A Puzzle Not Yet Fully Solved
As with all rookies, they can be rough at some spots or lacking the finesse of a seasoned pro. Nelson Tethers : Puzzle Agent is not a bad game by any means, it just needs more time in the works.
Story
The folks at Telltale decide to leave the busy streets of New York in Sam & Max, for a more serene, quiet location of Scoggis, Minnesota.Our hero is the head of the F.B.I. Puzzle Research Division, agent Nelson Tethers, who must go on a mission of national interest: reopening the eraser factory which supplies the White House.Upon arriving, Nelson finds out that many of the townsfolk heads are filled either by puzzles, or stories of strange little red people, or both.With the town sheriff anything but cooperative, it's up to agent Tethers to save the factory, and solve the mystery of the missing foreman, Isaac Davner.The story is good, but a bit stale.The Twin Peaks Vibe is in full effect here, and helps you motivate for pushing forward.Sadly, some of the voice work is not up to Telltale standards yet, and seem stale and uninteresting.
Graphics
The unique look of the game of Graham Annable's art and stop motion movement is really well done.The puzzles themselves are also in this style,and make for a coherent ambiance from start to the end.This game knows it's strengths and plays them well.
Gameplay
With movement constricted to just point and click, the puzzles are the main attraction and the measuring stick for Puzzle Agent.Some of the puzzles are pretty good, with clever solutions.Just don't expect anything that new or awe inspiring.The Professor Layton rope puzzles are present here as well.Sadly, some of the rules of puzzles are not explained and that really ruins the harder ones later.
Verdict
Telltale first venture into puzzle games is decent one.The style and fell of the game are great, but the issues with the rules of some puzzles can ruin the experience.The rookie shows signs great potential, but it is yet to be seen if he can play with the big boys.
