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This is a very superior space invaders. But I'm a sucker for the zap-'em-up type of entertainment particularly if it's got a touch of novelty.

Activision has created a variety of aliens, nine plus a mother ship, who swoop down at you on a grid. In each sector there are 15 white enemy saucers to obliterate and various others to avoid. Progressing through the sectors makes life increasingly difficult but if you acquire the expertise or simply feel suicidal you can go for the higher levels by choice.

For me the star feature was the sound effects which accompanied the start of each sector as well as the rise and fall of power surging from your main weapon - the laser lariats. Other appropriate sounds were used to create an intense atmosphere which highlighted the action.

The menu at the start offers the game for up to four players. One peculiarity with Activision's games for the MSX, however, is that there is always a keyboard version which is never mentioned in the instructions - I played this one quite successfully using the cursor keys and space bar. Joysticks are therefore optional.

The graphics are excellent and this game is a piece of pure escapism that captivates in more ways than one. Even the grid comes racing down towards you to give that 3D illusion of drawing you into the screen.

M.P.