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Gamer Army
In this timely and thrilling novel, Ender's Game meets Ready Player One and several terabytes of fast-paced video game action as five gamers are recruited into a tech giant's secret program. After Rogan Webber levels up yet again on his favorite video game, Laser Viper, the world-famous creator of the game invites him to join the five best players in the country for an exclusive tournament. The gamers are flown to the tech mogul's headquarters, where they stay in luxury dorms and test out cutting edge virtual-reality gaming equipment, doing digital battle as powerful fighting robots. It's the ultimate gaming experience.But as the contest continues, the missions become harder, losing gamers are eliminated, and the remaining contestants face the growing suspicion that the game may not be what it seems. Why do the soldiers and robots they fight in Laser Viper act so weird? What's behind the strange game glitches? And why does the game feel so...real? Rogan and his gamer rivals must come together, summoning the collective power of their Gamer Army to discover the truth and make things right...in a dangerous world where video games have invaded reality.
336 pages, Hardcover
First published November 27, 2018
67 people are currently reading
413 people want to read
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 80 reviews
August 16, 2022
Przyjemna, choć niczym sie nie wyróżnia. Na star w gatunku i pierwsze spotkanie z grani i wirtualną rzeczywistością jak najbardziej okay. Ma mocny vibe Drogi Szamana i Warcrossa, choć skierowana jest ku dużo młodszemu czytelnikowi. Pod koniec jednak zaczęła mnie już trochę nudzić, bo doskonale wiedziałam, jak to się skończy, ale w trakcie naprawdę fajnie się bawiłam.
October 18, 2018
Gamer Army by Trent Reedy, 336 pages. Arthur A. Levine (Scholastic), DEC 2018. $17.
Language: G; Mature Content: G; Violence: PG (lots of video game violence, not bloody)
BUYING ADVISORY: EL, MS - ESSENTIAL
AUDIENCE APPEAL: HIGH
Rogan and four other 12-year-olds have been recruited by the world’s most brilliant tech guru to participate in an elimination tournament in the Laser Viper game platform. The kids are isolated from their families and the world during the tournament and they never know when a challenge is coming. But they have access to the world’s coolest tech, which just keeps improving. What could go wrong? Well, maybe not al is as it seems with their idol. Or with the “missions” the kids are challenged to complete.
Ride the wave of Ready Player One with this gaming tech-filled, action-packed treat. You might be able to pull hard-core gamers away from their computer screens long enough to read this! Any action fan will love it.
Cindy, Middle School Librarian, MLS
https://kissthebook.blogspot.com/2018...
Language: G; Mature Content: G; Violence: PG (lots of video game violence, not bloody)
BUYING ADVISORY: EL, MS - ESSENTIAL
AUDIENCE APPEAL: HIGH
Rogan and four other 12-year-olds have been recruited by the world’s most brilliant tech guru to participate in an elimination tournament in the Laser Viper game platform. The kids are isolated from their families and the world during the tournament and they never know when a challenge is coming. But they have access to the world’s coolest tech, which just keeps improving. What could go wrong? Well, maybe not al is as it seems with their idol. Or with the “missions” the kids are challenged to complete.
Ride the wave of Ready Player One with this gaming tech-filled, action-packed treat. You might be able to pull hard-core gamers away from their computer screens long enough to read this! Any action fan will love it.
Cindy, Middle School Librarian, MLS
https://kissthebook.blogspot.com/2018...
February 20, 2019
I've never read Ender's Game, but based on what I know of the book (and other reviews), Gamer Army was very much the same story.
Set in the near future, almost everyone does most everything online. Work, play, socialize. Videogames are of course very popular. A company picks the top gamers in the world (in a certain age bracket -- kids) to enter a competition.
I was enjoying the story that far. I didn't like the main character, but I liked the story's setting, so I kept going. Then things took a left turn...
Spoiler: Of course the company turned out to be evil. The game wasn't a game, it was *gasp* real! They were training the kids to be a military force. Then, even wore, those same kids helped take the company down. Sorry, but I do not believe a bunch of preteens, no matter how good gamers they are, could take down a whole massive, evil company. End spoiler.
Early on, I almost stopped reading this book. The main character is unlikable -- a rude, annoying kid. But this is a MG book, and I supposed he was just an accurate kid, so I kept going. I liked most of the book, until I got to that "twist". At that point, things became just too unbelievable to me, so I stopped reading at the 86% point.
Set in the near future, almost everyone does most everything online. Work, play, socialize. Videogames are of course very popular. A company picks the top gamers in the world (in a certain age bracket -- kids) to enter a competition.
I was enjoying the story that far. I didn't like the main character, but I liked the story's setting, so I kept going. Then things took a left turn...
Spoiler: Of course the company turned out to be evil. The game wasn't a game, it was *gasp* real! They were training the kids to be a military force. Then, even wore, those same kids helped take the company down. Sorry, but I do not believe a bunch of preteens, no matter how good gamers they are, could take down a whole massive, evil company. End spoiler.
Early on, I almost stopped reading this book. The main character is unlikable -- a rude, annoying kid. But this is a MG book, and I supposed he was just an accurate kid, so I kept going. I liked most of the book, until I got to that "twist". At that point, things became just too unbelievable to me, so I stopped reading at the 86% point.
October 2, 2018
Gamer Army is a cool, fun book to read. It was very surprising and had lots of action. I mostly read books with a lot of action.
After Rogan levels up on his favorite video game, one of the most famous tech people invites him to a championship of his favorite game, Laser Viper. He goes up against four other competitors to be the grand champion. The virtual reality game feels totally real. Rogan starts out very excited and nervous, then he feels like something's wrong. Everything seems too real.
The book was surprising because there were many important things that happen when you don't expect them. Because there are so many levels of the video game, there's lots of action scenes. It's exciting because if your character dies you're done, there's no second chances. There's lots of emotions in the book: sad, happy, excited, and nervous.
I think kids who would like this book are gamers because the competition is about being the best at that game. The game in the story isn't real, so you have a lot to learn. And when you do learn about the game, it's awesome and you want more. If you hate video games, this book is not for you. The game is complicated and there's a lot of rules to learn, so kids who don't really like games may not get used to it.
After Rogan levels up on his favorite video game, one of the most famous tech people invites him to a championship of his favorite game, Laser Viper. He goes up against four other competitors to be the grand champion. The virtual reality game feels totally real. Rogan starts out very excited and nervous, then he feels like something's wrong. Everything seems too real.
The book was surprising because there were many important things that happen when you don't expect them. Because there are so many levels of the video game, there's lots of action scenes. It's exciting because if your character dies you're done, there's no second chances. There's lots of emotions in the book: sad, happy, excited, and nervous.
I think kids who would like this book are gamers because the competition is about being the best at that game. The game in the story isn't real, so you have a lot to learn. And when you do learn about the game, it's awesome and you want more. If you hate video games, this book is not for you. The game is complicated and there's a lot of rules to learn, so kids who don't really like games may not get used to it.
August 14, 2019
An eminently put-downable book. A kind of Ready Player One lite, geared for a younger audience. In case the deep characterization and complex, subtle morality in RP1 was too much for you.
That would be sarcasm.
Clearly intended as an RP1 fanfic it features a Contest between Contestants who Play the Mad Genius' Very Favoritest Game in order to Be the Best and Win the MacGuffin.
Problems:
1- The Very Favoritest Game Whatever is . . . not very well thought-out. At all. Apparently there are character classes, only two or three of which actually enable anything that remotely resembles standard gameplay. The other two character classes are-- support roles. Fix stuff or help the fighters regain health. Some kid is actually going to choose to run around repairing other bots instead of leveling up by killing things? Honestly, it doesn't sound like a completely terrible idea, but it would require a bizarrely different game plot/ way of gaining points per character unit.
It sounded like (and this was not made very clear) depending on which character class you selected, you would be playing either Doom, Myst, Emergency Room, or one of the mercenaries in Diablo II. Or you could be a tank. This all somehow coexists in an MMORPG and you are rated individually, not as a team.
2- The Contest Between Contestants is a reality show, in which one player gets voted off in each round. It is, however, abundantly obvious that the support character classes have zero chance of making it to the final round. The challenges are basic first-person-shooter stuff, standard gameplay plots exactly nothing like Myst or Emergency Room.
Plus the nefarious subplot-- And the characters all bond deeply and unreservedly in a way that is simply not possible with Bachelorette-style reality TV.
3- Weird reliance on stereotypes that make me uncomfortable. I don't think that I'm the world's most easily off-put by such things. But Takashi is a straight-up broken-English Japanese FOB and there's even a moment where a presumably nerdy girl is easily able to identify Saudi Arabia, but has to ask about Africa. Africa.
Just . . . think about that for a second.
4- The ending is abysmal. I almost gave up on this book with only thirty pages left to go. It's supposed to be climactic, but it's completely bogged down with abrupt introductions of characters who haven't existed anywhere else in the book, asides about powers that minor characters apparently had the whole time, action sequences that contain lines like "and then many robots were destroyed."
1.5 stars because, while I find it unilaterally mediocre, it manages not to be morally repugnant and only the ending was mind-bogglingly terrible. Would have been a better RP1 fanfic.
That would be sarcasm.
Clearly intended as an RP1 fanfic it features a Contest between Contestants who Play the Mad Genius' Very Favoritest Game in order to Be the Best and Win the MacGuffin.
Problems:
1- The Very Favoritest Game Whatever is . . . not very well thought-out. At all. Apparently there are character classes, only two or three of which actually enable anything that remotely resembles standard gameplay. The other two character classes are-- support roles. Fix stuff or help the fighters regain health. Some kid is actually going to choose to run around repairing other bots instead of leveling up by killing things? Honestly, it doesn't sound like a completely terrible idea, but it would require a bizarrely different game plot/ way of gaining points per character unit.
It sounded like (and this was not made very clear) depending on which character class you selected, you would be playing either Doom, Myst, Emergency Room, or one of the mercenaries in Diablo II. Or you could be a tank. This all somehow coexists in an MMORPG and you are rated individually, not as a team.
2- The Contest Between Contestants is a reality show, in which one player gets voted off in each round. It is, however, abundantly obvious that the support character classes have zero chance of making it to the final round. The challenges are basic first-person-shooter stuff, standard gameplay plots exactly nothing like Myst or Emergency Room.
Plus the nefarious subplot-- And the characters all bond deeply and unreservedly in a way that is simply not possible with Bachelorette-style reality TV.
3- Weird reliance on stereotypes that make me uncomfortable. I don't think that I'm the world's most easily off-put by such things. But Takashi is a straight-up broken-English Japanese FOB and there's even a moment where a presumably nerdy girl is easily able to identify Saudi Arabia, but has to ask about Africa. Africa.
Just . . . think about that for a second.
4- The ending is abysmal. I almost gave up on this book with only thirty pages left to go. It's supposed to be climactic, but it's completely bogged down with abrupt introductions of characters who haven't existed anywhere else in the book, asides about powers that minor characters apparently had the whole time, action sequences that contain lines like "and then many robots were destroyed."
1.5 stars because, while I find it unilaterally mediocre, it manages not to be morally repugnant and only the ending was mind-bogglingly terrible. Would have been a better RP1 fanfic.
February 27, 2020
That was totally wicked. The beginning was a bit rough, but the more I read the more i became entranced? with the book. When it got good, it got really good.
January 29, 2019
What a great book! This is the 4th book I’ve read from this author...amazing!
October 14, 2018
Cool science fiction book. I love the big plot twist! I love science fiction books that have a virtual reality game in them because there so futuristic and cool.
Read
September 19, 2024"Gamer Army" by Trent Reedy is a thrilling adventure that brilliantly intertwines the world of gaming with real-life challenges. Just as players strategize and build defenses in Clash of Clans, the protagonist navigates a virtual landscape that mirrors the complexities of base-building and teamwork.
Reedy’s characters develop skills akin to those needed for creating effective Clash of Clans bases—collaboration: https://bases-coc.com/ , strategy, and adaptability. The book explores themes of friendship and ethics in a digital age, raising questions about the implications of gaming technology on society.
With accessible writing and engaging plot twists, "Gamer Army" is a captivating read for both gamers and non-gamers. It’s a must-read for anyone who enjoys the strategic depth of games like Clash of Clans, as it highlights the importance of community and strategic thinking, both in-game
Reedy’s characters develop skills akin to those needed for creating effective Clash of Clans bases—collaboration: https://bases-coc.com/ , strategy, and adaptability. The book explores themes of friendship and ethics in a digital age, raising questions about the implications of gaming technology on society.
With accessible writing and engaging plot twists, "Gamer Army" is a captivating read for both gamers and non-gamers. It’s a must-read for anyone who enjoys the strategic depth of games like Clash of Clans, as it highlights the importance of community and strategic thinking, both in-game
November 6, 2018
If you love Ready Player One and Hunger Games, then you should read this. It has elements from both and is fantastic if you like adventure, action, and fantasy.
April 5, 2023
it was amazing
January 18, 2019
i really enjoyed this book, the story line is different from most books.
Taking place in the FUture where everything is based around technology
Rogan is a gamer his favorite game Lazer Viper where he controls a Viper (robot) and fights on fireteams to defeat the scorpions. He is invited to a Lazer Viper tournament with 4 other of the worlds (Virtual and Real) greatest Lazer Viper gamers in their age division by on the world leading tech guru. they are shut out from the outside world no communication in or out, supposedly for the Tv show they are recording it for. they never know when the next challenge is coming, but they all love the new tech they get to use. it seems almost real being able to feel what your Viper feels like instead of just moving controls. as the tournament moves on something doesn't seem right, from voices in the game and the weird challenges. as they are at the last two gamers the final challenge, Rogan and Shay, are the only ones left and they get to be the first to use an even new tech choice for Vipers, they both have implants which connects them to their Vipers, their consciousness is in the Vipers! its like you are the Viper Literally. but what they don't know is that the recruiter has a hidden agenda, all the challenges they have been given throughout the game was to get tech from other countries around the world so he could use it to create Singularity everywhere. the Vipers they have been operating are real they were actually operating an advanced robot to steal tech in the real world. but they don't know that since they have no communication to the outside world, the other gamers who have already been eliminated from the game contact Rogan and tell him the truth, he is shocked and doesn't have a chance to tell Shay before the last challenge. as they are in the last challenge Rogan refused to kill the set target who is a leader in the scorpion revolt, which X the guy secretly working undercover for the rich tech guy is trying to expose. Rogan and shay almost die, which means they die in their Viper they die IRL! X gets them out of the game and to a secret place where the rich tech guy can't find them, he tells them all about the Sun Station One which is actually part of the plan to create Singularity around the world and the five of them head back to defeat him and get the data off of the main computer so they can expose him to the world, but they didn't expect was that he was doing in through an implant in himself so he can be in control! implants in adults never worked correctly and could change their personality. they end up having to fight him to keep the singularity from going online, they complete the mission and head back home, they get to keep their Vipers and decide to not tell the world about the tournament.
Taking place in the FUture where everything is based around technology
Rogan is a gamer his favorite game Lazer Viper where he controls a Viper (robot) and fights on fireteams to defeat the scorpions. He is invited to a Lazer Viper tournament with 4 other of the worlds (Virtual and Real) greatest Lazer Viper gamers in their age division by on the world leading tech guru. they are shut out from the outside world no communication in or out, supposedly for the Tv show they are recording it for. they never know when the next challenge is coming, but they all love the new tech they get to use. it seems almost real being able to feel what your Viper feels like instead of just moving controls. as the tournament moves on something doesn't seem right, from voices in the game and the weird challenges. as they are at the last two gamers the final challenge, Rogan and Shay, are the only ones left and they get to be the first to use an even new tech choice for Vipers, they both have implants which connects them to their Vipers, their consciousness is in the Vipers! its like you are the Viper Literally. but what they don't know is that the recruiter has a hidden agenda, all the challenges they have been given throughout the game was to get tech from other countries around the world so he could use it to create Singularity everywhere. the Vipers they have been operating are real they were actually operating an advanced robot to steal tech in the real world. but they don't know that since they have no communication to the outside world, the other gamers who have already been eliminated from the game contact Rogan and tell him the truth, he is shocked and doesn't have a chance to tell Shay before the last challenge. as they are in the last challenge Rogan refused to kill the set target who is a leader in the scorpion revolt, which X the guy secretly working undercover for the rich tech guy is trying to expose. Rogan and shay almost die, which means they die in their Viper they die IRL! X gets them out of the game and to a secret place where the rich tech guy can't find them, he tells them all about the Sun Station One which is actually part of the plan to create Singularity around the world and the five of them head back to defeat him and get the data off of the main computer so they can expose him to the world, but they didn't expect was that he was doing in through an implant in himself so he can be in control! implants in adults never worked correctly and could change their personality. they end up having to fight him to keep the singularity from going online, they complete the mission and head back home, they get to keep their Vipers and decide to not tell the world about the tournament.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
January 19, 2019
I actually don't know when I started this. So I'm guessing the date down there.
CONS OF GAMER ARMY
The beginning was pretty hard to get through. I kept putting it down and then taking forever to pick up again. I also had this feeling as I read the beginning that it just could have been written better.
The climax of the climax.
Once, a character said bloody, and in an interview, it input [beep]. Those were the only language problems I had with this book, and while I certainly wasn't happy with them, there was a lot less than in some books. Unless you're bothered by character's saying crap, then there wasn't anything else.
PROS OF GAMER ARMY
I eventually got to a place where I couldn't put down the book. At all. I had been sucked in by the story.
The climax was super awesome! I actually got chills, and my jaw dropped more than once. I know that it's hard to write a good climax, but this was drawn out for just the right length, and led up to something actually big enough for all that suspense during the book. It also gave enough detail, which is something I was happy with.
The suits! Were! So! Cool!! Also, I would totally be an Engineer.
The cover! I wasn't very impressed with it at first glance, but as I read the book, I glanced at it more often, and was pretty impressed with it. *slow clapping*
The friendships in this! There wasn't any romance going on. It was all like BUDDIESSSS!
The video game references! Loved them.
OVERALL
I easily saw through all but one plot twist. (That one that I didn't see was actually the big thing the book led up to, so maybe I shouldn't count that as a plot twist?) I saw everything and how it would work for all the (real) twists, but still enjoyed reading them. This book was pretty cool, and it was fun to watch the characters develop!
CONS OF GAMER ARMY
The beginning was pretty hard to get through. I kept putting it down and then taking forever to pick up again. I also had this feeling as I read the beginning that it just could have been written better.
The climax of the climax.
Once, a character said bloody, and in an interview, it input [beep]. Those were the only language problems I had with this book, and while I certainly wasn't happy with them, there was a lot less than in some books. Unless you're bothered by character's saying crap, then there wasn't anything else.
PROS OF GAMER ARMY
I eventually got to a place where I couldn't put down the book. At all. I had been sucked in by the story.
The climax was super awesome! I actually got chills, and my jaw dropped more than once. I know that it's hard to write a good climax, but this was drawn out for just the right length, and led up to something actually big enough for all that suspense during the book. It also gave enough detail, which is something I was happy with.
The suits! Were! So! Cool!! Also, I would totally be an Engineer.
The cover! I wasn't very impressed with it at first glance, but as I read the book, I glanced at it more often, and was pretty impressed with it. *slow clapping*
The friendships in this! There wasn't any romance going on. It was all like BUDDIESSSS!
The video game references! Loved them.
OVERALL
I easily saw through all but one plot twist. (That one that I didn't see was actually the big thing the book led up to, so maybe I shouldn't count that as a plot twist?) I saw everything and how it would work for all the (real) twists, but still enjoyed reading them. This book was pretty cool, and it was fun to watch the characters develop!
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
March 2, 2019
My younger brother picked this one out from the school library--I think he was simply drawn to the cover's promise of an action-packed book about video games. I have been helping him with some school things, and said that I would read the book aloud to him. The result was that we both got to enjoy an excellent book by Trent Reedy.
Gamer Army caters nicely to its intended audience of young readers--language, violence, sexual content, etc. is all kept at a very safe level for young readers. There's nothing in here that I found objectionable for even the youngest bookworm. That being said, the book still delivered strong and dynamic characters, surprising twists, solid action, and a satisfying conclusion.
I will admit that, as someone who has read some of the more popular sci-fi stories, there were some elements of the story I was able to predict long before they occurred. The redeeming aspect in this regard is that there were surprises within surprises, so that although I may have correctly guessed at some aspects, others came as welcome surprises.
The book earned a solid 5 stars from my younger brother, and I must concur.
Gamer Army caters nicely to its intended audience of young readers--language, violence, sexual content, etc. is all kept at a very safe level for young readers. There's nothing in here that I found objectionable for even the youngest bookworm. That being said, the book still delivered strong and dynamic characters, surprising twists, solid action, and a satisfying conclusion.
I will admit that, as someone who has read some of the more popular sci-fi stories, there were some elements of the story I was able to predict long before they occurred. The redeeming aspect in this regard is that there were surprises within surprises, so that although I may have correctly guessed at some aspects, others came as welcome surprises.
The book earned a solid 5 stars from my younger brother, and I must concur.
January 25, 2019
This futuristic sci-fi thriller was full of unexpected twists and turns. This society partially revolves around new technology that has been developed to completely change not only the gaming world but also many other elements of people’s lives. These upgrades have allowed Rogan Webber to become extremely good at VR gaming. Rogan’s skills have caught the attention a very important figure in both the real and the virtual worlds, William J. Culum, the inventor of the technology that allows for the virtual world to exist. Culum asks Rogan to compete in a contest in Rogan’s favorite game, Laser Viper. This contest seems like a great experience at the onset, but as it goes on the events occurring become more and more suspicious and worrying to Rogan and his competitors. This book’s intense range of action and suspense make this book a great pick for fans of sci-fi, and fantasy novels. This novel was very good, and I would recommend it to anyone that enjoys fiction books in general.
Review by Bolden B, age 16, Central Pennsylvania Mensa
Review by Bolden B, age 16, Central Pennsylvania Mensa
June 22, 2025
---
As a fan of both gaming and puzzles, *Gamer Army* delivered exactly what I was hoping for—an action-packed, tech-savvy adventure with a competitive edge. Trent Reedy captures the thrill of virtual reality and digital warfare while weaving in ethical questions about power, surveillance, and responsibility. It’s the kind of book that feels both futuristic and grounded in real-world issues.
The pacing is sharp, the challenges are creative, and the characters are relatable—especially for anyone who’s ever dreamed of turning their gaming skills into something bigger. I could easily see this appealing to fans of *Ready Player One*, but with a younger, slightly more grounded vibe.
If you enjoy fast reads with a tech twist, this one is worth adding to your shelf.
Also, if you're into word puzzles like me, [check out the daily NYT Letter Boxed answers, tips and guide](https://nytletterboxedanswers.net/) on my website. It’s a great way to keep your mind sharp in between chapters!
---
As a fan of both gaming and puzzles, *Gamer Army* delivered exactly what I was hoping for—an action-packed, tech-savvy adventure with a competitive edge. Trent Reedy captures the thrill of virtual reality and digital warfare while weaving in ethical questions about power, surveillance, and responsibility. It’s the kind of book that feels both futuristic and grounded in real-world issues.
The pacing is sharp, the challenges are creative, and the characters are relatable—especially for anyone who’s ever dreamed of turning their gaming skills into something bigger. I could easily see this appealing to fans of *Ready Player One*, but with a younger, slightly more grounded vibe.
If you enjoy fast reads with a tech twist, this one is worth adding to your shelf.
Also, if you're into word puzzles like me, [check out the daily NYT Letter Boxed answers, tips and guide](https://nytletterboxedanswers.net/) on my website. It’s a great way to keep your mind sharp in between chapters!
---
April 20, 2019
Rogan is invited to compete in a Laser Viper virtual gaming tournament. As the game continues, the contestants begin to grow suspicious about the game, and it's harder to see what is reality and what is virtual.
What I Liked:
-Younger version of Ready Player One and Warcross
-Kids love video games
-Action-packed
-Pre-occupied parents (some kids can relate)
-Positive message about the benefits of having friends in real life and not just virtually
I was lost a few times because of some vocabulary/descriptions; this probably isn't an issue if you are a gamer though. I wish this was a 275 page book and not 325 pages.
Recommended for middle school students - especially readers who are gamers and aren't ready for Ready Player One or Warcross yet.
What I Liked:
-Younger version of Ready Player One and Warcross
-Kids love video games
-Action-packed
-Pre-occupied parents (some kids can relate)
-Positive message about the benefits of having friends in real life and not just virtually
I was lost a few times because of some vocabulary/descriptions; this probably isn't an issue if you are a gamer though. I wish this was a 275 page book and not 325 pages.
Recommended for middle school students - especially readers who are gamers and aren't ready for Ready Player One or Warcross yet.
December 21, 2018
When I first started reading this book, I felt like it bare resemblance to Ready Player One, which made it feel like it was trying to be a middle school Ready Player One with very little pop culture references. Since there was already a Ready Player One, I am glad that I lost that vibe after that chapter and gained a video game vibe. Yet, this video game feel reminded me of Spy Kids 3, but I am not sure if that is a good thing or a bad thing. At the third round of competition to the end, I was getting a simultaneous feeling of the Matrix and Ender's Game, which creep me out. On top of the Matrix and Ender's Game vibe, I was also reminded of the season four of CW's The Flash from Chapter 21 to the end. Overall, I felt this was a unique and fascinating read.
December 20, 2018
I'm having a hard time reviewing this book. It lost my interest about half way through, but I think that may be more my fault for reading more than one book at a time and simply being more interested in the other book than this one. I really like the idea of this book, even if it's been done before (and frankly, a bit better) by other authors. Still, this book is more accessible for a reluctant reader, middle grade audience. I know it's a book my students will love, even if I, as a more mature reader, didn't quite love it myself.
October 1, 2025
I have read this book many times over the years, and it is still one of the best I have read. It is sci-fi but will appeal to any gamer. You will not expect all of the plot twists in this book, such as all the missions being real, not in-game. The world-building in this book is surprisingly good, considering they are going on missions quite often. Combined with the camaraderie that the participants build together, it makes for an amazing book. I want to write about the ending too, but I think I have spoiled enough already.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
April 3, 2020
I read this book to/with my 5th grade twin boys. We really liked it! However, the last quarter of the book was very difficult to understand for them. The concept was great, but I'm not sure they got it. The vocabulary used and the sentence structure in this last quarter or so of the book was so complex it was difficult for me sometimes. Plus trying to translate it for them. The first 3/4 of the book was age and reading level appropriate for them, but independent readers may have given up.
July 16, 2024
I liked this book. It reminded me so much of Ready Player One but with some new twists. I liked the Gamer team’s characters and connected well with them and their feelings of technology overtaking their lives. There were times that seemed like the plot really slowed, but then got exciting again at the end. While I did predict Culum’s role to an extent before it happened, I still enjoyed following the story and how it all wrapped up.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
January 1, 2020
This book is really important. It represents a possible reality that we could experience . As our technology grows stuff likevr becomes more and more real. Eventoday if you have a vr set yuo can watch multiple videos or other stuff in vr. An example would be youtube videos as you are able to use vr with it. Overall, This is a great depiction of a possible future.
December 15, 2021
Gamer army is about this boy named Rogan Weber who gets invited to play in the virtual reality game to become the best at it in the world. Him and 5 other contestants go head to head in challenges and games. But in the end they find out that it is real life robots they are controlling and killing real people. This book was so much fun to read. I would definitely recommend this book to my friends.
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December 27, 2018A blend between Enders game and Ready Player One. I’m not the target audience but it was a fairly ok read. I thought some of the foundation for the plot didn’t make much sense, but I think any middle school aged kid who’s into video games and sci-fi would like this.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
December 29, 2018
I’m not a big gamer, so a lot of this went over my head. However it’s a good story about virtual realty that gets a little too real.
This would be a great book for middle grade boys who are into gaming and don’t like reading.
This would be a great book for middle grade boys who are into gaming and don’t like reading.
September 5, 2020
Great book for young ages. A little too cute for adults, but the target age is about 10-12, so perfect for them.
For my clean readers: gaming violence is a major theme in this book, but you should get that impression from the cover and title anyway.
For my clean readers: gaming violence is a major theme in this book, but you should get that impression from the cover and title anyway.
November 9, 2020
It is clear that Ready Player One and Ender's Game have influenced this book. However, given its intended audience won't have read those books, I think Gamer Army is going to appeal to a lot of kids who enjoy gaming.
December 23, 2020
First, I did not like how in some parts, the storyline was just confusing. But I did like how the author described the robots' looks, and they were pretty cool. Also, it is pretty amazing to just think up a game and a contest based on that game, with that much detail.
March 11, 2021
I read this because my 10yo son loved it and he asked me to. It’s a fun story. The author does a great job. Although it was predictable for me where this was going, my son was surprised. Loved all the cultural references the author used as well.
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