You'll note that only in "Details" view do you get to choose the columns. You must select "Details" view to be able to re-order in reverse and that goes for size, name and type as well. I find all the selections useful for various functions.
You can "Arrange Icons" in the other views but you can't reverse the arrangements.
I don't remember that this was any different in W98 but then there's a lot I don't remember.
Keep trying!