LumiKin
Metacritic 7810+

Black Book

Morteshka|2021AdventureRPGStrategy

LumiScore?Our 0–100 score for how developmentally beneficial and low-risk this game is for children. Higher is better.

57/ 100
GOOD
90 min/day recommended

Growth

44/100

Growth Value

  • Problem Solving
  • Strategic Thinking
  • Critical Thinking

Risk

LOW

Engagement Patterns

Minimal pressure to spend or play excessively.

Heads up

💸 Monthly cost: Free

Parent Pro-Tip

Parents should encourage discussion about the game's rich Russian folklore and the ethical dilemmas Vasilisa faces. Due to the 'idle demons' mechanic, which can create pressure to continue playing, it's advisable to set clear play time limits and discuss the importance of taking breaks, ensuring the game remains a positive and balanced experience.

Top Skills Developed

Problem Solving5/5
Strategic Thinking5/5
Critical Thinking5/5
Reading & Language5/5
Memory & Attention3/5

Development Areas

Cognitive?Problem solving, spatial awareness, strategic thinking, creativity, memory, and learning transfer. Weighted 50% of the Benefit Score.
68
Social & Emotional?Teamwork, communication, empathy, emotional regulation, and ethical reasoning. Weighted 30% of the Benefit Score.
23
Motor Skills?Hand-eye coordination, fine motor control, reaction time, and physical activity. Weighted 20% of the Benefit Score.
15
Overall Benefit Score (BDS)44/100

Representation?How diverse the game's characters are in gender and ethnicity. Higher = more authentic representation. Display only — does not affect time recommendation.

Gender balance
2/3
Ethnic diversity
1/3

Bechdel Test?The Bechdel Test checks whether a game has at least two named female characters who talk to each other about something other than a man. A simple measure of representation.Passes the test

The main character is a woman (Vasilisa) on a personal quest. She interacts with 'common folk' and demons, suggesting conversations beyond male characters.

Parent Pro-Tip

Discussing the game's narrative and cultural elements can deepen a child's understanding of different mythologies and moral choices. Setting boundaries around play time helps children develop self-regulation skills and prevents potential negative impacts from the game's loss aversion mechanics.

What your child develops

Black Book offers significant cognitive benefits through its complex card-based RPG mechanics, requiring strategic thinking, problem-solving, and critical analysis to manage spells and a demonic flock. The rich narrative, based on Russian folklore, enhances reading comprehension and cultural learning, supported by an in-game encyclopedia. Players also engage with ethical reasoning and empathy as they help common folk and navigate Vasilisa's personal journey.

Base: UnknownMonthly: FreePlaytime: ~5hReviewed Apr 2026

Regulatory Compliance

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About this game

A fusion of card-based RPGs and Adventure games, “Black Book” is a haunting tale of a young sorceress, who gave her life to serve the dark forces. Dive into the cold, yet alluring world of Russian folktales - and uncover the secrets that hide in the darkness.