Dora The Explorer: Journey To The Purple Planet for PlayStation 2 Review

I purchased this PS2 game for my son's Easter basket through eToys (who, after much comparison, seemed to have the best price including the cost of shipping than anywhere else online or locally).  There are not too many video games that are rated eC (Early Childhood).  While, he can play free roaming driving games on our PS2, there really are not many other choices for a preschooler for this particular game system.

The main thing I like about this game is that all four of the control buttons are considered "action" buttons.  All four do the same thing, so the child does not have to remember what "x" does, etc . . . The only other function is the directional arrow keys.  This makes it easy for the child to master the controller.

Although my son needs help figuring out which way to go from time to time, he can play this game independently for the most part.  The game promotes deductive reasoning through trial and error.  It also requires the child to use his or her listening comprehension skills because Dora gives you instructions and tips throughout the game.  I also like the absence of "peril" in this game, which I think would cause my son too much stress.  He seems to get scared just watching me or my husband play some E-rated games that have aspects of danger in them.

In short, I would highly recommend this game for children 4 or 5 years of age.  My son enjoys it very much and I thoroughly enjoy watching him play because he gains a feeling of pride and accomplishment everytime he figures something out on his own.