The Interactive Encyclopedia offers more than just pretty pictures of every card in the massive database. It also lets players sort cards based on standard statistics like casting cost, color, artist, or any combination you like. You can use the Deckbuilder utility to sort the cards into decks, which then can be analyzed by the computer. There's a complete series of strategy articles and other helpful information right on the CD-ROM to help novices build an effective deck right away.

Once players have built the ultimate deck, the Interactive Encyclopedia lets them test their creations online against other players. Note that the computer doesn't enforce the rules of the game at all. As in a real match it's up to the players to tap cards, resolve the various phases of the game, and keep track of things. The Interactive Encyclopedia just serves as a virtual card table that happens to let you play with practically every Magic: The Gathering card ever created--cards that contain so many complex rules that having the computer resolve everything is far beyond the ability of current technology.

The few flaws this encyclopedia had when originally released have for the most part been amended by a series of patches, so be sure to visit the official Web site to download the latest version. It's also worth a visit because Wizards of the Coast regularly posts updated price lists for the cards along with new expansion packs, like the Nemesis card set, that can be added to the database. The only problem we had with the Interactive Encyclopedia was its overall sluggishness, which is somewhat forgivable given the size of the database. Beginners will absolutely love the ability to see all of the rare cards they've only heard about, and even experts should appreciate how easy it is to use the database so they can refine their decks. There's something for every Magic: The Gathering fan in this package. --T. Byrl Baker

Pros:

• Over 7,000 cards--each with a picture and full stats
• Expansion packs available for download
• Lets you play online with any deck you can imagine

• Runs sluggishly on all but the fastest computers
• Search tools may not be robust enough for the most advanced players