Shrek the Third: Arthur's School Day Adventure - NR
Common Sense Note
Parents need to know that this game on the VSmile platform is designed specifically for young children. But the graphics are hard to see at times on the VSmile Pocket, and the game play is not as simple as in other titles. In fact, while the game advertises that it is for kids ages 4-6, it's better played by kids ages 5-7.
Families can talk about whether Shrek and his cohorts make this game fun. Would the game be as fun if they weren't in it? What do you like best about playing video games on the VSmile?
Common Sense Review
Reviewed By: Jinny Gudmundsen
Young children can now play with Shrek in SHREK THE THIRD: ARTHUR'S SCHOOL DAY ADVENTURE on the VSmile TV Learning System or the VSmile Pocket (a portable learning system). It offers two modes of play: a Learning Adventure Mode with four levels and a Learning Zone Mode with four games. Both modes offer two levels of difficulty.
In the Learning Adventure, kids use the multi-directional control pad, or joystick, to steer Shrek. In the first two levels, Shrek must pick up designated items. In the other two, kids control Shrek as he jumps up on ledges and over chasms while avoiding obstacles or baddies. There are three mini-games involving spelling, spatial directions, and following directions, but some have confusing directions -- funny about that. While this Learning Adventure has some educational content, kids will spend more time navigating through this video game world and using hand-eye coordination.
The educational content is more apparent in the Learning Zone, where kids play games that sort items, match shapes, solve puzzles, and test memory skills.
These graphics are hard to see when played on the VSmile Pocket. The gaming mechanics require a lot of skill, so while the packaging suggests it's for kids ages 4-6, this software is best for children ages 5-7 who have played other VSmile games. Also, the educational content isn't as robust as other VSmile titles, nor is the story as compelling.
Better titles for the VSmile are Bob the Builder: Bob's Busy Day or SpongeBob SquarePants: A Day in the Life of a Sponge.
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CommercialismBased on the Shrek franchise. |
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Educational ValueTeaches spelling, spatial directions, and following directions. |
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