I just played a couple of CD-ROM games from a new company called Purple Moon. They not only allow you to practice real-life situations, such as making new friends, but they are also entertaining adventures.
I like Rockett's New School because, like me, Rockett is starting at a new middle school. She's nervous and doesn't know what everybody else is going to think of her. Then, finally, someone comes up to her and starts talking, and you get to make a decision for her: Should I talk to this person? Should I just walk away? Or should I just stand here like an idiot and let her talk? Now, of course, your choice changes what happens next.
An icon in a corner of the screen allows you to go into Rockett's backpack and other students' lockers – I guess so you can see what other people's characteristics are like. I really like how the developers are hip to kids' fashion sense. Their research really paid off!
I also tried Secret Paths in the Forest. Here, seven girls tell you their problems, and, to help them, you explore a forest (there's a different setting for each girl) and play games within the woods. Solving a puzzle earns you a gem, but you have to collect a certain number of jewels before you can help the girl you are working with.
For instance, Whitney is sad because her parents got a divorce, and she's living with her dad and his girlfriend, who's trying to be exactly like Whitney's mom. I entered this forest and tried to win as many games as I could to get enough gems so she could solve her problem.
To adjust the level of play, just click on a flower in the lower lefthand corner. Two flowers means it's going to be hard, and one shows it will be easy. I'm sure these titles will be popular. I love how these games are so realistic, though they're laced with a little bit of magic.
Rockett's New School, Secret Paths in the Forest: US$29.99 each. Purple Moon: +1 (650) 526 5000.
This article originally appeared in the February issue of Wired magazine.
To subscribe to Wired magazine, send email to subscriptions@wired.com, or call +1 (800) SO WIRED.
