Sudoku Mega Screen
© 2006 Techno Source
Sudoku, the number game from Japan, has been popping up on newspaper pages, web sites, handheld game systems and computer screens. More recently, the game has migrated to low-cost LCD devices offering an unlimited supply of self-correcting puzzles. Sudoku Mega Screen from TechnoSource ($20, sudokumegascreen.com) has a 2.5 by 3 inch touch screen and lets you use a stylus to drop numbers into a the famous Sudoku grid. The goal of the game is to use each numeral, from 1 to 9, just once in each row and 3 by 3 box. Fortunately, in the easy mode, the wrong answers flash, which is helpful feedback for novice players or children. Because some of the the boxes are pre-filled, there is a good degree of mental juggling required, which may explain the addictive quality to activity. Perhaps there should be a warning label. Other features include four challenge levels, a timer, and back lighting. A game will stay in memory until solved and the device goes to sleep if unattended, preserving the two AA batteries. This device could be a lifesaver if you're ever stuck in an airport, or perhaps are sharing a long car trip with a smart, but bored, child.
$20, Smart Toy
Teaches: logical thinking, patterns
CTR Rating: 86%