Mario's Fundamentals

It never fails. The days are long and hot and the kids get bored. At times, my elementary aged children beg me to find them something "fun" to play on the computer. Usually I can satisfy their needs, but on occasion they want nothing to do with programs that are even remotely educational.....at least in their eyes. While there is redeeming educational value in Mario's Fundamentals, your kids will see it as simply fun.

Kids ages six and older can choose to play one of five traditional games with Mario. While the Putt-Putt Activity Games from Humongous is simpler, and contains more games, this program offers one thing no one else can....Mario and his friends. When playing checkers your kids can choose which familiar Mario character they want to be. The characters walk around the board, and devour each other when they get the opportunity. There is also no annoying Nintendo music playing in the background all day like some of the other Mario computer programs. There is just enough to keep your Nintendo freak happy.

The five games included are Checkers, Go Fish, Dominoes, Backgammon and Yacht (a version of Yahtzee.)
The games are challenging, and fast paced. Mario talks to your child throughout the game, making him seem 'real.' He is encouraging and positive, yet shows real emotion when things don't go his way. This is a wonderful rainy-day activity for your elementary aged kids.

The format is simple and straightforward. Your kids will find the program easy to use and enjoyable. I can recommend this program highly as one to keep around for just those occasions when a friendly board game will satisfy your child's boredom.

Grading:

Educational value- 21/2
Entertainment value- 4
Use of medium- 3
Dollar value- 4
Age- 6+

While not available on Amazon, you can find this program at CD Access: http://www.cdaccess.com/html/quick/mariofundj.htm