Ever since Nintendo introduced a brain training simulation, there have been more clones, copies, remakes, and sequels than anyone can keep track of. Building off this hype, the Leapster system has just jumped on this brain stimulus bandwagon.
With the targeted age of K-2nd grade, Get Puzzled! is a kid friendly version of Nintendo’s Brain Age games. With over 300 puzzles bundled inside this cartridge, parents should not have to worry about the longevity of this title.
The game titled “How High” basically puts the architect’s hat on the player. The goal is to line up two columns of the same height to construct a basic building. While this is a visual based game, it also teaches the gamer basic math problems along the way.
“Monster Maker” is an interactive form of the classic game Memory. A friendly monster will appear on screen, then break apart into several pieces. Using the stylus, the player must then put the pieces of the monster back together, targeting memory skills.
Keeping the game’s attitude friendly, “About Face” makes the player turn frowns upside down. Through narration, the player must follow instructions to make the face smile. Simple commands such as “I want to wear the blue hat,” or “I want a round nose” will cause the face to smile if the request was properly fulfilled.
“Cosmic Crossing” is an electronic form of connect-the-dots. Using puzzle solving techniques, the player will move from planet to planet to complete a journey in a space ship.
Teaching phonics, “Word Bird” is a simple word search game. Using the touch screen, the player must find simple words like “cat” or “dog.”
Finally, “Critter River” teaches problem solving skills by creating a bridge over a river. Just like most of the other games in the cartridge, visuals are a major part of the learning experience.
Get Puzzled! definitely has enough variation in gameplay to keep younger gamers occupied for quite sometime. And just like all other Leapster titles, there are three different difficulty settings so your child can grow with the game.
My only real complaint is that the transition from one puzzle to the next was a little too slow. However, this could just be me as I am not the target audience of this game. Either way, logic, phonics, and problem solving skills are a major component of this game. Also, the game makes good use of shapes and colors so basic art design is also present in this title.
I have played several Leapster titles now, and I can say that Get Puzzled! is definitely a more unique title that any gamer under the age of ten should appreciate. Check it out.
