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The current hunder for computer versions of arcade smashes seems to know no end. Witnesses the success of Elite's Commando, Bombjack and Ghosts 'N Goblins.

Software Projects must have their collective fingers crossed that Dragon's Lair will follow in their tracks to the top of the charts.

Dragon's Lair, a huge slot machine smash and one of the first laser disc games to reach the UK, presents a daunting task for any programmer. The original had cartoon graphics by Walt Disney illustrator Don Bluth. They were brilliant.

Even so, it seems to be the general opinion around the C&VG offices that Software Projects didn't use the graphics capabilities to the full in bringing Dragon's Lair to the small screen.

Nevertheless the game is fiendishly difficult to play. You play the part of Dirk the Daring who must rescue Princess Daphne from a fire-breathing monster called Singe, reacting to various computer dictated situations, overcoming problems, collecting points etc.

There nine levels to battle through, with exotic names such as The Falling Disk, Skull Hallway and The Burning Ropes before you can reach the final screen where, hopefully, Singe gets his just desserts.

Dragon's Lair also features a new and rather interesting multi-load system which allows the next screen to load while the game is being played.

Plans are already underway for Dragon's Lair II using more ideas based on the arcade game.