 This
electronic workbook is designed for extra language arts skills
practice for first-graders. Thoroughly age-appropriate content is
featured along with an easy interface and vibrant colors. This is
a linear program -- kids progress through the activities
sequentially. Breaks in the form of arcade-style games provide a
form of recess and reward, though some are somewhat daunting and
difficult to master. Parents looking for software that helps kids
practice skills in a straightforward manner will appreciate this
program. A printed workbook is included, and helps remind parents
that writing practice is essential, especially for first-graders.
Description:
Make friends with Pikachu by talking and playing games with it.
Pikachu actually recognizes what you say and reacts accordingly.
Share activities and become closer friends with each passing day.
Activities include gathering ingredients for a stew, fishing and
even hunting for treasure on the beach. Gain "friendship
points" by keeping Pikachu happy. Pikachu likes to be called
"cute" but be careful what you say. If you make Pikachu
mad, it'll run away. The microphone and voice-recognition unit are
included so no additional accessories need to be purchased.
Pikachuful Features
*The first-ever N64 game to utilize voice-recognition technology!
*Pikachu is completely interactive! Speak into the microphone, and
Pikachu will listen and respond to your voice.
*Microphone and voice-recognition unit included.
*Other Pokemon make appearances in the game including Bulbasaur,
Charmander, and Squirtle.
ESRB: E (Everyone)
by Josiah Lambert
 |
Despite the PlayStation 2's arrival, Pokémon games for
the N64 sold fast during the 2000 holiday season.
Great games like Pokémon Stadium, Pokémon Snap and
Pokémon Puzzle League continued Nintendo's success with the
popular franchise.
Hey You, Pikachu! uses ambitious voice recognition
technology that allows gamers to "interact" with
Pikachu. Fantastic idea, poor execution. I enjoyed Pokémon
Stadium, Pokémon Snap and Pokémon Puzzle League much more.
Game Features:
- Talk to Pikachu using the included Voice
Recognition Unit and Microphone
- Use the Voice Recognition feature by saying key
words that the program recognizes
- Take care of chores, go on trips or help out other
Pokémon
- Watch your friendship with Pikachu grow as you interact
over time
Things to keep in mind:
A few problems keep Hey You, Pikachu! from being as
enjoyable as other (less expensive) N64 Pokémon games. The
voice-recognition technology needs significant
improvement. Also, I didn't really understand the game.
Since I had a hard time, I can't imagine a seven-year-old's
frustration.
Who would enjoy this game?
Young gamers (12 and under) will like Hey, You! Pikachu. But
reading skills are important, since Nintendo didn't include
voices (aside from "Pika, Pika!) in place of text.
That's a big disappointment, since this game is designed for
younger gamers. It's a good gift for kids with strong
reading skills who already own all three Pokémon games for
N64.
Bottom Line: It's hard to resist the
cuter-than-ever Pikachu. But I expect higher video game
standards from Nintendo.
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Amazon.com
Video games don't get much cuter than Hey You, Pikachu!,
a Pokémon title that allows players to talk to their
favorite electric mouse--via the Voice Recognition Unit (VRU)
that's included--and share in its day-to-day adventures. While
older Pokémonfans might find the game too childish, the
candy-coated goodness that's found here makes it perfect for the
kiddies.
With the abstract goal of building a friendship with Pikachu,
players communicate with it by speaking certain keywords and
phrases into the VRU's microphone. Although Pikachu's speech is
limited to variations on its own name (e.g., "Pika! Pika!"),
it expresses itself through thought bubbles and the game's
adorably animated 3-D graphics.
Mastering this interaction is key to solving Hey You,
Pikachu!'s puzzle elements, which are encapsulated in various
squeaky-clean activities in which you and Pikachu participate
together. While the voice recognition here isn't perfect by any
means, there's plenty of on-screen help and guidance to keep
players from getting too frustrated. --Joe Hon
Pros:
- Allows players to interact verbally with Pikachu
- Adorably animated 3-D graphics
- Plenty of onscreen help and guidance
Cons:
- Voice recognition not perfect by any means
- Might be too childish for older Pokémon fans
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- Kids Ages 5-8 and Computers
- Article: Electronic Workbooks
- More Software from School Zone Interactive
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