Blaze and the Monster Machines Dinosaur Rescue
By Mieke VanderBorght,
Common Sense Media Reviewer
Common Sense Media Reviewers
Light STEM content in fun, easy dino-themed puzzles.
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Blaze and the Monster Machines Dinosaur Rescue
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What’s It About?
In BLAZE AND THE MONSTER MACHINES DINOSAUR RESCUE, Blaze and his friends are on a mission to save dinosaur eggs and find hidden gems. On each of 45 levels, kids remove obstacles, adjust mirrors or levers, pull pulleys, and more to direct the flow of water, balls, or a laser beam toward the eggs and gems. The first few times a new element is introduced, Blaze explains clearly how to manipulate it to solve the puzzle; kids are on their own as they progress through the levels. Complete each level to unlock the next, and create up to four user accounts. If they choose, kids can replay levels as well.
Is It Any Good?
Physics-based puzzles get kids thinking about problem-solving but only to a limited degree. The idea is great -- present puzzles inspired by STEM concepts in a fun kid-friendly setting -- but the execution of that idea is disappointing. For example, every time a new gadget is introduced, kids get explicit instructions for how to manipulate it to solve the puzzle. Yet, because the puzzles are so simple -- and don't get much more complicated as levels progress -- there's little room for active experimentation and exploration. In terms of functionality, occasionally a level will end, even if all the goals haven't been met; it's unclear whether there is a limited amount of time or whether not touching the screen for a few seconds triggers a level to end, but it might cause some frustration. Overall, even though this app is directed toward young kids, it would be nice to see more room for free discovery and overcoming challenging obstacles.
Talk to Your Kids About ...
Families can talk about how the different tools and gadgets work to help solve the puzzle. Which ones are the trickiest? Which ones are the most fun?
Play together: Problem-solve and talk out loud as you and your kids work together through the puzzles.
Explore similar gadgets off the screen; play with gears, pulleys, scales, and more.
App Details
- Devices: iPhone , iPod Touch , iPad
- Subjects: Science : engineering, physics
- Skills: Thinking & Reasoning : problem solving, solving puzzles, strategy, thinking critically
- Pricing structure: Paid
- Release date: January 6, 2016
- Category: Education
- Topics: Dinosaurs
- Publisher: Nickelodeon
- Version: 1.0
- Minimum software requirements: iOS 7.0 or later
- Last updated: July 27, 2016
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