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| Software Review | 
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| Title: | Mean City : Learn Spanish Or Die! |
| Version: | Windows 9X |
| Manufacturer: | DK Interactive |
| Computer Tested On: | Generic 586-166 |
| Operating System: | Windows 98 |
| Reviewed By: | Frank Fogg |
| Review Date: | November, 2000 |
| Rating: | 
1/2 |
OVERVIEW
Mean City : Learn Spanish Or Die! is an interactive role playing game to practice using Spanish language skills. The game consists of a double CD pack.
The packaging and title suggest that the game is only suitable for late teens and adults, but the game is actually rather tame by today's standards. Play begins with the user arriving at the Mean City airport. Everything in the game is in Spanish, and the player must obtain transportation, find lodging and meals, and ultimately solve several mysteries while using only Spanish to get these things accomplished. The action is an unusual mix of video of real people over a cartoon-book style background. As the player progresses through the game, a cartoon strip is formed around the border of the screen. This format allows the user to return to previous areas of the game and discover what happens when alternative moves or choices are selected.
Mean City is a virtual reality city. Movement is forward, or the player can turn right or left. At certain points, the character can sit, lie down, eat and manipulate virtual equipment in the game. In some of the locations that the player must visit to complete the game, certain Spanish skills are tested such as numbers and reading before the player is allowed to continue. The player also gets the opportunity to talk with the game players by selecting from a group of phrases when the VR players are encountered.
The player acquires a phrasebook early in the adventure. The phrasebook covers most of the vocabulary in the game. The phrases are listed in alphabetical order, making usage easy. Other items are acquired as the game progresses - the player needs to always be on the lookout for items that can be picked up. It is difficult to say more about this game without giving away some of the mysteries. Beginning Spanish students will find the game and vocabulary difficult to master.
STRONG POINTS
Reliable operation - no program or system errors were encountered during installation or operation
Spanish language and characterizations - this program goes beyond basic Spanish mastery, making it ideally suited for intermediate and advanced level students
WEAK POINTS
Narrow scope - Mean City is not particularly large, and the character can walk to many of the areas in just a few minutes
Difficulty - Some portions of the game are difficult to complete, and the instructions leave much to be desired. Bottom line: figure it out or flounder seems to be the order of the day
COMMENTS
This program is a fun way to spend afternoons or evenings brushing up on Spanish skills.
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