STARBRIGHT Asthma CD-ROM Game: Quest for the Code

Win

Teaches: health, asthma

CTR Review

This outstanding program combines state-of-the-art graphics and design with compelling gameplay to help children and teens learn how to manage their asthma. Created by the STARBRIGHT Foundation, a nonprofit organization that creates educational products for children with chronic diseases, this title is the best in the series yet (other CDs address diabetes and kidney disease). Cuba Gooding Jr. plays Cyrus, a space-age hero who recruits players to help him stop Mucus Airgon and his team of Asthma Villains. These bad guys are trying to convince kids that their asthma can't be managed. As they progress through the adventure, players learn about asthma and its triggers, medications and devices used in treatment, how to talk to peers about asthma, and more. Along the way, players beat the Asthma Villains at their own games and collect pieces of the game-winning code. This game is so well done and captivating that even kids who don't have the condition played for hours. The program can be played in English or Spanish and is free to kids and families dealing with asthma. Voice talent was contributed by lots of well-known folks, including Kelsey Grammar, Glenn Close, Whoopi Goldberg and Gwyneth Paltrow. (Note: The software was developed by ImaginEngine-- they did a terrific job!)