The House of Dom Orre by peter edwards

Fantasy

Quest

Wealth and fame await you in the House of Dom Orre. But beware. It is not unguarded...

Play online

Comment fox_wearing_socks

17 Dec 2025

Welp. I guess it never occurred to me that jars could open.
Thanks!

Comment DavyB

15 Dec 2025

@ fox_wearing_socks: I've just played the game up to lighting the pipe and it worked for me. Did you open the jar before trying to take the tobacco inside?

Comment fox_wearing_socks

15 Dec 2025

Yes. I'm sure there is some obvious solution I'm not getting.

Comment DavyB

15 Dec 2025

@ fox_wearing_socks: did you use the exact wording I suggested for the pipe?

Comment fox_wearing_socks

14 Dec 2025

Thanks, @DavyB! The king hint worked, though I'm still at a loss with the pipe situation. I'll have to keep trying.

Comment DavyB

14 Dec 2025

*** spoilers ***
@ fox_wearing_socks:
1. have you tried just typing where you want the king to go?
2. have you tried "put tobacco in pipe"?

It's been a long time since I played this game through to completion and Peter modified it since then so I would need to try it again when I get a free day.

Comment fox_wearing_socks

13 Dec 2025

Hi, guys!
I've read through some of the comments and probably picked up a lot of spoilers. I don't know if I'm ahead or behind when I ask: how do you move the chess pieces? I've tried "move __ to ___" or "take ___" and stuff like that.
Another thing: how do you light the pipe? Whenever I try it says, "No tobacco!" but when I try to take the tobacco, it doesn't let me.
Thanks!

Comment colorains

06 Apr 2025

@DavyB Thank you! I had not tried that. :)

Comment DavyB

05 Apr 2025

@colorins, I hope this doesn't sound insulting but have you tried UNLOCK DOOR?

Comment colorains

05 Apr 2025

I have a brass key for the brass lock, but I cannot figure out how to use it. I've tried "use key with lock", "use brass key with lock", "unlock lock with key", open lock with key", etc, but nothing works. Is there a special verb I need to use? I have this problem with another game so it is possible I don't know how keys work in Quest! Or it is possible that after all this time, something has caused the key function to break...

Thanks in advance for help!

Comment Tempora's Requim

08 Jun 2021

Okay, thanks!

Comment peter edwards

06 May 2021

Tempora,
First you have to know where to dig. Go to the toilet and examine things!
Peter

Comment Tempora's Requim

05 May 2021

Thanks! I've been pondering it, but still can't figure it out.

Comment peter edwards

01 May 2021

Tempora,
I’m here to help if you need it. All I’ll say for now is - be patient (and treat sarcasm with the contempt it deserves!) Ask if you want more.
Peter

Comment Tempora's Requim

30 Apr 2021

I can't seem to figure out how to use the spade to dig in the garden. I'm not sure if my commands are wrong or if I'm standing in the wrong place or if there's a certain pattern I have to follow. I'll keep trying, and I'll let you know if I figure it out. But I'm just saying, I may need help. (So sorry to keep pestering you with these comments. I feel really dumb for being the only one who can't figure these things out on my own! ;-;)

Comment peter edwards

22 Mar 2021

Very glad to hear it. Stay in touch...
P

Comment Tempora's Requim

22 Mar 2021

It's working now so I guess it was just a glitch.

Comment peter edwards

21 Mar 2021

Tempora,
Went online and played it myself! Worked ok for me, so I’m afraid I don’t know what happened with you. Sorry. Hope you manage to resolve the problem. I’d be very disappointed if you have to give up.
Good luck
Peter

Comment peter edwards

21 Mar 2021

Tempora,
Thanks for that. I’ll check it out.
P

Comment Tempora's Requim

21 Mar 2021

I think there may be a glitch, although I'm not sure if it's my computer or your code. I'm in the tunnel, and it says I can go north or south, but whenever I type "north" it says I can't go there. I'm gonna keep trying in case it is just my computer, but I thought I should let you know.

Comment Tempora's Requim

20 Mar 2021

Figured it out. Also figured out how to smoke a pipe. Not that it helped me figure out where to find the key... yet.

Comment peter edwards

19 Mar 2021

Tempora,
It’s a straightforward matter of verb + noun!
I’ll write it backwards so you can avoid seeing it if you want to keep trying!
You can sserp or hsup kcirk.
Good luck.
Peter

Comment Tempora's Requim

17 Mar 2021

now I can't figure out how to move the loose brick in the fireplace. Is there a specific command I have to type? Or something I have to do first?

Comment Tempora's Requim

13 Mar 2021

Dang! I just realized I made a spoiler alert and now I can't seem to delete that last comment! Nobody read it!

Comment Tempora's Requim

13 Mar 2021

Never mind, I found it! It finally occurred to me to check out the mud.

Comment Tempora's Requim

13 Mar 2021

Where do I look for this ring?

Comment peter edwards

09 May 2020

JonQ,
Pity about the poor old codger! Afraid you can’t revive him. This doesn’t stop you finishing the game, but you won’t get the maimum result. Regarding the squiggles problem, I advise you to reflect on it...
Peter

Comment JonQ

09 May 2020

Ah! thanks Peter. Great to hear from you. I have indeed enjoyed figuring things out! It's so satisfying when you unlock new areas and discoveries. I saw the squiggles but can't figure out if or how to decipher. Can you give a hint? Yes, saw the value of the pen, but thought it might be useful too. I see that I might need to restart, since I bludgeoned the poor old fellow... unless there's a way to revive him?

Comment peter edwards

08 May 2020

I said bog roll was just scenery, but if you don’t examine it you’ll miss something!
P

Comment peter edwards

08 May 2020

Hello again, JonQ,
Not sure how much help you want. I can tell you’re enjoying figuring things out for yourself! Just some hints to stop you wasting too much time :
Bog roll - just scenery
Pen. Examining it will show how valuable it is. In fact you have found one of the artefacts you are looking for.
Powder. Concerned with Dom Orre’s secret experiment.
Old man. Hope you were nice to him...
If you want me to be more specific, just ask. Good luck!
Peter

Comment peter edwards

08 May 2020

JonQ,
Sorry for the delay. I’ve been incommunicado for a while! I’ll look into your problem asap. Watch this space...
Peter

Comment JonQ

06 May 2020

Got the ring now and got up to the hatch. I tried putting the powder in the glass with liquid to make ink, but it just said "done," so I took it back out! Shouldn't it have dissolved? Anyway I have a lot of stuff but have not figured out the library or what to do with the pen, the banjulele after it's tuned or the bog roll or what's in the hatch or the web or garden stuff or the metal box. This is all very, very cool. I just have my hands full but no ideas left. I've looked at everything many times. I wonder if I was supposed to do something else to the skinny oldster. This game is great! Fun to puzzle over it.

Comment JonQ

05 May 2020

Hi Peter, I just found some new areas to explore! Lots of fun. I still haven't got the ring yet, but lots of other stuff. I didn't know that 'tetherball' is also called 'swingball.' I have always enjoyed that since I was a kid, and of course, it's in Napoleon Dynamite. I wanted to punch it in the game, but nothing happened. I just wanted to let you know I am still at it! The secret passages are very well done.

Comment peter edwards

03 May 2020

JonQ,
The ghost is, indeed, random. No problem if you’re wearing the ring. The ring is, however, loose on your finger and is likely to fall off. You should hear a clink if that happens but it’s worth checking now and again. (I’m assuming you’ve found the ring...)
Peter

Comment JonQ

03 May 2020

Okay, I cry uncle. I have played a number of times, but no matter how much more efficient I become in gathering items, I get killed off before I can go further. But I can't figure out what is triggering the ghost -- is it random, or is there something I must avoid, or something I must do? I am playing the downloaded file.

Comment peter edwards

30 Apr 2020

Watching over your progress with interest, JonQ. Glad to aid if necessary, but will hold back unless asked...
Peter

Comment JonQ

30 Apr 2020

Played again and explored all rooms. Fun! Got an artefact from on high and had a smoke. Enjoyed the Latin! I have a hint in my game in Latin, but in the game itself, an Anglo-Saxon verse of gnomic wisdom. I found other objects too after looking everywhere. Don't know what to do about the hatch (tried to stand on a chair). Opened the furnace. I see someone below mentioned tweezers... I must play again and try not to get killed; not sure what I did wrong this time. I will keep trying!

Comment peter edwards

29 Apr 2020

JonQ,
Thank you for your kind comments. I am delighted that there is someone who still enjoys this style of adventure. I had quite given up hope! Good luck with it, and if you need any hints be sure to ask. I shall have to start checking the comments again now I know someone is playing!
Peter

Review JonQ

29 Apr 2020

I have only played once and got killed off, but I plan to keep on trying. This is one of the best old school text adventures on Quest! Glad to see someone is keeping this grand tradition alive. The special effects made me jump! Reminds me a little of Alone in the Dark from the 90s, but these are great traditions to revive and put a new spin on. It's a lot of fun, and I can't wait to solve this one. Looks like a good challenge. Very nice, sir!

Comment peter edwards

20 Apr 2018

A very small and unimportant anomaly corrected.

Comment peter edwards

01 Feb 2018

Thank you for that, Sinca. I’m very pleased that you enjoyed it!
Peter

Review Sinca12

01 Feb 2018

Another great game by peter edwards!!! Fiendishly tricky puzzles coupled with an intriguing story and a helpful creator and You've got a great game!

Comment peter edwards

01 Feb 2018

Small anomaly corrected.

Comment peter edwards

01 Feb 2018

Sinca,
You’re on the right track. Open the furnace and take it from there...
Let me know how you get on. Good luck!
Peter

Comment peter edwards

01 Feb 2018

Good morning, Sinca12,
Glad you’re enjoying the game. Rushed right now, but will answer your query in a few hours time I promise.
Thanks also for pointing out the anomaly of the wardrobe. I shall investigate that soon after.
Keep an eye out - I’ll be back shortly.
Peter

Comment Sinca12

01 Feb 2018

Hey, peter.

I have no idea if you're still active but I hope you are! I've been loving your games playing one after the other and this is what I've hit but I seem totally stuck! Everyone mentions carrying the tweezers but I don't have them. I think they're needed to access the white object (in the ecanruf moor) but I can't find them! I'm hoping they also get me to figure out the experiment because I think i've got all the artifacts but the laoc is still laoc and from the comments I'm assuming something makes it a dnomaid.

Anyway, great games! I hope you'll be able to help me out! And don't pay attention to Tim whatever with all the insults and such. You've got great descriptions and your grammar is near impeccable (whereas he had a typo in the first sentence of his critique).
One thing I have noticed is that the wardrobe in the large bedroom includes "it's open and empty!" in it's description even when it's closed.

Comment peter edwards

23 Jan 2018

Jimbrock,
Thank you for your kind review. I’m very pleased that you enjoyed the game, and happy to know that someone still enjoys classic style adventure games! Also flattered that you recognised the marble table. The house in that game was a mixture of kcordyhnal and elehetoc which is not far away. Shows I have to be careful with my descriptions!
Thanks again
Peter

Review jimbrock

23 Jan 2018

A classic text adventure! I really enjoyed it. Good, logical puzzles and enough hints in the comments to help get over the more tricky bits without revealing too much. Atmospheric descriptions that got the brain juices flowing.

Usual advice applies (I need to follow my own advice here!), read all the room descriptions carefully and examine everything even if it's not in the object list. Save regularly!

Comment jimbrock

23 Jan 2018

Backwards so as not to be too obvious (you mentioned that you'd rather people weren't aware):
kcordyhnal

I was in the kitchen and there was a large marble table with a channel round the outside and tap. And there was a large fire with spits driven by chains and a chimney hood with a door in it. Fantastic! It suddenly dawned on me.

Comment peter edwards

23 Jan 2018

Jimbrock,
Thanks for that. What was the landmark? Please tell me - I’m dying to know!
You’re doing very well with “Orre”. Nearly there!
Peter

Comment jimbrock

23 Jan 2018

And who was giving you a hard time about being descriptive? I was walking around a famous landmark last year and I suddenly realised that I recognised it from the descriptions from one of your games! Brilliant!

Comment jimbrock

23 Jan 2018

For goodness sake! From the very first location. I did this with one of your other adventures! I'll never make a true adventurer.

Thanks for "hint"

Jim

Comment peter edwards

23 Jan 2018

Jimbrock,
There is a door leading from your 1st location which you have not investigated!
Good luck, and stay in touch.
Peter

Comment jimbrock

23 Jan 2018

Right, I've found the kiwi and the egg now. Still struggling to find the furnace room and the lab.

Hints welcome!

Thanks

Comment jimbrock

23 Jan 2018

Hi Peter,

Loving the game! But I'm stuck.
You are carrying a banjulele, a block of resin, a book, a small blue jug, an ignition key, a piece of notepaper, a piece of paper, an ashtray, a bread roll, a box of matches, a bat, a lit pipe, a slim book, a screwdriver, some pearls, a pen, a scrap of paper, a coin, a brass key, a slipper, a cudgel, a shiny key, a toad, a ring, a spade, some flower pots and a chest full of jewels.

I gave the man a drink and then he disappeared. Should I have done that? There's mention of a lab and furnace room. I can't find there. And that hatch! What does that do.

Some hints would be appreciated.

Thanks

Comment peter edwards

16 Jan 2017

Thank you for that, DavyB, and for your very helpful suggestions. Glad you enjoyed it!
Peter

Review DavyB

16 Jan 2017

I’ve played two versions of this game: the original and the recently updated version. They are essentially the same in content but not in feel. The original relied heavily on the default object description “Nothing out of the ordinary” to a point where it was distracting for some players. This was pointed out in comments and reviews. The revised version addresses this issue, allowing the game to be better appreciated.

The House of Dom Orre is a fantasy mystery, where the player is trapped alone in a house, trying to find out what has happened to its owner, Professor Dom Orre. As well as escaping, the player has to avoid a ghost, locate nine (traditional text-adventure) treasures, and solve puzzles on the way.

Overall, the game is very well designed, with a feel, scale and level of challenge similar to Peter’s other games. So, for me, that means an excellent experience and yet another adventure that I can confidently recommend to others!

Comment DavyB

11 Jan 2017

Hi Peter, This is another excellent game but a few quick tweaks would improve the player experience. The explanation is too much of a spoiler to insert here so feel free to contact me at [email protected] for the details.

Comment Lighnagain

20 Nov 2016

Hi Peter--

Yes I did. With ample help from the comments! ;)
I have played through now 4/8 of your games--onto the next!

Comment peter edwards

19 Nov 2016

Well done, Lighnagain,
I hope you enjoyed the game. Did you find all the artefacts?
Peter

Comment Lighnagain

19 Nov 2016

FOUND IT. And now I am freee!!!

Comment Lighnagain

19 Nov 2016

Found the fly--now just trying to remember how I got into the yrfleb

Comment Lighnagain

19 Nov 2016

Hi Peter--

Alright, I'm fairly certain I could escape the house if I so choose, however I know I am missing several additional artifacts based on the comments. I am also relatively certain I know the location of said artifacts, but have yet to figure out how to acquire them.

I once went to the belfry, but now I have forgotten how I got there. (I died and didn't play again for a couple days)
I have dehcuot the bew, but I don't know what to do with the tcejbo I have discovered as a result. I can't take it or even ascertain what it is by examining it.

Aside from that, I have the yek for the rac, have found and entered the room with the rac, so I presume I just drive out when I'm ready.

Comment peter edwards

02 May 2016

Good evening, Kyu,
The rusty key needs to be cleaned before it can be used. You already have what's needed. And save before you kill anything!
Good luck - and ask again if you need to! (I may not give an immediate reply as I'm away at present for a day or two.)
Don't get rid of the glass of liquid - it comes in useful more than once...
Peter

Comment KyuJones

02 May 2016

Good day, Mr. Edwards! ^__^
I am on to your haunted game, here!

I've come to a spot where I'm confused what to do next, but moreso because I cannot figure out how to find ways into particular spots!

What I have::
blue jug, ignition key, slim book, matches, screwdriver, lit pipe, glass (containing liquid), banjulele, case, pen, book, Oliver Twist, brass key, resin, coin, slipper, drawer (w/scrap of paper), jade kiwi, piece of paper, ashtray, notepaper, rusty key, cudgel, spade, flower pots, ring, bat, pearls

Where I've attempted results::
loft safe
spider hole
cell
ball puzzle

May I have a hint? T____T

Comment peter edwards

19 Apr 2016

Small description improvement added!

Comment peter edwards

18 Apr 2016

Adjusted to be compatible with latest Quest version.

Comment peter edwards

01 May 2015

Thank you, Crispin, for your kind review. I take on board your comments re "nothing unusual" - a fault I have tried to eliminate in later games - and the "chair2" and "a dust" errors. I blame myself for carelessness here, and will repair soonest!
Cheers,
Peter

Review Crispin

01 May 2015

Another excellent, engaging game from Peter Edwards! The house was large enough to provide some variety but was not difficult to navigate, and although there were several "you see nothing out of the ordinary" descriptions (which took some getting used to), it did help with narrowing down how to solve the puzzles. The hints in the comments were very helpful, and I really appreciated how Peter provided hints without spelling out too much.
There was a bit of "you see a chair2", or "you can see a coal dust", but that may be due to the Quest program, rather than any problem with the actual game.

Comment peter edwards

30 Apr 2015

Crispin,
You'll need to solve the chess problem. The notepaper only tells you the format of the moves. Just enter the right move, and you're on your way! Examine the tsud on the onaip...
PS the Kiwi is meant to be the bird, though that is irrelevant I suppose.
Re the rubbish - you don't need it. In fact you have to lose it...
Oh, and don't ring the bell!! (You were warned, remember)
Good luck
Peter

Comment Crispin

30 Apr 2015

Hi Peter,

After taking a hiatus and finally returning to try to finish the game, I find myself completely stuck yet again. I figured out how to leave (and have the ignition key) but the remaining artifacts are proving fairly elusive. I have the pearls, fly, kiwi (bird or fruit?), coin, and pen.
-How do I move the ssehc pieces? I can't seem to find the correct command even though I have the piece of notepaper with the instructions.
-I understand there is something in the belfry. Do I need the hsibbur? Do I need somehow to gnir the lleb without dying?
-any hints for how I get to the hatch on the landing or getting to the shed?
You really had me tearing my hair out with the fly! I was trying everything from lighting the web on fire to beating the spider with Oliver Twist.

Thanks,
Crispin

Comment DaNiX88

03 Apr 2015

Thanks for the help Peter. I was able to finish the game. I had no idea where to yalp it, but once I found the area you hinted out, it hit me in the face. Of course I should have tried playing to all the sgnieb first and foremost, and I had completely forgotten about him (shame on me)!

And as you recommended I wore earphones and found it to be a treat. Great ending! And it didn't actually take so long to load, as my internet connection is rather quick. Once again, fantastic game! Since I've played every game of yours now, I only need to finish HMS Victory. I'll give it one last shot before I await your next game. I will probably ask you for help with that, if you don't mind.

Have a good couple of days, Peter.

Cheers,
Dan

Review DaNiX88

03 Apr 2015

A great game as usual. This game is a twist of mystery, suspense, and had a treasure hunt theme to it. As a news journalist, you have to get to the root of the "incident," while simultaneously finding artifacts of value and running from the horror of the house. It holds a nice balanced feel to it and keeps you engaged with the wide play area and all the puzzles. This game will not disappoint!

Comment peter edwards

02 Apr 2015

Hi Dan,
You're doing the right thing, but in the wrong place! It's quite near where you found it. But make sure it's tuned! (I may be offline for a day or so, so if I don't respond quickly, it's not that I've lost interest!)
Peter

Comment DaNiX88

02 Apr 2015

Thanks for your quick response, Peter (though mine is not)!

I'm having trouble finding the yek noitingi. I restarted the game from the beginning, thinking it might have something to do with the nam dlo, so I saved it and tried both mih gnipleh, and mih gnillik, and elelujnab eht mih ot gniyalp, much to no effect. Maybe I've got the wrong idea? I've tried playing the banjulele in several places but I've only been managed to strum a few basic chords. Is there possibly another verb I'm missing?
Thanks for all your help so far.

I await your next response in high anticipation, earphones at the ready!

Dan

Comment peter edwards

30 Mar 2015

Hi Dan,
Nearly there! You need to insert an noitingi yek! To find this needs some musical effort!.
By the way, when you reach the end, ensure you are sound enabled, and have some patience. It may just be my computer, but the final messages seem to take a long time to appear.
Glad you're enjoying the adventure - it's what it was written for!
Cheers
Peter

Comment DaNiX88

30 Mar 2015

Peter, I've gotten into the rac, but the nottub has no effect. I was wondering if there was some sort of necessary power source somewhere, but I can't find any clues. I'll search around the rac for now. Hope to hear from you soon!

Great game, by the way. I admit it was a bit challenging and could only find most of the objects through the comments section on this page, but hopefully as I play more text games, the right verbs will come to me quicker. I've already celebrated a steep learning curb though, so I've been left with an insatiable urge to play text adventures these days.

Comment peter edwards

26 Mar 2015

Dan,
So, you have all 9 artefacts (not including the ring or diamond - one is an heirloom, the other the result of an experiment). Have you found a way to open the north door in the hall?
Speak to you soon.
Peter

Comment DaNiX88

26 Mar 2015

So flash forward over a year later... I've got all the artifacts, but can't find the way out. Is there any hint I can be given to be led in the right direction?

Review Cycle-Alchemist

01 Feb 2014

Good game, Story could use a little work(maybe a Revamp) but wouldn't play it again. Sorry

Comment peter edwards

12 Dec 2013

Reidolol,
On the game page, click the tab marked "Display".
Near the bottom of the page are the "Layout" options, where you can untick the "show panes" box.

Always glad to help, but more expert advice is available in the Quest Forum.
Good luck
Peter

Comment Reidolol

12 Dec 2013

Peter Edwards
I mean how to hide the right panel( That show inventory,items in room and compass), when is building a game.

Comment peter edwards

11 Dec 2013

Reidolol,
Which room are you in?

Comment Reidolol

11 Dec 2013

Peter Edwards
How i hide the right panel?

Comment Claire6129

08 Dec 2013

Peter Edwards,
No… I'm good now, figured it out. Thanks for trying to help.
If you have time, can you check out my two stories that I made? I'm kinda new here and would appreaciate your rating and comments if you have any.
My stories are:
Stray dog
Memory Path
Ps, I like your stories.

Comment peter edwards

07 Dec 2013

Claire6129,

What's the matter? Can I help?

Peter

Comment peter edwards

07 Dec 2013

Crispin,
You don't need to be in the lab to hear the crack, but it takes a while.
Don't waste time with the dartboard - it's just scenery.
I'll give you hints regarding the button later. You may yet work it out when you've found something else!
You're wise to check the gnir occasionally...

Comment Claire6129

07 Dec 2013

There must've been a glitch or something on mine...

Comment Crispin

07 Dec 2013

I found secret lab and am waiting for the "crack" in the box. Can you hear that anywhere or do you need to be in the lab? I got into the garage and I pushed the button but nothing happened. Hints? :) Also, is there something I can do with the dartboard?

You are carrying a slim book, a book (containing a pen), a banjulele, a coin, a bread roll, a glass (containing liquid), a box of matches, a slipper (containing a jade kiwi), a piece of notepaper, an ashtray, a ring, a piece of paper, a lit pipe, a screwdriver, some pearls, a drawer, a scrap of paper, a block of resin, a pair of tweezers, Oliver Twist and a brass key. PS. Frigging cold air. I am checking for my gnir compulsively.

Comment peter edwards

07 Dec 2013

Crispin,

You're progressing well! You already have 4 of the artefacts, i.e. the kiwi, coin, pen and pearls. 5 more to find (the ring is a family heirloom, not a "treasure"). I assume you've read the diary, in which case you know his fate. To achieve full success, you'll also need to discover his secret experiment.

Explore the furnace room more thoroughly...

Peter

Comment Crispin

07 Dec 2013

Thanks Peter!

I have resin, slim book, book, pen, a tuned banjulele, coin, bread, glass, liquid, matches, slipper, kiwi, notepaper, ashtray, ring, piece of paper (mirror), lit pipe, screwdriver, pearls, and a scrap of paper about the ball. What do I do next? Any hints? I've explored the rooms, found the furnace room, and encountered the phantom numerous times.

Comment peter edwards

07 Dec 2013

Crispin,
To look in containers, simply examine them. Regarding the slipper, now you know there's something in it (by feeling in it), examine it again.
Ask again if you need to - always pleased to help!
Peter

Comment Crispin

07 Dec 2013

What is the command to look in things? I opened the oven, a drawer, and a wardrobe, but I can't see what is in them. Also, how do you get the something out of the slipper?!

Comment peter edwards

27 Nov 2013

You're correct, Charles, though the hollow tree was real until it blew down in a gale some years ago! Incidentally, the secret lab is also a figment of my imagination...

Comment Charles Scott

27 Nov 2013

My pleasure, Peter. Incidentally, my enjoyment this time was enhanced by knowing that the House was based on your own -- though I imagine you don't have a secret passage to a hollow tree in your garden...?
Charles

Comment peter edwards

26 Nov 2013

Charles, thank you for your kind review. It's always very encouraging to hear that someone has enjoyed one's games. Makes it worth writing them!
Thanks again.
Peter

Review Charles Scott

26 Nov 2013

This was the first text adventure I played after accidentally stumbling on the "Quest" site in April -- happy day! I wasn't signed up for reviews and comments at that time: so now I've gone back to "Dom Orre", and have found it just as compelling and challenging as the first time around. I'd forgotten the answers to several of the puzzles, so it's taken me longer than I expected to complete. This time, however, I left with all the treasures (I'd failed to find the belfry before). All of which just goes to show that a really good game, like a really good book, repays a second visit. Since my first attempt at "Dom Orre" I've played all Peter's games, and found them all excellent: well-plotted and elegantly written. This one is no exception.

Comment peter edwards

18 Nov 2013

Hi emy,
Carefully explore the fireplace. That may be enough to start with, but let me know if you want more.
Best wishes
Peter

Comment emy

18 Nov 2013

Hi, I know I'm a bit late to the party, but I still can't find the belfry, bat, kiwi, or ignition key. (obviously, I've read through the comments to see what I'm missing). I have tried lifting, opening, breaking, etc the ceiling to get to the belfry, but no luck. I don't know what to do with the banjulele, flowerpots, or slipper, and as soon as I saw the old man I instantly helped him. Maybe I should go back...

Any pointers would be great!

Comment Carrot

17 Jun 2013

Found the coin - thank you.

Yes, I am sound enabled - I realised immediately when the ring dropped becuase of the sound effect. Nice touch.

A great puzzle, if a little obscure in places.

I just have one last favour to ask of you (or anyone else who is reading this)

Can you head over to the comments page of "The Mansion II"- I have reached a temporary impass there too.

Comment peter edwards

17 Jun 2013

Carrot - you're going to kick yourself! you're using the right words in the right places. You've looked behind the cushions, felt them, but not tlef dniheb them!!
Well done for finding the fly.
PS You are sound-enabled I hope - I'm quite proud of my sound FX for the escape!

Comment Carrot

17 Jun 2013

OK - I know I am making a lot of comments here :(

But I am so nearly there :D

I have the Emerald Fly now :D

But I am still stuck on the cushions.

I can't "search" them, I can't "remove" them, I can't "look under" or "look behind" them, "feel" them, nor can I look under or behind the sofa.

I am really stuck on this bit, I have even tried "look down back of sofa"

You are carrying a banjulele, a block of resin, an ignition key, a diamond, a box of matches, a screwdriver, a slipper, a ring, an ashtray, some pearls, a lit pipe, a pair of tweezers, a jade kiwi, a piece of paper, a cudgel, a shiny key, a toad, a spade, some flower pots, a chest full of jewels, a piece of notepaper, a drawer, a scrap of paper, an egg, a book, a pen, Oliver Twist, a brass key, a bat, a cocoon and a fly.

Comment Carrot

17 Jun 2013

Ok - stuck again.

I can't take touch lift push pull the white object!

And I can't look under behind or between the cushions - or search them!

Comment peter edwards

16 Jun 2013

Re the web. Touch it!
As for the sofa cushions - where are things often lost?

Comment Carrot

16 Jun 2013

Re the moor gnivil, I am guessing it has something to do with the snoihsuc, but I can't ekat, tfil, hcraes or no tis them, and examining them shows that "ni tliub era yeht".

Comment Carrot

16 Jun 2013

I have the tab naidisbo :D

Comment Carrot

16 Jun 2013

I think I may need several - lets start with the moor ecanruf.

I have searched and examined everything, searching the reknub laoc revealed a bewboc, however nothing appeared in the room description.

I have tried examining and taking the bew, once I had tried gnikat it, it appeared in the room description as "bew a ees nac uoy". But still I can't seem to interact with it. I see "nothing out of the ordinary", and try as I might I have not found a way to "ti ot erif tes".

Comment peter edwards

16 Jun 2013

Do you need a hint?

Comment Carrot

16 Jun 2013

Cheers, don't think I found the yrfleb yet ;)

Comment peter edwards

16 Jun 2013

Carrot,
3 artefacts left, one in the moor ecanruf, one in the moor gnivil and one in the yrfleb.
I've written them like this so you can avoid accidentally reading anything you don't want to read!
Good luck.

Comment Carrot

15 Jun 2013

Still stuck - can you nudge me in the right direction without revealing the answer?

Comment peter edwards

14 Jun 2013

Carrot,
Quite right. You have correctly identified the artefacts you have found, and still have 3 to go. I know how satisfying it is to solve these problems, so I've not given you any hints for now. However, let me know if you want any!

Comment Carrot

12 Jun 2013

Took me a while to work out the correct verb to use in the library, but I got there :D and have managed to escape to freedom YAY - but I fear I am still missing some items.

You are carrying a banjulele, a block of resin, an ignition key, a diamond, a box of matches, a screwdriver, a slipper, a ring, an ashtray, some pearls, a lit pipe, a pair of tweezers, a jade kiwi, a piece of paper, a cudgel, a shiny key, a toad, a spade, some flower pots, a chest full of jewels, a piece of notepaper, a drawer, a scrap of paper, an egg, a book, a pen, Oliver Twist and a brass key.

Based on your previous comments I am guessing the artefacts I have found are the pearls, the jade kiwi, the bone toad, the chest of jewels, the rhino egg, and now the jewelled pen.

Which leaves 3 to find by my counting. Now where have I overlooked something?

Off to try again :D

Comment Carrot

12 Jun 2013

No I didn't and no I didn't :)

Will give that a try later - cheers.

Comment peter edwards

12 Jun 2013

Do you see the connection between Oliver and twist? You should find what you need in the library. By the way, did you try lifting the skeleton's hand?
PS I'll be out of touch for a couple of days. Don't think I've lost interest!!

Comment Carrot

11 Jun 2013

Already done

"You need the right key to twist"
I tried "twist hand" on the skeleton, but I can't twist that.

Comment peter edwards

11 Jun 2013

Carrot,
Having found Oliver, you're halfway there! Examine the lock...

Comment Carrot

11 Jun 2013

Can you give me a hint to open the sliding door in the hallway?

I am guessing I need a brass key due to it having a brass lock. "Fabricated by Oliver and Sons" doesn't mean too much to me right now.

I am sure I have overlooked something real simple - but I cannot for the life of me work out what it is.

You are carrying a banjulele, a block of resin, an ignition key, a diamond, a box of matches, a screwdriver, a slipper, a ring, an ashtray, some pearls, a lit pipe, a pair of tweezers, a jade kiwi, a piece of paper, a cudgel, a shiny key, a toad, a spade, some flower pots, a chest full of jewels, a piece of notepaper, an egg, a drawer and a scrap of paper.

Comment peter edwards

11 Jun 2013

Well done.

As a matter of interest, I note you have 5 artefacts so far (what you had before + the egg) so 4 more to find! The ring isn't one (it's an heirloom) nor is the diamond (proof of discovering the experiment). So there's more to do!

Good luck.

Comment Carrot

11 Jun 2013

I'm sure I had tried that at some point. Obviously not, eh?

Anyway I have the Rhino Egg now.

All I have to do for now is try and work out how to unlock the door in the hall!

Comment peter edwards

11 Jun 2013

Well done, Carrot.
Now, in the right location, teg reward. X it.

Comment Carrot

10 Jun 2013

Calling it a night now.

You are carrying a block of resin, a banjulele, an ignition key, a ring, a box of matches, a screwdriver, a piece of notepaper, an ashtray, some pearls, a piece of paper, a lit pipe, a shiny key, a cudgel, a spade, some flower pots, a pair of tweezers, a toad, a chest full of jewels, a diamond, a slipper and a jade kiwi.

So I found the toad. I am still stuck on the safe, despite your nod to the small bedroom.

Comment Carrot

10 Jun 2013

Found the jade kiwi - but no note yet.

Comment Carrot

10 Jun 2013

You are in a small bedroom.
You can see a single bed and a chest of drawers.
You can go west.

This is what I have tried (reversed to hide any spoilers ;) )

deb x >
.yranidro eht fo tuo gnihtoN

deb rednu kool >
reppils a dnif uoY

reppils ekat >
.pu ti kcip uoY

reppils x >
!leeh-ta-nwod yllaretil dna ,ybbahs dna dlO

leeh x >
.taht ees t'nac I

reppils ni kool >
.llew yrev ereht ni ees t'nac uoY

reppils ekahs >
.dnammoc ruoy dnatsrednu t'nod I

tsehc nepo >
.ti nepo uoY
...ylhtooms yrev nepo sedils reward ehT

reward x >
.yranidro eht fo tuo gnihtoN

tsehc x >
.yranidro eht fo tuo gnihtoN

reward ni kool >
.ti ni kool t'nac uoY

hctam thgil >
.ti thgil t'nac uoY

hctam ekirts >
.dnammoc ruoy dnatsrednu t'nod I

reppils gnab >
.dnammoc ruoy dnatsrednu t'nod I

reppils raew >
.ti raew t'nac uoY

Comment Carrot

10 Jun 2013

Cheers Peter - I will give it a go.

Re the old man - I have both aided him and killed him - but I aided him on the 1st conversation, maybe I should have talked a little longer.

Off to try again.

Comment peter edwards

10 Jun 2013

Carrot,
To help you on your way. First, if you've found nothing in the straw in spite of searching it, have you been a little hasty with the old man? Regarding the safe, there is a clue on a scrap of paper (maybe not the one you have - look in the small bedroom.) To stop banjulele pegs from slipping you need to rub them with resin. Examine the case carefully.
This should move you on a bit, but do ask again if you need to!
Good luck
Peter

Comment Carrot

09 Jun 2013

OK - I got into the cell, couldn't find anything in the straw (couldn't set light to it either).

I am now carrying a banjulele, a ring, a box of matches, a screwdriver, some pearls, a piece of paper, a lit pipe, a shiny key, a cudgel, a spade, some flower pots, a pair of tweezers, a chest full of jewels, a diamond and a slipper.

Comment Carrot

09 Jun 2013

I'm stuck on this one at the moment.

At the moment I am carrying a banjulele, a ring, a box of matches, a screwdriver, a glass (containing liquid), some pearls, a piece of paper, a lit pipe, a rusty key, a cudgel, a spade, some flower pots, a pair of tweezers, a chest full of jewels, a diamond and a slipper.

But as yet I cannot work out how to unlock the North sliding door in the front hall, the cell or the safe in the loft - nor can I tune the banjulele.

Some hints would be appreciated.

Comment peter edwards

01 May 2013

Pedders,
Spoilers ahead...

Put powder in flask
Put flask in box
Close box
Switch it on
Wait... (or do something else) until...
There will be a sharp "crack"
Switch off box
Open it

This should work. Please let me know how you get on.

Cheers...

Comment Pedders

01 May 2013

Peter

I have been coming back to this off and on and only the experiment remains (i think!). I have tried putting just about everything in box, operated it (including doing something a number of times until something else happens). When I open the box there seems to be no change ... am I just being really thick?

Comment peter edwards

21 Apr 2013

An apology.
An earlier version of this game had a bug whereby a message was posted at the conclusion intimating that you had failed to discover the professor’s experiment even if you had, in fact, succeeded!
This has been fixed.
In case you’re still struggling, you are reassured that, if you’ve found the diamond, you’ve discovered the experiment!

Comment peter edwards

15 Apr 2013

Hi xavea,
SPOILERS BELOW.

You have survived the phantom (so far) so must have put your hands into the aquarium. Follow the advice in the book, and have a wash somewhere as soon as possible!

There is a clue to the chess move in the music room. Examine everything very carefully.

Unhealthy advice, I know, but smoke your pipe in different places. (There is a place the professor used to smoke...)

There is more to the furnace room than immediately apparent. Examine everything.

That should get you going again, but do ask again if necessary.

Good luck.

Comment xavea

15 Apr 2013

It seems like a great game so far, but I am very stuck. Spoilers Ahead!

V
V

I have a bajulele, a slim book (which tells me not to go getting the thing out of the aquarium with my bare hands), a glass (with a liquid that will strip rust), an ashtry, a piece of paper (which I can read in the mirror), a piece of notepaper (which has chess moves on it, but I can't figure out how to move the chess pieces), a box of matches, and a lit pipe.

I have gotten into the furnace room (I know that doesn't seem hard but it took me a while), and I've explored all the other rooms that I can get to. I have encountered the Phantom once, but nothing happened. I figure I need to try to get into the hatch upstairs, but I can't seem to get a chair or anything over there to climb up.

Please help.

Comment peter edwards

10 Apr 2013

Hi Pedders,
Glad you're enjoying the game. First, you're right in that the swingball is a red herring. The instructions refer to a different ball! To lift the stepladder you need more strength. Look in the dining room. Regarding the rusty key problem, something in the kitchen will help.
I've deliberately only hinted at the clues as I know it's more fun the more you find out for yourself, but if you want any more help, please ask. I know how frustrating it can be!
Regarding the experiment - I'll tell you more if you can't get anywhere.
Good luck.
Peter

Review Pedders

10 Apr 2013

Loving the game but have ground to a halt. I am still puzzling over the experiment but have got to the garage and the shed and used the spade. can't understand the balls and have stood around fiddling with the swingball to no avail - I have a feeling this is a red herring! completely stuck with the iron studded oak door which isn't unlocked with the rusty key and also stumped by hatch - do I need assistance with the stepladder? Any hints to get me moving again are gratefully received.

Comment Tim Sibiski

16 Mar 2013

Privateer. You are just digging yourself deeper and deeper. Keep shoveling.

I am tired of seeing you make yourself and Peter look so bad. And I have no interest in continuing to make you look bad. I'm done arguing with you.

Comment peter edwards

16 Mar 2013

There seems to be a thread developing here about which I am concerned. I would like to add my first and only comment to this.

1.I have never opened an alternative a/c
2. I have never solicited good reviews from anyone
3. I have always welcomed advice and criticism, adverse or not.
4. I will always consider and respect advice, but reserve the right not necessarily to take it!

I appreciate that the kind of text adventures I prefer are perhaps old-fashioned but, as long as there are players who like to play them, I will continue to write them.

Comment Privateer

16 Mar 2013

"Privateer."

Hello Tim Sibiski...

"Nothing you said in the last post has any relevance to what I just said."

Yes, it has.

"And I was using "family" as an example."

No, you weren't.

"I have family review my content all the time."

Ah! I see.

"You need to take it down a notch and stop being so defensive."

I don't need to be defensive. Grammar books have been written to do that for me.

Comment Tim Sibiski

16 Mar 2013

I have a preference for puzzle orientated games myself but I do not tell others that they are wrong for preferring games that are less puzzle centred. I think what I object to is the notion that Craig and Peter's games are of lower quality because they do not follow the current rules and fashions that certain people have decided must apply to all current text games in order for them to be worth playing.

====

I have not seen anything other than criticism for Peter in the forums. Craig is another thing. Please show me where Peter has received anything other than criticism for his story.

Comment Tim Sibiski

16 Mar 2013

Privateer. Nothing you said in the last post has any relevance to what I just said. And I was using "family" as an example. I have family review my content all the time. You need to take it down a notch and stop being so defensive.

Comment sarah4

16 Mar 2013

Tim, I am the only person to review this game so far and I have no connection to Peter Edwards whatsoever apart from having played and enjoyed his games on this site!

I think (though I don't want to speak for them) that Craig and Peter are just a bit surprised at having their games singled out for such scathing criticism (destructive rather than constructive) in the forum, especially when you consider the quality of their games compared to almost every other game that has been posted here in the last year! What annoyed me about the forum discussion was the assertion by certain individuals that their own personal preferences constituted absolute best practice when it came to creating text games rather than just being their own preference. I greatly enjoy Craig and Peter's games and find them immensely playable and user friendly, something which appeals to me as someone without any programming experience. I have a preference for puzzle orientated games myself but I do not tell others that they are wrong for preferring games that are less puzzle centred. I think what I object to is the notion that Craig and Peter's games are of lower quality because they do not follow the current rules and fashions that certain people have decided must apply to all current text games in order for them to be worth playing. As I have mentioned, I enjoy these games immensely and find the puzzles and narratives very satisfying and I do not think I am wrong in holding this opinion. The vast majority of games posted on this site are buggy, incomplete, juvenile or so short that they are barely worth playing, given this, I am very surprised that the two best regular authors on the site have been picked out for special criticism. Also, I do not just think they are good games 'by Quest standards', but the games I have enjoyed playing most on any text game platform. I am not disagreeing with you personally on the subject of criticism here, just saying what I would have liked to have said in the forum if I was able to log in!

Comment Privateer

16 Mar 2013

No family reviewed this game. I reviewed the appropriacy of your comments regarding grammar. If you swallow your ego and follow your own advice, you could improve your grasp of this subject. From what I have seen of your writing, you have a lot of potential for improvement.

Comment Tim Sibiski

16 Mar 2013

No one is roasting you, Peter. It is called criticism. Some people will love your games. Some people will not. That will happen even if you make the most undeniably awesome game ever; someone will find its faults.

My original post, and the majority of discussion on shallow writing in video games is nothing more than criticism. Criticism is something you can consider - and thus maybe make your games better - or you can ignore the criticism as you may already have a damn good approach.

But my point is - don't take offense to criticism. Without it, you cannot become better at something in life. That's why having family review your writing is not always the best method of critique, as family will often love EVERYTHING that you do. Then, when you have a public critique, you get thrown to the sharks and you feel terrible.

In the process of expressing creativity, we must all develop a thick skin, or succumb to despair and loss of confidence.

Reiterating the overall point - If I don't like the game, it doesn't mean you are any less awesome at making games. It just means you know where you might be able to improve. That's all.

Comment peter edwards

15 Mar 2013

Thank you for your kind words and encouragement, Sarah. I was wondering whether it was worth going on as both Craig Dutton and myself have been roasted in the Forum for shallow non-descriptive games. But as long as someone wants us...

Review sarah4

15 Mar 2013

Thanks very much for your help Peter, I should have thought of the suspicious liquid in the glass but I had assumed it wasn't potable and so had thrown it in with the mixture I put into the box in the lab to make the diamond!

Anyway, I really loved this game, as I mentioned before, I love mansion house mysteries and treasure hunts and I adore puzzles, and this game had all of these! The puzzles were numerous and well-conceived and executed, just fiendish enough to involve serious thinking but intuitive enough to make perfect sense in the context of the game and location. Some of the most difficult puzzles are the most satisfying when you finally manage to crack them and I am delighted to see there are some fantastically tricky puzzles in this game! The descriptions and atmosphere were well realised and the house was genuinely intriguing!

Congratulations on another excellent game and I look forward to your future adventures!

Comment peter edwards

14 Mar 2013

Oh, and Sarah, the ring is a family heirloom, and therefore not a treasure as such.

Comment peter edwards

14 Mar 2013

Sarah,
Very glad you found my game. An amazingly quick almost-finish! You solved some of the puzzles I was convinced would hold you up for quite a while.
You are, in fact missing two treasures (the diamond was the result of the professor's experiment).
First, you are quite right in assuming the old man needs a drink. In fact you've probably been carrying it around with you. It's not very nice, as I'm sure you've found out, but when you're dying of thirst...
Second - have you examined the toilet roll?
I have too much regard for your skills to elucidate further at this stage, but please ask again if you need to.

Comment Privateer

14 Mar 2013

Tim Sibliski,

You have put two and two together and made five. I am not Peter Edwards. Although I am related to him, I posted my comment without his being aware of it. My motivation for posting was not to praise the game of a relative, but to respond, as an English teacher, to your comments about the grammar.

Best wishes.

Comment sarah4

14 Mar 2013

Oh, and I forgot to say that I was very relieved that the Banjulele didn't raise the ghost of George 'turned out nice again' Formby, now that would have been truly terrifying!

Comment sarah4

14 Mar 2013

Great to see another game from you, Peter! I love a mansion house mystery and a treasure hunt so this game is a winning combination! I've really enjoyed solving all the beautifully constructed, tricky puzzles and am quite pleased that I have managed to solve the mystery of the secret potion and locate most of the treasures, however, I am obviously missing one treasure as, when I drive away from the house, I am informed that I have failed to complete this particular task. I presume the final treasure is to be found in the cellar which is currently being blocked by the old man. I have attempted to find a drink for him but have so far been unable to fill any of my drinking vessels (jug or glass) with water, am I barking up the wrong tree? Any help you could give would be greatly appreciated so I can properly finish this great game! Here are the items I have which I presume are the treasures I'm seeking:
pen, fly, bat, kiwi, egg, pearls, diamond, ring and coin

It's very possible that I may have mistaken one of these for a treasure when it is, in fact, nothing of the kind, so I may be missing more treasures than I thought! Thanks again for your help and congratulations on another excellent game!

Comment Tim Sibiski

13 Mar 2013

Ok, Peter Edwards, if you are going to make a fake account, and use it to praise your story and tell me that I am wrong, please try to hide your email address.

Privateer - this is his first message and his email is [removed by moderator]

And the author of the game is named, Peter Edwards.

Fantastic. Also, embarrassing.

Comment Tim Sibiski

13 Mar 2013

Privateer. You are incorrect. But if it works for you, I am happy.

Comment peter edwards

13 Mar 2013

Hi Privateer,
Thank you for your reassurance - I had made great efforts to avoid solecisms.

I do accept that I was mistaken in thinking that people would know what a banjulele was. To clarify that, it is like a ukelele, (a small 4 stringed guitar), but shaped like a banjo. It was the favourite instrument of George Formby who, in spite of his song "With my little ukelele in my hand", actually played a banjulele. (I own one, as well as several guitars, but would not consider myself an aficionado!).

Comment Privateer

12 Mar 2013

Grammar errors do not abound in this game. In fact, you could learn from paying close attention to the faultless grammar in this game.

1) "There is a door in the south wall through which can be seen a piano" - perfectly correct and flows well.

2) "There are various musical instruments lying around, most in a rather neglected state." - correct as it is. If the comma were to be exchanged for a semicolon, as you suggest, it would be incorrect.

I was actually impressed by how much description there was in the game. None of the "you can't see this here" you find in some other games. If you need a description of an ordinary toilet, I suggest you send off for an Armitage Shanks catalogue! :)

Comment Tim Sibiski

12 Mar 2013

Grammar errors abound – mostly in the form of incorrect punctuation or oddly-arranges sentences.

A few examples:

“There is a door in the south wall through which can be seen a piano.”
-Read that out loud a few times. Something more like, “There is a door in the south wall, through which a piano can bee seen,” would probably flow better.

“There are various musical instruments lying around, most in a rather neglected state. Clearly the professor was not much of a musical aficionado!”
-That coma should be a semicolon
-On another note, if he was not a musical aficionado, then I doubt he would even have those things in his house at all :D

“
> open case
You open it.
It contains a banjujele.

> look at banjujele
Nothing out of the ordinary.

> take banjujele
You pick it up.
“
-If I can take it, I feel like it should have some sort of description. Especially for such an unusual item. As far as I know, a banjulele is Louisiana’s version of the Chupacabra, preying on unsuspecting banjos.

“
You are in a shower room.
It contains the usual facilities - a shower, a toilet and a basin. None of it very clean, unfortunately.
You can go west.

> look at toilet
Nothing out of the ordinary.

> look at basin
Nothing out of the ordinary.
“
-Why can’t I get a description of these things?
===================================

I don't want to grade it as I'm not sure if this is a demo or not. You seem to have excellent atmosphere and structure, but I wish you would flesh out more of this experience, otherwise I can't really get lost in Dom Orre.

Hope this helps!