VTech VSmile Motion February 2009
A First Look at the VSmile Motion from VTech
The VSmile Motion games console let children play educational games on their TV. We see what it has to offer.
Vtech V.Smile Motion
The original V.Smile games console provided educational games for three- to seven-year-olds, and V.Smile Motion builds on this simple formula.
The V.Smile Motion is compatible with cartridges for the older system, but look out for the latest titles if you want to take advantage of the Motion’s key feature: the motion-sensitive wireless controller.
Games consoles for kids
This controller was solidly built without being too weighty for small hands, and consists of a large, simple joystick on one side, and an even larger button on the other side that’s just crying out to be pushed. A particularly neat feature was the way the controller can be switched around for left-handed use simply by turning a dial on the base. An additional controller can be added for two-player games.
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The console itself is quite light, with a storage space for the games cartridges. The graphics in the games were cheerful and functional rather than impressive – if you don’t expect it to match the latest generation of big name consoles, the V.Smile Motion will do just fine.
The games are far more educational than you’d find on conventional games consoles: expect plenty of challenges designed to boost numeracy and literacy skills. However, children at the upper end of the recommended age range may already be yearning for the less worthy gaming experiences you’d find elsewhere.
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Retailing at £60, the cost of the Motion may be enough to make many parents wonder whether it’s worth spending that bit extra for the Nintendo Wii – a technically superior console that makes good use of its motion-sensing controllers, and that will have longer-lasting appeal for your children.
However, a direct comparison is somewhat unfair: if you’re looking for educational games that are easy for younger children to enjoy, then the V.Smile Motion is a well worth a look.
Pros: Easy to use, good controller for smaller hands
Cons: Dated graphics