[i]Argonauts Agency: Captive of Circe[/i] is a time management game developed by Workroom7 and published by 8floor. It is the fifth game in the [i]Argonauts Agency[/i] series. Although it helps to have played the first two games in the series (for story context purposes), it's not necessary. In this game, a messenger shows up at the Argonauts Agency, handing a wedding invitation from Pelias (Medea's uncle) to Jason and Medea. However, there's a secret help request in the invitation, so Jason and Medea set off right away to help Pelias. Upon arriving, the pair discover that Pelias is under some sort of spell from his fiancee, Circe, and it's up to them to figure out a way to break it. That's the basic gist of the story.
As for the gameplay, there are a total of 50 story levels, with 10 bonus levels that are unlocked after you complete the main story. You can choose among three difficulty levels: relaxed, normal, or expert. (For purposes of this review, I chose to play on normal mode.) In each level, you have the usual tasks to complete, such as defeating enemies, building bridges, etc. You can earn up to 3 stars per level, depending on how quickly you complete all of the tasks (unless, of course, you play on relaxed mode since there's no time limit). There are in-game trophies although no Steam achievements (unlike in the first two games) or Steam trading cards. As this is a collector's edition, there are the usual bonuses, like wallpapers, strategy guide, etc.
Now that I've gone over the story and gameplay, I'll move onto my critique. I highly enjoyed the first two games in the [i]Argonauts Agency[/i] series, so of course, I was totally looking forward to this game as well. First, the story is fun and adventurous. It follows the usual Greek lore/mythology. I liked joining Jason and Medea as they go on their latest adventure and find out what's really going on behind Circe. The story has the usual plot twists although they may be somewhat predictable. Still, the overall story is fun and light-hearted. As for the gameplay, I found it fun and the levels were doable to complete and earn 3 stars. I didn't encounter any technical issues. Although a few levels can be a bit challenging to finish and earn 3 stars, there is an in-game guide, so if you get stuck, you can refer to it. In addition, there's this slot machine mini-game in which you can earn power-ups that increase your workers' efficiency, such as making them run faster. Every five minutes in-game, you'll earn rubies, and using one ruby will allow you to use the slot machine. Upon earning 5 stars, you'll get a chance to choose among three treasure chests. Two treasure chests contain a bonus (such as starting off with two workers, buildings requiring fewer materials, etc.), which can help complete levels faster. Also, I had no issues getting all of the in-game trophies although I wish this game had Steam achievements, like in the first two games.
As for the art, it has the same cartoony, comic book style as in the first two games. It works well for this series, and the colors are bright while the sprites and backgrounds are well done. Finally, on the soundtrack, it has the same tracks as in the first two games. Although the tracks fit well with the theme of this game, I wish there were one or two new tracks to add a bit of variety.
Overall, would I recommend [i]Argonauts Agency: Captive of Circe[/i]? If you like time management games and enjoyed the first two games in the series, then I'd say you'll most likely enjoy this one, too. The lack of Steam achievements might put off some people from getting this game, though. I don't know why the devs decided not to add them, but perhaps this may change in a future update. At the asking price, it's about worth it, as it took me around 6.5 hours to complete the game. However, this game definitely goes on a good sale at times, so you may very well want to hold off until then to get it. Also, it's in a couple of Steam bundles, so if you already have the other games in them, then you can save a bit more. ^^
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