V-Tech V-Motion Active Learning System

Before I tested this toy with my family, I thought it would be like a preschool version of the Nintendo Wii. But the V-Tech V-Motion system, while definitely cute and age-appropriate, isn't as active as I had hoped. It has a motion-activated controller (just like the Wii) but the action required to play the game is pretty subtle. While some kids still play actively with this game, others can master it while remaining sedentary.

I expected my kids to get up and move while playing with V-Tech's V-Motion Active Learning System. But we quickly discovered that vigorous play wasn't necessary. To bounce an onscreen ball, for example, you simply tilt the controller to the left or right a few inches. You won't exactly work up a sweat doing that.

But maybe I was expecting too much. The V-Tech V-Motion, for kids 3 to 7, aims to engage both minds and bodies. Its games ("smartridges," $25 each) teach and reinforce early learning concepts such as counting, shapes, colors, and matching. All of them (except the starter game) feature favorite kiddie characters--Wonder Pets, Dora, Thomas, et al. (The system is compatible with all V.Smile Smartridges, if you have those on hand already.)

I always hyperventilate at the idea of dealing with TV accessories. Not so the V-Tech V-Motion. Feed the console and the controller their batteries, then plug the console into the TV using three color-coded plugs. Very easy.

It's also very easy to select your game and start playing--certainly easy enough for little ones. My kids (ages 3 and 6) were able to master it quickly. The games in the starter cartridge, however, failed to really grab their interest. The graphics are primitive and the play is not that exciting. My 6-year-old felt the games were too babyish. (The Wall-E or Scooby Doo cartridges might hold more appeal for her.)

I was impressed by the dual-player options (which work only if you have two controllers). In the two tennis-style games, for example, if there are two players, they work together instead of competing.

The system also features an online component, called V.Link. Plug it into your computer's USB port to unlock bonus games from the V-Tech website. The V.Link is included in the gaming system package and also works with other V-Tech games such as the V.Smile Cyber Pocket and V.Smile PC Pal.