Product Overview
This title is one of a series of Quizz Show software programs based on the popular French language series called Mister Quizz. Vtech has not only re-recorded the theme song and produced voice-overs for this English translation, but also worked with teachers to ensure that 4th-6th grade curriculum is covered in addition to simple trivia. Each title in the series focuses on particular subject areas, contains 1400+ questions, and includes 2 game show-style buzzers and a 4-port hub that connects to the Game Port on a PC. Each title contains 9 claymation characters and 3-D backgrounds.
Quizz Show Monster Mania focuses on People, Places, and Entertainment questions. The setting is a haunted manor, and the player's goal is to keep their opponent's monster asleep by accumulating the most points. The game can be played by 1-4 players -- playing by yourself involves attempting to surpass a given score in order to "win". Players can use the buzzers to "buzz in" or press pre-selected keys on the computer keyboard. Players choose the character they want to be (from characters such as the Mummy, Zombie, Mad Scientist, and more), and the game commences.
There are 3 levels of difficulty to select, as well as customizable content. A Question Editor allows players to create their own categories and questions! It involves supplying a category name, the questions, a correct answer, as well as 3 incorrect answers. Existing questions can be edited as well.
Each player gets to choose from a frightful cast of 8 ghosts, mummies, werewolves, etc. Players work on building their monsters by attaining the most points with correct answers to the questions, and the grand finale involves the winner's monster being awakened by lightning.
There are 9 diffferent categories of questions (see skills covered below). Each game consists of three rounds as well as a bonus round. Questions are diverse, and explanations and interesting facts are often given after players have determined the answers, which adds to the educational value of the program. The graphics and mood music are excellent, and the running commentary is quirky and fun.
Technically Speaking
Minimum requirements are Windows 95/98, a Pentium 166 processor, 16 Mb RAM, and 8X CD ROM drive. Joystick (Game) Port required to use game buzzers. Buzzers are included, but not necessary (the keyboard can be used to "buzz in").
Skills Covered
The categories of questions are: women's history, geography & world geography, trivia & leisure, tv movies & music, sports, african-american history, hispanic-american history, native-american history, health, citizenship, inventions & discoveries.
Educational Value
Players will learn all sorts of diverse facts while playing these games. The best thing about it is that the correct answers are explained, and thus reinforced. Additionally, a Question Editor allows parents to add their own questions -- although this is time-consuming, it can add to the educational value of the program.
Entertainment Value
This game is great fun for kids and their parents too. Although the buzzers are optional, they add to the game show atmosphere and entertainment.
Design
Players can "buzz in" by pressing keys on the keyboard or using buzzers that come with the game. The program is relatively self-explanatory and thus easy to use.
Replayability
Because there are 1400+ questions to answer, users will never play the same game twice. While they may encounter repeat questions, this can help to reinforce the facts contained in them. The quiz show format gives this game a high replay value.
Dollar Value
Suggested retail price is $29.95 US.
Released: 1999
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