E3 2008: Hi! HamTaro Ham-Ham Challenge Hands-On

It's not uncommon to see young children who aren't old enough to cross the street walk around with their DSs, attempting to play games that are above their ability. Natsume has come up with a collection of minigames using Hamtaro the hamster as its mascot to cater to that crowd. Described as a Brain Age for children in elementary school who aren't old enough to realize what's cool and what isn't, Hi! HamTaro Ham-Ham Challenge is a vibrant collection of simple games that young children can play and maybe learn a few things from in the process.

When the game begins, you see Hamtaro in a small hamster cage where he can eat, drink, and do his business in the corner. Not only is it practicing good hygiene to make him use his litter box, but he also has a great expression. Once you climb down the little hamster tunnel, you pop up in an area with other hamsters who each represent a minigame.

We had a chance to try only three of the 12 minigames, but they are very easy and kid-friendly. One was to color a crown to match the crown in the top screen. You have a selection of various colors at the bottom of the touch screen where you can select and color between the lines. Another game involved a small maze, where you need to find a path to pick up your scattered hamster friends before you get to the exit. The other minigame requires that you choose the hole that has the most hamsters. There are two holes and about seven or so hamsters, and you'll watch them dance around in a circle and enter. As long as you're paying attention, you should have no problem.

Hi! HamTaro Ham-Ham Challenge is the kind of game that by the time you're old enough to read this, you'll be too old for this game. However, it is a well-presented game for young children with easy games for them to play and a cute theme to keep them amused, especially if they are fans of Hamtaro.