Wizard Works (www.wizworks.com)
Platforms: PCMinimum system requirements: Windows 95/98 16 MB RAM, 8X CD-ROM
Street price: $15
I think a lot of people were surprised at the huge success generated by Deer Hunter -- Wizard Works' first PC deer hunting game. Since being introduced in its bright glowing hunter orange-colored box more than a year ago, Deer Hunter has sold more than 1 million copies nationwide.
That said, no one should be surprised that Deer Hunter's success has spawned a sequel: Deer Hunter II, which also comes in a glowing hunter orange-colored box.
While Deer Hunter II doesn't break any new computer gaming ground, it does take advantage of more powerful PC hardware now available, like 3D graphics (if your computer is so equipped). DHII also loads players up with nine weapons (i.e. shotgun, muzzle loader, crossbow, etc.) rather than three and provides 13 tools of the trade (i.e. global positioning unit, zoom binoculars, cover scent, etc.) compared with its predecessor.
And of course as with any hunting simulation, the 12 most important things are location, location, location, location . . . . Here, DHII doesn't disappoint, provides 12 new hunting locations, including the rolling woodlands of Georgia and the mountains of Washington.
If you already have Deer Hunter, you may not want to plunk down the extra cash for the sequel. But if you're a real hunting enthusiast, or just want to get in on the PC hunting craze, then DHII is a great way to go. --Chuck Gates