 | ON: Content is age-appropriate for kids this age. |
 | PAUSE: Know your child; some content may not be right for some kids. |
 | OFF: Not age-appropriate for kids this age. |
 | NOT FOR KIDS: Not appropriate for kids any age. |
The Number Devil
- Windows, Mac
- Price: $30
- Genre: Educational
Common Sense Media says
Unique math title covers unconventional concepts.
Parents say
Kids say
What parents need to know
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.
What's it about?
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.
Is 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.
What families can talk about
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?
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AGE
Amazing!
I learned more from this book than i would ten years in the school system. it's a little confusing for younger kids, but its a great book. Definitly read it!
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| Platforms: | Windows, Mac |
| Available online? | Not available online |
| Genre: | Educational |
| Developer: | Viva-Media |
| Release date: | September 25, 2004 |
| Price: | $30 |
| ESRB rating: | E |
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