Reviewed By John M. Williams- Assistive Technology News

Whenever I have writer's block, or I am mentally fatigued, I stop writing and play video games for at least 20 minutes. Free Cell, Spiderman Solitaire, Internet checkers and chess are my favorites. They test my vision, hand/eye coordination and challenge my intellect a little. With computer games, I am always looking for increased manual, cognitive and visual challenges. I discovered such challenges in My Football Game (http://www.vtreellc.com/) by Vtree, LLC.

My Football Game is one of the most challenging computer games that I have ever played. It is also the easiest game that I have ever installed. I started by closing all open programs and then placing in the DVD-ROM drive and closing it. Once Install appears, you are several clicks from the game being installed. Installation took about 8 minutes.

The game has three levels. Each level gives players an opportunity to earn credit toward a championship ring. The first level is an exercise, mini-camp, training level with eight activities for rookies. Some of these activities are Clutch Kicking, Ground Attack, Corner Put and Precision Passing.

The second level deals with defense, passing and rushing. You need to become adept at handling these two levels before playing the actual game. Each exercise in levels 1 and 2 lasts 60 seconds. You can repeat each 60 second exercise as often as you want and at adjustable speeds. I started out at a lower speed, went to a higher speed and then to 80% speed. I am still at 80%. A set of simple instructions precedes each exercise.

The multiple movements on all three levels challenge me visually, manually and cognitively. My adrenalin was really moving as I sought to master, to the best of my ability, the activities in each level. I have a ways to go to reach my goal. It will be an exciting achievement when I can play at 1005 speed

The third level is the game. There are four-five minute quarters with opposing teams. The clock runs only when there is a play. therefore sometimes simulating real football. You are given your choice of three defensive plays and some offensive plays before each play starts. You pick the plays by pushing one of these letters S, D or F. Offensive plays include passing, running, punting, field goals and kicking a point after a touchdown. There are more defensive plays than offensive. It is fun picking the plays and playing with a second player.The graphics and voice quality in the game are exceptional.

My Football Game is for children and adults. My 10-year-old son played it for two hours by himself before challenging me to a game. Before the game, we played level 2's rushing game. He exhibited great delight in ferociously tackling the runner.

On level 3, we played two 5-minute quarters, and he beat me 13-to-3. His moves were faster than mine, and he expressed immense joy in beating me. We had fun playing the game, and I acknowledged his superior, lightning manual and visual skills. We are scheduling a re-match when I reach the 100% speed mark.

My Football Game can be played by people with multiple sclerosis, people involved with physical therapy, individuals in rehabilitation programs and individuals with other disabilities.

My Football Game is a terrific holiday gift for children and adults.

I am glad that I have it. You will be glad to own it.