Kickback is based (loosely) on a little known arcade game, itself based on American football. You can tell that because the game involves knocking out the opposing team as well as scoring goals.

You are given a clear aerial view of the pitch, and must try to hit the constantly moving ball in an effort to wipe out the opposing team and score goals.

A moving forward and goalkeeper attempt to stop you, and score their own goals to remove one of your three lives. Penalties are incurred if you let the ball hit your baseline.

The game plays smoothly, with graduated difficulty levels and fair, if muted, sound effects. However there is little complexity and I was reminded of those ping-pong style TV games.

Marc Freebury