Parents' Guide to Child of Light

Set in front of a gorgeous backdrop of living paintings and starring a cast filled with smart and independent female characters both good and evil, Child of Light is an original and daring role-playing game. It challenges many accepted notions associated with role-playing games -- not least of which is its dialogue, which is presented in poetic verse. Yet at the same time it pays homage to RPGs of decades past, delivering a compelling active-time turn-based battle system, rewarding character growth, lots of hidden treasure chests to open, and even a bit of gemstone crafting to upgrade characters' stats and abilities.

Plus, it's accessible to a broad range of players. Despite the predominantly female cast, there's nothing here that ought to turn off boys. And with a couple of well-constructed difficultly levels and storytelling that keeps things simple without dumbing anything down, it's that rare game that can be appreciated by players young and old. Indeed, the best way to play may be with an older player controlling Aurora and her party and a younger one in charge of the delightful little firefly that zips around the world and battlefield, helping by distracting enemies and picking up bits of energy floating in the air. Regardless of how you play, though, there's little doubt Child of Light is one of the best family-friendly downloadable games of the year.