The XBox 360 “Prince of Persia” is a great game for family fun, but there are some aspects that can be a bit tricky for younger players or those who are new to gaming. In this article, I’m going to provide some tips that will make the game a little easier to navigate. Do not worry; I’m not giving the game away. This is not a tour. These are just a few tips that I have learned during the game that will help you avoid getting stuck and help you maneuver more easily.

There are basically three navigation methods built into the game. The first is the map that can be accessed by pressing the left or back arrow button. You should check this frequently, because this map includes a lot of information. Set your destiny with it, view the amount of light seeds collected and remaining at each location, and view the energy plates obtained and remaining. The map also serves as a compass, with an arrow showing where you are and in which direction you are looking. Using this feature is a fun way to help your children learn to read maps.

The second way to navigate is to press “Y” after you have selected a destination on the map. Elika will launch a light trail that will show the best way to her destination. Try to limit your use of this technique and instead challenge yourself to develop your map reading skills.

The third method of navigation is literally written on the walls. You have set your destination on the map and the Prince looks the right way. Now take the time to look for markers to guide you in the right direction. Some of the markers will be obvious, like posts and beams. Others a little more subtle, like recessed wall landings that you can climb or hang on. However, when these markers fail, take an even closer look and note the subtle scratches on the wall. Let these scratches guide you to the right path. Horizontal scratches show where you need to run along the wall, while vertical scratches show where you need to climb or slide down a wall.

When you need to get to light spots or seeds that are too far away, remember to use the combination “A” then “Y” to give Elika a little boost. You can even use multiple sequences of this to bounce off remote walls and reach higher locations! Give it a try, you will be amazed at how far you can go.

Sometimes, however, you will find that you just can’t get anywhere. If you’ve explored every possible path, you probably need to purchase a power board to access that area. Look around you and you will most likely find a dimly lit dish or a dish covered in “corruption”. You will need to collect enough light seeds to get the power plate in the Temple, or you will need to cure the earth to expose the plate. Once you can use the power plate, you will be able to get to the new area.

Finally, when you have the opportunity to use a power platform, some sequences will require you to drive with the joystick. The key is to make only small adjustments. Let the computer control the flight most of the time. Make only slight adjustments up, down, or sideways as needed. Don’t drive too much.

There is much to discover in Prince of Persia and much territory to go. I hope you find these tips helpful and that they allow your family to enjoy a great game even more.