Myst
© 1993 Cyan
This classic, first-person game lets older children or adults practice their deductive thinking and memory skills as they explore a mysterious island in search of clues and puzzles. Back in 1993, when this was first released, the 3D graphics set a new standard for first-person perspective games, but by current standards the graphics are no longer state of the art. The story line and sound effects are very creative, though, and the format is addictive. Players are stranded on an island and must solve a mystery that happened before they arrived. The puzzles can be very challenging at times, but if you love problem solving and have the time, you'll enjoy the challenge and find the puzzles to be wonderfully creative. For example, in order to open up a locked safe, you must first find the combination, hidden in an observatory. Inside the safe is a match that lights a boiler that provides power to a generator... and so on. Note that there are several sequels to this program, including Rivin (1998) and Myst Masterpiece Edition, with updated help features. See also Myst III (2001).
$19.95, Windows CD-ROM, Mac CD-ROM
Teaches: deductive thinking, problem solving