Both programs offer slightly different categories, with Solitaire II edging out its prequel, shown in Figure D, with separate stats for the last ten, 50, 100 and all-time games.

FIGURE D


Solitaire keeps track of your game statistics. Roll over picture for a larger image.

Here in Figure E, you see the Solitaire II statistics screen.

FIGURE E


Solitaire II offers an even more detailed statistics screen. Roll over picture for a larger image.

Both programs offer small amounts of customization. Solitaire offers various types of autoplay, a left-handed mode, and different card effects. Solitaire II offers the same features, with the addition of an Easy mode, allowing, erm, certain authors to have a chance at winning.

Gamers without solitaire experience will be grateful to know that both games contain instructions for each of the games. While the instructions are brief, they're very concise and among the best instructions I've seen in a Palm OS game. The program does have its errors, however.

The game doesn't offer a tap method of moving cards, requiring the player to drag the card across the screen. While this isn't a game-breaking flaw, it can be a bit frustrating to some. Another unfortunate aspect of the programs is their size: they both weigh in at about 1500kb each. Older devices have fewer features and size, so those on a memory budget will likely need to find another solitaire solution.

Sound and graphics
Normally I don't include this category in handheld game reviews, as they're normally not something to brag about. However, this time an exception has to be made. Both programs have incredible graphics; the screenshots in this just article don't do them justice. The cards look like real cards, not cheap computer images, with backgrounds that support them nicely. A problem however, is the lack of customization with the background. If you don't like the look of it, you can't replace it with your own.

The sound in the two games is top-notch. Moving a card sounds like you're moving an actual card, not the incredibly soothing "beep" that we're all used to. The shuffling sounds are especially nice. They're truly authentic. And the menus use the same sound effects used during a game. If these sounds aren't to your liking, they can easily be turned off from in the game.

Users of music capable Palms will gain the gift of a soundtrack. The classical music fits the atmosphere of the game quite well and can greatly aid in concentration. It's unfortunately a very short track, looping often, which can get exceedingly annoying. Fortunately, a button on the omnipresent toolbar instantly toggles it on and off, allowing your annoyance to be quickly managed. That, and preventing discovery during meetings...

Conclusion
Both GameBox Solitaire and GameBox Solitaire II are enjoyable solitaire experiences earning them both 3 out of 5. Neither game offers a single feature making it an instant buy, but the combination of features, coupled with the price of essentially a dollar and a half per type of solitaire make them programs any potential solitaire player should test. Users of newer, more technologically advanced models will find it more appealing than users of older models, as their graphics and sound will be nowhere near as nice. The game play will remain the same, however, and that's definitely a good thing.

OUR RATING: 3 of 5

Heather Wardell received her first Palm handheld in 1997 (from a boss who couldn't get the hang of Graffiti) and has never looked back. She worked in banking as a systems analyst for four years, and then moved into elementary education, teaching computers at a private elementary school for four years. Heather is now a full-time women's fiction writer, and her first novel, "Life, Love, and a Polar Bear Tattoo" is available for free download through her Web site at http://www.heatherwardell.com.