Virry
© 2016 Fountain Digital Labs
Note: A Sony VR version of this app, called Virry VR has been released. Save a trip to the zoo, with this innovative mix of interactive video (with bits of faux interactivity) and live webcams. The purpose of this app is noble -- to expose children to "real" (captive) animals instead of the animated variety. The video vignettes are well done, and there are short windows of interactivity (e.g., shake your iPad to give the giraffe's some food. Our testers especially liked the Orangutan. ongutans, flamingos, lions, giraffes, baby rhinos and meerkats. In addition, there are nine live cameras with stream from various wildlife parks (note that these are free online -- here's one from the San Diego Zoo, for example, at http://kids.sandiegozoo.org/animal-cams-videos/ape. The overall experience is easy to use but is very heavy on teasing; with a link to a purchase point hiding under every tiger. The app works on iPhone, iPad and Apple TV, and is sold as a universal subscription. You pay once to play on all Apple devices. Note that to play VIRRY on Apple TV you must install the VIRRY Controller app from the AppStore. UPDATE 4/18/2017 Virry now has two subscription options for new users: 6 months - $14.99 and 12 months - $19.99 For free, users can: play one game with the Orangutan, watch 15 minutes of live cameras of the Orangutans, watch 3 "best moments" videos, and watch one "fun" video. There are now 11 live cameras: 3 from Lewa Wildlife Conservancy (Kenya), 3 from Durrell Wildlife Conservation (UK) and 5 from Al Ain Zoo (UAE).
$10, iPad, iPhone, Apple TV, PlayStation 4
Teaches: zoo animals, biology
CTR Rating: 88%