Mission US: A Cheyenne Odyssey
By Christy Matte,
Common Sense Media Reviewer
Common Sense Media Reviewers
History adventure challenges kids to make difficult choices.
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Mission US: A Cheyenne Odyssey
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What’s It About?
MISSION US: A CHEYENNE ODYSSEY follows the life of a Cheyenne boy named Little Fox in the late 1800s. His family life is beginning to change: His sister is about to be married, and he's taking on more responsibilities, such as training wild horses, trading with white men, and protecting his tribe. During his journey, the player will need to make difficult choices on Little Fox's behalf that may impact his future. Does he act bravely? Is he generous? Does he behave impulsively or thoughtfully? These decisions shape his personality and future. Little Fox will see people die through violence and famine, choose whether to adapt to the changing times or fight for his way of life and even marry and start a family of his own. In the end, players learn about his children and grandchildren and how they have continued his legacy.
Is It Any Good?
Mission US: A Cheyenne Odyssey compellingly brings to life many of the challenges and choices that faced the Cheyenne people in the late 1800s. Life wasn't easy, and that's reflected in the game's scenarios. This is a way for kids to understand the perspective of Native Americans as they fought to retain their way of life. Also, the game presents a clear point of view that isn't always captured in the classroom. Since each decision affects the character, the player has a personal and meaningful experience. It's a great starting point for dialogue and a chance for kids to do a lot of critical thinking.
The experience can go even deeper as you replay with different choices. Since your decisions result in different "badges," or personality traits, they can subtly or radically change Little Fox's fate. Kids can experience how each choice they make can affect Little Fox's life, a lesson that's valuable even beyond the constraints of the activity. Although "fun" isn't the right word to describe the simulation, it's certainly engaging in a way that typical history lessons aren't. This means that kids will connect more deeply with the subject matter and gain a greater understanding of the challenges of the time. Mission US: A Cheyenne Odyssey also offers a complete set of teacher materials, including activities, historical context, vocabulary, and primary sources, which make it useful for school and after-school programs as well.
Talk to Your Kids About ...
Families can talk about what it would be like to live in a nomadic tribe. How would life be different? Do you think you'd like that kind of life? Did you learn about history by playing this game?
What would you do if someone challenged your right to live as you choose? How would you react?
Is there ever a time when violence is justified? If so, under what circumstances?
Game Details
- Platforms: Mac , Windows
- Subjects: Language & Reading : vocabulary, Social Studies : cultural understanding, historical figures, history
- Skills: Thinking & Reasoning : applying information, decision-making, Emotional Development : empathy, perspective taking, Responsibility & Ethics : honoring the community, learning from consequences, making wise decisions
- Pricing structure: Free
- Available online?: Available online
- Publisher: Thirteen/WNET
- Release date: October 16, 2013
- Genre: Simulation
- Topics: Adventures , History , Horses and Farm Animals , Trains
- ESRB rating: NR
- Last updated: February 22, 2020
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