Leapfrog Didj Learning System Review

Nov 14 2008, 12:00am CST | by Shane McGlaun

When it comes time for kids to learn the foundations of math and other school subjects, getting them to enjoy learning can be a challenge. Getting kids to enjoy video games isn’t really a challenge though making a game system that teaches kids like the Leapfrog Didj a good tool. Today we are looking at the Leapfrog Didj, so read on for all the details.

Gallery

3 images

Benchmarks

Features & Specifications
The Didj Custom learning System comes in silver, blue or pink colors. The system is designed for grade school kids from 6 to 10 years of age. The system can be connected to a computer to track points earned by children. Download games and games on cartridges can be loaded into the system.

In Use
The Leapfrog Didj is a handheld game system about the size of the Sony PSP. My kids have used Leapfrog learning systems before and one thing that has often stuck out in my mind is how bad the graphics on the screen are. The Leapfrog Didj is much better graphically than other Leapfrog systems.

The screen offers a bright and clear image with good color and no banding like you get with some systems. Games are crisp and clear looking like the characters are on a TV screen rather than a small portable system.

A myriad of games are available for the Leapfrog Didj from items for fun to games that are tailored to learning specific school subjects like math. Math and other subjects can be tailored to the needs and grade the child is in.

If your child has problems with adding double-digit numbers, for example they can work on problems like those alone. Different game titles (all selling for $29.99) are available that work learning into fun games that feature popular characters like Hanna Montana and SpongeBob.

Gameplay is easy for kids to master and the controls used on the Leapfrog Didj are simple with a D-pad on the left for controlling movement, A and B buttons on the right and two buttons on the top shoulders of the system.

Hot keys to pause the game, go to the home menu, and get help are built-in. The system runs off AA batteries, which aren’t included. A port for DC power is offered and a headphone jack is available for gaming without disturbing the rest of the family. Screen brightness is adjustable to save battery power and a volume slider is on the right side of the system.

When connected to a PC via USB parents can track the amount of time the child is spending on games that have specific educational content in them. If your kid needs more help in math than reading you can track how much time they spend with math. The Leapfrog Didj is a good system for helping kids learn in a fun way and retails for $89.99. The default system comes with no game cartridges. You can download a Jetpack Heroes game free. During the game, you pick up various items around a side scrolling game and have to answer math problems to move through the level.

Verdict

Conclusion

Pros

Good screen
Educational games are fun
Headphone jack

Cons

Lacks games with stock system
Games are expensive

Verdict
The Leapfrog Didj is a good system that allows parents to help their children learn while playing video games. The Didj is fun for kids and helps them improve their classroom performance at the same time.

8.5

where to buy

Buy from Amazon

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Shane McGlaun
Leading our review center, Shane knows technology inside out. His extensive experience in testing computer hardware and consumer electronics enable him to effectively qualify new products and trends. If you want us review your product, please contact Shane.
Shane can be contacted directly at shane@i4u.com.