HarperCollins would seem to be choosing quality over quantity, in that this CD-ROM presents only 14 magic tutorials. (Broderbund's Learn The Art of Magic reviewed in the Winter BookPage New Media issue has 26). With misdirection the name of the game, the challenge is to make visible that which is not meant to be seen. Thankfully, there is no mystery to their interface.
Each illusion is divided into four sections. A Performance video shows the trick done by magician Marc DeSousa as seen from the audience's perspective. The How To video offers three camera views of the same deception. The apprentice magician may choose views from the front, side, or close-up. Step by step, you will learn how to manipulate the audience's perception to defeat their own logic.
The Props section provides a required materials list. All common household items, I would wager that cluttered kitchen drawer we all have is a virtual treasure box of magician paraphernalia. (You knew you were saving that junk for something!) The Preparation section outlines pre-show prop assembly, proving once again that not everything is as it seems. The information layout for each section can be printed for away-from-the computer private setup and practice. Everything is placed logically for easy navigation. Your time will be spent on learning the tricks of the trade rather than plodding through on--line help files. Tricks are creatively illustrated with video screens that include pause, scroll bar, and slow motion control features. (If possible, use the recommended screen resolution of 16-- or 24--bit color display. The video was grainy and difficult to view with the normal 256 color resolution. (See PC HINT#1.)
The philosophical and historical chemistry in the reference section is where this CD-ROM levitates to a higher level. The quotes and facts enlighten and entertain. Humorous vintage film clips and timeline historical lore from 1700 to modern times effectively illustrate how modern magicians continually borrow from the past. The magician's ten commandments may be corny, but who can argue with the rule "Though Shalt Not Force Magic On People (please!)." Young apprentices may continue their new art by checking out the reference section which lists magazines, societies, dealers and internet websites catering to aspiring and accomplished magicians.
This CD-ROM does not have the zaniness of the Broderbund title. Marc DeSousa's presentation is stiff in comparison to the wacko, kid-appeal character of Broderbund's Jay Alexander. The cameo (read "short") video appearance of comedian, television star, and magician Harry Anderson in this title fails to fill this gap. I am afraid his appearance is more a marketing ploy then a contributing factor. There are no actual props included here, while the Broderbund title has five. On the positive side, though, there are none to misplace either.
Overall, this title succeeds at laying the initial groundwork for becoming a full-fledged magician. (Broderbund's title would be better suited for a follow-up purchase). With this title, magic students will learn the principles that make the difference between an effective magic exhibition and a mediocre one. This CD-ROM illustrates again and again that timing, skill, and charisma embody the genuine magic. The rest, after all, is only a bag of tricks!
David Glofcheski is a computer consultant to the Make-A-Wish Foundation and Public Library Kid-Tech Centers.
©1996, ProMotion, inc.