Common Sense Media Review
By Jinny Gudmundsen
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based on child development research. How do we rate?
Game makes kids part of cartoon world.
Parents Need to Know
Why Age 4+?
Any Positive Content?
Where to Play
Parent and Kid Reviews
What's It About?
Putt-Putt is a talking car who has been a children's software star for the last decade. PUTT-PUTT: PEP'S BIRTHDAY SURPRISE casts him in the role of the surprise birthday party planner for his pet dog Pep. To put on a surprise party for Pep, Putt-Putt needs to collect five items -- but that is no easy task in the world of Cartown.
As kids direct Putt-Putt's movements, he helps solve problems for other citizens of Cartown -- many of whom are talking vehicles. For example, to obtain a birthday banner, Putt-Putt needs to help Ms. Widget, a bumper car whose store key has been stolen by a crow. To coax the crow to release the key, Putt-Putt zooms around more than 20 locations until he finds something shiny.
Is It Any Good?
Some of the logic games are too challenging for 3- to 4-year-olds, so parents will need to help. At times, characters can be a little chatty, but pushing the spacebar allows you to bypass previously heard conversations.
Kids enjoy playing this because they feel like they are inside a cartoon. They move the story forward only by using important problem-solving and memory skills. Putt-Putt is so polite and thoughtful that he makes a great role model for kids.
Talk to Your Kids About ...
Families can talk about helping others. Putt-Putt accomplishes his goals by helping others in his community. How does helping others benefit you?
Game Details
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