Build-A-Bear Workshop

(that was my son’s title suggestion, lol)

One of the reasons I love having a Nintendo Wii is that there are so many games rated “E” for everyone. All of the following games are appropriate for any age, as long as any child playing the game can use the Wiimote. Each of these games was sent to me for review in exchange for my posting my honest opinion. Here they are!

Rubik’s World from The Game Factory- Populated by “Cubies”, Rubik’s World has 8 unique games which mix puzzles, quizzes, music and sound activities, as well as the classic Rubik’s Cube solving game. Nathan and I tried this one together, and I have to say, it’s hard. The game we played showed us a big cube divided into smaller squares, with colored squares where cubes will pop out and corresponding colored squares where the cubes need to drop. We had to place arrows on the pathway so that as the cubes rolled, they would turn in the right places and end up dropping in the right place. Not so hard when it’s just one cube, a lot harder when it’s six cubes! It was fun and challenging, and required fast thinking. A great game for the whole family. You can see screenshots from all of the games on the Rubik’s World microsite. Suggested age 6+ Amazon price $39.99
Petz Rescue Wildlife Vet by Ubisoft-This is much more than just a “mindless game”, this game takes thought and remembering steps and quick thinking. Through a series of more than 30 missions you will provide a number of veterinary services including caring for neighborsâ€™ domesticated pets, as well as the local exotic baby animals you come across. These animals cover more than 22 different species including: sea turtles, panthers, giraffes, panda bears, zebras, kangaroos, elephants and penguins. You have to follow a series of steps involved in diagnosing and treating the animals, including inspecting their skin with a lamp, shaving their fur, picking out bugs with tweezers (ick), and spreading ointment on wounds (again, ick).After caring for a number of animals, you unlock a storyline involving investigating a local factory to see if they are polluting the river and causing a mystery illness. Although the game is rated “E” for everyone, it does show small amounts of blood on the animals as well as some violence (for example, you tranquilize a panther with a blow dart). For ages 6 and up, price on Amazon $36.97.

Build-A-Bear Workshop: A Friend Fur All Seasons from American Game Factory- This game was a surprising hit with my almost-10 year old son! This one requires some fairly vigorous movements with the Wiimote to play some of the games, so it got him up and off the couch, which is always a good thing! Join Bearemy and Pawlette Coufur on a whole new Build-A-Bear Workshop adventure, all the way collecting outfits and playing games with your furry friends. As you sail around in the FRIEND-SHIP, you can compete in fun mini-games, exciting activities and even take side trips. With so much going on, remember to give your furry friend a hug along the way. There is fun for the entire family. Play together in the multiplayer mode and compete in the 20 various mini-games. Ages 6 and up, price on Amazon $39.99.