A to Zap! Featuring the Sunbuddies

DeveloperImageBuilder Software
PublisherImageBuilder Software
PlatformWindows
Release1995

A to Zap! Featuring the Sunbuddies is an educational video game by American studio ImageBuilder Software released in 1995 for Windows and Macintosh[1][2][3][4] and released by Sunburst Communications. It is for ages 2 to 6.[5]

Gameplay

A to Zap is an interactive educational CD-ROM designed for preschoolers to learn the alphabet in a fun and engaging way. The main screen features a shelf of alphabet blocks above a toy chest. Clicking on a block reveals a word starting with that letter and displays an image representing it. Children can then click the image to enter one of 26 themed activity screens, each tied to a letter. These activities are simple enough for 3-year-olds, yet varied enough for 6-year-olds. The program offers customization options: parents can add new vocabulary words, record their child's voice for personalized interaction, and choose between uppercase or lowercase letters. A Parents' Guide provides descriptions of activities and tips for engagement.[6]

Development

A to Zap! was developed by ImageBuilder Software, a company founded in 1983.[7]

Reception

CNET said "A to Zap won't have your kids reading Time magazine in a week, nor will it get them to eat their vegetables. But it should do a swift job of helping them read and comprehend the alphabet--and that's saying something".[6]

The game was a finalist in the Best Home Learning Program for Children category in the 1996 CODiE Awards.[8]

References

  1. ^ Hickman, Angela (August 1996). "It's Never Too Early to Start Learning". PC Magazine. Ziff Davis, Inc. p. 482. ISSN 0888-8507. Retrieved 28 April 2020.
  2. ^ Novelli, Joan (2000). Irresistible A, B, Cs: 50 Easy, Fun, Multi-Sensory Activities to Help All Kids Explore and Learn the Alphabet. Scholastic Inc. ISBN 9780590049306.
  3. ^ Barbanel, Josh (November 5, 1995). "SOFTWARE;Serious On-Screen Fun For Children Young and Old". The New York Times. Archived from the original on May 26, 2015. Retrieved May 12, 2025.
  4. ^ "The Cutting Edge: Consumer's Computer Guide : Lessons in Educational Software : Children: Experts recommend programs that are fun, 'help kids discover the power of their mind.'". Los Angeles Times. November 16, 1995. Archived from the original on September 4, 2019. Retrieved May 12, 2025.
  5. ^ Sorrels, Cynthia. "A to Zap!". Games Domain. Archived from the original on November 27, 1996. Retrieved January 5, 2026.
  6. ^ a b Shelton, Denise. "A to Zap". CNET. Archived from the original on June 6, 1997. Retrieved May 12, 2025.
  7. ^ "Industry profile". The Oregonian. September 7, 1995. p. 73. Archived from the original on May 14, 2025. Retrieved May 14, 2025 – via Newspapers.com.
  8. ^ "Finalists in the 1996 SPA Codie Awards". Software Publishers Association. Archived from the original on January 9, 1997. Retrieved January 6, 2026.


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