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Once upon a time apart from Pinball tables the only arcade machines were one-arm bandits. What surprised me most was that programmers have elected to write one-arm bandit simulations for computers. As such, this program is not original and the simple question remains as to how it compares with the rest.

The format is quite standard.

The main segment of the display holds three reels which scroll up giving an impression of rotation. These reels carry the various symbols and fruit. To add to the options available, you have occasional options to hold reels, nudge reels and there is a bonus scale activated by number symbols on the reels. The bonuses offer extra nudges or cash. Each time you win some cash, you have the option to gamble. This either doubles or halves your winnings.

The cassette carries versions for the 64, VIC-20, C16 and Plus/4. This innovation is intended to make life simpler for the retailer. All versions were colourful with decent effect and scrolling.

The main problem with this sort of simulation is that you miss the whole point of one-arm bandits. The excitement of risking your own cash is missing. In an attempt to offset this deficiency, this game counts the number of spins you get for your allocated cash and this goes on a high-score table.

Overall Las Vegas compares very well against the opposition but in spite of this, it's not really that exciting.

A.W.