Freddi Fish 1: The Case of the Missing Kelp Seeds

Sometimes, we tend to forget that there are family-friendly point-and-click adventure games. Freddi Fish 1: The Case of the Missing Kelp Seeds is one of them - a colorful adventure that even young children can enjoy. So what's this game about a young yellow fish and his sea creature friends all about, then?

Freddi Fish 1: The Case of the Missing Kelp Seeds puts players in the shoes (fins?) of Freddi Fish. This lad is a young upstart grouper who's a self-proclaimed detective unraveling the ocean's mysteries. Lucky for us, there are a lot of fascinating stories and things to discover in the great blue deep. So what does this debut of young Freddi have in store for us?

Grouper P.I.

A great sadness has struck the Atlantic Ocean when Freddi Fish pays a visit to his Grandma Grouper. Her treasure chest of kelp seeds has been stolen, and nobody knows why anybody would commit such a heinous crime. However, Freddi is determined to go out and find the culprit and return the trove of beloved kelp seeds to the sea's matriarch.

This sets up the premise of this point-and-click adventure game. You'll travel through the sea, meeting new friends, learning new tricks, finding clues, and clicking on things excessively. It's the standard genre mechanics, but it's set in the most enchanting aquatic world that even the grumpiest of gamers can't help but fall in love with.

Yes, the mechanics are pretty simple, and gameplay will not get particularly challenging. But some of the puzzles in the game are tricky enough that there's a sense of satisfaction completing them, no matter how old you are. Let's not forget the story, too, is entertaining for young children but nostalgic of Saturday morning cartoons if you are a little older.

Naturally, with kids' games, there's a bit of educational material thrown in, some brain teasers, bits and bobs of silliness, and gameplay elements that feel redundant. However, the more dull aspects of Freddi Fish 1: The Case of the Missing Kelp Seeds don't take away from its charming little adventure game.

The Sea is for Everyone

Rarely can you say there's a point-and-click adventure game welcoming to everyone of all ages? While it's unlikely that you'll play Freddi Fish 1: The Case of the Missing Kelp Seeds as an adult yourself, that doesn't mean that you won't get a fair bit of enjoyment. I mean, it's not called the thinking power required in games like Where in the World is Carmen Sandiego, but it works!

Round-Up - Pros & Cons

Pros:

• A lighthearted adventure game for all ages
• Diversity in gameplay with various puzzles and minigames
• Charming storyline

Cons:

• Older players will find the game easy
• Some of the characters can get a bit obnoxious
• Short playtime