Just one more, then you can have a go

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My wife's happy — at last she's beaten the computer! Mind you, it took her several dozen attempts, but she is delighted. You see, I haven't and it's not for the want of trying - it's because of the sneaky programming by those devils at Database.

I must admit that when I got Con nect 4 for review I thought: "Why bother, why not buy the game proper from the toy shop?" But that was before I discovered the solitaire version where you play with the computer - or rather it plays with you. It's addictive, infuriating and attracts too many people who look over your shoulder and give advice, good and otherwise.

For those of you who don't know Connect 4, it's an abstract logic game where you have to fill a 6 by 7 array with circles, taking alternate turns with your opponent.

> The idea is to get four circles in a row - either horizontal, vertical or diagonal - to win. Only you don't if you're playing the solitaire version - unless you're my wife and I was standing behind her giving her advice!

For such an easily learnt game it gets surprisingly complicated, but remains fun. Your hand goes in stinctively for the replay and you find yourself saying "just one more, then you can have a go" . . . the chant that marks the end of every good video game.

Pete Bibby