Tux Type 1.8.1

Everyone of us surely remembers how difficult it was to learn our native language, let alone a foreign one. Fortunately, however, the contemporary generation has got some user-friendly educational programs at their disposal that assist in language learning by introducing all sorts of enjoyable games. A good example of such a program is Tux Type, having the GNU GPL license, and intended for children.

The application is constructed similarly to Tux Math, a program which assists in teaching mathematics. Tux Type teaches young children letters and words of the English language by means of simple arcade games. Being Tux (a plump penguin, which is Linux mascot) the children are supposed to defend the penguin cities protecting them from being destroyed by comets, meteors, and other extraterrestrial dangers. The main weapon is a laser steered by means of the keyboard, by typing the right letters, words or phrases. A child (or a parent) chooses the difficulty level and the game type so Tux Type is good not only for teaching the alphabet to very small children but also for revising English vocabulary by older kids. Its highest levels may also serve as an enjoyable game for adults.

The program’s interface has been designed carefully with great attention to details. It looks very nice and friendly but not infantile. It is a reliable and useful program enhancing children’s education. It is also better designed than Tux Math, and free form some annoying shortcomings such as the system crashing when closing the application.