In the November issue of OWL we introduced you to the amazing Lego Robotics team CTRL-Z. Here’s a video that shows how their pet-tracking invention works.
Do you have an invention you would like to share with other readers? Leave a comment below and tell us a little about it.
Do you like classic-style RPGs with a twist? Then you might want to check out Undertale, an indie game that’s been taking the RPG world by storm.
Check out OWL reader Fiona’s review below to find out if Undertale is for you.
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Undertale is a classic-style RPG computer game that involves puzzles, fights and making friends. I personally enjoyed the classic RPG style of the game and the incredible soundtrack. The only thing that bothered me about this game is the fact that the main character itself’s walk speed is too slow sometimes. It can take a long time to get from one area to another. I think that kids my age would like to play Undertale because of its incredible characters and the connections and bonds the player makes with each. I would give this game a rating of 9.5/10 because it is nearly flawless, but there are a few things that take away from the game such as the lack of detail in some of the art.
-Fiona
Thanks for the review, Fiona! What do you think, readers? Undertale is available on Steam here.
Here’s something for all the fitness-loving OWL readers out there! The Smart Rope is just like a regular skipping rope, except it keeps track of how many jumps you’ve made. It then flashes that number in the air in front of you as you go. It also lets you track your fitness stats with a smartphone app.
So what do you think? Would this fancy feature help motivate you, or do you prefer regular skipping ropes?
The folks from the LEGO Marvel video game franchise released a new game last month. LEGO Marvel’s Avengers is an action-packed game featuring tons of your favourite superheroes. Want to know more? Read 12 year-old Ezaël’s review!
I liked the game because it’s hilarious and it has tons of action and puzzles. The fact that almost everything in the game is beautifully crafted out of LEGO make the stories from the Marvel movies even better. The only thing I don’t like about the game is that other very important scenes from the Marvel movies were left out. For example, there was a scene in Captain America: The First Avenger where Captain America was fighting the Red Skull on the huge, sleek, black aircraft at the end of the movie that would have been great in the game.
This is a great game for everybody because of its action, big laughs, puzzles, and dialogue. This is an extraordinary game for kids who love LEGO or love superheroes! 9.5/10
Thanks for the review, Ezaël!
Have you played this or any other cool games recently? Tell us in the comments below!
Raymond Wang is a teen from Vancouver on the Advisory Board here at OWL. Recently, his science fair investigations have earned him the honor of representing Canada at the Intel International Science Fair. Concerned about the recent flu outbreaks, his project this year focuses on using computers to simulate airflow inside airplane cabins, finding ways to curb the spread of airborne pathogens and creating a better travel environment for everyone on board.
Raymond is a big fan of technology. This week, he gave us a list of his favorite apps to get hands-on with science and engineering. Check it out!
Astronomy:NASA Want to keep up to date with the latest news in astronomy? Check out the NASA app, which features images, videos, mission information, and more about what’s going on in outer space. There’s even an option to track satellites, and to find out when the International Space Station might be spotted in your area! Works on iOS & Android.
Physics:Tinkerbox Powered by Autodesk, a company that makes real world Computer Aided Design (CAD) and Engineering software, TinkerBox is a physics puzzle game. You can learn about science facts and engineering concepts in puzzle mode, and then let your imagination free in the Invent mode.
Works on iOS.
Chemistry: goREACT
Conduct chemistry experiments right in your hand with goREACT, where you can create more than 300 virtual chemistry reactions! With both guided and free play modes, you can hone your skills as a young chemist while learning all about the properties of various elements. Works on iOS & Android.
Math: Wolfram Alpha Got a challenging math question? Chances are, Wolfram Alpha has the answer, along with the step by step solution. Whether you are doing recreational number problems, or some serious Algebra questions, you can explore the fun world of mathematics with this app. You can even ask it questions about music, poetry, and rhymes! It comes directly integrated with Siri on your iPad or iPhone. It’s also available as a stand alone app on iOS & Android.
Tech Tools: Sensor Kinetics Your phone probably comes with an accelerometer, gyroscope, magnetometer, and more. You can use Sensor kinetics to look “under the hood” and see all the sensors in action. This all in one toolkit gives charts, graphs, and more to learn gravity, movement, vibrations, and magnetic fields around you. Try it just for fun, or use it to collect data for your next science experiment! Works on both iOS & Android.
Thank you, Raymond, for giving us such great app recommendations. Now it’s your turn: What’s your favorite app? Comment below and let us know.