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*GAME TITLE*
"Blackbird - Hero Of The Vale!"
*GENRE*
3D Action/Strategy Fantasy Adventure.
*BACK OF THE BOX* [what it would say]:
"Venture into England's green and pleasant land in this unique action/strategy adventure!
Seeing through the beady eyes of a benevolent blackbird, you must solve puzzles, help people and animals in distress, and generally become a master of your environment!
Play through 3 action-packed modes consisting of 18 diverse strategy-based missions!
Fly at high speed around the huge and richly detailed landscape!
Co-operate with other animals to complete objectives!
Gain reputation points and become the hero of the vale!
So are you ready to be the coolest blackbird in the land? You bet your yellow beak you are!"
*BOX COVER ART*
A cheeky-looking blackbird perched on a branch with a glint in his eye. In the background is a dark church spire, rolling hills, a setting sun, a crescent moon, and a rainbow. Oh, and a shooting star. [I like overkill.]
*GAME ENVIRONMENT*
A sleepy vale in Yorkshire comprising of a small village, fields and streams, woodland areas, meadows, isolated farm houses, and various quaint animal and human characters.
*GRAPHICAL STYLE*
Lots of green, brown, grey and pale yellow hues all done in a slightly fey yet realistic "crayon/pastel" style.
*LEAD CHARACTER*
A blackbird.
"The blackbird with no name".
*CAMERA VIEW*
In-game there would be several perspectives by which to view the blackbird, but the main viewpoints would be third-person [or third-bird] view, and first-person.
The third-person view would be in effect when the blackbird is airborne: the camera would be fixed behind and follow the blackbird's flight.
When the blackbird lands, the camera would switch to the first-person view, and when the blackbird looks about and surveys its environment, the graphics would take on a dreamy/blurry appearance.
*MUSIC*
The soundtrack would shift between atmospheric syntherized chords layered with bells and flutes, to orcestrated fast-paced classical stuff for the "dangerous" moments.
*GAME MODES*
[1] *Danger & Survival* - Using a time limit format, successfully complete eight danger-based missions.
[2] *Good-will & Frolic* - Using a time limit format, successfully complete eight fun-based objectives.
[3] *Free-flight* - A chill-out mode wherein you can fly around and explore the detailed gameworld with no time restriction or danger. Hidden within the landscape are 100 precious collectables - from glinting 50 pence pieces to items of jewellry - if you find them all "Blackbird Invincibility" will be unlocked.
[4] *Replay* - Watch a successful mission from various dynamic camera angles.
[5] *Bonus* - Three bonus games unlocked on completion of "Danger & Survival" and "Good-will & Frolic".
*REPUTATION POINTS SYSTEM*
On completion of each mission Reputation Points will be awarded. If you complete a mission within the time limit, double Reputation Points will be awarded and the blackbird's energy bar will be increased.
* * * * *
*DANGER & SURVIVAL MODE IN DETAIL*
-Mission 1: THE EARLY BIRD CATCHES THE WORM.
Time: dawn.
Weather: light drizzle.
Mission overview: There are ten oblivious worms waiting to be dug up and eaten on ten different front lawns. One worm per front lawn. Your mission is to fly to and land on each front lawn in turn, locate, dig up and eat all ten worms within the time limit. But beware: the one-eyed milkman is on his rounds, and he hates blackbirds - [something to do with a freak childhood accident caused by a spooked blackbird and a garden rake.]
-Mission 2: DAILY BREAD.
Time: early morning.
Weather: clear and sunny.
Mission overview: Collect a minimum of 75% of the bread pieces scattered about in Mrs Tweed's back garden within the time limit. But beware: Mrs Tweed's cats "Tiddles & Smokey" are on the prowl.
-Mission 3: PUB LUNCH.
Time: midday.
Weather: hot and sunny.
Mission overview: It's a summer's day, and many of the villagers are enjoying lunch at tables outside the local pub. Your mission is to swoop into the diners and steal as many scraps of food as you can within the time limit. But beware: the pub's customers will attempt to throw the contents of their pint glasses over you, and the angry landlord will swipe at you with a broomstick. Three hits from either will reduce your energy bar to zero.
-Mission 4: RUNAWAY TRACTOR.
Time: mid afternoon.
Weather: hot and humid.
Mission overview: Farmer Giles has fallen out of his tractor and the vehicle is still in motion running out of control. Your mission is to prevent the tractor from crashing into the Vicar's greenhouses. Within the time limit you must shift twenty bails of hay in front of the greenhouses and stop the tractor from causing any damage. But beware: you must also risk your life and rescue several oblivious hedgehogs who are in the runaway tractor's path.
-Mission 5: FOIL THE ILLEGAL STAG HUNTERS.
Time: late afternoon.
Weather: foggy.
Mission overview: Two hunters are stalking a stag with rifles on land where hunting is prohibited. Your mission is to foil the hunters' immoral intentions. Before the innocent stag is shot, you must seek out two hungry ferrets and pop them down the trousers of the two hunters. But beware: if the hunters get wind of your intentions to hinder them, they will try to shoot you down.
-Mission 6 - Boss Battle: MURDOCK THE BULLY-BIRD MAGPIE.
Time: early afternoon.
Weather: thunder storm - heavy driving rain.
Mission overview: The local bully-bird - Murdock the Magpie - challenges you to a high-speed airborne fight. Luckily for you a friendly robin attempts to distract the Magpie by accusing him of being a sissy. In order to defeat the Magpie you have to peck his tail ten times.
-Mission 7: FOIL THE ROBBER OF HOLY TRINKETS.
Time: late evening.
Weather: cold and still - deep snow.
Mission overview: It's after dark, and you notice a classic robber with a swag bag of stolen loot struggling to climb out of a broken stained-glass window at the church. Your mission is to alert the snoozing policemen at the police station before the robber makes his getaway. There is only one way to cause enough noise, you must get into the church and fly up to the bell tower and ring the church bells. But beware: because you are flying in such a confined space, if you hit any of the interior walls your energy bar will be damaged.
-Mission 8: STOP THE SATANIC SACRIFICE.
Time: in the dead of night.
Weather: warm and breezy.
Mission overview: Some of the locals belong to a Satanic coven, and this very night they plan to worship their evil master by sacrificing a stray black cat in the woods. Your mission is to save the distressed cat from such a horrible fate. You must quickly locate Graydon the Owl and instruct him to rescue the cat. The gameplay will switch to a Shenmue-like "Quick Time Event" system wherein the Owl must dodge the Satanists flaming torch swipes. But beware: if your button pressing reflexes let you down three times or more, the poor little cat will die.
* * * * *
*GOOD-WILL & FROLIC MODE IN DETAIL*
-Mission 1: RACE THE COCKY STARLING.
Time: midday.
Weather: clear and sunny.
Mission overview: Race a cocky starling from farmer Giles' tractor to the church spire through a succession of checkpoint nests.
-Mission 2: PROFESSOR PLUME HAS LOST HIS QUILL.
Time: mid morning.
Weather: sunny.
Mission overview: Mad Professor Hector Plume has lost his quill. Your mission is to explore the landscape and find a suitable feather which the eccentric Professor can use to write with. Many of the local animals [especially Graydon the Owl] will offer useful hints and tips along the way. Once a suitable feather is found, take it to the Professor. If the mission is completed within the time limit, the Professor will give you a special energy boosting talisman.
-Mission 3: HELP THE BEWILDERED SCARECROW.
Time: late afternoon.
Weather: light snow.
Mission overview: Farmer Giles' scarecrow has wandered out of his field and has fallen into a gully. Your mission is to firstly find Felix the Fox [who is the only animal in the vale who can speak "scarecrowish"], then with the Fox's help you must guide the bewildered scarecrow back to his rightful place in farmer Giles' field before the sun sets.
-Mission 4: FOLLOW THE LOVE-CHEAT BADGER.
Time: early evening.
Weather: hot and sunny.
Mission overview: Brownie the Badger suspects her husband is cheating on her. Your mission is to follow Brownie's husband armed with a small camera and photograph him in the act of cheating. The camera [because it's so small] can only snap one picture, so the better and clearer the photographic image, and more bonus points you will receive.
-Mission 5: UNMASK THE PEEPING TOM.
Time: night.
Weather: clear and breezy.
Mission overview: The vicar's daughter is complaining that a strange man with a pair of binoculars is spying on her through her bedroom window at night. Your mission is to survey the area after dark accompanied by Graydon the Owl and keep a look-out for the sneaky and hard-to-spot peeping tom. Before the vicar's daughter turns out her bedroom light you must find the secret location of the peeping tom and instruct Graydon the Owl to toot as loud as he can. If successful, the police will be on the scene before you can say "Jack Flash", and the peeping tom will be arrested and unmasked.
-Mission 6: CHASE THE RAINBOW.
Time: mid afternoon.
Weather: rainy and sunny.
Mission overview: On a stormy, rainy day the sun comes out causing many rainbows to appear across the sleepy vale. Your mission is to fly at high speed to each rainbow in turn and collect the crock of gold at the end of each one before they disappear. When you have collected ten crocks of gold, you must rush them to the cheering children who are standing near the wishing well on the village green.
-Mission 7: DIZZY THE DUCK HAS LOST HER BABIES.
Time: sunset.
Weather: cold.
Mission overview: By the canal you come across Dizzy the Duck frantically splashing about in the water. After she worriedly explains that she does not know the whereabouts of her five baby ducks, your mission is to find and return her missing offspring within the time limit.
-Mission 8: HUMILATE THE LOCAL THUG.
Time: late evening.
Weather: cold and still.
Mission overview: The local thug - Dull Doug Skeggs - is causing alot of bother in the village with his violent and anti-social behaviour. Your mission is to give the villagers what they want by finding a way of "putting him in his place". Firstly you must fly to Crossmar the Wizard's tower in the woods and ask him for a special hypnotic spell. He will give you the spell but only after you have successfully solved a visual puzzle. Armed with the potent spell, you must then fly into Dull Doug's house and cast the spell on him. When he is under the spell's power, you must order him to undress. Next you must lead the naked and hypnotized Doug out of his house, along the street and into the crowded pub. When he is standing at the bar with everyone watching, pointing and laughing, awaken him from the spell and enjoy his total humilation. Mission complete.
* * * * *
*BONUS GAMES IN DETAIL*
Bonus Game 1: SUNSET CLOUD DANCE.
Time: sunset.
Weather: broken cloud.
Bonus Game overview: Rainbow stars appear for a limited time upon fluffy sun-kist clouds. Your mission is to fly at high speed and collect all the stars in turn before they disappear. With all the stars collected, you must then fly to the evolving cherry tree and drop them into a hollow in the trunk before the tree reaches full bloom.
Bonus Game 2: PSYCHEDELIC JIG.
Setting: a multi-coloured spiral.
Bonus Game overview: Venture into a whirling spiral: dodge on-coming giant worms and fly through glittering rings until you reach the finishing-line.
Bonus Game 3: CROSSWORD CAPER.
Time: sunrise.
Weather: clear and still.
Bonus Game overview: Drawn on the village green is a large crossword puzzle, and scattered upon the tree-tops of the nearby wood are several words. Using the clues on the pop-up menu screen, you must solve the crossword by flying to the words and dropping them into the correct place on the puzzle.
* * * * *
GAME OVER.
* * * * *
"Blackbird - Hero Of The Vale!"
Available NOW in stores across the astral plane!
"Blackbird - Hero Of The Vale!"
*GENRE*
3D Action/Strategy Fantasy Adventure.
*BACK OF THE BOX* [what it would say]:
"Venture into England's green and pleasant land in this unique action/strategy adventure!
Seeing through the beady eyes of a benevolent blackbird, you must solve puzzles, help people and animals in distress, and generally become a master of your environment!
Play through 3 action-packed modes consisting of 18 diverse strategy-based missions!
Fly at high speed around the huge and richly detailed landscape!
Co-operate with other animals to complete objectives!
Gain reputation points and become the hero of the vale!
So are you ready to be the coolest blackbird in the land? You bet your yellow beak you are!"
*BOX COVER ART*
A cheeky-looking blackbird perched on a branch with a glint in his eye. In the background is a dark church spire, rolling hills, a setting sun, a crescent moon, and a rainbow. Oh, and a shooting star. [I like overkill.]
*GAME ENVIRONMENT*
A sleepy vale in Yorkshire comprising of a small village, fields and streams, woodland areas, meadows, isolated farm houses, and various quaint animal and human characters.
*GRAPHICAL STYLE*
Lots of green, brown, grey and pale yellow hues all done in a slightly fey yet realistic "crayon/pastel" style.
*LEAD CHARACTER*
A blackbird.
"The blackbird with no name".
*CAMERA VIEW*
In-game there would be several perspectives by which to view the blackbird, but the main viewpoints would be third-person [or third-bird] view, and first-person.
The third-person view would be in effect when the blackbird is airborne: the camera would be fixed behind and follow the blackbird's flight.
When the blackbird lands, the camera would switch to the first-person view, and when the blackbird looks about and surveys its environment, the graphics would take on a dreamy/blurry appearance.
*MUSIC*
The soundtrack would shift between atmospheric syntherized chords layered with bells and flutes, to orcestrated fast-paced classical stuff for the "dangerous" moments.
*GAME MODES*
[1] *Danger & Survival* - Using a time limit format, successfully complete eight danger-based missions.
[2] *Good-will & Frolic* - Using a time limit format, successfully complete eight fun-based objectives.
[3] *Free-flight* - A chill-out mode wherein you can fly around and explore the detailed gameworld with no time restriction or danger. Hidden within the landscape are 100 precious collectables - from glinting 50 pence pieces to items of jewellry - if you find them all "Blackbird Invincibility" will be unlocked.
[4] *Replay* - Watch a successful mission from various dynamic camera angles.
[5] *Bonus* - Three bonus games unlocked on completion of "Danger & Survival" and "Good-will & Frolic".
*REPUTATION POINTS SYSTEM*
On completion of each mission Reputation Points will be awarded. If you complete a mission within the time limit, double Reputation Points will be awarded and the blackbird's energy bar will be increased.
* * * * *
*DANGER & SURVIVAL MODE IN DETAIL*
-Mission 1: THE EARLY BIRD CATCHES THE WORM.
Time: dawn.
Weather: light drizzle.
Mission overview: There are ten oblivious worms waiting to be dug up and eaten on ten different front lawns. One worm per front lawn. Your mission is to fly to and land on each front lawn in turn, locate, dig up and eat all ten worms within the time limit. But beware: the one-eyed milkman is on his rounds, and he hates blackbirds - [something to do with a freak childhood accident caused by a spooked blackbird and a garden rake.]
-Mission 2: DAILY BREAD.
Time: early morning.
Weather: clear and sunny.
Mission overview: Collect a minimum of 75% of the bread pieces scattered about in Mrs Tweed's back garden within the time limit. But beware: Mrs Tweed's cats "Tiddles & Smokey" are on the prowl.
-Mission 3: PUB LUNCH.
Time: midday.
Weather: hot and sunny.
Mission overview: It's a summer's day, and many of the villagers are enjoying lunch at tables outside the local pub. Your mission is to swoop into the diners and steal as many scraps of food as you can within the time limit. But beware: the pub's customers will attempt to throw the contents of their pint glasses over you, and the angry landlord will swipe at you with a broomstick. Three hits from either will reduce your energy bar to zero.
-Mission 4: RUNAWAY TRACTOR.
Time: mid afternoon.
Weather: hot and humid.
Mission overview: Farmer Giles has fallen out of his tractor and the vehicle is still in motion running out of control. Your mission is to prevent the tractor from crashing into the Vicar's greenhouses. Within the time limit you must shift twenty bails of hay in front of the greenhouses and stop the tractor from causing any damage. But beware: you must also risk your life and rescue several oblivious hedgehogs who are in the runaway tractor's path.
-Mission 5: FOIL THE ILLEGAL STAG HUNTERS.
Time: late afternoon.
Weather: foggy.
Mission overview: Two hunters are stalking a stag with rifles on land where hunting is prohibited. Your mission is to foil the hunters' immoral intentions. Before the innocent stag is shot, you must seek out two hungry ferrets and pop them down the trousers of the two hunters. But beware: if the hunters get wind of your intentions to hinder them, they will try to shoot you down.
-Mission 6 - Boss Battle: MURDOCK THE BULLY-BIRD MAGPIE.
Time: early afternoon.
Weather: thunder storm - heavy driving rain.
Mission overview: The local bully-bird - Murdock the Magpie - challenges you to a high-speed airborne fight. Luckily for you a friendly robin attempts to distract the Magpie by accusing him of being a sissy. In order to defeat the Magpie you have to peck his tail ten times.
-Mission 7: FOIL THE ROBBER OF HOLY TRINKETS.
Time: late evening.
Weather: cold and still - deep snow.
Mission overview: It's after dark, and you notice a classic robber with a swag bag of stolen loot struggling to climb out of a broken stained-glass window at the church. Your mission is to alert the snoozing policemen at the police station before the robber makes his getaway. There is only one way to cause enough noise, you must get into the church and fly up to the bell tower and ring the church bells. But beware: because you are flying in such a confined space, if you hit any of the interior walls your energy bar will be damaged.
-Mission 8: STOP THE SATANIC SACRIFICE.
Time: in the dead of night.
Weather: warm and breezy.
Mission overview: Some of the locals belong to a Satanic coven, and this very night they plan to worship their evil master by sacrificing a stray black cat in the woods. Your mission is to save the distressed cat from such a horrible fate. You must quickly locate Graydon the Owl and instruct him to rescue the cat. The gameplay will switch to a Shenmue-like "Quick Time Event" system wherein the Owl must dodge the Satanists flaming torch swipes. But beware: if your button pressing reflexes let you down three times or more, the poor little cat will die.
* * * * *
*GOOD-WILL & FROLIC MODE IN DETAIL*
-Mission 1: RACE THE COCKY STARLING.
Time: midday.
Weather: clear and sunny.
Mission overview: Race a cocky starling from farmer Giles' tractor to the church spire through a succession of checkpoint nests.
-Mission 2: PROFESSOR PLUME HAS LOST HIS QUILL.
Time: mid morning.
Weather: sunny.
Mission overview: Mad Professor Hector Plume has lost his quill. Your mission is to explore the landscape and find a suitable feather which the eccentric Professor can use to write with. Many of the local animals [especially Graydon the Owl] will offer useful hints and tips along the way. Once a suitable feather is found, take it to the Professor. If the mission is completed within the time limit, the Professor will give you a special energy boosting talisman.
-Mission 3: HELP THE BEWILDERED SCARECROW.
Time: late afternoon.
Weather: light snow.
Mission overview: Farmer Giles' scarecrow has wandered out of his field and has fallen into a gully. Your mission is to firstly find Felix the Fox [who is the only animal in the vale who can speak "scarecrowish"], then with the Fox's help you must guide the bewildered scarecrow back to his rightful place in farmer Giles' field before the sun sets.
-Mission 4: FOLLOW THE LOVE-CHEAT BADGER.
Time: early evening.
Weather: hot and sunny.
Mission overview: Brownie the Badger suspects her husband is cheating on her. Your mission is to follow Brownie's husband armed with a small camera and photograph him in the act of cheating. The camera [because it's so small] can only snap one picture, so the better and clearer the photographic image, and more bonus points you will receive.
-Mission 5: UNMASK THE PEEPING TOM.
Time: night.
Weather: clear and breezy.
Mission overview: The vicar's daughter is complaining that a strange man with a pair of binoculars is spying on her through her bedroom window at night. Your mission is to survey the area after dark accompanied by Graydon the Owl and keep a look-out for the sneaky and hard-to-spot peeping tom. Before the vicar's daughter turns out her bedroom light you must find the secret location of the peeping tom and instruct Graydon the Owl to toot as loud as he can. If successful, the police will be on the scene before you can say "Jack Flash", and the peeping tom will be arrested and unmasked.
-Mission 6: CHASE THE RAINBOW.
Time: mid afternoon.
Weather: rainy and sunny.
Mission overview: On a stormy, rainy day the sun comes out causing many rainbows to appear across the sleepy vale. Your mission is to fly at high speed to each rainbow in turn and collect the crock of gold at the end of each one before they disappear. When you have collected ten crocks of gold, you must rush them to the cheering children who are standing near the wishing well on the village green.
-Mission 7: DIZZY THE DUCK HAS LOST HER BABIES.
Time: sunset.
Weather: cold.
Mission overview: By the canal you come across Dizzy the Duck frantically splashing about in the water. After she worriedly explains that she does not know the whereabouts of her five baby ducks, your mission is to find and return her missing offspring within the time limit.
-Mission 8: HUMILATE THE LOCAL THUG.
Time: late evening.
Weather: cold and still.
Mission overview: The local thug - Dull Doug Skeggs - is causing alot of bother in the village with his violent and anti-social behaviour. Your mission is to give the villagers what they want by finding a way of "putting him in his place". Firstly you must fly to Crossmar the Wizard's tower in the woods and ask him for a special hypnotic spell. He will give you the spell but only after you have successfully solved a visual puzzle. Armed with the potent spell, you must then fly into Dull Doug's house and cast the spell on him. When he is under the spell's power, you must order him to undress. Next you must lead the naked and hypnotized Doug out of his house, along the street and into the crowded pub. When he is standing at the bar with everyone watching, pointing and laughing, awaken him from the spell and enjoy his total humilation. Mission complete.
* * * * *
*BONUS GAMES IN DETAIL*
Bonus Game 1: SUNSET CLOUD DANCE.
Time: sunset.
Weather: broken cloud.
Bonus Game overview: Rainbow stars appear for a limited time upon fluffy sun-kist clouds. Your mission is to fly at high speed and collect all the stars in turn before they disappear. With all the stars collected, you must then fly to the evolving cherry tree and drop them into a hollow in the trunk before the tree reaches full bloom.
Bonus Game 2: PSYCHEDELIC JIG.
Setting: a multi-coloured spiral.
Bonus Game overview: Venture into a whirling spiral: dodge on-coming giant worms and fly through glittering rings until you reach the finishing-line.
Bonus Game 3: CROSSWORD CAPER.
Time: sunrise.
Weather: clear and still.
Bonus Game overview: Drawn on the village green is a large crossword puzzle, and scattered upon the tree-tops of the nearby wood are several words. Using the clues on the pop-up menu screen, you must solve the crossword by flying to the words and dropping them into the correct place on the puzzle.
* * * * *
GAME OVER.
* * * * *
"Blackbird - Hero Of The Vale!"
Available NOW in stores across the astral plane!
Original idea. And funny too.
It's a shame to think that games like this will probably never be made.
It's a shame to think that games like this will probably never be made.
*GAME TITLE*
"Blackbird - Hero Of The Vale!"
*GENRE*
3D Action/Strategy Fantasy Adventure.
*BACK OF THE BOX* [what it would say]:
"Venture into England's green and pleasant land in this unique action/strategy adventure!
Seeing through the beady eyes of a benevolent blackbird, you must solve puzzles, help people and animals in distress, and generally become a master of your environment!
Play through 3 action-packed modes consisting of 18 diverse strategy-based missions!
Fly at high speed around the huge and richly detailed landscape!
Co-operate with other animals to complete objectives!
Gain reputation points and become the hero of the vale!
So are you ready to be the coolest blackbird in the land? You bet your yellow beak you are!"
*BOX COVER ART*
A cheeky-looking blackbird perched on a branch with a glint in his eye. In the background is a dark church spire, rolling hills, a setting sun, a crescent moon, and a rainbow. Oh, and a shooting star. [I like overkill.]
*GAME ENVIRONMENT*
A sleepy vale in Yorkshire comprising of a small village, fields and streams, woodland areas, meadows, isolated farm houses, and various quaint animal and human characters.
*GRAPHICAL STYLE*
Lots of green, brown, grey and pale yellow hues all done in a slightly fey yet realistic "crayon/pastel" style.
*LEAD CHARACTER*
A blackbird.
"The blackbird with no name".
*CAMERA VIEW*
In-game there would be several perspectives by which to view the blackbird, but the main viewpoints would be third-person [or third-bird] view, and first-person.
The third-person view would be in effect when the blackbird is airborne: the camera would be fixed behind and follow the blackbird's flight.
When the blackbird lands, the camera would switch to the first-person view, and when the blackbird looks about and surveys its environment, the graphics would take on a dreamy/blurry appearance.
*MUSIC*
The soundtrack would shift between atmospheric syntherized chords layered with bells and flutes, to orcestrated fast-paced classical stuff for the "dangerous" moments.
*GAME MODES*
[1] *Danger & Survival* - Using a time limit format, successfully complete eight danger-based missions.
[2] *Good-will & Frolic* - Using a time limit format, successfully complete eight fun-based objectives.
[3] *Free-flight* - A chill-out mode wherein you can fly around and explore the detailed gameworld with no time restriction or danger. Hidden within the landscape are 100 precious collectables - from glinting 50 pence pieces to items of jewellry - if you find them all "Blackbird Invincibility" will be unlocked.
[4] *Replay* - Watch a successful mission from various dynamic camera angles.
[5] *Bonus* - Three bonus games unlocked on completion of "Danger & Survival" and "Good-will & Frolic".
*REPUTATION POINTS SYSTEM*
On completion of each mission Reputation Points will be awarded. If you complete a mission within the time limit, double Reputation Points will be awarded and the blackbird's energy bar will be increased.
* * * * *
*DANGER & SURVIVAL MODE IN DETAIL*
-Mission 1: THE EARLY BIRD CATCHES THE WORM.
Time: dawn.
Weather: light drizzle.
Mission overview: There are ten oblivious worms waiting to be dug up and eaten on ten different front lawns. One worm per front lawn. Your mission is to fly to and land on each front lawn in turn, locate, dig up and eat all ten worms within the time limit. But beware: the one-eyed milkman is on his rounds, and he hates blackbirds - [something to do with a freak childhood accident caused by a spooked blackbird and a garden rake.]
-Mission 2: DAILY BREAD.
Time: early morning.
Weather: clear and sunny.
Mission overview: Collect a minimum of 75% of the bread pieces scattered about in Mrs Tweed's back garden within the time limit. But beware: Mrs Tweed's cats "Tiddles & Smokey" are on the prowl.
-Mission 3: PUB LUNCH.
Time: midday.
Weather: hot and sunny.
Mission overview: It's a summer's day, and many of the villagers are enjoying lunch at tables outside the local pub. Your mission is to swoop into the diners and steal as many scraps of food as you can within the time limit. But beware: the pub's customers will attempt to throw the contents of their pint glasses over you, and the angry landlord will swipe at you with a broomstick. Three hits from either will reduce your energy bar to zero.
-Mission 4: RUNAWAY TRACTOR.
Time: mid afternoon.
Weather: hot and humid.
Mission overview: Farmer Giles has fallen out of his tractor and the vehicle is still in motion running out of control. Your mission is to prevent the tractor from crashing into the Vicar's greenhouses. Within the time limit you must shift twenty bails of hay in front of the greenhouses and stop the tractor from causing any damage. But beware: you must also risk your life and rescue several oblivious hedgehogs who are in the runaway tractor's path.
-Mission 5: FOIL THE ILLEGAL STAG HUNTERS.
Time: late afternoon.
Weather: foggy.
Mission overview: Two hunters are stalking a stag with rifles on land where hunting is prohibited. Your mission is to foil the hunters' immoral intentions. Before the innocent stag is shot, you must seek out two hungry ferrets and pop them down the trousers of the two hunters. But beware: if the hunters get wind of your intentions to hinder them, they will try to shoot you down.
-Mission 6 - Boss Battle: MURDOCK THE BULLY-BIRD MAGPIE.
Time: early afternoon.
Weather: thunder storm - heavy driving rain.
Mission overview: The local bully-bird - Murdock the Magpie - challenges you to a high-speed airborne fight. Luckily for you a friendly robin attempts to distract the Magpie by accusing him of being a sissy. In order to defeat the Magpie you have to peck his tail ten times.
-Mission 7: FOIL THE ROBBER OF HOLY TRINKETS.
Time: late evening.
Weather: cold and still - deep snow.
Mission overview: It's after dark, and you notice a classic robber with a swag bag of stolen loot struggling to climb out of a broken stained-glass window at the church. Your mission is to alert the snoozing policemen at the police station before the robber makes his getaway. There is only one way to cause enough noise, you must get into the church and fly up to the bell tower and ring the church bells. But beware: because you are flying in such a confined space, if you hit any of the interior walls your energy bar will be damaged.
-Mission 8: STOP THE SATANIC SACRIFICE.
Time: in the dead of night.
Weather: warm and breezy.
Mission overview: Some of the locals belong to a Satanic coven, and this very night they plan to worship their evil master by sacrificing a stray black cat in the woods. Your mission is to save the distressed cat from such a horrible fate. You must quickly locate Graydon the Owl and instruct him to rescue the cat. The gameplay will switch to a Shenmue-like "Quick Time Event" system wherein the Owl must dodge the Satanists flaming torch swipes. But beware: if your button pressing reflexes let you down three times or more, the poor little cat will die.
* * * * *
*GOOD-WILL & FROLIC MODE IN DETAIL*
-Mission 1: RACE THE COCKY STARLING.
Time: midday.
Weather: clear and sunny.
Mission overview: Race a cocky starling from farmer Giles' tractor to the church spire through a succession of checkpoint nests.
-Mission 2: PROFESSOR PLUME HAS LOST HIS QUILL.
Time: mid morning.
Weather: sunny.
Mission overview: Mad Professor Hector Plume has lost his quill. Your mission is to explore the landscape and find a suitable feather which the eccentric Professor can use to write with. Many of the local animals [especially Graydon the Owl] will offer useful hints and tips along the way. Once a suitable feather is found, take it to the Professor. If the mission is completed within the time limit, the Professor will give you a special energy boosting talisman.
-Mission 3: HELP THE BEWILDERED SCARECROW.
Time: late afternoon.
Weather: light snow.
Mission overview: Farmer Giles' scarecrow has wandered out of his field and has fallen into a gully. Your mission is to firstly find Felix the Fox [who is the only animal in the vale who can speak "scarecrowish"], then with the Fox's help you must guide the bewildered scarecrow back to his rightful place in farmer Giles' field before the sun sets.
-Mission 4: FOLLOW THE LOVE-CHEAT BADGER.
Time: early evening.
Weather: hot and sunny.
Mission overview: Brownie the Badger suspects her husband is cheating on her. Your mission is to follow Brownie's husband armed with a small camera and photograph him in the act of cheating. The camera [because it's so small] can only snap one picture, so the better and clearer the photographic image, and more bonus points you will receive.
-Mission 5: UNMASK THE PEEPING TOM.
Time: night.
Weather: clear and breezy.
Mission overview: The vicar's daughter is complaining that a strange man with a pair of binoculars is spying on her through her bedroom window at night. Your mission is to survey the area after dark accompanied by Graydon the Owl and keep a look-out for the sneaky and hard-to-spot peeping tom. Before the vicar's daughter turns out her bedroom light you must find the secret location of the peeping tom and instruct Graydon the Owl to toot as loud as he can. If successful, the police will be on the scene before you can say "Jack Flash", and the peeping tom will be arrested and unmasked.
-Mission 6: CHASE THE RAINBOW.
Time: mid afternoon.
Weather: rainy and sunny.
Mission overview: On a stormy, rainy day the sun comes out causing many rainbows to appear across the sleepy vale. Your mission is to fly at high speed to each rainbow in turn and collect the crock of gold at the end of each one before they disappear. When you have collected ten crocks of gold, you must rush them to the cheering children who are standing near the wishing well on the village green.
-Mission 7: DIZZY THE DUCK HAS LOST HER BABIES.
Time: sunset.
Weather: cold.
Mission overview: By the canal you come across Dizzy the Duck frantically splashing about in the water. After she worriedly explains that she does not know the whereabouts of her five baby ducks, your mission is to find and return her missing offspring within the time limit.
-Mission 8: HUMILATE THE LOCAL THUG.
Time: late evening.
Weather: cold and still.
Mission overview: The local thug - Dull Doug Skeggs - is causing alot of bother in the village with his violent and anti-social behaviour. Your mission is to give the villagers what they want by finding a way of "putting him in his place". Firstly you must fly to Crossmar the Wizard's tower in the woods and ask him for a special hypnotic spell. He will give you the spell but only after you have successfully solved a visual puzzle. Armed with the potent spell, you must then fly into Dull Doug's house and cast the spell on him. When he is under the spell's power, you must order him to undress. Next you must lead the naked and hypnotized Doug out of his house, along the street and into the crowded pub. When he is standing at the bar with everyone watching, pointing and laughing, awaken him from the spell and enjoy his total humilation. Mission complete.
* * * * *
*BONUS GAMES IN DETAIL*
Bonus Game 1: SUNSET CLOUD DANCE.
Time: sunset.
Weather: broken cloud.
Bonus Game overview: Rainbow stars appear for a limited time upon fluffy sun-kist clouds. Your mission is to fly at high speed and collect all the stars in turn before they disappear. With all the stars collected, you must then fly to the evolving cherry tree and drop them into a hollow in the trunk before the tree reaches full bloom.
Bonus Game 2: PSYCHEDELIC JIG.
Setting: a multi-coloured spiral.
Bonus Game overview: Venture into a whirling spiral: dodge on-coming giant worms and fly through glittering rings until you reach the finishing-line.
Bonus Game 3: CROSSWORD CAPER.
Time: sunrise.
Weather: clear and still.
Bonus Game overview: Drawn on the village green is a large crossword puzzle, and scattered upon the tree-tops of the nearby wood are several words. Using the clues on the pop-up menu screen, you must solve the crossword by flying to the words and dropping them into the correct place on the puzzle.
* * * * *
GAME OVER.
* * * * *
"Blackbird - Hero Of The Vale!"
Available NOW in stores across the astral plane!
"Blackbird - Hero Of The Vale!"
*GENRE*
3D Action/Strategy Fantasy Adventure.
*BACK OF THE BOX* [what it would say]:
"Venture into England's green and pleasant land in this unique action/strategy adventure!
Seeing through the beady eyes of a benevolent blackbird, you must solve puzzles, help people and animals in distress, and generally become a master of your environment!
Play through 3 action-packed modes consisting of 18 diverse strategy-based missions!
Fly at high speed around the huge and richly detailed landscape!
Co-operate with other animals to complete objectives!
Gain reputation points and become the hero of the vale!
So are you ready to be the coolest blackbird in the land? You bet your yellow beak you are!"
*BOX COVER ART*
A cheeky-looking blackbird perched on a branch with a glint in his eye. In the background is a dark church spire, rolling hills, a setting sun, a crescent moon, and a rainbow. Oh, and a shooting star. [I like overkill.]
*GAME ENVIRONMENT*
A sleepy vale in Yorkshire comprising of a small village, fields and streams, woodland areas, meadows, isolated farm houses, and various quaint animal and human characters.
*GRAPHICAL STYLE*
Lots of green, brown, grey and pale yellow hues all done in a slightly fey yet realistic "crayon/pastel" style.
*LEAD CHARACTER*
A blackbird.
"The blackbird with no name".
*CAMERA VIEW*
In-game there would be several perspectives by which to view the blackbird, but the main viewpoints would be third-person [or third-bird] view, and first-person.
The third-person view would be in effect when the blackbird is airborne: the camera would be fixed behind and follow the blackbird's flight.
When the blackbird lands, the camera would switch to the first-person view, and when the blackbird looks about and surveys its environment, the graphics would take on a dreamy/blurry appearance.
*MUSIC*
The soundtrack would shift between atmospheric syntherized chords layered with bells and flutes, to orcestrated fast-paced classical stuff for the "dangerous" moments.
*GAME MODES*
[1] *Danger & Survival* - Using a time limit format, successfully complete eight danger-based missions.
[2] *Good-will & Frolic* - Using a time limit format, successfully complete eight fun-based objectives.
[3] *Free-flight* - A chill-out mode wherein you can fly around and explore the detailed gameworld with no time restriction or danger. Hidden within the landscape are 100 precious collectables - from glinting 50 pence pieces to items of jewellry - if you find them all "Blackbird Invincibility" will be unlocked.
[4] *Replay* - Watch a successful mission from various dynamic camera angles.
[5] *Bonus* - Three bonus games unlocked on completion of "Danger & Survival" and "Good-will & Frolic".
*REPUTATION POINTS SYSTEM*
On completion of each mission Reputation Points will be awarded. If you complete a mission within the time limit, double Reputation Points will be awarded and the blackbird's energy bar will be increased.
* * * * *
*DANGER & SURVIVAL MODE IN DETAIL*
-Mission 1: THE EARLY BIRD CATCHES THE WORM.
Time: dawn.
Weather: light drizzle.
Mission overview: There are ten oblivious worms waiting to be dug up and eaten on ten different front lawns. One worm per front lawn. Your mission is to fly to and land on each front lawn in turn, locate, dig up and eat all ten worms within the time limit. But beware: the one-eyed milkman is on his rounds, and he hates blackbirds - [something to do with a freak childhood accident caused by a spooked blackbird and a garden rake.]
-Mission 2: DAILY BREAD.
Time: early morning.
Weather: clear and sunny.
Mission overview: Collect a minimum of 75% of the bread pieces scattered about in Mrs Tweed's back garden within the time limit. But beware: Mrs Tweed's cats "Tiddles & Smokey" are on the prowl.
-Mission 3: PUB LUNCH.
Time: midday.
Weather: hot and sunny.
Mission overview: It's a summer's day, and many of the villagers are enjoying lunch at tables outside the local pub. Your mission is to swoop into the diners and steal as many scraps of food as you can within the time limit. But beware: the pub's customers will attempt to throw the contents of their pint glasses over you, and the angry landlord will swipe at you with a broomstick. Three hits from either will reduce your energy bar to zero.
-Mission 4: RUNAWAY TRACTOR.
Time: mid afternoon.
Weather: hot and humid.
Mission overview: Farmer Giles has fallen out of his tractor and the vehicle is still in motion running out of control. Your mission is to prevent the tractor from crashing into the Vicar's greenhouses. Within the time limit you must shift twenty bails of hay in front of the greenhouses and stop the tractor from causing any damage. But beware: you must also risk your life and rescue several oblivious hedgehogs who are in the runaway tractor's path.
-Mission 5: FOIL THE ILLEGAL STAG HUNTERS.
Time: late afternoon.
Weather: foggy.
Mission overview: Two hunters are stalking a stag with rifles on land where hunting is prohibited. Your mission is to foil the hunters' immoral intentions. Before the innocent stag is shot, you must seek out two hungry ferrets and pop them down the trousers of the two hunters. But beware: if the hunters get wind of your intentions to hinder them, they will try to shoot you down.
-Mission 6 - Boss Battle: MURDOCK THE BULLY-BIRD MAGPIE.
Time: early afternoon.
Weather: thunder storm - heavy driving rain.
Mission overview: The local bully-bird - Murdock the Magpie - challenges you to a high-speed airborne fight. Luckily for you a friendly robin attempts to distract the Magpie by accusing him of being a sissy. In order to defeat the Magpie you have to peck his tail ten times.
-Mission 7: FOIL THE ROBBER OF HOLY TRINKETS.
Time: late evening.
Weather: cold and still - deep snow.
Mission overview: It's after dark, and you notice a classic robber with a swag bag of stolen loot struggling to climb out of a broken stained-glass window at the church. Your mission is to alert the snoozing policemen at the police station before the robber makes his getaway. There is only one way to cause enough noise, you must get into the church and fly up to the bell tower and ring the church bells. But beware: because you are flying in such a confined space, if you hit any of the interior walls your energy bar will be damaged.
-Mission 8: STOP THE SATANIC SACRIFICE.
Time: in the dead of night.
Weather: warm and breezy.
Mission overview: Some of the locals belong to a Satanic coven, and this very night they plan to worship their evil master by sacrificing a stray black cat in the woods. Your mission is to save the distressed cat from such a horrible fate. You must quickly locate Graydon the Owl and instruct him to rescue the cat. The gameplay will switch to a Shenmue-like "Quick Time Event" system wherein the Owl must dodge the Satanists flaming torch swipes. But beware: if your button pressing reflexes let you down three times or more, the poor little cat will die.
* * * * *
*GOOD-WILL & FROLIC MODE IN DETAIL*
-Mission 1: RACE THE COCKY STARLING.
Time: midday.
Weather: clear and sunny.
Mission overview: Race a cocky starling from farmer Giles' tractor to the church spire through a succession of checkpoint nests.
-Mission 2: PROFESSOR PLUME HAS LOST HIS QUILL.
Time: mid morning.
Weather: sunny.
Mission overview: Mad Professor Hector Plume has lost his quill. Your mission is to explore the landscape and find a suitable feather which the eccentric Professor can use to write with. Many of the local animals [especially Graydon the Owl] will offer useful hints and tips along the way. Once a suitable feather is found, take it to the Professor. If the mission is completed within the time limit, the Professor will give you a special energy boosting talisman.
-Mission 3: HELP THE BEWILDERED SCARECROW.
Time: late afternoon.
Weather: light snow.
Mission overview: Farmer Giles' scarecrow has wandered out of his field and has fallen into a gully. Your mission is to firstly find Felix the Fox [who is the only animal in the vale who can speak "scarecrowish"], then with the Fox's help you must guide the bewildered scarecrow back to his rightful place in farmer Giles' field before the sun sets.
-Mission 4: FOLLOW THE LOVE-CHEAT BADGER.
Time: early evening.
Weather: hot and sunny.
Mission overview: Brownie the Badger suspects her husband is cheating on her. Your mission is to follow Brownie's husband armed with a small camera and photograph him in the act of cheating. The camera [because it's so small] can only snap one picture, so the better and clearer the photographic image, and more bonus points you will receive.
-Mission 5: UNMASK THE PEEPING TOM.
Time: night.
Weather: clear and breezy.
Mission overview: The vicar's daughter is complaining that a strange man with a pair of binoculars is spying on her through her bedroom window at night. Your mission is to survey the area after dark accompanied by Graydon the Owl and keep a look-out for the sneaky and hard-to-spot peeping tom. Before the vicar's daughter turns out her bedroom light you must find the secret location of the peeping tom and instruct Graydon the Owl to toot as loud as he can. If successful, the police will be on the scene before you can say "Jack Flash", and the peeping tom will be arrested and unmasked.
-Mission 6: CHASE THE RAINBOW.
Time: mid afternoon.
Weather: rainy and sunny.
Mission overview: On a stormy, rainy day the sun comes out causing many rainbows to appear across the sleepy vale. Your mission is to fly at high speed to each rainbow in turn and collect the crock of gold at the end of each one before they disappear. When you have collected ten crocks of gold, you must rush them to the cheering children who are standing near the wishing well on the village green.
-Mission 7: DIZZY THE DUCK HAS LOST HER BABIES.
Time: sunset.
Weather: cold.
Mission overview: By the canal you come across Dizzy the Duck frantically splashing about in the water. After she worriedly explains that she does not know the whereabouts of her five baby ducks, your mission is to find and return her missing offspring within the time limit.
-Mission 8: HUMILATE THE LOCAL THUG.
Time: late evening.
Weather: cold and still.
Mission overview: The local thug - Dull Doug Skeggs - is causing alot of bother in the village with his violent and anti-social behaviour. Your mission is to give the villagers what they want by finding a way of "putting him in his place". Firstly you must fly to Crossmar the Wizard's tower in the woods and ask him for a special hypnotic spell. He will give you the spell but only after you have successfully solved a visual puzzle. Armed with the potent spell, you must then fly into Dull Doug's house and cast the spell on him. When he is under the spell's power, you must order him to undress. Next you must lead the naked and hypnotized Doug out of his house, along the street and into the crowded pub. When he is standing at the bar with everyone watching, pointing and laughing, awaken him from the spell and enjoy his total humilation. Mission complete.
* * * * *
*BONUS GAMES IN DETAIL*
Bonus Game 1: SUNSET CLOUD DANCE.
Time: sunset.
Weather: broken cloud.
Bonus Game overview: Rainbow stars appear for a limited time upon fluffy sun-kist clouds. Your mission is to fly at high speed and collect all the stars in turn before they disappear. With all the stars collected, you must then fly to the evolving cherry tree and drop them into a hollow in the trunk before the tree reaches full bloom.
Bonus Game 2: PSYCHEDELIC JIG.
Setting: a multi-coloured spiral.
Bonus Game overview: Venture into a whirling spiral: dodge on-coming giant worms and fly through glittering rings until you reach the finishing-line.
Bonus Game 3: CROSSWORD CAPER.
Time: sunrise.
Weather: clear and still.
Bonus Game overview: Drawn on the village green is a large crossword puzzle, and scattered upon the tree-tops of the nearby wood are several words. Using the clues on the pop-up menu screen, you must solve the crossword by flying to the words and dropping them into the correct place on the puzzle.
* * * * *
GAME OVER.
* * * * *
"Blackbird - Hero Of The Vale!"
Available NOW in stores across the astral plane!