We're often surprised by the quality of various CD-i kids titles and they often don't get the attention that they deserve. Some of them have real high production values and were quite unique in the days of CD-i, and even today these discs are very unique and yet loved by children. The CD-i Sesame Street and Richard Scarry titles are perfect examples of this. These discs were also translated in various languages, so children of various countries could enjoy them. There are a few discs that remained english and are still very interesting to discover. One of my favourites is certainly "Tell Me Why". There are two editions of "Tell Me Why" (1 and 2) released on CD-i in USA and Europe (but english only). It is in fact a encyclopedia for kids, told in various presentations (the length per disc is over three hours). These discs are produced by Peter Bloch and they were actually launch titles in USA. On the back of the disc a copyright of 1990 is mentioned, while CD-i itself was released in 1991.
Tell Me Why answers over 175 questions that kids ask in five different subject areas: Our World, How Things Work, The Zoo, How Things Began and The Human Body. The program feature over three hours of fact filled presentations, including interactive exhibits, and alphabetical index, a subject directory, guided tours and secret passageways. The discs are produced by Interactive Production Associates in association with Penguin Productions and Philips Interactive Media of America.
Both discs offer the same subject areas, but the presentations are of course different, touching different questions in the same fields. Both discs are build the same way and they use the same engine.
[Thanks to Digital Press, Jeff & Nell for the screens and covers]