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There are loads of sports games around right now - but no-one has attempted a rugby simulation. Until now, that is. Artic could have a grandslam on their hands with this simulation of the Home International.

You can play the computer or a friend in this novel game - it features passing, line-outs, scrums and conversions. Everything you'd expect from a real-life rugby game.

You can become the captain of England, Ireland, Scotland, Wales or France for a day and attempt to win the international series.

The computer asks you which team you wish to captain and at which of the two difficulty levels you want to start. You also get a league table after each game.

Now the bad news. The graphics leave a lot to be desired. If Artic had taken a look at Match Day, this game would have been an instant classic.

As it stands, the two teams are represented by black blob-like figures - quite well animated but just not big enough to get any real lifelike effect. The man with the ball changes colour so you can spot him.

The programmers have included a TV screen, International Baseball style at the top of the screen. This comes into play when it's time to have a crack at a conversion. You kick the ball through the uprights after first checking the wind direction and placing your cursor in the general direction of your kick. But beware - the wind can change as you kick! You see this in close-up on the screen and also on the normal field display.

This screen also flashes up the logos of companies like Boots and WH Smith when it's not in use for the game.

Once the disappointment about the stick-men had worn off, I found myself really enjoying this game. It's best played with a joystick, but there is a keyboard option.

If you like action sports games, look at International Rugby. We saw the Spectrum version - maybe Artic are planning to do big things with the graphics for the C64 and Amstrad versions. Hope so!

If they do, the game could emulate the successes of the other ball games which have featured in the charts this year.