10 minus 9 equals?

'Edutainment' titles are a strange lot. They're usually poor attempts to shoehorn some 'learning' in videogames, possibly out of fear that games rot the brains of kiddies. Donkey Kong Jr Math is no exception.

The game features one player and two player modes. In the one player mode, the objective is to enter math answers in order to receive points. In the two player mode, each player applies a math operation (addition, subtraction, multiplication, or division) to the number they have to make it another number, trying to eventually reach a mutual goal number. However, signs and numbers are on the same field for each player, and they must race to reach the final number.

The instruction in arithmetic here is not too advanced. Basic addition, subtraction, multiplication and division problems are what you'll find in the game's main single player mode, and the two-player competition is even easier – the six-digit subtraction equation used as an example above is as complex as it comes. And limited content isn't helped at all by stiff, cumbersome and confusing controls, which you'll find in both gameplay modes.

If you get excited by doing math puzzles then this will probably be right up your street but for true gamers this is a complete waste of Wii points. The Donkey Kong licence might tempt some people but this really isn't a proper Donkey Kong game. If you really must educate yourself, pick up Brain Training on the DS. Your money will be spent far more wisely.