If you're looking for a less expensive option to Adobe InDesign, Serif Software's Page Plus may be just for you. You can get a limited trial version (not all features are available) for free, and if you like it well enough, you can purchase PP Version 9.0 for $9.95 USD. Upgrades to the latest versions only cost around $50 USD. Get the free version HERE.

The Free version allows you to create:

• Ads & Brochures
  
• Business Stationery
  
• Flyers & Forms
  
• Invitations
  
• Greeting Cards
  
• and has 500+ Free Templates

Features on Version 9 include:

• PDF Export
• Built-in Spreadsheet
• Mail Merge
• Photo Optimizer
• Web Publishing
• Pantone ® Colors

Upgrades can be purchased after registering at Serif's main website HERE.

Serif offers other great products, including Photo Plus, Draw Plus, and other editing software with similar pricing.

I've used Adobe and Quark, but I prefer Serif Page Plus. I'm using it to layout Heroes of Oz and Gauntlet Alliance, and will likely continue to use it after. It's such a neat and versatile program for the price you pay for it.

I created the logo for the Magical Girl character sheet right in the program.

I keep experimenting with the program and learning more. I give it a glowing review whenever it's brought up. If you honestly want more than just the basic layout that Word or Open Office gives you, I recommend PagePlus.

Mike Conway