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Jewels of the Oracle II -- Gems of Darkness Hints

General Information

  • It's a good idea to watch the introductory video involving Professor Bandham.  While the story line regarding the archeological site is not necessary for game play, it enhances the environment.  In addition, two other sources of information are invaluable for assisting you in solving "JOTO II":

    1) The booklet that accompanies the CD-ROM
    2) The on-line journal kept by the Professor

    The game is extremely non-linear.  There are 24 separate puzzles that make up the game, plus one "super-puzzle" that interacts with all of the others.  The puzzles may be done in any order; none is dependent upon solving another.  If you get stuck on a particular puzzle, move to another and come back to the original when your mind is fresh.

    Puzzles can be presented in Easy or Hard mode.  In most cases, the difference will be the number of permutations or combinations available to the puzzler, but the basic puzzle will not change.  In Easy mode, many of the puzzles can be solved within minutes.  By default, the game is set to Hard mode.  This provides the greater challenge.  However, if you find that you are stuck on a particular puzzle, try it in Easy mode.  Once solved in Easy mode, you can return and solve it in Hard mode.

    Anyone who has played the original Jewels of the Oracle, or its sequel Karma: Curse of the 12 Caves, or who is familiar with developer Courtland Shakespeare, will understand that the objective of JOTO II is not to stump users, but to provide an enjoyable environment in which to solve puzzles.  Sufficient help is given on-line for most situations.  This hint file is intended as an addendum to that Help, as well as a supplement where this player has encountered things that may provide additional assistance.