Bothkids and adults often thinkof history as dry and boring, when it's actually filled with excitingstories. History lessons tell some of the best stories that humans have created, and many fungameshelp them to come alive. Parents and teachers as well as kids will enjoy many of these games. Someare played oncomputers, while others aren't--either way, you can play them together if you choose.

Archaeology Games
The American Museum of Natural History offers archaeology and anthropology games geared towardkids. Click on "Inca Investigation" to explore the ancient Inca city of Huanuco Pampa as anarchaeologist. Along the way, try to figure out what ancient buildings were used for in the past. Theevidence in this game represents real evidence that archaeologists found. Or, explore the ancient cityof Petra.

History Mystery
Scholastic offers "History Mystery" games for many different topics, from famous explorers to colonialhistory. Use clues to figure out the correct answer to questions asked. You receive four clues for eachquestion. If you click "Investigate," the game gives you suggestions for researching your answer. Whenyou think you know the answer, type it into the blank spaces and find out if it's right.

Trivia
Make up a trivia game with key facts about time periods that students are studying. Intersperse"serious history" with fun facts such as what presidents did to relax, and quirky anecdotes that madetheir way into the annals of history. If playing it with a class, pair up in small teams for this game.

Destination D-Day
The BBC offers a creative game called Destination D-Day. Working as "secret agents," players try toget behind enemy lines to complete their mission. Answer questions along the way, relating to the timeperiod and the war, to succeed at their mission.

Charades
You could play a version of charades in which teams take turns acting out historic events and guessingwhat they are. Each team could use a history book for this game, using it to select a historic moment toenact. Unlike tr aditionalcharades, actors could speak in this game so it doesn't become impossiblydifficult. One player could perform at a time, or with larger groups, two or more might act out a short skittogether.

Lost Worlds
The History Channel offers a game called "Lost Worlds," which takes players on a treasure huntthrough someof the planet's most amazing ruins. While not a free game (except for a 1-hour trial),some history buffs might still be interested in its beautiful graphics and fun challenges.