In a research study in which children chose from a variety of educational CD-ROM games, Strategy Games of the World was popular with children of both genders. Excellent graphics and the fun of the three games were cited as particularly appealing features. This program is a great choice for a range children because there are many options for how the games can be played. They can even choose among several game variations, some of which are quite challenging. For each game, one computer opponent is female, one is male, and one is an animal.
Opponents represent the area of the world in which the game originates.
This program has the potential to offer substantial engagement and challenge over time. As children's skills and game knowledge develop, they can return to the program again and again to play at higher levels of challenge and to explore new and more difficult variations. The computer can offer some advantages, as well as potential disadvantages. One advantage is simply that the computer provides someone to play with at an appropriate level of challenge. Whether children play against a computer or human opponent, discussions with others can help them reflect on and develop their strategies.