Christian Games Blog

Charlie Church Mouse Kindergarten Game Review

 

 

 

There is a great review on Christ Centered Gamer website about Charlie Church Mouse Kindergarten game. You can review the story here.

FROM THE REVIEW 

Charlie is back and ready to teach your kids about great Bible stories and kindergarten level academic skills; there is a version for preschoolers and elementary age kids too. This game truly makes learning fun and I would highly recommend it for any Christian family.

The following explains the various stories and what your children could potentially learn from them.

* Counting
* Sequencing
* Measurements Christian PC Games, LB Games
* Sorting
* Spatial Awareness
* Directions
* Phonics
* Rhyming
* Letters
* Listening Skills

There are six Biblical adventures your children will learn about. Each adventure has two levels of difficulty, which greatly adds to the replay ability. There are also coloring pages you can print out for more entertainment value. Here are the stories and what you will learn from them.

The graphics are very well done and colorful; the movies are fun to watch as well. When running the game, it sets your resolution to 640x480. Lifeline Studios did a great job on the model and animation rendering.

The background music and especially the sound effects fit nicely in the game. The voice acting is pretty good too. Many of these games are based on sounds and would not be suitable for those who are hard of hearing.

The game interface is pretty easy to use. For the most part you are using the mouse and clicking for the right answers. The Zacchaeus tree level can be a little tricky to maneuver but it's not impossible.

From an appropriateness standpoint this game is squeaky clean and I can't recommend it enough for Christian parents with young children.

 

Using the New Media for Good

"Let no corrupting talk come out of your mouths, but only such as is good for building up, as fits the occasion, that it may give grace to those who hear." -Eph. 4:29

Last month there was a fascinating article in the Christian Post. The article, by Maria Mackay, was entitled Christians Must Engage Real and Virtual Worlds, Say New Media Enthusiasts. In the article, Mackay covered London's 2009 Evangelical Alliance Digimission conference, where panel participants discussed the importance of Christians utilizing the "new media" to evangelize and connect with others.

According to speaker Mark Meynell of All Souls Church in Langham Place, averages of 15,000 users per month download sermons and resources from his church's website. "There are people who have the potential to be salt and light online, but they assume it's for professionals," he said. Meynell urges Christians to spread the Gospel and share their faith through new media outlets like blogs and social networks-even if they don't think consider themselves to be "techies."

Doesn't this bring up an important point? As Christian parents and grandparents, our tendency is to shy away from much of our typically-secular media, including the Internet. But perhaps instead of avoiding the media, Christ-followers should focus on transforming the media. As we've discussed in other posts, we can do this-and help our children do this-by learning to (1) discern right from wrong in the media we're bombarded with, (2) filter out the bad and choose to take in only the good, and (3) take an active part in promoting, advertising and discussing positive, Christian media with our friends, family and co-workers.

That's where social media comes in. What some use for evil, Christians can-and should-use for good. Instead of dwelling on the evil found online, maybe Christians should start to embrace the PR opportunity that social media provides. Do you Tweet? Tweet about the latest Christian movie or PC video game. Are you a blogger? Blog about deep, spiritual issues that engage audiences in quality conversations. Encourage your church and other Christian organizations to design a Facebook page expressing who they are and what they're doing. And remember, as your children and grandchildren surf the web each day, encourage them to become part of these online Christian communities, as well.

Tyler Wells addresses more about Christianity and social media in his must-read blog about Christianity and Social Media on TnChristian.com. Check it out, and tell us what you think! We'd love to hear your comments.

Hoping to find quality, positive media products for your family? Visit Left Behind Games/Inspired Media for Christian video games and other faith-based resources. Serving adults and children of all ages, it's our goal to provide audiences with wholesome family entertainment-while spreading the Gospel of Jesus Christ.

Empowering Children to Make Safe Media Choices

Since the media play an ever-growing, constant role in the lives of our children, it's important to help them make sound media choices. According to the Harvard Kids Risk Project, on average, kids spend more time consuming media than they spend in school. As parents, it's our responsibility to (1) encourage healthy, non-media activities, and (2) educate children about the pervasive influence that the media can have on our lives. Here are some tips on helping children use TV, PC video games and music responsibly.

1. In addition to previewing your child's media choices for age-appropriateness, the American Academy of Pediatrics recommends significantly limiting overall media time. Talk with your physician about reasonable time limits, and come up with creative ways to interest your children in sports, board games and media-free family time.
2. Teach children to "deconstruct" movies, TV shows and PC video tames, whether they're good or bad. Discuss the characters and make a point to talk about their actions, motives and morals. It's also wise to discuss what overall media themes God would have us consume, and why many secular media products are not family-friendly.
3. Use movies and PC video games as a springboard for discussions about values and spirituality. Much of what your children and adolescents will view-intentionally or unintentionally-may include questionable content revolving around violence, drug use, immorality and sexual impropriety. When these themes come up, take time to dialogue about the topics and encourage your children to make Godly life choices.   Christian video games.
   

At Left Behind Games/Inspired Media Entertainment, it's our goal to produce wholesome entertainment for children and adults of all ages-and empower families to embrace healthy media consumption. You'll find games like Charlie Church Mouse, Left Behind: Tribulation Forces and Keys of the Kingdom in Christian bookstores across the U.S., online and online at Walmart.com. Visit our website for more information. PC Video Games.

 

Choosing Age-Appropriate PC Games for 2010

When carefully selected, supervised and played in moderation, video games can fine-tune motor skills, develop creativity and improve memory in children and adolescents. Unfortunately, there are many of games on the market that are not content appropriate-especially those containing graphic violence, crude language and overt sexuality.

Remember the tips below when it's time to select console or PC video games for your children and grandchildren.

1. Pay attention to the Entertainment Software Ratings Board (ESRB) rating indicated on the game's packaging. "Ec" stands for "Early Childhood" (appropriate for preschool to early elementary), and an "E" for "Everyone" rating means that the game is appropriate for all ages. However, games that are rated "E10+" (Everyone 10 and up) or "T" (Teen) may need to be investigated further, since they're probably not be content-appropriate for younger children. And it's a safe bet that you'll want to avoid games rated "M" for "Mature" or "AO" (Adults Only). For more detail about what ESRB ratings are based on, visit the ESRB Game Ratings & Descriptor Guide.
2. Look carefully at the cover (and the game insert, if possible). Do you see sexual or violent scenes depicted in the artwork? If so, you can be guaranteed that these themes are present in the portable or PC games, themselves.
3. Ask friends and family who share your values to make game recommendations. They may even be willing to loan you their PC games so you can make an educated decision before allowing your children to play.
4. Look for online ratings and reviews before purchasing a game. Many user and critic reviews provide in-depth, play-by-play descriptions of secular and Christian video games, and some reviewers even include online video clips of actual game scenes.

Once you've purchased PC video games, remember to play them with your child. When you play together, you'll experience the game for yourself while enjoying the benefit of interactive family time. Play time is also a great teaching opportunity, since it gives you a chance to offer your children explanations about why some games are appropriate, and others are not.

Looking for wholesome PC games for the entire family? Visit us at Left Behind Games. We're focused on providing parents, grandparents and educators with safe, wholesome gaming opportunities that teach children about honesty, integrity and the value of an intimate friendship with Christ.

Making New Year’s Resolutions God’s Way

Millions of Americans make New Year's resolutions each year, anxious to attack the new era with a fresh start. According to Franklin Covey Co., which releases an annual survey of popular resolutions, 2009's top three were: (1) get out of debt or save money, (2) lose weight, and (3) develop a healthy habit (e.g., exercise or healthy eating). And while the Bible certainly does not speak against making New Year's resolutions-and our physical and financial health is undeniably important to God-He may have other desires for our lives and hearts during 2010.

"For I know the plans I have for you," declares the Lord, "plans to prosper you and not to harm you, plans to give you a hope and a future" (Jer. 29:11). What wise words as we set our goals for the New Year. You see, God already has a plan. And as we work on our relationship with Him each day, He'll reveal those plans to us. So perhaps our number one resolution this year should be to focus on that relationship. It's not an easy thing to do, especially in the midst of balancing work, family commitments, finances and life's inevitable difficulties. But the Word is clear-if we focus on God, everything else tends to fall in place. Even weight loss plans, finances and healthy exercise habits.

So this year, as you make plans to better yourself for 2010, start with spiritual goals. If you're unsure how to go about developing an intimate relationship with God, consider the following two ideas:

1. Resolve, first, to read your Bible every day. The Bible is God's way of directly communicating his love for you. Paul tells us in Thess. 2:13, "When you received from us the word of God's message, you accepted it not as the word of men, but for what it really is, the word of God, which also performs its work in you who believe." God can speak volumes to us through scripture, if only we'll take the time to listen.
2. Resolve to love others more. I John 4:7-8 tells us that love is "from God," and that "whoever loves has been born of God and knows God." So, as we work daily to deepen our relationship with the Lord, we'll begin to love our family, friends, neighbors and enemies in a renewed way, as well. What a wonderful way to share the joy of Christ with those who need to hear it!

According to Franklin Covey Co's 2009 survey, only 23 percent of Americans adhere to their resolutions, and 35 percent have broken them by the end of January. That's why it's important to remember that, while there's nothing wrong with setting goals for a fresh start during the New Year, Christ graciously offers daily fresh starts for those who follow him!

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Left Behind Games/Inspired Media Entertainment wishes you a 2010 filled with the love of Christ. New Year's blessings to you and your loved ones. 

Dodging Christmas Materialism

It's natural. As parents, we enjoy giving gifts to our children-just as God enjoys giving His best to us. However, it's easy to fall prey to the materialism monster-especially during the holidays. Commercialism is out in force, tempting us to purchase "true happiness" at the local discount store. And while there's nothing wrong with sharing Christmas gifts with our kids, it's important to remember that the gift we're really celebrating is far more valuable than anything we could ever afford.

This year, try really celebrating Christmas with your family. Rather than making the holidays a season of stressful buying and frantic preparation, embrace Advent in a new way with these creative ideas.

1. Adopt a family in need. Jesus spent his life on earth ministering to the physically and spiritually needy, and before he returned to heaven, he called us to do the same. As your family purchases clothing, food and toys for a family living on the margins, you'll discover why giving to "the least of these" allows you to live more abundantly, as well.
2. Create a candy cane tree. Purchase a supply of candy canes and a large Styrofoam block from your local craft store. Each time your children engage in acts of kindness toward friends or family, have them place candy canes in the foam block. Make it your goal to create an overflowing "candy cane tree" by the time Christmas arrives.
3. Make homemade Christmas decorations. Rather than spending money on holiday decor, make it a family tradition to craft decorations from scratch. As you add to your homespun Christmas collection each year, remember to give homemade items a place of honor in your family room, living room or kitchen.
4. Bake cookies for a nursing home. Many nursing home residents don't have regular visitors, so they'll be delighted to see your family drop off cookies and fudge-and stay to chat with them for a while.
5. Spend Christmas Eve making a birthday cake for Jesus. Encouraging children to help bake, frost and decorate a birthday cake is a great way to wrap up the Advent season. As you share the dessert, remind children that the gifts exchanged on Christmas morning symbolize the most precious gift of all-God's son.

This year, the Left Behind Games/Inspired Media Entertainment family would like to wish you a joyful Christmas filled with meaningful traditions, and a New Year filled with blessings. May you experience love, happiness-and the true joy of Jesus' birth.

Call of Duty: Modern Warfare 2 Pushes the Violence Envelope

Activision-Blizzard and acclaimed video game developer Infinity Ward are celebrating the recent, record-breaking release of Call of Duty: Modern Warfare 2-reported to make over $310 million during the first 24-hours of sales. According to the Christian Science Monitor, the game will likely be "the most successful video game of the year-at least among devoted gamers." But despite the sequel's unmatched profitability, a growing contingency of critics are attacking it for its realistic depiction of violence.

Even proponents of Modern Warfare 2 can't argue that its theme is one of fast-and-furious, brutal force. In one portion of the game, players are obligated to shoot innocent, airport bystanders to continue their undercover infiltration of a terrorist cell. "We push the story," said Vince Zampella, Studio Head at Infinity Ward, during an interview with Fox News. "We want the player to be emotionally attached. We want them to be emotionally shocked."

According to British journalist Charlie Brooker, Modern Warfare 2 is a technical masterpiece, but "...it's not so much a game as a borderline nightmare experience."

And while many people view this type of ultra-violent game as nothing more than fantasy stress-relief, other families are gravely concerned about underage exposure to console and PC video game violence.

So, as Christians, how concerned should we be about games like Modern Warfare 2? Games containing so much bloody atrocity that manufacturers create ways for viewers to skip the so-called "disturbing" scenes? Concerned enough, perhaps, to monitor the games our children and teens are playing a bit more closely? Concerned enough to model healthy media choices-and talk with our kids about alternatives to violent entertainment?

As Christian parents, we know that God created us to guide our children-and help them make sound decisions until they're old enough to make their own. Decisions that help them fulfill Paul's call (Phil. 4:8) to think about things that are true, noble, right, pure, lovely and admirable. So this Christmas, let's rethink-and maybe even forgo-portable and PC video games that capitalize on senseless violence.

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Stumped about stocking stuffers? Visit Left Behind Games (Inspired Media Entertainment) for safe, Biblically sound PC games for everyone in your family. Left Behind Games is the leading supplier of Christian PC video games. Look for our products in 100 Walmart stores in Dallas and Houston area. It's here that we're testing these Biblically based, family PC games on the mainstream market-and prayerfully hoping that an increasing number of consumers will come to understand the value of video games designed around something other than violence, gore and cruelty.

**Texas residents searching for Walmart stores carrying Left Behind Games can visit us for more information.

Recognizing the Signs: The Pervasive Nature of Video Game Addiction

For many children, too many after-school and weekend hours are spent watching TV or playing video and PC games-especially when parents aren't home to control media consumption. Last week we discussed the mental benefits of games like Left Behind and Keys of the Kingdom-things like reduced tension, distraction from pain, improved patience and advanced hand-eye coordination. And while it's important to understand the positive qualities of today's media options, it's also critical for parents to (1) control PC game use by children/teens, and (2) educate themselves about the dangers of video game addiction.

You're probably thinking, "Not my kid." Or-you may be wondering if your child is really addicted. Watch for the following symptoms of unhealthy game obsession:

• Disinterest in playing outdoors or engaging in physical activity
• Family conversation dominated by PC game banter
• Increasing unwillingness to help around the house, participate in family time, read, go to church or spend time with friends
• Confrontational attitude or constant complaining when asked to turn off a game
• Falling asleep in school
• Restlessness and irritability
• Physical concerns like nausea, headaches, blurred vision, repetitive motion injuries and hypertension

How can you protect your family against this toxic, worldly problem? First, recognize the danger. Like a drug problem, video game addiction is pervasive-seeping into every area of your family's life. Next, make sure you're monitoring your kids' gaming choices and restricting game time-even when kids are playing healthy games like Left Behind and Charlie Church Mouse. Remind kids that God time, family time, homework and relationships come first-and model that for your children on a daily basis.

For more practical tips about preventing-and managing-PC and video game addiction, tune into next week's blog. In the meantime, visit Left Behind Games (Inspired Media Entertainment) for family-friendly, Biblically focused entertainment you can feel good about.

Mental Health Benefits of Christian Video Games

While hundreds of studies have addressed the effect of violent, disturbing video games on children, youth and adults, there are many games that engage the mind in a more positive way. In addition to being fun, recent research shows that some of these console and PC video games may even have mental health benefits. Check out updated research on the advantages of this popular form of entertainment.

• A study conducted at East Carolina University in Greenville, NC, found that some games-especially those requiring strategy-seem to stimulate the parasympathetic nervous system-which reduces the body's response to tension and stress.

• In an Iowa State University study addressing the effect of video game usage on teens, psychologist Douglas Gentile, PhD, and William Stone, BS, found that while violent games lead to increased hostility, pro-social game players were more helpful to peers and less likely to fight at school.
  

• Scholars and physicians at the University of Washington's Virtual Reality Analgesia Research Center are tapping into the ability of video games and cyber technology to distract children during painful burn rehab.

• Steven Johnson, an author interested in the effects of popular culture on intelligence, found many indications that video games, TV and technology are making people smarter. "All the major simulation games-where you're simultaneously tracking dozens and dozens of shifting variables, trying to manage an entire system-are a great cognitive workout," said Johnson.

Fascinatingly, this research does not just apply to children and teens. Gaming skills can translate into real-world, adult skills, as James Rosser-director of the Advanced Medical Technology institute at Beth Israel Medical Center in NYC-found in his study of laparoscopic surgeons. According to Rosser's research, laparoscopic surgeons who played games for 3+ hours/week made 37-percent fewer surgical errors than non-gaming surgeons. Rosser attributes this to the positive influence of video games on hand-eye coordination, patience and depth perception.

And while this exciting information helps to balance the negatives we hear about video and computer games, it's important to remember that moderation is key. We should not allow video games-even Christian video games-to rule over us or our children. In 1 Corinthians 6:12, Paul writes, "Everything is permissible for me, but not everything is beneficial. Everything is permissible for me, but I will not be mastered by anything." Whether you approach parenting from a Christian or secular point of view, Paul's words ring true. Tune into our next blog for more about the common symptoms of media obsession among youth-and what you can do to counteract this trend.

Looking for positive gaming opportunities for your children and teens? Visit Left Behind Games for a variety of educational, strategic and Bible-based options. Left Behind Games offers innovative, beneficial media for a variety of ages, and is committed to helping you educate, protect and instill values in your children.

Is Video Game Violence Impacting My Child?

The statistics are alarming. According to a recent study by Children Now, up to 89 percent of video games include violent content. Unfortunately, that's not the worst of it. A 2003 Journal of Electronic Media study found that in 98 percent of games analyzed, violence went unaddressed-and unpunished. In over 50 percent of the same games, aggressors were rewarded for violent behavior. The same study found that children playing these video games for at least 40 minutes a day may encounter over 5,400 monthly acts of violence.

If you spend much time researching the impact of video games on kids, you're likely to come to mixed conclusions. Some studies indicate that children are more likely to engage in fights, become aggressive with peers and act out at home if they play violent console and PC games regularly, while other studies conclude there's no proven link between video game violence and real-world aggression. So what should we think?

Like many other parents you may be concerned about the violence your child consumes-on TV, in magazines and in video games. And while you're concerned about whether that violence is impacting their behavior, there's more to consider, here. Philippians 4:8 says, "Finally, brothers, whatever is true, whatever is honorable, whatever is just, whatever is pure, whatever is lovely, whatever is commendable, if there is any excellence, if there is anything worthy of praise, think about these things." (ESV)

Based on this verse, it's important for us to think about the context of video game violence-and aggression in general. Is some of it "just" and "honorable"? Yes. However, the gratuitous, gory-and repeated-video game violence against unarmed defenders, women and children should cause parents to take pause. Whether you're seeing behavior changes at home or not, it's likely your child is emotionally, psychologically and spiritually affected by the media they consume. Do we really want to take that chance?

If you're searching for positive alternatives to the video game violence found in Wii, portable and PC games, visit Left Behind Games. Secular and faith-based families will appreciate the educational, Biblical and strategic qualities that emerge in Christian video games like Keys of the Kingdom, Charlie Church Mouse and Left Behind: Tribulation Forces. Striving to integrate positive values, educational opportunities and spiritual lessons, Left Behind Games is committed to helping you protect and nurture your children.