Specific questions - how long does it take to master each level?
Each level has a different number of problems ranging from 90 to 150. Each problem is a word problem, typically requiring the use of more than one math concept. My DS and I work together on this and we do about 10 problems in a sitting (< 1 hour.) There is no time limit on any part of the game. There are no arithmetic drills of any kind but arithmetic is needed to solve the problems. If it is arithmetic that DS doesn't know how to do yet and it seems too lengthy to explain I let him use a calculator. Some problems are multiple choice, others are not.
The program can also be used a self-study course. The final problems on each level can be used as an assessment. The game also comes with a teaching manual and solutions disk.
How do you/your kids like the game? How is it different from what you have seen before?
DS loves the game format and premise of being marooned on the island. As a reward for solving problems players collect coins and equipment needed to build vehicles of escape. The coins can be used to buy hints on problems. Players also have access to Descartes' notebook which is a source of free hints (a tricky way to get them to read the textbook
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Other math games we have are heavy on the calculation and light on the concepts. Most of our other math games at his level are action games designed for older kids with better hand-eye coordination which is frustrating for him.
Does the fact that it was developed by CTY make it a "gifted" game?
I don't know about that, but it is designed to appeal to deep thinkers and tinkerers. Also, kids can skip around, they don't have to do the problems in a specific order and they don't have to do the levels in a specific order.
