The Game of Life Zapped Edition, pictured above, is already available, with other interactive tablet games for tweens coming later in the year. 2012 will truly be the year of interactive devices for tween tablets, and for tablets in general. The appeal of these external devices and activities may determine the success of the tablets they complement more than the merits of tablets themselves. Many of the companies are banking on the iPad for their success. If a more affordable iPad becomes available this year, that success may be sealed.
Zapped Games integrate iPad or other Apple touchscreen devices with a gameboard, creating a new way to play old favorites. Also on the horizon for iPad is Mattel's AppTivity, a series of toys that are developed for interacting on the screen of the iPad. Mattel Hot Wheels are among the releases, but your tweens may be more excited about Fruit Ninja or Angry Birds AppTivity figures. Angry Birds tablet games for tweens are very popular, and the interactive figures are sure to be a hit.
Keep your eyes out for Meep!, an Android tablet in the works by Oregon Scientific. The device is kid centered, looks to be durable, and will have many interesting external devices to use in concert with the tablet.
