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Chequered Flag, written for the 48K Spectrum by Psion is, as usual, on sale under the Sinclair flag.

Psion have produced probably the first top quality motor racing simuation program for the Spectrum. It uses some of the most colourful and exciting graphics yet seen on the Spectrum.

Not surprisingly the aim of the game is to negotiate your way round any of a selection of circuits selectable before you start. But nothing is that simple. The corners are tight, and must be taken at speed. There are hazards on the road - oil, water and glass. The screen is basically split up into two sections. The top two thirds is used to display the road and hazards ahead. Whilst the lower third displays various meters vital to the running of a car. The dashboard features fully analogue: fuel gauge, rev counter and temperature gauge. The gear stick is displayed showing what gear the car is in. Finally there is the steering wheel, which rotates as the car is cornered. The road and other hazards are displayed fast and furiously in realistic hi-res graphics. The effect is quite stunning.

When the game is loaded, it displays a choice of ten different tracks of varying shapes and sizes. You are also given a choice of three formula one racing cars - the Feretti Turbo, Psion Pegasus and McFaster Special. Each car having a different performance and handling characteristics. The McFaster Special has an automatic gearbox, which is exceedingly userful for the beginner.

Once you have set off, you must do your utmost to avoid such hazards as oil, water, glass and rocks. If your car is damaged, or needs refuelling you may pull into the pits and get attention. The overall feel of the car is surprisingly close to the real thing. The engine sound effects allow you to gauge whether the engine is being over or under revved.

Chequered Flag is one of the best programs sold for the Spectrum. It is an exciting, graphically impressive and highly enjoyable game to play - definitely a winner.