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Dear
Reader

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Play OverviewPlay Overview

Dear Reader (2019) is a word puzzle game. It takes classical literature and (by removing words, rearranging passages and introducing spelling errors) it tasks you with the puzzle of proofreading. Progression through the game unlocks numerous works that are mostly in the public domain such as Pride and Prejudice and the Picture of Dorian Gray.

During play you are presented with an abridged version of the book to correct in order to gain points and more titles. The puzzles are laid out as chronological chapters, and although you are not getting the full work, you can follow the stories. There are over 50 books to enjoy, and it may inspire you to seek out books that you may not have considered reading before.

You can choose to play this in either Relaxed, Page Turner or Speed Reader modes, the first having no timer, the last requiring you to fix each page within 10 seconds. You can also work on achievements, such as daily challenges and acquiring books.

Gameplay involves selecting and moving words around the page to re-create the page of writing. Puzzles get progressively more difficult, from simple word selection to re-arrangement of sentences, to replacing missing letters. It is similar to some exercises used in English and Foreign Language classes, and may feel to some more like schoolwork than a fun game. On the other hand, it may be an excellent way to encourage the reluctant to engage with classical literature and improve knowledge in this area.

Video games are not normally regarded as high-brow activities, and some purists may balk at the idea of making reading into a game, however as an educational title this is an interesting idea to get people reading 19th century novels, be it in a very condensed form. A novel (excuse the pun), casual game you can dip in and out of.

Our examiner, Andrea Walney, first checked Dear Reader 2 years ago. It was re-examined by Jo Robertson and updated 15 months ago.
Too complex for your family? There are lots of games similar to Dear Reader. Here are some easier younger-rated games:

Play StylePlay Style

This is a Brain Game and Narrative game with Puzzle elements. This is a single-player game.

DurationDuration

Play Time: It takes between 10 minutes and 15 minutes to play a round of this game. To complete a whole book may take a few hours. There are 50 books of varying sizes, duration depends on how quick you play and how many books you take on.

Age RatingsAge Ratings

Content Rating

This game has not yet been rated, but we anticipate it is likely to be rated PEGI 7.

The Rating of 12+ is given by Apple Arcade for Infrequent/Mild Mature/Suggestive Themes, Infrequent/Mild Alcohol, Tobacco, or Drug Use or References, Infrequent/Mild Horror/Fear Themes, Infrequent/Mild Profanity or Crude Humor.

Skill Level

10+ year-olds usually have the required skill to enjoy this game. You will need a good reading age to be able to understand these literary works.

CostsCosts

Dear Reader

App Store iOS Subscription Free

Apple Arcade

App Store Apple TV Subscription Free

Apple Arcade

App Store Mac Subscription Free

Apple Arcade

There are no additional in-game purchases, loot boxes, adverts or subscription costs.

DetailsGame Details

Release Date: 19/09/2019, updated in 2021

Out Now: Apple TV, Mac and iOS

Skill Rating: 10+ year-olds

Players: 1

Genres: Brain Game, Narrative and Puzzle

Accessibility: 13 features

Components: 2D Side-On

Developer: Local No 12 (@LocalNo12)


Taming Gaming Book Written by parents for parents, the database complements the in-depth discussion about video game addiction, violence, spending and online safety in the Taming Gaming book. We are an editorially independent, free resource without adverts that is supported by partnerships.

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