Personal Trainer: Math for Nintendo DS offers a unique and nostalgic experience for those seeking to sharpen their math skills. Developed by Jupiter Corporation and published by Nintendo, this game embraces the classic handheld console's capabilities by utilizing the stylus and holding the DS sideways like a book. Its foundation lies in the 100 square calculations method, a brain-stimulating technique devised by Japanese elementary school principal Kageyama Hidea.
The main exercise, aptly named 100 cells maths, presents players with a 10 by 10 grid filled with numbers. With the goal of solving simple math problems, participants must use the numbers located at the top and side of the grid to complete the calculations. This repetition-focused approach aims to enhance cognitive abilities, as per Kageyama's theory.
However, Personal Trainer: Math doesn't solely rely on the 100 cells maths exercise. Players can also engage in a variety of other math-related challenges. These range from basic arithmetic problems involving single digits to slightly more complex calculations involving three-digit numbers. This diverse selection ensures that users can tackle math problems at varying difficulty levels, catering to both beginners and those seeking a more substantial challenge.
While Personal Trainer: Math may evoke feelings of nostalgia for those familiar with the retro gaming scene, its overall execution falls short. Unfortunately, the game struggles to maintain engagement and fails to capitalize on the full potential of the Nintendo DS's capabilities. The repetitive nature of the exercises, though intended to stimulate the brain, may feel monotonous and lack the desired level of excitement.
In terms of visuals and audio, Personal Trainer: Math doesn't stray far from the simplicity typically associated with retro games. The graphics are reminiscent of earlier handheld console titles, evoking a sense of familiarity for those acquainted with vintage gaming. However, the developers miss an opportunity to truly capture the essence of classic games and instead deliver a rather lackluster visual and audio experience.
While Personal Trainer: Math for Nintendo DS holds promise with its unique approach to mental math through the 100 square calculations method, its execution leaves much to be desired. Its lackluster engagement and missed opportunities to capitalize on nostalgic elements make it challenging to recommend as a standout title in the retro gaming genre. With a video game rating of 3 out of 10, it fails to meet the standards set by other vintage gaming classics.
