I wish to create a game-type programe whereby clicking a NEXT button opens up
a new screen.

The basic format envisaged is:

Three introductory animation screens (I think Powerpoint would satisfy this)
NEXT
a screen setting numerical parameters
NEXT
a MEnu screen with buttons linking to various spreadsheets with set macro
functions dependent on the data entered.

I have been advised that VISUAL BASIC or .NET programs would facilitate
mthis design. Please advise.

I have a fair degree of IT skills but not in the fiels of programming. What
is the best software to achieve the above and are there tutorials that would
guide me toward producing such a program?