If Only Maven would Talk......
Written: Jul 18 '00 (Updated Jul 18 '00)
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Product Rating:
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Pros: fun, easy to play, great graphics and sound
Cons: can't rearrange letters on tile holder, print hard to see on playing board
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| suzig's Full Review: Scrabble for Windows |
Just so you know, Maven is the computer opponent for Hasbro's Scrabble computer game. After looking at, and considering buying the computerized version of Scrabble, I finally did it! It happened to come packaged with some other games in "6 Great Games II for Windows 98" so I get all the benefits of Scrabble, and five other games too. Golf, Slot City, Pro Bass Fishing, Chessmaster, and Flying Corps Gold.
I could hardly wait to install and play Scrabble. It is really visually fun to watch, with lights, exciting graphics, and noises. You can play against the computer, against other opponents across the table, or against players all over the world through the internet.
Surprisingly, I have only been beat by Maven once. He can come up with some surprises, let me tell you. It almost is as if he (she) is real, except he does not talk. He even will challenge your words, and you will lose them. I have NOT figured out a way to challenge his words though....hmmmm.
Scrabble is installed on your computer using a CD. By choosing NEW GAME in the menu after installing, you can set up game parameters each time you play. You can also choose your computer opponents level from novice, intermediate, advanced, or expert.
Help files are very user friendly. You can choose from Basic Rules, Scoring, Beginning a game, Playing a game, Game Play Options, Ending a game, and Technical support.
There is a section on the topic taskbar for guides and hints, which will help you with word suggestions. This is a great place to check if you are stuck and can't find your own words. The computer comes up with some mighty good point values for you! Usually there are several choices for you to look at also.
The board graphics are absolutely stunning! A marbleized background mat around the playing field, plus wood-look word tiles are all just perfect.
When your word is accepted there is a graphic display of noises and colors flashing. It really is fun to watch. Choosing your tiles to replace the tiles you use can be done by AUTO, or one at a time yourself.
You can purchase Scrabble as a unit by itself for $19.99 and up, depending on where you buy it, or you can get it in this packaged boxed set for $19.99 for all SIX games! I can't think of a better way to get it myself.
Two things I have found that I would improve would be the print on the spaces on the board is so tiny, I can hardly read them...triple word, double letter score, etc. Also, on your tile holder you can't rearrange your own letters while on the holder, you must put them on the playing board to do that, and then you can put them back on your holder. It would be easier to rearrange on your tile holder.
AND, Maven, please speak up!
Recommended:
Yes
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Epinions.com ID:
suzig
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Location: Illinois
Reviews written: 178
Trusted by: 110 members
About Me:
Middle school teacher who loves kids, travel, candlelight, and good conversation.
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