Byline: Joe Szadkowski

In a world of violent video games, where dexterity of the thumb and index finger is infinitely more important than the flexing of the cerebrum, there must be a place for children and their parents to interact and actually learn something from that overpriced multimedia computer/gaming system. Take a deep breath and enter the ROMper Room, where learning is a four-letter word - cool.

Thomas and Friends Railway Adventures lets engineers 3 years old and older drive the famous train throughout the Island of Sodor to complete a series of tasks, uncover surprises, earn certificates and reap the praise of Sir Topham Hatt.

More than just a typical CD-ROM game, Railway Adventures comes packaged with a small, box-size keyboard layover or "playset" that puts children behind the controls and allows them to maneuver Thomas by pulling or pressing colorful gadgets.

The island's four stations and countryside are rendered beautifully in crisp 3-D graphics and often are shown from Thomas' perspective.

The playset throttle allows the player to move Thomas forward or back while controlling his speed. At faster clips, the island flies by in a blur, requiring players to slow down if they want to enjoy the view and be able to read the signals, signposts and red flags along the track.

The real fun begins at the Engine Shed, where children choose which game to play by sending Thomas toward the tunnels. Or players can simply take off down the track, finding games and activities along the way as they...