The Amazon Trail (PC Games, 1996)

The Amazon trail, was apparently always less popular than its cousin Oregon Trail by only getting up to the 3rd edition. Amazon is in that realm of video games that while not providing amazing graphics or sound, or even great multiplayer or strategy provides a flashback to video games of the early PC days.

The Amazon Trail is both a piece of history and entertaining propoganda, and because of its small size and ability to be played on the desktop, can provide an interesting alternative to minesweeper or solitaire at the office. Minesweeper won't let you go virtually fishing, and feel all proud you discovered a new species.

Amazon Trail takes you along the course of the river, travelling through different time periods and places to learn about the history of South America along the Amazon River. You visit hidden native tribes, and even figures in American history - Henry Ford and President Theodore Roosevelt. Each has a task or mission for you, mainly revolving around choices or trading. Each choice you make can affect your final score - so make good choices if you want to brag.

No lying, the graphics are chincy and the music repetative, but it has many fun points - trying to take one picture of all the creatures in your guide book is no mean feat, especially if you want to finish the game and get any kind of score for time. Fishing is always fun, though...avoid the piranah. The one thing Amazon Trail lacks that Oregon has is the opening shopping section. That was always the best times, choosing the linseed or the olive oil.

Amazon Trail won't blow your mind away, but it can provide a nice fun and cheap escape. Teachers and parents who want to provide entertainment that is educational and wholesome might also like the game. Enjoy as you will, I'll keep paddling up the river.