Ed. note: App of the Week picks are now being curated by the editors of Common Sense Education [1], which helps educators find the best ed-tech tools, learn best practices for teaching with tech, and equip students with the skills they need to use technology safely and responsibly. Click here [2]to read the full app review.
Adventure Time Game Wizard [2]
What’s It Like?
Adventure Time Game Wizard is an iOS and Android app set in the universe of Cartoon Network’s Adventure Time show. The high production value is quickly apparent with fluid animations and great-sounding audio, including the show’s voice actors. There are three main modes: Play, Create, and Arcade. Play brings you through the game’s story, switching between five characters from the show. This is classic platformer action akin to Super Mario Brothers; the on-screen character runs and jumps to collect coins and power-ups while avoiding or attacking enemies. Coins collected in Play mode are used to unlock extra enemies, backgrounds, and other items for Create mode.
Price: Paid
Grades: 4-8
Rating: 4/5
Pros: High production value delights, great option for designing game on paper, lots of tutorials.
Cons: Drawn levels typically need fixing in the app, PG language and cartoon violence need consideration.
Bottom line: A highly engaging hook, along with the ability to design games on paper, make this a great option for STEAM teachers.