Speedy 3D Maze

Industrial espionage is the name of the game when playing Maze from Acornsoft. As a secret agent your mission is to penetrate the security system of a rival company and acquire valuable information.

The security system consists of a series of mazes, each on a different floor of a multi-storey building. The only route between these floors is via a computer-controlled lift.

The lift itself is easy enough to find as this is where you first enter the maze. Unfortunately it's deactivated as you leave - the only way it can be opened again is by using a special electronic security key.

To cut a long story short, the key is inside an indestructible box which can only be opened by placing three coloured security tags into the box - these tags being placed randomly around the maze.

As if this wasn't enough to cope with you will find that the maze is patrolled by robot guards who are programmed to shoot on sight. You are also armed, but are carrying only three bullets.

It is therefore necessary to find at least one of the several power points situated around the maze. These will enable you to recharge your weapon to give another three shots.

As an aid to navigation you are equipped with an electronic compass. This automatically maps the areas of the maze you have visited, the position of the lift, and most importantly the positions of the robot guards.

Technically the program is well written, the 3D maze being produced with incredible speed as you move around. Unfortunately technical excellence is not always sufficient to make a good game.

I found it a little tedious — but should maze games be your forte then you won't find a better one than this.

Jon Revis