It’s good for your brain, it’s entertaining and it’s cheap. What more could you ask for in a video game? Nintendo’s Big Brain Academy is more than just something to pass the time with–it’s great brain exercise!

BBA revolves around fifteen different tests in five categories. For instance, the Compute category has a written math test, with questions like “FIVE PLUS NINETEEN EQUALS…”, which you have to answer by entering the numbers on the keypad with your stylus on the lower screen. The Analyze category has a test where you are shown an array of cubes, and you have to calculate how many cubes are in the picture, including hidden ones (where they are stacked on top of each other). The Memory category features a flash memory quiz where you are flashed a sequence of numbers and symbols, and must enter them exactly as they appear.

All tests run for one minute. You have two modes of play: a practice mode, where you perform each test at three different difficulty levels (getting better medals for higher achievements), and a test mode, where you are given one test each, randomly, from each of the five categories. The key to scoring high is to answer the puzzles correctly, as quickly as possible. The more answers you can give, the better–this raises your score. In practice mode, your individual tests can win you medals of varying degrees (bronze, silver, gold or platinum), and in test mode, the results of your five test are added up to give you a final total, and a grade.

The real question: is the game challenging? Heck, it’s downright difficult at times! In the hardest practice mode, you will be quite challenged by the most difficult puzzles as you progress. In test mode, you start out with the simplest of problems, but as you answer more, the difficulty level increases substantially. It will take you quite a bit of work to get an “A” on the final tally!

Due to its value, simple interface and challenging game play, I give this game a high rating. Definitely a lot of fun for those who like to exercise their brain!