It is a clever ruse by the developers to allow free downloads of the game only to find one is required to purchase to continue. They are generous, it took about 3 hours to reach the point in the game where purchase was required. The $20 that I gleefully gave up to continue the adventure was well spent. I have yet to finish the story line and have logged at least 20 hours in game.
Drat those Mousechief developers! Don't they know I have things to do? I am so impressed with the simplicity and authenticity of the game interface. The graphics and music suggest a 1920's feel without the complexity of an animated game interface. The story line is quite bizarre and twisted, but that adds to the intrigue. As suggested in previous reviews, it may not be for everyone, but for a lighthearted satirical time killer I have found it to be excellent. Keep up the good work, Mousechief!