Lemony Snicket’s A Series of Unfortunate Events Preview

The wit is dry; the tale unfolds with a sense of casual foreboding, and game players are consistently forewarned of the peril ahead.

Lemony Snicket’s A Series of Unfortunate Events is an Activision/Amaze Entertainment release for all major gaming platforms that is tied into the upcoming film. The game traces the misadventures of three orphans who have been sent off to different guardians but who are pursued by their ruthless uncle, Count Olaf, who is intent on securing the family fortune.

In the context of the game, the orphans must outsmart their uncle and his nefarious, but slightly comical, henchmen. Each orphan brings unique gifts to the team, which will be applicable as the tale unfolds. The oldest is an inventor, the middle child has a knack for solving puzzles and the youngest has very sharp teeth.

There are more than 20 missions in this “delightfully miserable adventure,” based on the first three of the series of popular children’s books.

The game will allow players to switch between the three Baudelaire orphans during the course of the game, employing their talents within the team dynamic to win through the game. From surviving through spooky houses to inventing their way around traps, this is a game that will challenge players to employ their brains as much as their reflexes.

The environments employ a bit of the maze philosophy for levels, and the games graphics are solid with strong animation. But the real star of this game is the storyline and the delightful way in which it is told.

Lemony Snicket’s A Series of Unfortunate Events may be a nice treat for the eyes, but the real charm of this title lays in the way it tickles the ears. Sly, understated, and richly worded, this is a title that players may have the ‘unfortunate’ enjoyment of discovering and playing.