Build-A-Bear Workshop (Nintendo DS)
© 2007 The American Game Factory, Inc.
Our young testers (ages 5 and 7) both loved and hated this collection of cooking, sorting and puzzle games, with content based on the Build-A-Bear Workshop store. If you can overlook the clunky design and need to read the small dialog boxes, this game has some good play value in it; especially the cooking game. You start by selecting one of eight characters (Dimple Teddy, Sassy Kitty, Mocha Bunny, Marvelous Monkey, Velvet Teddy, Friendly Frog, Playful Puppy, and Pink Poodle). Next, you can take care of your pet, by catching honey drops, cooking meals, or playing games of musical chairs. The activities vary in quality but generally reinforce logical thinking concepts, like combining shapes or paying attention to attributes. In some cases they are too hard, and make you feel trapped (hence the frustrating part of this game). For example, it isn't obvious how to remove the top from a pie container (it keeps popping back on) and in a honey catching game, you have to manage two buckets at the same time; a task too difficult for even seasoned gamers. As with the story, each activity earns money, which is used to purchase clothing. Up to three games can be saved on the cartridge; and progress is saved automatically. So, while it could be better, it isn't that bad. See also Build-A-Bear Workshop: A Freind for All Seasons for the Wii. Developed by Neko Entertainment for The Game Factory.
$30, Nintendo DS
Teaches: logic, sorting, some creativity, music
CTR Rating: 76%