In simple terms the game is a series of puzzles linked by a story. While game play is fairly linear, it is important to pick up clues as you go, something that is aided by the built in map and journal (information of current tasks and characters).
The game's developers describe the story as mixing "traditional horror with gritty noir inspired by 1950's America". The hand-painted graphics are impressivelt realised, drawing you into the story, and giving the game a real sense of depth. In terms of technical game play there are 40 locations, 13 mini games, and achievements to unlock, but the real reward is working your way through the story, attempting to solve the titular mystery.
The game's developers suggests that it take between three and five hours to work though the game, but that seems a little conservative to us. The exact timing will depend on how long you savour the story elements, and how quickly you work out the puzzles and associated clues.
Windows Phone Store description:
9 Clues: The Secret of Serpent Creek is an original hidden-object puzzle-adventure game, featuring a totally unique Detective Mode. This thrilling mystery merges elements of classical horror and gritty, 50’s-style noir.
A paranormal private investigator is contacted by her friend, famous reporter Helen Hunter, whose voice sounds small and terrified in the voicemail. She is in the coastal town of Serpent Creek, and needs help immediately.
But upon arriving in Serpent Creek, the detective finds no trace of Ms. Hunter. And the manager of the nearby hotel, in which she supposedly stayed, claims to have never even seen her. Weirder still is the fact the town’s streets are crawling with snakes, and the citizens seem to be sleepwalking through life. The ground shakes with violent tremors.
This case will certainly challenge the protagonist’s skills as a detective. She must save her friend, reveal the corruption and hidden agendas of the town’s citizens, and, most importantly, stop an evil plot to bring the Snake God back to our world. When investigating Serpent Creek, the detective will perform true investigative work: finding clues and combining them to learn the secrets of every crime scene in the all new Detective Mode! What’s more, she will crack codes, pick locks and solve clever puzzles along the way.
9 Clues: The Secret of Serpent Creek is available from the Windows Phone Store. Do note that, while the game is free to download and try, an in app payment is required to unlock the full game.