If you ever wondered what it s like to live for days on board an aircraft carrier then Carrier Fortress at Sea will give you a good idea. This CD-ROM lets you explore the history of carriers and it shows you around ships and introduces you to crew members who talk frankly about their lives through video clips. Through animated models and photographs, you are shown all the basic facilities that are provided for these cities of the sea from the complex food preparations to leisure activities and the inside of the captain s cabin. After each video clip, there are easy-to-follow data links so you can hone in on particular information, for example, the responsibilities of the captain and the actual design of the stripes he wears on his arms.
The war section explains how carriers have evolved into nuclear-powered supercarriers which have enabled countries such as the US to develop powerful mobile air bases. And one of the highlights of this title is the opportunity to try your hand in a simulated landing of an F-14 Tomcat.
This is a well-organised title that provides a thorough and engaging overview of life aboard a carrier with a good balance between the use of photography, videos and interactive diagrams. It s ideal for any youngsters who want to know more about Navy life or for budding military historians. The title comes with the video Battleship, which provides a vivid look into the role and responsibilities of these proud symbols of naval might. --Justin Hunt