Text Express: Word Adventure

Detailed graphics and a story that stresses independence and adventure make this an above-average word search game. In the beginning of Text Express: Word Adventure, Tilly, the main character, is trying to repair a train so that she and her grandmother can leave their isolated home and see the world. She experiences some setbacks but eventually gets the train to work. But her grandmother suddenly passes away, which could be harder on younger kids. In general, the death is handled well, thanks to the grandmother's attitude leading up to it and a letter she leaves Tilly encouraging her to explore and blaze her own path through life. Kids complete levels in the game that correspond to tasks, and some parts of the story scenes also feature word puzzles. Kids are also able to choose some items added to the train. The game's graphics are also a standout.

Some parts of the game lag a bit. Story scenes can be skipped, but other portions can't be bypassed. The letter swiping can be glitchy. There's no time limit or penalty for submitting wrong answers, though, unless you're on a roll and are getting extra points for submitting several correct answers in a row. The puzzles sometimes feature words you've seen before, and while you get a few free items to help you solve them, the cost to replenish them is fairly high. Kids would likely need to buy a package of coins at that point, because the amount you earn by playing probably wouldn't be enough to get more. While the puzzles get more challenging over time, they're not impossible. Because the game involves spelling and word usage practice -- and kids can view word definitions -- it offers some educational value. In addition, Text Express: Word Adventure does a good job of rewarding kids for solving puzzles, so they don't feel forced to shell out real-world cash, or sit through a lengthy waiting period to keep playing -- which makes the overall experience an enjoyable ride.