PAW Patrol Rescue Run
© 2015 Nickelodeon
Following the "pay $3.99 for this app" and then "pay $1.99 more to unlock a cool new pup" model, this fun app is based on the Nickelodeon preschool TV television series, featuring six animated puppies, each with different abilities. Despite using a fuzzy marketing strategy that mixes content and marketing, this app is fun and delivers solid, gender-neutral play; with sorting, classification fine-motor opportunities. In the story, Adventure Bay is in peril, and it's up to you and the pups to save the day. There are three adventures, each offering a side-scrolling platform format where any screen touch results in a jump. This control mechanism is logical, but you can't backup. There's also a bit of clumsiness when you run into an object (hence the lower ease-of-use score). This isn't bad, but could be better. The main menu offers three adventures (The Bay, Jake's Mountain and The Train). You get your choice to play as either a male or female pup. Children are teased because they are shown the "Downtown" level with "the newest member of the PAW Patrol: Everest!" If they select this option they are told to get their parent to play this level. To play the downtown location, ask a grownup for help. In the story, the pups work together as a team, and each level has mini-activities using the pups’ special skills: discover humorous moments including the Pup Pup Boogie; collect pup treats; and earn Adventure Bay badge awards. The newest PAW Patrol team member, Everest, is available when you purchase the Downtown location. There are four name save slots. Note: the app offers in-app purchases and charges real money for additional in-app content. You may lock out the ability to purchase in-app content by adjusting your device’s settings. Created by Seven2 for Nickelodeon.
$3.99, iPad, iPhone, iPod Touch (iOS 6.0 or later)
Teaches: classification, logic, fine motor
CTR Rating: 82%