LeapFrog? Leapster? Learning Game System - Green Review

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(More customer reviews)So a few people have asked which one to purchase and we were wondering the same. I actually purchased both and called Leapfrog to get as much information as possible to make a good decision. In short you probably couldnt go wrong no matter which way you went.
LMax: I didnt buy the LMax, but the rep at Leapfrog said the only difference with the LMax is that it can plug into a TV for dual screen gaming (with LMax titles). I did not care about this functionality since I have 2 kids and didnt want them fighting over who got to use the TV. Plus I cant imagine the graphics looking very good on a TV. You can use Leapster titles on the LMax and LMax titles on the Leapster (so the number of titles are the same).
Old Leapster: This one is the larger version that more of a "triangular" shape. The Leapfrog rep said the internal components are the same, as the new one. The differences here are; Larger size, Heavier, Larger Screen and more built in games. The Larger Screen and more built in games are nice. The additional internal games are matching letters/numbers, some shape games, and some reward system for points earned in those other games. The pen is also slightly larger. The battery compartment is vastly different on both so beware of rechargable battery pack that you purcahse. Here are the stats:
Weight: 14.5 oz
Width: 7 5/8" (largest part) 4 1/2" approx (shortest part)
Height: 5 1/8" (largest part)
Thickness: 1 3/4" (largest part)
(this is hard to measure since its more tiangular shaped)
Screen Width: 2 3/4"
Screen Height: 2 3/4"
New Leapster: This is the more "square" leapster. It is much smaller but so is the screen. There are less internal games (see the additional ones that are excluded above). There is also a new internal activity but its more of a commercial with other games and characters in those games (so mostly useless). The thumbpad looks like it might be easier for small children since its more of a " + " shaped pad with more unique up, down, side action. The old one has more of a circular thumbpad so I might see smaller children hitting up direction as well. Because the shape is smaller theres more room when you put this one in the Leapster case (you probably could use the case with a game cartridge still in the Leapster which a previous reviewer said you cannot do with the older large leapster. Here are the dimensions:
Weight: 10.9 oz
Width: 6 3/8" (largest part)
Height: 4 3/8" (largest part)
Thickness: 1 3/4" (largest part)
Screen Width: 2 1/4" (approx)
Screen Height: 2 1/4" (approx)Ok thats probably more information than anyone wants to know but you're on your own on the choice. We are planning on giving this to our children on Christmas but right now I think we are leaning toward the smaller one (as it will probably be easier for our daughter and her small hands) - but this opinion could change before Christmas.
Good Luck - and Merry Christmas (or other celebrated holiday).


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Now parents and kids can both feel good about time spent playing electronic games with the Leapster Learning System by LeapFrog. An exciting library of educational games (sold separately) turn this handheld device into a conduit of exciting learning adventures that teaches reading, math, critical thinking, vocabulary and more. Kids can play fun games, read electronic books, create cool art and watch interactive videos. Color display on backlit screen is gentle on the eyes while the jack for optional headphones is gentle on other people's ears. Ages 4 to 10 years. Imported.

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LeapFrog Leapster 2 Special Edition Star Wars Gift Pack Review

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(More customer reviews)We purchased the black Star Wars bundle Leapster 2 from Target. The software loaded perfectly, the SD card worked even though I installed a 512mb instead of the recommended 256 or less, the games downloaded from Leapfrog's website easily.
I wonder how many of the issues others have had with the software are due to the increased Christmas holiday traffic on Leapfrog's Website? Not sure, but our Leapster 2 works perfectly. Either Leapfrog is working out and correcting the software bugs, or we got lucky with a good device. Either way, we are very pleased with the Leapster 2.
The games that you download are very simple and best suited for pre-k age kids (number recognition, shoot the number 8, etc...) The graphics are basic, not the super detailed graphics of other hand held gaming systems. However,totally acceptable for the younger child. The Leapster 2 is a nice balance between gaming and educational content for a young child. I think it definitely fits the advertised age range, 4-8, beyond that kids are looking for something 'cooler.'

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Electronic Baby Keys Keychain Rattle with Remote (Colors May Vary) Review

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(More customer reviews)These keys were larger than I expected. Came with a non-working flashlight which was a major disappointment. I also think they could improve the sounds - they aren't very realistic or fun to hear. I was so excited when I found these keys online but after receiving them, I would not recommend to a friend. Especially for the price!

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Description: Babies love to play with keys. The metal keys are just like Mommy and Daddy's, but the material is safe for your baby to teethe on. Two AAA batteries are included.

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Winnie The Pooh Flickering Fireflies Handheld Electronic Game for Preschoolers, 4 Games in One Review

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(More customer reviews)What a disappointment! This toy purports to have multiple levels and games, but it's way too simplistic for kids at the older end of the recommended range. Whether it's following a sequence of lights or matching the colored fireflies (i.e. pressing the unlit red firefly if the other red firefly is currently lit) this is way too repetitious for even unsophisticated 4 year olds. And what's worse, the buttons are temperamental so sometimes they don't register a "hit" even when the correct firefly has been pressed. 2 or even 3 year olds might find this amusing, but forget it for older kids.

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Vtech - V.Smile Pocket Learning System Review

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(More customer reviews)This toy has been a life saver for long trips, doctor's office visits, boring trips to the grocery store, but you should know the screen scratches really easily. Also, the cases hold so few games. we have probably 12 or 13 games, all wonderful for teaching, but you can only get two or three in the carrying cases. that being said, my son loves this game, and it beats the heck out of the mindless video games that are the beginning of brain death. cute and educational, just wish the darned thing didn't get scratched so easily.

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Who says education and fun don't go hand in hand? The portable VTech V.Smile Pocket Learning System combines video games and educational content for brain-building, on-the-go game play or connecting directly to a television at home. Specifically designed for children between ages five and eight, the Pocket V.Smile is a fun way to learn for both enthusiastic and reluctant students. Built For Kids The Pocket V.Smile's full-color LCD screen with a 320-by-240 pixel resolution competes with the "big kid" video game systems. A unique alternative to other systems, the V.Smile is built inside and out with young children in mind. The big buttons are made for a child's hands, and the games build skills in spelling, logic, counting, problem solving, phonics, and vocabulary. Kids get so engrossed with the V.Smile that they won't even realize how much they're developing their minds in language, science and math. Because they can carry the handheld device wherever they go, kids can learn and play independently while parents can rest assured they are providing something healthy, age-appropriate, and educational. At Home Or On-The-Go With the included A/V cable, the Pocket V.Smile hooks up directly to televisions as well, requiring no additional equipment. Not only does this option keep kids in one place and allow them to learn and play using a larger screen, but it also makes it easier for them to share the in the fun with friends and siblings -- even parents. More Favorites The Pocket V.Smile plays all the same "Smartridges" for the original V.Smile system. This learning system comes bundled with one Smartridge called Zayzoo My Alien Classmate, which teaches skills in math, shapes, time concepts, music, directions, English, and more. A wide selection of other wholesome video games are available separately, involving many favorite characters like Scooby Doo, Dora, Thomas, and Shrek. The Pocket V.Smile requires four "AA" heavy duty batteries (included); alkaline batteries are recommended for longer life and optimum performance.What's in the Box Pocket V.Smile, one Smartridge, A/V cable, wrist strap, manual, and four "AA" batteries.

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Ion Educational Gaming Console ON TV System w/ Camera, 2 Discs PLUS 2 EXTRA Learning Discs & Software CARRY Case Review

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(More customer reviews)I bought this for my 5 year old grandson, who is in his last year of preschool. He loves the game and especially loves seeing himself on the TV screen with the characters. Despite it being geared toward pre-school kids, his older brother (7) also manages to find the challenge in playing the games. They spend hours at a time playing.
The screen prompts can be tricky as can finding the correct distance from the TV, as much of that depends on the height of the unit from the floor and the height and arm span of the player. Overall, a good unit and fun.

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Leap Frog Leapster2 Learning Game System Review

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(More customer reviews)** Note: When reading this review, please understand that we were an "early adopter" of the Leapster2 Game System, and certain issues impacted our opinion. By now (06/10) Leapster has likely dealt with some of the intitial issues and difficulties we experienced, and those may no-longer be a concern for new buyers. The price has dropped considerably, which does increase the attractiveness of the system.
Without a doubt, the Leapster2 is a nice, stylish game system that is age-appropriate for young children. It is easy to handle and, for the most part, easy to use. The games available include many popular titles (Cars, Backyardigans, Disney Princesses, Dora, Thomas, etc.).
But that's where the fun stops. The difference between the Leapster2 and the original Leapster is that the Leapster2 was designed to work with the "LeapFrog Learning Path" program, which allows you to see the progress your child has made in learning various subjects and concepts. That was promised in early August, then delayed and announced it would be ready by August 21st. On August 22nd, LeapFrog announced that Learning Path has now been delayed and will launch in "mid-September".
Until the Learning Path becomes active, the online "downloadable" games that are touted will not function and are not available. The ability to see the progress your child makes is not available. There are issues with the Leapster2 "freezing up" which was supposed to be fixed with a software update. If you plug in an SD card so your child can save pictures he/she has colored, they can not save them because that feature "will become active when the downloadable games are available".
We purchased TWO Leapster2 game systems (one pink, one green) from Amazon at $70/each. We also purchased TWO game cases at $15/each, and 3-4 game titles. While the kids are still able to enjoy them to some extent, I can't help but to feel I was sold something that was high on promise but VERY VERY short on delivery. I am very disappointed in LeapFrog in how they have handled this product launch, as I have come to expect better from them.
Update 01/12/09:
After 6 months of use, our Leapster2 is FINALLY functioning the way we had hoped and expected. While the pink Leapster2 functioned well, we had issues with the "Leapster Connect" software recognizing the two Leapster2's that we had purchased. After working with a Leapster support rep (Bill), who was VERY helpful and patient, it was determined that the issue was related to the SD card in our green Leapster2, even though the card functioned for all other uses. Leapster sent us a pre-formatted 128Mb card with the two downloadable games (those were not available until sometime in September/October). Upon installing the new card, everything functioned better.
As for the "LeapFrog Learning Path" website... now that it is finally online and functional, it's really helpful for seeing how much time your child is spending playing the games. It also gives you a decent idea of how they are doing with certain skills, though it would be nice if it identify your child's weaknesses and recommend things to work on. One caveat is that the time-spent is cumulative, based upon when you last uploaded the data. So although it does accumulate play data for a while, you should plug it in weekly if you want to know how much time s/he is playing on a weekly basis (otherwise, you'll get something like 12 hours for one week).
After 6 months and several updates and headaches, I would change my review to 4 stars if I could. However, I am still disappointed that Leapster released a product that was so clearly not ready for market. It appears they have corrected some issues, but still have other issues outstanding. The game systems HAS proven durable, though I would recommend screen protectors to keep the screen from getting scratched, and highly recommend the LeapFrog? Leapster?2 Learning Game Case if your child plans to travel with his/her Leapster2, and the LeapFrog? Leapster?2 Recharging Station if your child uses it often (batteries are expensive!!).
Update 10/28/09 (final update):
After a litte over a year of use, the Leapster 2's that we purchased are holding up. Though we still get some quirky freeze-ups every now and then, we've not had any additional major issues. My son has actually kicked his around quite a bit, and for the most part it has (physically) held up well. I continue to think that we should have purchased some screen protectors, because it slides around on the floorboard of the van as often as it spends in its case. All things considered, even after the introduction of the online "Learning Path", we have not been diligent about uploading the data. Yes, it gives you SOME basic overview on how your child is progressing with certain skills, but it's not something most people wouldn't identify on their own. We have not been inspired to purchase a ton of games for this, but the LeapFrog? Leapster?2 Recharging Station turned out to be a wise purchase. It has probably paid for itself in batteries, and my 5yr-old son can charge it on his own. My daughter, who is now in first grade, actually gets the least amount of use from her Leapster. Of course, the $45 that Amazon is now listing it for is nearly half what we paid for ours! So at that price, it would still be worth it. But she is quickly "growing out" of her Leapster, and is eyeballing the Nintendo DS. She still plays with it on road trips, but it's not a regular play thing for her. My son absolutely LOVES his LeapFrog? Leapster? Learning Game: Cars and LeapFrog? Leapster? Learning Game: Wall-E games. In fact, these games have kept him so entertained that we have not felt the need to buy additional games. Perhaps if there were some title that were geared toward older kids (High School Musical?), my daughter would remain as engaged.

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With this smart handheld system, children learn valuable school skills through a variety of animated games and activities. Kids use the interactive touch screen and stylus throughout 30 educational games featuring characters they love. The Leapster2 System also offers several options for creative play. Little learners can easily connect online for extra activities and rewards. And best of all, parents can use the Leapster2 to connect to the LeapFrog Learning Path, an online, interactive tool in which parents can get updates and see firsthand what their children are learning.
Leapster2 System comes with built-in starter games; additional software sold separately. Requires 4 "AA" batteries, not included. Measures 13"W x 10.5"H.

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Bunco Night Hand-Held Electronic Game Review

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(More customer reviews)I purchased this game for my 80 year old mother and she loves it. I even sneak in to play it once and awhile.

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LeapFrog Leapster Explorer Learning Game: The Penguins of Madagascar: Operation Plushy Rescue Review

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(More customer reviews)My son just turned 3 and has been playing on his leapster for a few months now. We have a few games and apps, but this is by far his/our favorite game. It's a fun AND funny game (gotta love those penguins) with age appropriate lessons in math in between the levels. I love the leapster b/c he can use his finger or the stylus pen (similar to my iphone - which he's always grabbing for). The math questions are simple and get increasingly difficult as you progress. He can do the easy ones himself...but as they get more difficult he needs my help. He can read and knows his numbers and simple math - so it's fun to sit down w/ him and figure out the problems. Sample math questions are:
-which is the largest group?
-which is the smallest group?
-which box has 4 wires in it?
-which box has more than 1 wire in it?
-drag 6 candies into Rico's bowl
-what number comes next in the sequences - 6, 7, _, 9
etc...
There are also shapes questions - dragging shapes into a box w/ your finger or the pen - and rotating them to fit - which is pretty neat.
All in all, I think this is the best game leapster has so far. The levels are fun, the math/shapes lessons are great, the spy music is entertaining and not annoying (for me), and your child will be using the d-pad, his finger, the pen etc. and I think it's great for their coordination.


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Learn addition, more than/less than, problem solving and animal facts as you build your karate skills and avoid Zookeeper Alice!- Use mathematics skills to earn LeapWorld tokens that help you uncover secret Penguins vacation photos.- Develop your logic skills by assembling tricky puzzles to overcome gorilla-sized obstacles.- Learn facts about endangered animals and listen to the sounds they make.- Teaches addition, subtraction, animal science and logic and reasoning skills. Appropriate for children ages 4 to 7 years (grades pre-K to 1).- Only for Leapster Explorer.

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LeapFrog Leapster Learning Game Star Wars - Jedi Math Review

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(More customer reviews)My 7 year old son loves Star Wars The Clone Wars, so I knew he would like this.
The best thing about the game is the questions get more difficult as the player advances within the chosen level. So, though it may start with single digit number recognition, it advances to double digit number recognition. It may start with asking about general time of day, but then advances to specific time of day and then to reading time on a digital clock.
I recommend this game for pre-K through second grade.
A more detailed description is presented below.
______________________________________________
SPACE
Shoot the correct number to get to navigate through space to get to the ship where the prisoner is held.
Level 1: features recognition of numbers 1 through 10.
Level 2: features subtraction of single digit numbers.
Level 3: features addition of a two digit number with a single digit number.
THE SHIP
To get through the rooms, answer questions about time.
Level 1: questions feature time of day, like when do you usually leave for school (morning, afternoon, evening)?
Level 2: learn how to read time on an analogue clock to the hour.
Level 3: learn to read time on an analogue clock to the half hour.
LIGHTSABER DUEL
Answer the math questions quickly and Skywalker attacks. Answer incorrectly and the enemy attacks. The faster the player answers, the more power they get for their attack.

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Embark on dangerous rescue missions as Anakin, R2-D2, C-3PO and other Jedi knights to free members of the Republic imprisoned on federation cruisers and increase your Jedi ranking. Fly to enemy ships, engage in starflight battles and duel with light sabers while learning basic mathematics and telling time skills. The order of the galaxy depends on your success.
Leapster2 players can even connect online for extra activities and rewards. And best of all, parents can use the Leapster2 System to connect to the LeapFrog Learning Path, an online, interactive tool in which parents can get updates and see firsthand what their children are learning. For use with any Leapster Learning System (sold separately)..

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LeapFrog Leapster Learning Game Wall-E Review

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(More customer reviews)Wall-E is one of the most versatile games I have encountered for the Leapster so far. The difficulty levels vary to the extent that my 2 year old can play several of the games without frustration, while my almost 5 year old can play and still be challenged. The game play choices are unique and interesting and do not quickly get repetitive as we have experienced with some other games. One of the games even lets you create your own custom design, so the possibilities are endless! This is one of the few games that is great for boys and girls, both from the younger and older age groups.

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Help Wall-E find his place in the universe! Ride a rocket through the solar system and use your letter recognition, spelling and mathematic skills to blast robots, form constellations and sort recycling stacks. Leapster2 players can connect online for extra activities and rewards. And with the LeapFrog. Learning Path, parents can see what their child is learning. Compatible with Leapster Learning System and Leapster2 System, sold separately.

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