Parents' Guide to

The Lion Guard

By Dana Anderson, Common Sense Media Reviewer

age 4+

Race against the setting sun to help Kion and friends.

App iPhone , iPod Touch , iPad , Android Paid Kids' Games
The Lion Guard Poster Image

A Lot or a Little?

What you will—and won't—find in this app.

  • The Lion Guard App Screenshot #1
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What’s It About?

THE LION GUARD begins with Kion introducing himself and explaining the game's storyline. Then kids are prompted with visual prompts (pulsing icons and pointing hands) to tap the map and enter the first level available: the Grasslands. As Kion runs, kids tap to help him avoid obstacles, collect coins, fill the "roar meter" (by collecting other types of coins), and enlist the help of friends to fend off danger or cross obstacles. Kion says, "We did it!", when your kid reaches the end of a level, and then coin totals are added. If a kid doesn't make it to the end by sunset, he just tries that level again. As Kion runs into different obstacles, he asks his friends for help depending on their talents; in some cases kids can choose which friend to use, but there's only one right answer that's indicated by a pulsing icon. If kids choose incorrectly, Kion says things such as, "There's gotta be a way."

Is It Any Good?

Our review:
Parents say: Not yet rated
Kids say: Not yet rated

Fans of TV show will likely love this very simple app, while other kids may find it too simple. The adorable characters, beautiful scenes, and engaging music may be enough to hold the attention of preschoolers new to apps who are just learning the ropes and who enjoy a game that includes TV characters that they recognize. As with the movie and show, it also showcases teamwork, positivity, and using everyone's individual talent to help out. However, for kids who have played games with more complexity or who aren't familiar with the show, this app may not have the variation or challenge to keep them engaged. There are few verbal instructions, so kids must rely on visual prompts. But, again, the game is so simple the visual prompts are all that's needed.

Talk to Your Kids About ...

  • Families can talk about screen use. Since this game has many levels, make sure to talk to your kid about using the device in balance with other activities.

  • As you see the various animals and natural elements in the landscapes, name them and encourage your kid to do the same.

  • When kids don't make it to the end of the adventure prior to sunset, Kion encouragingly says, "Well, at least we know now what not to do." You can use that same language when you or your kid makes mistakes in real life.

  • Talk about the background music on this app. Ask your kid: What instruments do you hear? Can you tap the beat of the drums?

App Details

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