What is Secrets of the Luxor?

So, you’re tired of ‘Myst’ comparisons. I’m sorry I have to do this: but the fact is, Secrets of the Luxor by Mojave simply must be compared to the now-legendary game by Rand and Robin Miller, The dynamic duo are even quoted on the Luxor box saying “Secrets of the Luxor is certainly the most ‘Myst-like’ experience we’ve had since Myst itself.” Are these guys just blowing smoke or is Luxor really comparable to Myst?

The game begins in a dusty hotel room just prior to your departure to a newly excavated tomb deep below the Luxor pyramid. This excursion is particularly exciting, not only because pristine Egyptian tombs are pretty darned rare, but because throughout the complex pyramidal chambers there seem to be mysterious hints of an advanced civilization. Alas, continuing your research will not be as easy as you hoped, thanks to a secretive military group that has taken over the dig. Add to this, an enigmatic benefactor (Dr. Osiris) with a completely self-serving set of bizarre motives, and you’ve got the general landscape of Luxor. Yep, it will be up to you to save the world.

Secrets of the Luxor is a visually stunning experience, complete with elaborate 3D rendered scenes, that is highly reminiscent of Myst (they were developed with the same tools). But there are a few crucial differences. First, Secret of the Luxor’s animation is interwoven smoothly, crisply, and above all, quickly. The resulting effect makes it difficult to see where the animations have been “matted” over the backdrops, and therefore does not detract from the visual experience.

Perhaps the most stunning feature of Secrets of the Luxor, and what distinguishes it from Myst, is the use of QuickTime VR in gameplay. By strapping on a VR visor (which you find early in the game), you are able to explore the various rooms in full QuickTime VR splendor; in fact, there are even some clues you can only see when using the visor. This adds a completely new dimension to this genre of game, and it’s certainly a welcome addition.

Secrets of the Luxor’s interface is pure point-and-click. Unlike Myst, however, there’s no quick-zip to return to places you’ve already been; this can get tiring. Overall, the interface isn’t bad. You always have access to your backpack— which is chock full of interesting goodies—at the bottom of the screen. In your backpack lies a hefty journal to help you solve some of the riddles in the Luxor realm. It also contains your access cards and even a Polaroid camera just in case you want to capture a clue on film.

Secrets of the Luxor deserves a lot of credit for continuing Myst’s concept. Secrets of the Luxor has the same sense of ambience as Myst and it is every bit as visually stunning. Even the music reminds you of Myst. There is enough different about Secrets of the Luxor that Myst fans should enjoy it immensely. The game comes on two CDs and has many challenging puzzles for gamers of all levels. Add to this the use of high- resolution play, QuickTime VR, and a compelling premise, and you’ve got a game that will be a hit. So what if Secrets of the Luxor sometimes looks to be a Myst rip off? It’s a great game.

Farkas, Bart. (September 1996). Secrets of the Luxor. MacAddict. (pg. 64).

Download Secrets of the Luxor for Mac

Architecture

68K + PPC (FAT)

System Requirements

From Mac OS 7.0 up to Mac OS 9.2

Compatibility notes

Minimum Requirements

• 5 MB RAM
• 8-bit color display
• CD-ROM drive
• System 7.0

Emulating this? It could probably run under: Basilisk II