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This spectacular, pioneering CD coin-op was one game no-one thought could ever be converted to the C64. But Software Projects attempted the impossible and came up with a reasonable version.

The setting is a stereotypical fairy story. Many noble men have come calling in the hope of marrying Princess Daphne. Of course, the King wants her to marry someone who's wealthy and powerul, but a thirty-foot fire-breathing dragon called Singe isn't what he expected.

Dirk Daring is sent to rescue the damsel in distress, who is of course his great love. Dirk's daring deeds are nine in number, with the next level loading in as you play.

The Falling Disk: As it plummets downwards Singe's minions try and push you off. Remember to jump before it hits bottom!

Skull Hallway: Dirk must dodge and kill lethal skulls poking their heads out the doorways.

The Burning Ropes: Dirk must leap from swinging rope from swinging rope.

The Weapons Room: More dodgin' 'n killing, with plenty of big sprites.

Ramps And Giddy Goons: Battle through the goons before the ramps disappear!

The Tentacle Room: Kill the serpents!

The Second Disk: is the same as the first.

The Deadly Checkerboard: Leap from square to square, avoiding the lethal ones.

Slaying The Dragon: Yet more large sprites to admire.

Zzap! 17, way back in late '86, saw Software Projects receive plenty of admiration for their load-while-you-play system, but not much for the game. Gary Penn remarked: "I don't dislike this conversion, just the original concept". But Julian Rignall thought, while "not particularly brilliant... it is challenging and addictive". The overall mark was 69%, which isn't that far from the 71% part two of the Amiga conversion won last issue.

Unfortunately time hasn't been kind to the four-year-old C64 game. The graphics aren't that impressive any more, and gameplay is minimal - as in all conversions. For hardcore coin-op fans only.