Animal Vegetable Mineral

Copyright : Amsoft | Reviewed by : Ritchardo

Designed to allow a child to "educate" the computer by entering a series of questions and objects. During this sequence a child is encouraged to think about the origins of objects and to learn about the differences between them. The computer responds by thanking the child for teaching it to tell the difference between the objects entered.

Graphics

Nothing in the way of pictures, Animal Vegetable Mineral relies purely on text alone to try and teach the child. A missed opportunity as even a computerised face wouldve given the game a more child friendly feel and help encourage a friendship between the youngster and the programme (after all it is the child who is supposed to be teaching the computer and so should be given an opportunity to bond). I dont know what else there is to say here really!

Sound

Using only three sounds, the computer tries to convey a range of emotions and actions to the child. Thinking elicits a drawn out "hmmmm!" type noise which is comically camp. A jolly tune plays to indicate a correct answer while a sad fail noise indicates a wrong turn. The sounds soon get irritating and the volume control is often called into play before the second go.

Gameplay

A simple idea, AVM is a well implemented educational tool that (with some adult help to begin with) will help boost any childs vocabulary and understanding of differentiation. There is a genuine sense of achievement as you see the computers library of objects grow and the responses gradually branch out and become more complex.

Naturally, there`s nothing much here for the adult and even for children the concept can soon become repetitive but it is a useful programme that makes learning a little more fun for kids.