Nightshift Legacy: The Jaguar's Eye is a hidden object game that follows its prequel Nightshift Code closely in terms of style and story. Join Mike and Isabel as they travel through the jungles of Guatemala, across Spain and to the streets of Moscow researching the mystery of the ancient Jaguar's Eye.

Gameplay is very straightforward and offers an alternating experience between hidden object scenes and a variety of mini-games. You'll start in the jungle examining the site of a plane crash but quickly move to a number of more varied locations. Mini-games are tied directly to the story and are often more puzzle-like in nature. For example, the first one you'll encounter tasks you with completing a "translation" of the Jaguar's Eye codex by marking possibilities on a grid using a series of clues, similar to picross (though without the numbers).

Between levels you'll get an update on Mike and Isabel's quest via a series of comic book-style cutscenes. These are easily some of the most entertaining parts of the game, as both main characters have a good sense of humor and always seem to fall into the worst of situations. It's the kind of cheesy adventure Indiana Jones fans will definitely appreciate!

Analysis: What made Nightshift Code so entertaining is exactly the same thing as what makes Nightshift Legacy worth playing: atmosphere and story. Neither offer any great advances in gameplay, but the main characters are interesting and the plot (though a bit contrived) really holds your attention.

In terms of difficulty and length, I have a one-word answer that satisfies both questions: medium. The game isn't too difficult, and you'll likely breeze through much of the hidden object portions as well as the mini-games without too much trouble. And while 42 levels looks good on paper, when nothing really stumps you for very long, they go by in an afternoon or two without much problem.

A good gameplay experience suited for casual hidden object finders coupled with a fun setting and story. Nightshift Legacy: The Jaguar's Eye is an excellent game to pick up as a relaxing weekend project. You might also want to try the first game in the series, Nightshift Code (Mac/Windows)

Windows:
Download the demo
Order the full version

Mac OS X:
Download the demo
Order the full version