If you remember Name that Tune, the new DittyBop app is reminiscent of the old gameshow as you connect to Facebook friends, random opponents, or search for other players by username to hum, whistle, beat box, etc. to a song of your choice. The catch? Avoid singing the song’s words as they try to guess what song you might be bopping to.
Referred to as a musical version of Draw Something, it’s easy to get started with DittyBop. Download the app (free for now) from the iTunes Store, create a profile with a screen name, and an avatar. Creating a new session will allow you to get started in selecting who should guess your tune. If your iPhone or iPod is connected to your Facebook account, then you can connect to friends via the social networking service to make them guess. You can also search among usernames or roll the dice and connect to another user.
DittyBop login screen
Once you’ve decided who is going to guess your tune, select the song. While some songs are free, others cost additional stars. Stars range in price from 99 cents for 100 to $2.99 for 500.
Select among 4 songs to DittyBop to
Select the song, record yourself doing anything else but singing it, and then send it along so your opponent can guess. with each win, a player earns stars. Stars can be used to purchase additional songs, earn virtual trophies, and spent on helpers to assist players with challenging songs.
Stars serve as currency in DittyBop
While this app is fun and is designed to appeal to kids and adults alike, I know that I would need to set some ground rules with my children about using this app. Just like we don’t click on unknown links or ads on websites we visit, they would only be allowed to play DittyBop with a select network of prescreened individuals. Mom, Dad, and their sibling to start. I think that we could have a great time playing this as a family on our separate but equal devices. We’d also need to have a conversation about the fact that while it may seem that stars are a virtual currency, the cost real money charged to our iTunes accounts.
When mentioning this to DittyBop, they were responsive to my feedback and concerns regarding privacy and safety for a younger audience but intended the game to be for teens and parents. Regardless of the age groups the app is intended for, it’s always a good idea for parents to take a look at apps before kids get their hands on them!
Summary: DittyBop is a fun app that’s addictive in a good way. I love that it promotes creativity and friendly competition, especially among our family. The concerns I had regarding safety aspects related to game play and currency within the game served as a good reminder to ensure that these are ongoing conversations to have with our kids as they are now both iPod users.
Cost: Free
DittyBop compensated me for my time in reviewing the app and sharing my honest feedback. Images courtesy of DittyBop.
Sounds like something my son would love!