The Case of the Golden Idol
LQ: 9.85
Recommended Age: 12+
Skills Used: Focus, Working Memory, Mathematics, Reading
FarmVille Harvest Swap is a match-3 game that takes place in the same world as Zynga’s infamous original FarmVille. The player moves through levels, using match-3 mechanics to harvest crops, feed animals, and even put out a barn fire. There is also some simple, Tamagotchi-style animal care. The ESRB gave Harvest Swap an E for Everyone rating. Although children as young as 6 will be able to understand the mechanics of the game and benefit from the use of thinking skills in earlier levels, it does get progressively more difficult and LW4K recommends this game for children 8 and up. There are in-game purchases and ads.
FarmVille Harvest Swap helps kids practice and improve the following skills:
Managing our actions, feelings, and behaviors.
A match-3 game like FarmVille Harvest Swap provides players the chance to practice self-control, specifically improving their impulsivity. Just because there is a match available doesn't mean it is the right match to achieve the goals for that level. To be successful, the player needs to pause and evaluate what choices are present and which one is best. Doing this also gives the player the chance to practice thinking about the future. Each time they consider which move to make and what the remaining crops will do if they make that move, they are thinking about the future. If the player takes the time to examine more than one option, they will be picking the best path to the future they are hoping to achieve: beating the level.
Being efficient and aware of our use of time and effort.
Because there is a limited number of moves for each level, FarmVille Harvest Swap gives players the chance to practice estimating time and meeting deadlines. If the player forgets to keep the "deadline" in mind, they may get distracted making matches that don't advance them towards their goals. And if they make too many matches that are unhelpful, they will fail the level. This can keep the player from earning stars, coins, and achievements, along with halting their progress in the game altogether.
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