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JERICHO ROAD is that rare thing among programs, an adventure with a moral purpose. You have been transported back to biblical times and must make a journey to Jericho.

On the way you encounter characters from the Bible and participate in stories such as the parable of the Good Samaritan.

Written by a minister - the cassette insert does not indicate from which denomination, so perhaps we can regard this as an ecumenical adventure - the program seems to have a feel for the times.

You can even pray for guidance, which makes a change from the usual adventurer's despairing cry for help and at least some of the hints are in the form of biblical references, sending you flipping through the pages of the good book.

Unfortunately the vocabulary is a little limited and the computer was erratic about accepting standard abbreviations such as W for west.

To compensate, there are a few simple graphics to enliven the text from time to time.

There are two versions, one for novices and one for more advanced players.

If you do not know much about the Bible you had better try the simple version first, or you will probably spend more time languishing in a Roman jail than proceeding with your pilgrimage.

Jericho Road is a gentle, original and enjoyable adventure. How far it will appeal to customers used to more bloodthirsty fare is another matter but it may prove a more digestible alternative to the weekly school divinity period. It is available from Shards Software.

Memory: 48K Price: £5.75