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The release of Meteor Mission is likely to be overshadowed somewhat by the "super games" like Elite which Acornsoft give the full treatment. It's not at all a bad game however. A bit conventional I suppose but fun to play.

The mothership cruises across the top of the screen waiting for you to release your lander for the hazardous journey to the planet surface. The route is blocked by small and large meteors (very much like those from the original ZX81 Meteors), other alien craft and bombs, all of which are fatal.

On the surface awaiting the ship are six humanoids, three either side. When the airborne hazards have been negotiated, the lander has to accurately drop onto one of the two landing pads, using the thrusters if necessary. Thrust is automatic on the way up, but you do a laser with which you can shoot meteors and other objects getting between you and the mothership. Basically the controls are left, right and release/thrust/fire - all one key (or the fire button). There are 200 points for getting a humanoid, 300 for getting back to the mothership and bonuses for shooting meteors.

The crash sequence is a little disappointing since it is used quite a lot! A quick flicker and the standard white noise reminiscent of lander programs everywhere. When "Game Over" appears, there follows the inevitable Roll of Honour.

Sound is not utilised well as it might be in this game and the graphics are not sensational. The bombs and comets are colourful but the meteors are not solids (easier to move around). The pink surface and light blue ship add to a sickly looking screen. It is the actual playability of the game if anything that merits a look at Meteor Mission. Control of the lander is instant and all movement very smooth. Perhaps it is just that the game is a classic and always fun. A fair addition to the Acornsoft range in that case but nothing to set the micro world on fire.