CONCEPT: Gamify your spelling sessions in this quaint little RPG-esque app.

DELIVERY: There are two things that I really liked about this app. Firstly, it is the first spelling app that I've seen that blends RPG elements into the learning environment. Taking the form of a quest, you battle your way from location to location, taking on challengers in spelling battles. With each correctly spelt word, damage is dealt to the opponent (typically some sort of evil looking animal) to which they retaliate in kind. The first to lose all of their energy hearts is defeated. If this is you, the reward is to claim a letter and thus double it's power in subsequent words.

As you progress through each stage, the story unfolds in pseudo-Manga style with a whole host of colourful characters in the magical land of Alphabania including a Dumbledore-esque wizard dog and arch villain Patches. Yep, the baddy is called Patches.

The other thing that I like about Letter Battle is the fact that you can create your own custom spelling lists for use in the game, complete with voice recordings of each word. This naturally elevates this app considerably as it can be used by different students in different ways.

LIMITATIONS: In terms of presentation, the animation is limited. The gameplay also gets quite repetitive and the story is a little weak. It would have been great to see some of the other key features from RPG type games such as levelling up or earning money to buy additional spelling equipment. Add to this the fact that the app has no multiplayer and the fact that you have to play as a girl.

CONCLUSION: An original concept, with personalisation as a major plus. It may lose its appeal quickly though. 2/5

APPLICATIONS
Personalised spelling practice
Revision of topic words
Encouraging/supporting SEN spellers

 

ITUNES LINK:

https://itunes.apple.com/us/app/letter-battle/id828511066?mt=8