Sid Meier's Pirates (PSP)
© 2007 2K Games
This fun PSP adventure/strategy game is a great way to pass the time — as a 17th century pirate — despite a few rough spots in the game play. You start by selecting which type of pirate you want to become (there are five choices; each representing a different level). After you identify your pirate style, you start exploring the Caribbean by steering your ship around, using a map and attacking other ships with your cannons. When you win a battle, you can acquire the loot and the crew, increasing your status. It is possible to lose, however, and end up in a prison. The game switches between three basic modes: Sailing, Sword Fighting and On-land Dialog. Up to four players can participate in the gun battles simultaneously using the Wi-Fi capabilities of the PSP. While the overall premise of the game is fun, some of the events don't seem logical, and the goals could be better explained. We noted some gender stereotypes and implied sexual overtones not reflected in the ESRB rating, (for example, when the pirate approaches a busty female barmaid for "some rest"). There is a bit of historical value to the game, although events and facts are highly embellished. Created by Full Fat for 2K Games. The game's web site is http://www.2kgames.com/pirates/psp/.
$30, PSP*, Xbox, Windows XP
Teaches: logic, history
CTR Rating: 80%