Trans Con

Copyright: KBkids.com 1999

If your kids are fans of the Oregon Trail series, or like trains, they are sure to enjoy this new simulation. They will be learning a lot about our nation's history, and geography, as they help build the transcontinental railroad. This simulation is a bit easier for younger children than the 'Trail series', but still requires some reading.

Your children will help Jack and Sarah, as they race towards Promontory Point, Utah to drive the Golden Spike. You build the railroad from Sacramento to Utah, or Omaha to Utah. Each choice will provide slightly different game play. There are also two difficulty levels available. Along they way, they will find a group of bandits has stolen the Golden Spike. Along with building a successful railroad, your children must figure out which bandit should be thrown in jail.

A master map shows your child where to build. They move systematically from town to town, but the choices between those towns are left to your child. Do you dig for buried treasure? What type of bridge is best for crossing each river? How do you deal with the natives? These, and other choices will greatly affect the success of the mission.

The object is to be the first to Utah with as much money as possible. You can go bankrupt fairly easily along the way. If you try to build your tracks through quicksand, for example, the workers will rebel and your company will go belly-up. You will also encounter natural disasters, and illness along the way. The choices are not as varied as with Oregon Trail, but this makes it easier for younger kids in the seven and eight year old range. The two difficulty levels make this a great choice for families with a wider age span.

Bottom Line: A good choice for train fans, or younger Oregon Trail fans. Good historical and geographical learning opportunities.

Ratings: (based on KBkids.com's 4 star rating system)

Overall: 3 1/2

BrainGain: 3 1/2

FunFactor: 3 1/2

EasePlease: 3 1/2

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