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For a book as well loved as Lord Of The Rings, it is hardly surprising that people should want to satirise it. It is, after all, the ultimate compliment, albeit a somewhat backhanded one. To date, there have been two attempts at Lord Of The Rings, one book and one computer game, both called Bored Of The Rings. Here the similarity ends though, not least because the book is somewhat, erm, smutty and a version based on the book would no doubt get instantly banned from Smiths.

Originally produced by Delta 4 Software for the Spectrum, such has been the interest in this game that it is now being marketed by Silversoft with versions planned for the QL, Amstrad and BBC. Since the original was out before Computer Gamer magazine, I thought I would take the opportunity to catch it on its re-release.

Turning up at the wrong place at the wrong time, you overhear Bimbo and Grandalf discussing the need to find some dense lemming to get rid of the ring for them. Falling straight into the trap, you walk in and, with an astonishing lack of deftness, you catch the ring that Bimbo has hurled at you. On examining the ring, you find it blank except for some strange runes which say "Made in Hong Kong". And so it goes on.

It's like the old disclaimer "This is a true story. Only the names have been changed to protect the innocent." Thus Sam, Merry and Pippin become Spam, Murkey and Pimply whilst you will find yourself journeying over the Brandname Bridge, through Rivendull on your way to Berkwood.

The game loads in three parts with access to parts two and three requiring completion of the previous part. There are over 200 locations in all for you to explore. The character set has been redesigned and the result is a most pleasing uncial script. There are also a few graphics at key locations which, although not brilliant, at least draw themselves quickly. There is also a bonus program of a spoof teletext simulator.

Humour in any form is extremely difficult to write and Fergus McNeill, the author, has done remarkably well with Bored Of The Rings. The game is great fun to play and jokes do not go stale on you as they are maintained throughout the game. Most players will be familiar with Lord Of The Rings and The Hobbit but it doesn't matter if you aren't, as this game will appeal to Hobbit (sorry Boggit) lovers and haters alike. One final clue, straight from the author's mouth. The picture of Sylvester Stallone is very useful when trying to pass the gay cave. It's that sort of game.