Gardens of Time on Facebook

Facebook is the social networking site that allows third party designers to create games for the users while staying connected with the people on their friends list. One of the latest and very popular games released uses the hidden object format. This Facebook application is called Gardens of Time. This game brings in the popular gardening format of FarmVille and Farmandia and combines it with the hidden object concept.

Awards, Achievements and bonus levels are just a few of the attractions of this game. As the player starts at level one of the game the tutorial provides enough information to make the player comfortable as they manage both the building of their garden and the completion of the object seeking quests that are given.

There is a developing story line that brings the player into the ranks of the archaeological society. The player is taken into the time machine and is introduced to one location after another as the hidden object scenes help the stories unfold. Once taken into the time machine the player will be provided with their quests and left at that location to compete the hidden object puzzle. The player will repeat the same scenes while looking for different objects in each round. Once all the hidden objects have been located in that scene, the points and any time bonus points and skill bonus will all be awarded.

With each completed scene, points are tallied and stars are given. Each location has four possible stars to complete that individual area. The player will again be transported to the garden and will have to enter the time machine providing they have enough energy available.

Once the player has been returned returning to the garden the player will be able to work in the garden to increase the player reputation. With the reputation points gathered by placing objects into the garden area, more locations and chapters are unlocked.

When the player begins at level one, the garden is simply a pathway and a time machine. It is up to the player to create an interesting and creative garden worthy of guests and visitors.

The building of this outdoor garden is a crucial part of the game. Before anyone can enter the time machine they will need temporal energy. This energy is gained by leveling and completing quests in the garden. Each entry into the time machine will expend ten units of temporal energy. Visiting other players gardens and completing mini quests during the visit will provide additional energy as well as xp.

The scenes unlock when point levels are reached. This too is based on the items that are placed in the garden. Building, artifacts and decorations all provide the energy and points needed to enter the time machine. 

With the money that is collected items that improve the garden can be purchased. The coins can also be used to expand the garden area.  Each expansion gives the player more area to use for the design and layout of the garden.  As the player levels the items needed in the garden increase and so the additional space is welcomed. 

Messages will appear prompting visits to the neighboring gardens assuring the player that they will be rewarded with more energy, coins and XP. While at the neighbors garden, mini quests will be offered and small timed hidden object games will be made available. 

There are daily bonuses given as a reward for signing in daily. There is a special mystery bonus given once sign in has occurred five days in a row.

When the player is needing additional points or additional reputation, One option is to purchase plants, artifacts and buildings to speed the reputation along. Items can be placed in inventory when there is not enough space available in the garden.

Using the Gold coins that are occasionally rewarded the building process can be hurried along.

This game is entertaining and offers enough variety to keep most players coming back for more. The music is pleasant and the quests are interesting. This game is growing in popularity and has very few glitches.

I would love to hear what you think if this game.  Gardens of Time can be accessed here if you have a Facebook account.  Please  feel free to comment if you find some tips or hints that will help others.