Victorious: Taking the Lead

$30, Wii, Nintendo DS

Teaches: reading, logic, problem solving

CTR Rating: 82%

CTR Review

Based on the Nickelodeon television show starring Victoria Justice, this game lets you play as Tori Vega as you hang out with the Hollywood Arts crew and try to win the starring role in an upcoming school play against school rival Jade. Getting around the school requires collecting items and then pulling them out of an inventory when they are needed -- a rather clunky process. As you explore, your cell phone rings, letting you interact with Jade, Beck, Cat and others. Content includes songs from the show including "Take a Hint" from the new season, plus 20 rhythm-based mini-games that require matching the rhythm of a song. The Nintendo DS version also contains rhythm games. If you like the show, you'll probably like the game; otherwise pass. Developed by High Voltage Software for the Nintendo Wii and by 1st Playable Productions for the Nintendo DS.