Video Game Review: A Quiet Week-end in Capri

Who would not in real life enjoy to spend a quiet week- end in the amazing island of Capri? If you have never been there or if you have only seen Capri in post cards, this town is a splendid mix of history, archaeological sites, amazing foods and breath taking views. Now, if you cannot afford a vacation there, relax, as you may enjoy, the views, noises and almost the smells of this famous touristic spot just by playing this intriguing video game, courtesy of its genius inventors: Saverese Silvio and Savarese Giuseppe.

A quiet week end in Capri is a ''point and click'' game where you will simply advance by clicking on the directions you want to take. This method will allow you as well to use your mouse to perform various actions such as opening doors, talking to people or picking up objects. You will often find yourself dealing with challenging puzzles or looking for objects that will allow you to advance in the game.

The game starts on a ferry boat ride that will take you to the island. Here you will hop on a taxi that will give you some anticipated breath taking views of the sea view below. Once off, you will be able to visit the famous ''piazzetta'' where you will mingle and talk to various characters of the island. Your first encounter will be with a nice lady at the new-stand that will give you various hints on how to get to your hotel. You will then be given a map of the town that will turn out being very helpful. However, as you start getting close to your hotel, something odd starts to happen.... A blurry view takes over... and you are suddenly lost and left to your own resources... How will you find your way back? What happened? And why is the hotel you were supposed to check-in apparently closed?

The game may appear to be easy but it can turn out to be very challenging at times. Because you are navigating in a big town, at times you may feel lost and unsure on where to go. You may often find yourself simply exploring the streets and enjoying the views. At times you may hear a dog bark, the bells of a church or simply the noises of people talking in the distance. One of the best parts, is that you may even enter some buildings and stores. You may feel like you can almost smell the cold cuts in the Italian deli and the scent of fresh bread in the bakery.

The best thing about a Quiet Week-end in Capri is that it is not only a game, but it is also a touristic guide. The pictures are real and taken by professional photographers on a nice sunny day. Even the people in the game are real and they are not actors. I can personally attest to that. After playing the game I had a desperate urge to visit the island and to my surprise once there, I met the famous lady by the news stand. I asked her if it was really her and she confirmed. I got a picture with her and once ,home I compared her and the lady in the game and with no chance of doubt it was really her!

This game was simply amazing and every now and then when I miss Capri, I will get my laptop out, load the game and take a leisurely stroll in the relaxing roads of Capri.  Everytime I do this  I can almost smell the fresh scent of the sea and hear the waves crashing on the shore......