A MAGNIFICENT ACHIEVEMENT in terms of its interface, graphics, and content, Passage to Vietnam exquisitely captures the Southeast Asian nation.
Explore at Will. Featuring the work of Rick Smolan and 70 other photojournalists, Passage to Vietnam uses a unique 3-D interface tool called the Quebe. You can explore the CD-ROM in a linear fashion or use the Quebe to skip around. Clicking on the side of the Quebe labeled Passages brings up an interactive desk; clicking on anything on the desk, such as the cellular phone or a contact sheet, will transport you to a corresponding section. If you click on the Virtual Galleries contact sheet, you can view the best photos by four acclaimed photographers; if you click on the Interactive Editing Sessions contact sheet, you can try being a photo editor. Passage to Vietnam has six chapters, which use photos and video and audio clips to illustrate cultural contrasts. The River Life chapter shows a Vietnam that depends on waterways for transportation; the Vietnam of the Street Life chapter whizzes into the 21st century on mopeds. You'll be dazzled by the stunning visuals and honesty of this vast CD-ROM, one of the best we've seen.
Passage to Vietnam (5 out of 5 mice) Outstanding / Price: $39.95; book and CD-ROM bundle, $59.95 (list). Company: Against All Odds Productions, Sausalito, CA; 415-331-6300. Reader Service: Circle #414.
