Understanding software features that have the greatest impact on student learning and engagement is important when choosing technology for the classroom. In order to identify necessary features in the areas of math and literacy, two studies with different populations were conducted. Through examining the differences in two games for each study, gaming features that positively contribute to learning outcomes and academic engagement were identified. The first study, conducted at a pre-school, focused on literacy; the second study was conducted in an after school program and focused on math. This paper presents the preliminary findings of the two research studies as well as the practical implications of using learning games with preschool and upper elementary children.