Harry Potter and the Prisoner of Azkaban

$49.99, Windows, PlayStation 2, XBox, GameCube

Teaches: reading, logic, timing

CTR Review

Hop onto your Buckbeak (those bird/horse critters featured in the latest Harry Potter film, the Prisoner of Azkeban) and enjoy this latest and best Harry Potter interactive adventure. Like the movie, the game starts in the train, where you learn how to aim spells (easier than earlier titles), move things, jump and switch between Harry, Ron and Hermione. Our testers noted that there were fewer frustrating levels and a bit more action than in the previous titles. Also, as long as your computer has a good graphics card, the visual effects are better than ever, with the characters looking as if they had stepped right out of the movie. If you have an older computer, the game will still work, but won't look nearly as good (the graphics can be adjusted in the preferences). As you explore, you earn badges, unlock new spells, and play a nice variety of games. In terms of educational value, we liked how the narration is shown in print, making the game a good language immersion experience. Also, there are plenty of very challenging puzzles that can take a good deal of logic and persistence. Like the movie, younger children may find some of the ideas to be nightmare material, and there's no shortage of critters to kill with well aimed spells. All in all, though, this is an excellent exploration adventure that nicely supplements the film. The PC version was produced by KnowWonder for EA Games. The console versions are similar to the PC version in terms of story line and activities, and obviously the controls and installation are smoother. The PS2 version has an iToy component, where you can fly by touching hoops. Don't have an iToy? No problem, the game still works.