Axel & Pixel (Xbox 360)
common sense media says
Fun brainteaser art romp, with unexpected driving levels.
parents & educators say
What parents need to know
Parents need to know that this humorous, logic-based adventure can put brainy kids through a real mental workout. The puzzles are challenging, but all ultimately solvable. Which is why the three vehicle-based levels are such a disappointment. They take the focus away from brainwork and put it on eye-hand coordination—incredibly skillful eye-hand coordination. Unfortunately, there's no way to skip these levels. They put a real damper on an otherwise great game.
Educational value:
Players will get nowhere without good solid logic. There's a lot of trial and error, so learning from one's mistakes is essential.
Positive role models:
Axel is a good loyal friend to his dog, Pixel; he's a talented artist and admirer of the beauty in nature; and he demonstrates the benefits of thinking a problem through instead of rushing into it.
Ease of play:
The point-and-click play of most levels is incredibly simple to master. Some of the puzzles are very challenging, but players are allowed three hints per level. The game's main fault lies in the three vehicle levels (a boat, a car, and a hot air balloon), which are ASTOUNDINGLY difficult, and could even stop some players from finishing.
Violence:
Scary animals threaten Axel and ocassionally do something to mildly hurt him, like bite his finger, causing him to yowl and shake his reddened hands in a cartoonish way. Axel sometimes gets mean animals to move by throwing rocks or seeds at them. He also fights a giant (who can be a bit frightening) with snowballs.
Sex:
Nothing, really. A beaver dives into a toilet.
Language:
The only talking is gibberish (sort of like in The Sims).
Consumerism:
Not an issue.
Drinking, drugs, & smoking:
Not applicable.
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