Who Knew Spelling Could Be This Fun?
I'm a huge fan of spelling games. I wouldn't say I'm a huge fan of spelling itself, put when it's introduced in game form, I certainly feel at home. If you're like me, than what more could you ask for than a game with Merriam Webster (of Webster's Dictionary fame) right in the title? These people take words seriously, and so should you!
Merriam Webster's Spell Jam plays just like a good old fashioned spelling bee. You stand at a podium and spell words that are spoken to you, complete with voice acting. The judges will verbally tell you the words, which sound pretty good, but the voices of the characters - especially when pronouncing letters - sounds pretty stale and robotic. Still, it's very impressive for a game of this caliber and, despite its lackluster execution, it adds a lot of atmosphere and overall polish to the experience. However, I still cringe every time my contestant utters "oh yeah!"
Do You Want To Be On TV?
The game offers three different modes of play: Game Show, Competetion, and Practice.
Game Show is where the real meat is and where you'll have the most fun. You're in the spotlight on a spelling quiz show and you'll fight your way through multiple rounds of tough words. In each round, you work your way up the spelling ladder, each word being worth more money than the last. Fans of Who Wants To Be a Millionaire will definitely see the similarities in the structure, as it seems more than a little "influenced." Each word has a set prize, but you will also be rewarded bonus money, based on how quickly you spell the word.
After each round, you'll spell your way through a speed round. You'll be given a minute to nail as many words as you can and rack up a ton of bonus cash!
You'll also have an arsenal of special options - similar to Millionaire's "lifelines" - that will help you make your way through the contest.
These options include things like Pass, which lets you pass on to the next word, Word Choice, will breaks the word down into a multiple choice question, and Vowels, Consonants, Uniques, which will show you the vowels, consonants, or unique letters in a word. As you could probably guess, these can be a tremendous help, even to the most experienced speller.
Competition mode is the multiplayer mode. Gather up all of your friends and then beat the pants off of them!
Feel a little threatened by your friends' spelling abilities? Then hone your skills in practice mode! This mode is the perfect tool to get you in shape for taking on all of your buddies, as well as winning that contest!
Let's Get Ready To Spell
Merriam Webster's Spell Jam is the definition of a spelling game. If this is your thing, you'll find yourself having the time of your life. Even if you normally shy away from these type of games, you just might find yourself pulled in by the charm and presentation that this product has to offer.
