Peridot

The app's format, which doles out a few activities at a time, doesn't provide an action-packed experience -- but kids may still get a kick out of engaging with a virtual pet via augmented reality. In PERIDOT, kids hatch a type of creature they're told has been absent for some time -- but has recently started reappearing, offering an opportunity to repopulate the species. The AR feature lets kids view their Peridot within their current surroundings. Some of the Desires kids are given -- essentially, a list of things the creature wants to do -- involve walking around and engaging with your Peridot and various objects, such as looking at a tree trunk. Those actions, along with otherwise caring for your Peridot, will contribute to its growth. Kids are told fulfilling Peridots' desires, in tandem with giving them attention and feeding them -- which adds to their Fullness Meter -- helps Peridots grow and eventually reach adulthood.

Some of the actions kids can take produce a festive response; double-tapping on the screen, for instance, will summon the Peridot, who eagerly pops up in your view. The augmented reality capabilities can be a bit glitchy at times, though. The Peridot may become less transparent and even briefly disappear when chasing after a ball, or not respond at all when you throw it. The generally innocuous tasks kids try to complete could serve as a way to practice working toward goals -- and they also help give the experience some structure, so kids aren't just wandering around with their phone. Parents may be less excited about the time constraints the activities feature. A Desire request can expire in 7 hours, for example, which could make kids feel like they need to frequently check the app to avoid missing out. In limited quantities, however, kids may enjoy using Peridot to watch their virtual companion prance around their living room, backyard -- or another location, based on what they're told their pet is interested in checking out.