or even parody) of real world things.
Over the years, you might be able to find more than quite a few references to "pop culture" (at the time of design of course.) I've seen some movie and song references, one or two actors and writers I recognize, as well a few tips-of-the-hat to games and books on "favorites" lists.
So keep your eyes peeled next time you play, you never know what might turn up!
- Novel -
If you've played more than a few of our games, you'll know that we love to do a little "throwback" by providing names or objects from some of our older titles. It's one of the traditions we've been doing for some time now and makes for some great fun. But once in a while there's a little bit extra...
The artists are sometimes given a good amount of free reign in their environments. They'll need to create a variety of extra material to fill the game's world. Because of that, every so often, an artist will throw in a little personal flair. Maybe you'll see something reminiscent of this world in a poster for a River Heights band or as an advertisement the in latest sleuthing magazine Nancy peeks through. Some of these touches contain homage (or even parody) of real world things.
Over the years, you might be able to find more than quite a few references to "pop culture" (at the time of design of course.) I've seen some movie and song references, one or two actors and writers I recognize, as well a few tips-of-the-hat to games and books on "favorites" lists.
So keep your eyes peeled next time you play, you never know what might turn up!
- Novel -
Wednesday, February 3, 2010
Plans Awry
I'm back on the scene (in limited capacity)! As always, props to my associates for the cover. Oh, and a big thanks to my pal Vitamin C. ^.~ I hope everyone is excited about the content so far. I'm just glad we can get you all involved a bit more.
Today's been your average day in the office. Here's the short list of topics from a few of the HI workers;
fixing bugs in TOT,
writing copy for advertisements,
programming puzzles for TOT,
creating character concepts for ND23,
and designing plot-twists and content for ND23.
I'm still sworn to silence on pretty much every topic, but I did manage to snag a photo of someone's notes...
I've been looking through the contest entries again and let me tell you, "Wow!" You guys have done an impressive job so far. I know there's a few days left to enter, so if you haven't submitted one yet, please do so. I'm really excited to post some of these next week!
Oh and before I go,here's the spoiler for puzzle 39:
- Novel -
Today's been your average day in the office. Here's the short list of topics from a few of the HI workers;
fixing bugs in TOT,
writing copy for advertisements,
programming puzzles for TOT,
creating character concepts for ND23,
and designing plot-twists and content for ND23.
I'm still sworn to silence on pretty much every topic, but I did manage to snag a photo of someone's notes...
I've been looking through the contest entries again and let me tell you, "Wow!" You guys have done an impressive job so far. I know there's a few days left to enter, so if you haven't submitted one yet, please do so. I'm really excited to post some of these next week!
Oh and before I go,here's the spoiler for puzzle 39:
- Puzzle 39 Answer -
Each pair of lines in this puzzle contains exactly 2 clues for determining the answer. I'll break it down by pair.
"One hundred and eighteen tiny lands,
span the area where this game stands."
- [ Venice has exactly 118 islands that make up the city ]
"Thirty eight parishes, one and all,
reduced once, by a short general."
- [ Napoleon once marched through the city, ending the Republic. ]
"Petrified wood holds it all in place,
building on piles in too close a space."
- [ Many parts of Venice are built on wood piles that act as foundations ]
"The damage of flood threatens today,
Guess where quick, ere it washes away."
- Many of you probably know [ Venice is sinking! ] Much of the [ city is being destroyed by rising tides ]
The other clue you can find in each pair is [ they contain exactly 18 syllables, referring to the 18th game ].
Either of these clues would help you come to this answer:
[ The Phantom of Venice ]
--
Each pair of lines in this puzzle contains exactly 2 clues for determining the answer. I'll break it down by pair.
"One hundred and eighteen tiny lands,
span the area where this game stands."
- [ Venice has exactly 118 islands that make up the city ]
"Thirty eight parishes, one and all,
reduced once, by a short general."
- [ Napoleon once marched through the city, ending the Republic. ]
"Petrified wood holds it all in place,
building on piles in too close a space."
- [ Many parts of Venice are built on wood piles that act as foundations ]
"The damage of flood threatens today,
Guess where quick, ere it washes away."
- Many of you probably know [ Venice is sinking! ] Much of the [ city is being destroyed by rising tides ]
The other clue you can find in each pair is [ they contain exactly 18 syllables, referring to the 18th game ].
Either of these clues would help you come to this answer:
[ The Phantom of Venice ]
--
- Novel -
Tuesday, February 2, 2010
Sickie Redux
Novel is out sick today :( He should be back tomorrow though.
In the meantime, we are excited to announce our Twitter quote contest. We'll put up a quote every Wednesday for our fans to identify and we'll randomly select a winner with the correct answer each week to win the Nancy Drew game of their choice. For more details on the contest, check out the Dare to Play blog. Good luck tomorrow!
~Dare to Play blogger
In the meantime, we are excited to announce our Twitter quote contest. We'll put up a quote every Wednesday for our fans to identify and we'll randomly select a winner with the correct answer each week to win the Nancy Drew game of their choice. For more details on the contest, check out the Dare to Play blog. Good luck tomorrow!
~Dare to Play blogger
Monday, February 1, 2010
Ease of Access
Hello, hello!
We've got some neat stuff this week. We're kicking off our daily updates to HI.com! Now we'll be posting something new each day. I'll give you a little cheat sheet you can refer to:
Monday - Download of the week
Tuesday - Dare to Play blog post
Wednesday - Twitter Contest
Thursday - Current News
Friday - Weekend Puzzle
If you're wondering what the "Twitter Contest" in the middle there is, well I'm not allowed to spoil the fun. You'll learn all the "ins and outs" tomorrow. I can say that it is a weekly contest we're going to start running.
So the weekend puzzle, huh? Perhaps a tad too easy? Designer Ben is ready to turn up the heat and promises me a devilishly difficult puzzle this Friday. From the boards, I can see you are more than ready for the challenge. ^.^
- Novel -
We've got some neat stuff this week. We're kicking off our daily updates to HI.com! Now we'll be posting something new each day. I'll give you a little cheat sheet you can refer to:
Monday - Download of the week
Tuesday - Dare to Play blog post
Wednesday - Twitter Contest
Thursday - Current News
Friday - Weekend Puzzle
If you're wondering what the "Twitter Contest" in the middle there is, well I'm not allowed to spoil the fun. You'll learn all the "ins and outs" tomorrow. I can say that it is a weekly contest we're going to start running.
So the weekend puzzle, huh? Perhaps a tad too easy? Designer Ben is ready to turn up the heat and promises me a devilishly difficult puzzle this Friday. From the boards, I can see you are more than ready for the challenge. ^.^
- Novel -
Friday, January 29, 2010
Weekend Puzzle 39
Woo hoo weekends! Here's the puzzle to close out this Friday.
- Puzzle 39 -
One hundred and eighteen tiny lands,
span the area where this game stands.
Thirty eight parishes, one and all,
reduced once, by a short general.
Petrified wood holds it all in place,
building on piles in too close a space.
The damage of flood threatens today,
Guess where quick, ere it washes away.
--
One hundred and eighteen tiny lands,
span the area where this game stands.
Thirty eight parishes, one and all,
reduced once, by a short general.
Petrified wood holds it all in place,
building on piles in too close a space.
The damage of flood threatens today,
Guess where quick, ere it washes away.
--
Good luck to everyone! Cya next week. ^.^
- Novel -
- Novel -
Thursday, January 28, 2010
En Route
With all the hubbub around the Cover Contest, we've been thinking about packaging a lot... in particular, TOT. No, I don't have any concepts to show you just yet, sorry. :(
I would like to jaw a bit about an early aspect of the process, choosing a color.
For each game we pick a color to help reinforce thematic or artistic elements of the game. You'll notice that all of our other titles have borders that reflect one of these two items. What I'd like to know is what color you conjure when you think about Trail of the Twister.
Considering what you already know; (spoilers ahead) [ Oklahoma setting, tornadoes, sabotage... ] what color would you suggest for the game?
I'm thinking maybe a dark red; good compliment to a sunlit landscape (which are plentiful in the game's locale) plus you could tie in a nice passion/anger theme to compliment a motive for the crime. Send me your ideas, I'd love to hear them.
- Novel -
I would like to jaw a bit about an early aspect of the process, choosing a color.
For each game we pick a color to help reinforce thematic or artistic elements of the game. You'll notice that all of our other titles have borders that reflect one of these two items. What I'd like to know is what color you conjure when you think about Trail of the Twister.
Considering what you already know; (spoilers ahead) [ Oklahoma setting, tornadoes, sabotage... ] what color would you suggest for the game?
I'm thinking maybe a dark red; good compliment to a sunlit landscape (which are plentiful in the game's locale) plus you could tie in a nice passion/anger theme to compliment a motive for the crime. Send me your ideas, I'd love to hear them.
- Novel -
Wednesday, January 27, 2010
Meeting Us
If you came to visit right now, you might think all we do is have meetings. And you'd be mostly right. Somewhere in this great machine we have amazing people designing characters that actually live and breathe in Nancy's world, or developing new puzzles for a Nancy-caliber intellect (AKA "you.") For a few of us, this means we get to observe on the fringes and compliment their work by shouting out requests.
Marketing can have a tremendous impact on design from the sidelines, nudging the "brain-trust" with a slight wave and a loud voice. How? Well, one tried and true method we love is, to ask what you like and figure out how to make it a reality! We have many discussions on how to improve content and gameplay, and much of it spurs from commentary and critiques that you give us. This week has been deeply steeped in this kind of activity.
- Novel -
Marketing can have a tremendous impact on design from the sidelines, nudging the "brain-trust" with a slight wave and a loud voice. How? Well, one tried and true method we love is, to ask what you like and figure out how to make it a reality! We have many discussions on how to improve content and gameplay, and much of it spurs from commentary and critiques that you give us. This week has been deeply steeped in this kind of activity.
- "Marketing Approved, Paternally Recommended" -
- Novel -
Tuesday, January 26, 2010
Aussies are Awesome
If you think today is just another day, you’re only half right. I’d be remiss in my duties if I didn’t point out a rather grand celebration happening on the Southern Hemisphere.
Today is Australia Day! People all over are celebrating the beginnings of nationhood in the land “Down Under!” For a land with such diversity and culture, it’s no wonder so many of us are enamored with its beauty. You can be certain we’ve had more than our fair share of requests for an Australian ND mystery. (Terror in the Outback, anyone?) And trust me when I say we’re fans ourselves. ^.~
If you’ve had a hankerin’ to learn more about the island nation, today is a great day to check it out.
Whether your celebrating or not, be sure to make today a good one!
- Novel -
Today is Australia Day! People all over are celebrating the beginnings of nationhood in the land “Down Under!” For a land with such diversity and culture, it’s no wonder so many of us are enamored with its beauty. You can be certain we’ve had more than our fair share of requests for an Australian ND mystery. (Terror in the Outback, anyone?) And trust me when I say we’re fans ourselves. ^.~
If you’ve had a hankerin’ to learn more about the island nation, today is a great day to check it out.
Whether your celebrating or not, be sure to make today a good one!
- Novel -
Monday, January 25, 2010
Solving A Monday
Monday rides again. We're back in the working world, heading steadily towards a future full of sleuthing possibilities, in games and stories alike. I hope everyone is getting on well. This week is brimming with potential, and we'll just have to see what I can unleash. ^.^
I'll start off light by congratulating the puzzle-players. It looks like you all solved the weekend puzzle in record time! Here's a quick explanation:
Kudos to everyone! I'm out. ^.~
- Novel -
I'll start off light by congratulating the puzzle-players. It looks like you all solved the weekend puzzle in record time! Here's a quick explanation:
- Puzzle 38 Answer -
10: 010100 001111 010100
(or)
1000: 24 17 24
(or)
10000: 14 0F 14
We've given you three options to determining the solution (this way you could check your answer.)
For the first one, "10" you need to use [ binary - to determine what the numbers equal. ] You can convert the numbers shown to [ 20, 15, 20 ] which can be translated to [ TOT ]
For the second possibility, "1000" you must use [ octal notation to convert the numbers. ] You'll end up with the same three, [ 20, 15, 20 or TOT ]
The last selection, "10000" uses [ hexadecimal. ] Translate the characters once again into [ 20, 15, 20 ] and you'll have solved all three.
[ TOT ] can also be expressed as [ Trail of the Twister ]
--
10: 010100 001111 010100
(or)
1000: 24 17 24
(or)
10000: 14 0F 14
We've given you three options to determining the solution (this way you could check your answer.)
For the first one, "10" you need to use [ binary - to determine what the numbers equal. ] You can convert the numbers shown to [ 20, 15, 20 ] which can be translated to [ TOT ]
For the second possibility, "1000" you must use [ octal notation to convert the numbers. ] You'll end up with the same three, [ 20, 15, 20 or TOT ]
The last selection, "10000" uses [ hexadecimal. ] Translate the characters once again into [ 20, 15, 20 ] and you'll have solved all three.
[ TOT ] can also be expressed as [ Trail of the Twister ]
--
Kudos to everyone! I'm out. ^.~
- Novel -
Friday, January 22, 2010
Puzzle Thirty-Eight
I hope your Friday has been spiffy. Here's the weekly puzzle to keep you on your game!
- Puzzle #38 -
10: 010100 001111 010100
(Or)
1000: 24 17 24
(Or)
10000: 14 0F 14
--
10: 010100 001111 010100
(Or)
1000: 24 17 24
(Or)
10000: 14 0F 14
--
Good luck and have a great weekend!
- Novel -
- Novel -
Thursday, January 21, 2010
What to do...
I hate to say it, but the week has been pretty... bland... We've been doing lots of research this month, trying to determine what kinds of things we want to try and accomplish this year. I imagine the D2P blog has hinted at it a bit.
We're working hard to come up with the best content for you all to enjoy! It can be a challenge trying to figure out what we really want to do to improve our games, and if we can actually do it. Every department has to face this challenge. Whether it's creating new features (like the cell phone camera in WAC) or adding more character animations, we've got to plan it all out ahead of time to make sure we can fit it in without stopping any of the things you all enjoy. It's a delicate balance, but in the end, it all pays off. ;)
As for yesterday's question, it certainly looks like thin mints are in the lead. I suppose that's to be expected. Now if only they made some sort of KoKo Kringle product...
Congratulations on solving the puzzle #37! You can see how it's done below. We'll have another great puzzle tomorrow, so be sure to come back then!
We're working hard to come up with the best content for you all to enjoy! It can be a challenge trying to figure out what we really want to do to improve our games, and if we can actually do it. Every department has to face this challenge. Whether it's creating new features (like the cell phone camera in WAC) or adding more character animations, we've got to plan it all out ahead of time to make sure we can fit it in without stopping any of the things you all enjoy. It's a delicate balance, but in the end, it all pays off. ;)
As for yesterday's question, it certainly looks like thin mints are in the lead. I suppose that's to be expected. Now if only they made some sort of KoKo Kringle product...
Congratulations on solving the puzzle #37! You can see how it's done below. We'll have another great puzzle tomorrow, so be sure to come back then!
- Answer to Puzzle #37 -
'Next to att--, th-s syste- he-- s----ar va-ue.'
You need to figure out which Nancy Drew game this is referring to. To start you need to determine [ the missing letters using a little guess work. ] Eventually you can break down the possible answers to [ Next to attic, this system held similar value. ]
This gives us another clue to solving the puzzle, [ Attic ] is a [ numbering ] system that has roots similar to that of [ Roman numerals. ]
If you paid close attention you'll notice that [ all of the letters removed were roman numerals. ]
Lastly you can see that [ two numerals were left in the original message, X and V. ] Add them together and you get [15, and the 15th game was... ]
[ The Creature of Kapu Cave ]
'Next to att--, th-s syste- he-- s----ar va-ue.'
You need to figure out which Nancy Drew game this is referring to. To start you need to determine [ the missing letters using a little guess work. ] Eventually you can break down the possible answers to [ Next to attic, this system held similar value. ]
This gives us another clue to solving the puzzle, [ Attic ] is a [ numbering ] system that has roots similar to that of [ Roman numerals. ]
If you paid close attention you'll notice that [ all of the letters removed were roman numerals. ]
Lastly you can see that [ two numerals were left in the original message, X and V. ] Add them together and you get [15, and the 15th game was... ]
[ The Creature of Kapu Cave ]
Bye-O!
- Novel -
- Novel -
Wednesday, January 20, 2010
Cookies, what else is there?
Thank goodness for Wednesday! There was a small invitation on the counter today and soon we'll be in cookie bliss. Cookies and making games, there's nothing better. Don't let anyone fool you, they go together like peanut butter and jelly.
Quick quiz though: What's the HI favorite Girl Scout brand of cookie? (here's a hint)
Have you got a favorite?
Yup, we've got two unrestrained passions here at the HQ; baked goods and Nancy Drew. ^.~
BTW, we're putting out a newsletter today, check it out!
Puzzle 37 is still unsolved, but very very close to being done.
Quick quiz though: What's the HI favorite Girl Scout brand of cookie? (here's a hint)
Have you got a favorite?
Yup, we've got two unrestrained passions here at the HQ; baked goods and Nancy Drew. ^.~
BTW, we're putting out a newsletter today, check it out!
Puzzle 37 is still unsolved, but very very close to being done.
- Hint Puzzle 37 -
It's not about what is missing, it's about what isn't.
--
It's not about what is missing, it's about what isn't.
--
- Novel (el) -
Tuesday, January 19, 2010
Nothing and notes on #37
I overheard the art department talking about outtakes this morning. Sounds like they're putting some excellent goodies into TOT. To be frank, I'm a huge fan of outtakes. Yep, I'm that guy that stays in his seat after the movie is over just to see if there's a little extra. Often, they're in that weird space between humor and professionalism that life tends to bend towards anyway. I just have to appreciate that! :P But enough about my tastes, what about you?
Are there any outtake sequences from ND that you think are wonderful?
Are there any outtake sequences from ND that you think are wonderful?
-- Hint for #37 --
If you notice what isn't there and why, then you'll see what I left hidden in plain sight.
--
If you notice what isn't there and why, then you'll see what I left hidden in plain sight.
--
Keep on movin' and groovin'!
- Novel -
- Novel -
Monday, January 18, 2010
Working Titles
Welcome back to the week. We had a thought-filled weekend, some in office, some in home. I noticed some great discussions on the Message boards. I love the lively chatter. Also there's been a great deal of entries for the Cover redesign contest along with many, many questions. I'll keep answering the questions if you all keep up the good work, so far they're awesome!
I started today running down lists of probable ND23 titles. The big question I always face is, 'do we throw caution to the wind and leap at a new formula, or do we stick with the same ol' thing?' If you look at the line of titles in the past, The Creature of Kapu Cave, The Phantom of Venice, Secret of the Scarlet Hand, you can see a similar kind of skeleton in their design. While I'm all for new and innovating, the tried and true method isn't always a bad thing. In fact one of my favorite titles is Ransom of the Seven Ships. And to think I always thought titling would be an easy job.
As a news bump, I just wanted to let everyone know we'll be releasing a newsletter this week, so keep your eyes peeled.
The puzzlers seem to be doing well. I'm going to give you all another day to mull things over before posting a hint on puzzle 37. But I will post the spoiler to 36, check it out below.
I started today running down lists of probable ND23 titles. The big question I always face is, 'do we throw caution to the wind and leap at a new formula, or do we stick with the same ol' thing?' If you look at the line of titles in the past, The Creature of Kapu Cave, The Phantom of Venice, Secret of the Scarlet Hand, you can see a similar kind of skeleton in their design. While I'm all for new and innovating, the tried and true method isn't always a bad thing. In fact one of my favorite titles is Ransom of the Seven Ships. And to think I always thought titling would be an easy job.
As a news bump, I just wanted to let everyone know we'll be releasing a newsletter this week, so keep your eyes peeled.
The puzzlers seem to be doing well. I'm going to give you all another day to mull things over before posting a hint on puzzle 37. But I will post the spoiler to 36, check it out below.
-Puzzle 36 Solution -
the Earthward Rife Ethos knew Faraway Sometime Lint Tot before Goaded Wheel Unlit.
This puzzle is solved using [ anagrams ] They are broken into [ 3 parts. ] The lower case words are indicators that [ they are already correct, and that an anagram appears between them ]
First: [ Earthward Rife Ethos = hardware store thief ]
Second: [ Faraway Sometime Lint Tot = it was only a matter of time ]
Third: [ Goaded Wheel Unlit = he would get nailed ]
Put them all together and you get:
[ The hardware store thief knew it was only a matter of time before he would get nailed. ]
--
the Earthward Rife Ethos knew Faraway Sometime Lint Tot before Goaded Wheel Unlit.
This puzzle is solved using [ anagrams ] They are broken into [ 3 parts. ] The lower case words are indicators that [ they are already correct, and that an anagram appears between them ]
First: [ Earthward Rife Ethos = hardware store thief ]
Second: [ Faraway Sometime Lint Tot = it was only a matter of time ]
Third: [ Goaded Wheel Unlit = he would get nailed ]
Put them all together and you get:
[ The hardware store thief knew it was only a matter of time before he would get nailed. ]
--
There's something entrancing in short mini-mysteries, particularly with puns. Congrats to those who stuck with it. Good luck on 37!
- Novel -
P.S. Thanks for bearing with, on all the Contest questions. I'm thinking perhaps I should do a secondary FAQ blog post. :P
- Novel -
P.S. Thanks for bearing with, on all the Contest questions. I'm thinking perhaps I should do a secondary FAQ blog post. :P
Friday, January 15, 2010
Weekend Puzzle 37
Today was very, very busy. But I did manage to track down a new puzzle even if it is slightly promotional. But hey, aren't most of them? :P Good luck
-- Puzzle 37 --
What game am I?
'Next to att--, th-s syste- he-- s----ar va-ue.'
What game am I?
'Next to att--, th-s syste- he-- s----ar va-ue.'
--
Congrats to those who solved Puzzle 36. I didn't think you'd grab it by Friday, kudos! I'll spoil the solution next week. See ya Monday!
- Novel -
Congrats to those who solved Puzzle 36. I didn't think you'd grab it by Friday, kudos! I'll spoil the solution next week. See ya Monday!
- Novel -
Thursday, January 14, 2010
Goal Tending
We've been working today to help create more content updates for you all. That means more consistency with D2P blog posts, newsletters, and downloadables on the website. You'll be able to set you watch by the site (logistically speaking.) I'm hoping that we can add a few new things too, like dev blogs and bonus game content. But who knows, it's still early in the year and our heads are in the clouds. You can expect good things though.
I see there's been quite a hubbub on the contest. Hopefully I've been able to answer questions in a timely manner. I've already seen a few covers come in to the mail box (digitally) and I'm eagerly awaiting the next few visual morsels. You all never cease to amaze me, keep up the good work.
As for the puzzle, I can't help but want to keep you on the right track. So I'll let you see this:
I see there's been quite a hubbub on the contest. Hopefully I've been able to answer questions in a timely manner. I've already seen a few covers come in to the mail box (digitally) and I'm eagerly awaiting the next few visual morsels. You all never cease to amaze me, keep up the good work.
As for the puzzle, I can't help but want to keep you on the right track. So I'll let you see this:
-Puzzle 36 Hint -
The (H_) (S_) (_F) Knew (_T) (W_) (O_) (A) (M_) (_F) (T_) (Before) (_E) (W_) (G_) (_D)
--
The (H_) (S_) (_F) Knew (_T) (W_) (O_) (A) (M_) (_F) (T_) (Before) (_E) (W_) (G_) (_D)
--
Tomorrow is the finish line, I'll see ya there.
- Novel -
- Novel -
Wednesday, January 13, 2010
Delayed Photos
I've been so spaced that I forgot to post some pictures I took last week. I think now is as good a time as any. These are from the TOT recording session I went to on Thursday. It was quite the experience, and I remember the original Amateur Sleuth, Brandon, getting to hang out for a session as well. But this time, all the vocal actors were from HI! We had designer Cathy, producer Robert, and even programmers Alex and James, stop by and lend a hand at some voice overs. I don't think I'm allowed to spoil anything just yet, but I'm sure you'll soon be tuning in.
- "Check one... Check... Check..."
There's been only slight movement on Puzzle 36. So I figure I'll give you this little bit: The sole post on the MB is the best place to start. Perhaps that'll inspire the answer to come stepping out. ^.^
-Novel-
- The audio master at work -
- "Check one... Check... Check..."
-Novel-
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