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The Number Devil
(2004, Computer Software - Educational, Rated E, Play it on: Mac/Windows)
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Is it age appropriate?
About our ratings(Flash is loading. If this text does not disappear you need to install the latest flash version)
Not age appropriate for kids under 9, age appropriate for kids over 10; suggested age 10. -
Is it any good?
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Common Sense says
Unique math title covers unconventional concepts.
Why We Rated This 
for Ages 10 and Up
The good stuff
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Educational value:
What to watch out for
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Violence:
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Sex:
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Language:
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Consumerism:
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Drinking, drugs, & smoking:
What Parents Need to Know
This review of The Number Devil was written by Jinny Gudmundsen
Parents need to know that the interaction between Robert and the Number Devil can be edgy at times. The math content varies in difficulty, making it an uncomfortable fit for some children because some of the math may be too hard or too easy.
Families Can Talk About
Talk to your kids about the media in their life. We have more tools and tips that can help
- Families can talk about real-life applications for the math concepts covered in the game. Is it easier to learn math through games? Why or why not?
More on The Number Devil
What’s the Story?
THE NUMBER DEVIL presents a mathematical adventure that explores concepts such as infinite numbers, prime numbers, fractions, decimals, powers, and square roots. Robert, a boy who thinks "mathematics is child abuse," narrates the story. His opinion of math changes after he's visited in his dreams for 10 nights by the Number Devil, a mouthy but charismatic character.
The Number Devil introduces math concepts in clever and unusual ways: For example, to explain permutations, the Number Devil shifts Robert's whining classmates around to show the different possibilities. Players end each night by exploring a related math game. Following the permutations lesson, the game is to construct a racetrack by using four-color cubes placed in four possible positions and then racing a car.
CloseIs It Any Good?
Some of the games are better than others, and a few have difficult controls. But overall, kid-testers found the games to be interesting and fun to play. The combination of Robert's pluck and the Number Devil's edgy demeanor creates an engaging dynamic.
However, the math content varies in difficulty, making it an uncomfortable fit for some children. It's too difficult for kids struggling with math, even though the presentation is novel and jazzy. And for math whizzes, the content may seem like cotton candy -- sweet at the beginning, but unfulfilling at the end. However, for kids who think math is boring, here's a chance to put some fun and creativity back into a topic that is far from linear.
ClosePublisher’s Details
Released on 09/25/2004, price $30, not online enabled
ESRB rating: E
ESRB rating: E
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