This article presents the educational goals and design strategies that are incorporated into the Health Hero™ video game series for pediatric patient education. A theory-based model supported by a literature review describes how the video games are expected to enhance young people's self-esteem, self-efficacy, communication about health, health knowledge and skills, and motivation to learn about health, and how these factors can influence self-care behavior and health outcomes. Short-term studies of the impact of the games on children's motivation to learn, knowledge about health, and communication about health have found improvements in these areas. A long-term outcome study addressing all learning and health goals is currently underway.