Disney Princess: Enchanted Journey

$30, Wii*, PlayStation 2, Windows, Nintendo DS

Teaches: logic, classification, socialization

CTR Rating: 94%

CTR Review

Finally... a well-designed, family-friendly game where children build things -- rather than break them -- to earn points. Even if you dislike Disney princess characters and all the typical stereotypes that accompany them, you'll have a problem not liking this title, that combines the worlds of Cinderella, The Little Mermaid, Snow White, and Jasmine into one game.Children start by creating their own princess, by combining dresses, accessories, hair, skin tone and eye color. Next, using their own avatar, they can help restore a giant castle of princesses, that has fallen into disarray by an evil spell. It's up to you to visit each Princess world, and play through three levels (there are 12 total) in order to make things right. There are several innovative twists to this game that are worth noting. First, you can play any level you want, in any order. So if you're up to a challenge, you can visit the land of Snow White, whereas Ariel's "The Little Mermaid" world is easier. Secondly, as you explore, you earn points by helping plants grow, or resorting flower arrangements by using a magic wand. While the wand shoots things, it never hurts or destroys. So you get the fun of controlling a powerful spell, minus the violent underpinnings. Also, it is possible for a second player to join in at any time, and take control of one of the princess characters. This drop in, drop out technique creates a good cooperative learning setting. (Wii and PS2 versions, only). The game also features mini-games, and an unlockable bonus world featuring Belle and Lumiere. Developed by Papaya Studio for Disney, the Wii version is $40 and the PS2 and PC versions are $30. The Wii and PS2 versions are highly recommended.