Computer Game

[la_samtyr]

This is an older game but if anyone knows where I might get/buy a copy, I would appreciate it.

http://www.bookpage.com/newmedia/fall95/louiscatorze.html

Louis Cat Orze
The Mystery of the Queen's Necklace
IVI Publishing
Review by James Neal Webb

Louis Cat Orze is a CD-ROM history lesson cleverly designed as a mystery. The Queen's necklace has been stolen, and you, the trusty investigator, have a short six days to track down the thief. The Royal Palace at Versailles is the scene of the crime. Aided by the mischievous Louis Cat Orze, a feline of royal descent if there ever was one, you must explore the palace and the surrounding countryside, listen in on conversations, and occasionally pick a pocket. Louis Cat Orze isn't a free ride, though-fees must be paid, palms greased, and while you begin the game with a certain amount of livres, you have to investigate thoroughly and learn about the era in order to earn more. Or you can try your hand at the Palace Games to increase (or decrease) your purse. Once you think you know the identity of the thief, you can present your accusation to the king-if you can afford to see him, and if you haven't been thrown into the Bastille!

Louis Cat Orze has its share of pitfalls; some of these you learn by doing, and some are buried in the manual (read it completely). You'll need to listen carefully to understand what's going on (I took notes), for what people say can lead you in different directions-some are plausible dead ends, but some will be of real value. You can't solve the mystery simply by poking around; you have to think. That's the beauty of Louis Cat Orze. Learning about the 17th century is the only way you'll win; how's that for learning motivation? Solving the mystery is a two-edged sword, though. Once you've done it, that's it. You can't replay with a "new thief"; on the other hand, the "Library" section of the game is a ready reference on the 17th century any time you need it.

A word about Louis Cat Orze's animation. The drawings are somewhat cartoonish and the animation is minimal, but I don't think this detracts from the game; this isn't a bang-bang-shoot-'em-up (thank goodness), which use up most of their disk storage on visuals-all they stimulate is your reaction time. Louis Cat Orze deals with information, and while the colorful illustrations are humorous and historically accurate, information is what it takes to win this game.

I've really been enjoying Louis Cat Orze (and no, I haven't solved it yet - and am in no hurry to, either); my 15 year old is beginning to show an interest, and while my 11 year old could not care less since nothing gets blasted, I have a feeling that may change when school starts. Louis Cat Orze is for any age, for anyone with a penchant for mystery and an interest in history. Check it out.

James Neal Webb operates his own computer graphics business in Nashville, Tennessee.

For PC: 386/25 MHz or better, 8MB RAM, Windows 3.1 or higher, double-speed CD-ROM, 256-color VGA card (640x480), sound card, speakers, hard disk, mouse

For MAC: 5 MB RAM (8 MB recommended), System 7.0.1 or higher, 13" monitor, double speed CD-ROM, speakers, mouse