Sinclair User


Endurance

Author: John Gilbert
Publisher: CRL
Machine: Spectrum 48K

 
Published in Sinclair User #46

Endurance

If leather, speed and the constant danger of fiery death appeal to you then this motorbike racing simulation will have you itching to don your helmet.

There is a choice of seven races on the circuit, most of which are run through day and night. You may want to take things easy for a while and develop your speed skills during the six hour race at Monza. Alternatively, you could try the 1000 Kilometers at Zeltweg or the 24 hour race at Le Mans.

Each bike has a team of two riders ranked professionally from trainee to expert. They have sets of predetermined character ratings for skill, energy, and safety.

Endurance

The performance of your bike depends upon factors you set before the start of the race. Those include power, safety, miles per gallon and the type of tyres you use. The first three factors are interrelated. If you push power to its limits and then assign large ratings for safety and miles per gallon, the power rating will decrease.

Often something will go wrong - you may run out of fuel and be forced to make a stop. Bike numbers are displayed on the grandstand and when a problem occurs yours will light up red. If you have a monumental disaster, or crash, the number square turns white.

When the bike comes into the pit the rider gets off and you can replace him. Then you move the mechanic over the bike until the part you want is displayed in the message window. Much use is made of menus, and a joystick is handy to move the pointer arrow from one option to another without getting the numerous control keys mixed up.

As the event draws to a close the chequered flag is dropped. Determination, strategy and luck will determine whether you have the cup and points.

Endurance is an excellent simulation but rides on the back of Formula One, its prequel. The standard of presentation in both games is high but the pattern of play is subtly different. If you enjoy motorbike racing - and it is becoming more popular by the season - you can now have the satisfaction of running your own team.

John Gilbert

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