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Sherlock Holmes: The Awakened (2008)

PC (Microsoft Windows) • 2009

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Quick resume

The Sherlock Holmes series returns with this updated version of The Awakened, which brings a whole new dimension to the original title developed by Frogwares. The game puts the player into an investigation of the Cthulhu Mythos - as imagined by Father of modern horror, H.P. Lovecraft.

Global score

74/100

Genres

Adventure

Pros

  • Engaging lovecraftian mystery story
  • Challenging and varied puzzles
  • Atmospheric and immersive locations
  • Option to switch between first and third person views
  • Built-in hint system to assist players

Cons

  • Dated graphics and animations
  • Linear progression requiring specific task order
  • Some unintuitive puzzle solutions
  • Lack of autosave and occasional bugs
  • Limited replay value

Motivations

  • Autonomy
    3

    "Players can explore locations at their own pace, switch between first and third person views, and choose how to approach puzzles, though progression is linear and requires completing tasks in a specific order."

  • Competence
    3

    "The game features a variety of puzzles ranging from easy to very challenging, requiring logical thinking and deduction, with a built-in hint system to assist players."

  • Competition
    -5

    "The game is a single-player narrative adventure with no competitive elements or player comparison."

  • Continuation
    2

    "Players report spending around 7-9 hours to complete the game, with some replay value limited; the engaging story and puzzles encourage continued play during a session."

  • Cooperation
    -5

    "The game is a single-player experience focused on individual investigation and puzzle solving."

  • Creativity
    2

    "Players combine clues and solve puzzles creatively, but the game follows a linear narrative with predefined environments and story."

  • Domination
    -5

    "No social dominance or power dynamics are present; interactions are limited to scripted NPC dialogues."

  • Escapism
    4

    "The dark, atmospheric Lovecraftian mystery offers immersive escapism from reality, with players engaging in a fictional detective story."

  • Expectation
    -4

    "Players engage voluntarily out of interest in Sherlock Holmes and mystery adventures, with no indication of obligation or external pressure."

  • Experimenting
    2

    "Players experiment with clues, puzzle solutions, and exploration, though within a structured and linear game design."

  • Exploration
    3

    "The game encourages exploration of varied locations including London, New Orleans, Switzerland, and more, with hidden clues and interactive objects."

  • Expression
    -5

    "Character and environment customization is absent; players use fixed avatars and settings."

  • Fantasy
    3

    "The game blends realistic detective work with Lovecraftian supernatural themes, creating a fictional and imaginative narrative."

  • Fellowship
    -5

    "The experience is solitary with minimal social interaction beyond NPC dialogues."

  • Growth
    3

    "Players develop problem-solving skills and deductive reasoning through challenging puzzles and investigation."

  • Health
    -5

    "The game involves sedentary play with no physical activity or health-related features."

  • Idle
    -3

    "The game requires focused attention to solve puzzles and progress; it is not designed for casual or background play."

  • Intimacy
    -5

    "No close social relationships or emotional sharing occur; interactions are limited to scripted NPC conversations."

  • Leadership
    -5

    "No leadership or group management mechanics are present; the player acts independently."

  • Progression
    3

    "Players collect clues, items, and information to advance the story and solve the mystery."

  • Relaxation
    1

    "The game balances moments of tension with puzzle solving and exploration, providing moderate relaxation through engagement."

  • Sensation
    2

    "The atmospheric audio, voice acting, and eerie visuals provide sensory stimulation and emotional engagement."

  • Status
    -5

    "Achievements and social recognition are minimal or absent; focus is on individual experience."

  • Story
    4

    "The game features a strong narrative with a Lovecraftian mystery and Sherlock Holmes investigation, engaging players in story immersion."

  • Strategy
    3

    "Players use logic, deduction, and planning to solve puzzles and progress through the investigation."

  • Thrill
    3

    "The dark, suspenseful atmosphere and challenging puzzles create moments of tension and relief."

  • Value
    3

    "Players find good value in the game's length, story, and puzzle content, especially when purchased on sale or as part of a bundle."

  • Violence
    1

    "The game includes some graphic and gore elements related to the mystery, but combat or destruction is minimal."

  • Survival
    1

    "Players must avoid failure in puzzles and progress carefully, though there is no traditional survival gameplay."

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    Last update: 06/03/2026