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At 41,700 tons, the German battleship Bismarck was almost as large as Phil's lunch box, and the game (weighing a good deal less) is a brilliant recreation of the last days of its nautical namesake.

Entering service in April 1941, she had the allies so terrified they sent the entire home fleet of more than 30 ships to blast her out of the water. Luckily (for us), they succeeded - a Swordfish from the Ark Royal creamed her rudder with a torpedo, leaving her a sitting duck, easy prey for our own ships. Bismarck the game offers the chance to take control of either the German vessel, and escape to more friendly waters, or the pursuing British fleet. If you can't cope with the historical scenario, there's always the five set battles to practise on.

The game is very complicated (as all good strategy sims should be), but intelligent use of icons and excellent joystick control prevent it from becoming tedious.

An amazingly accurate simulation of naval warfare, vital elements such as weather, air reconnaissance and visibility are well covered. When engaging an enemy ship, it's careful study of direction and gun elevation that will win the day, not lightning reflexes and mindless button-bashing. Watch out for damage on your own ship too - delay sending that fire-fighting party too long and you'll live to regret it (or rather you won't...).

Again true to life, there's more to the game than open warfare. Some strategy hints are offered, but don't expect an easy time of it - Admirals aren't trained in a day, not even in the Italian navy! It's up to you to make sure you're aware of what's going on around you, it won't be offered on a plate (I was once relieved of all duties for sinking one of my own ships!).

It goes without saying that strategy games won't appeal to everyone, but those who like a challenge should find Bismarck to their liking. Bismarck takes a while to get used to, but its atmosphere, playability and incredible degree of historical accuracy make it a real winner.