Dora the Explorer: Lost City Adventure
Infogrames, Inc.
Dora is one of the new superstars on the Nick Jr. and this software does a great job of bringing Dora into the interactive realm of the computer. Perfect for 2 to 3 year olds who are starting with math concepts, the software gauges development and moves up accordingly to ages 5 and 6. All the most effective teaching tools are used here such as when wrong answers or moves are made the correct instructions are always clear and supportive. Dora's character is exceptionally appealing to younger kids. Parents noted that the introduction to Spanish was a plus.
Thomas & Friends: Building the New Line
Infogrames, Inc.
Young children who like puzzle play will really enjoy this CD-ROM software that features very strong building and multi-dimensional play skills. Thomas and his kid-friendly friends look to your child for help in solving their train track quandary. Your child will be called on to solve the puzzles, but true to the designated age recommendation, there is little math or reading required. Fans of the series will really enjoy spending time on the tracks with Thomas, and those new to the story will find an engaging and entertaining computer experience.
The Nutcracker Music Game
Music Games International
Giving children an outlet for exploring their own appreciation of music is so necessary especially in today's era of cutbacks in school music programs. This software title does just that. Nutcracker is a musical adventure that celebrates subtle nuances differences of instruments, melodies and orchestras. What is so impressive about this CD-ROM is how much fun kids had while really putting their musical ears to the test. Make sure you have the sound turned up as each aspect of the Nutcracker is explored with a whimsical, lighthearted approach that will make your visit to this annual holiday classic even more memorable.
Suggested Age: 4 to 12 Retail Price: $20.00
Blue's Kindergarten
Infogrames, Inc.
Even with Steve's departure from this toddler favorite series, the Blue's Clues franchise hasn't missed a beat. Delightful, playful and always upbeat your child will actively play along with Blue and the gang as they search for missing clues. All of the favorites from the hit series are included, so that right away there is a comfortable familiarity that is both warm and inviting. The colors, sounds and animations are terrific which further helps to establish an immersive, engaging experience that our testers really enjoyed.
Clifford Musical Memory Game
Scholastic, Inc.
Researchers have been telling us for years that children have up to seven different learning styles. For children who are receptive to a musical style of learning, this software is one to put on your must-have list. Clifford, as always, is a delightful play companion for children exploring and playing with games on the computer. His happy manner invites kids to explore and play in a variety of arenas each of which provide opportunities to shine. Each game is different, so your child will enjoy hours of great play.
Barbie as Rapunzel: A Creative Adventure
Vivendi Universal Publishing
America's favorite doll is carving out a niche for herself in the world of computer software. This adventure style game places your child inside an enchanted castle with Rapunzel (played by Barbie). They are charged with the responsibility of breaking a color draining spell that has ruined the castle, not to mention the distressing fate of Prince Stefan. There are loads of things that need to be fixed up before the big Masquerade Ball. There are puzzles to be solved, rooms to decorate, gems to recover and more. Children (especially little girls) loved the role playing aspect of the software, the beautiful scenes and the ease of use.
Backyard Baseball 2003
Infogrames, Inc.
The Backyard sports titles represent the very best in children's software when it comes to production, design and sheer fun. The brilliant concept of bringing big league superstars back to the sandlots, to be chosen by your child to play on his or her team, is a stroke of genius. The game play is right on the money, offering children a variety of skill levels that are filled with as much or as little strategy as they want. The ability to play a single game or to guide a team through an entire season is very appealing. Our testers did say they wished there was a two player option, and some experienced players lamented the loss of the on-line play feature. The play-by-play announcers really add to the experience with their constant chatter. If your child likes baseball, you can rest assured that they will love this game.
Nancy Drew: Secret of the Scarlet Hand
and The Final Scene
Her Interactive
The Nancy Drew legacy rolls on having successfully moved from novels to wonderfully designed interactive software. Players are instantly drawn into mysteries that demand unraveling by uncovering clues, interviewing subjects and being a super sleuth. There are plenty of mental twists and turns that keep the player completely engaged. Each of these games will keep your child entertained and challenged, but be warned, if you take a turn at it, you'll be hooked too! The fact that these titles are targeted primarily to girls, as opposed to a majority of software games on the market, makes their superb design even more noteworthy.
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