Sandy’s Favorite Video Games
I know I'm showing my age when I say this, but for me a game is a diversion rather than an obsession. I think that engrossing fantasy games like Everquest and Final Fantasy X are wonderful, but they are much too time-consuming for me. I prefer simple, enjoyable games that I can dabble at whenever I feel like it. Here are a few of my favorites.
Nintendogs
This is a game for the handheld Nintendo DS gaming platform. It's portable and doesn't require a computer or a television. In this game you adopt a puppy, then you care for and train him. The puppies are adorable and their movements are so lifelike that you almost feel that your puppy is real. You can talk to your dog, pet him using the touch screen, purchase supplies, and even enter him in contests.
Donkey Konga
If you're looking for a family game, this is it. Donkey Konga comes with a set of bongo drums and is played on the Nintendo Gamecube. Donkey Kong appears on the television screen and you control his motions by clapping and hitting the drums, playing to the beat of the music. The game takes a little getting used to, but once you get the hang of it, it can be fun for everyone in the family. My 85-year old mother has played right next to her 4-year old great grandson, both smiling with glee.
Mario Kart: Double Dash
Mario is a fun Nintendo character. This game is also played on the Nintendo Gamecube, but versions are available for Nintendo's two handheld devices, the Nintendo DS and the GameBoy Advanced. Choose your go-kart and your course and you are in for the race of your life. You can race against the computer or play with one to three friends. The characters are a hoot and the adventure will have you laughing all the way to the finish line.
Brain Age
If you've never played a video game before this is a great place to start. Brain Age is played on the handheld Nintendo DS so it's portable and can be played anywhere. The subtitle "Train Your Brain in Minutes a Day" says it all. Nintendo worked with a Japanese neurologist to create a series of quick mental exercises that include word memorization, counting, simple math, reading and the popular sudoku number puzzles. The touch screen makes it easy to play. It's not a wildly fun game yet it's definitely enjoyable, and when you see how a few minutes a day can help sharpen your mind you'll become hooked.
I also enjoy RollerCoaster Tycoon 3, a fun adventure creation game for the PC and MLB 06, an outstanding baseball game for the Play Station.
Remember that games are not just for teenagers. There really is something for everyone.
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About the Author
Sandy Berger is a nationally-known author and has written several books on computers.
