Cheap Dinosaurs Pocket Edition (Software) (Windows 98, Windows NT, Windows 2000, Windows Me, Windows XP) Price

This CD takes just minutes to load, and using it is as simple as pressing start once installation is complete. The program does not come with operating directions because there is no need for them. The functions are very clearly designed and intuitive. Once you've started the program, there is an introduction to dinosaurs that previews some of the 3-D imagery to be found inside. The segment is well done and informative, but unfortunately, there is no option to skip it when you open the program for the second or third time.

Although the CD focuses on dinosaurs, it really encompasses the entire natural history of Earth. The five main headings that you can click on are Overview, Primeval Times, Paleozoic, Mesozoic, and Cenozoic. Each subheading within these categories includes texts, illustrations, and animations. Content is not sacrificed for the sake of graphics in this package--the text compares favorably with a good children's encyclopedia or an Eyewitness book.

The 3-D dinosaurs are actually the least sophisticated part of the program; many of the moving graphics are poorly defined and clumsy next to game-quality 3-D graphics. The still images are very good, however, and the graphics do not detract significantly from the overall worthiness of this program. Children ages 8 and older will find the content challenging, while younger kids will enjoy the pictures. --Matt Kohut