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Converted by US Gold from a 1982 Namco coin-op, the Spectrum version of Metrocross was originally released in July 1987.

This futuristic game involves roller-skating down a scrolling track shown in isometric 3-D. This chequered track has not been kept in the best of shape, however, and some of the squares slow the skater down. Yet more obstacles to a relaxing skate are numerous hurdles and fast-rolling barrels. Although collision with these obstacles doesn't harm the hero it eats up the valuable time allowed to complete each level.

With the track in such a poor state of repair it's a good job there are some useful items to be collected along the way. These include two kinds of can: one type speeds the skater up, the other gives bonus points when kicked. Even more helpful are springboards for extra large leaps and a skateboard which allows the hero to zoom down the track.

In play the first few levels are far too easy, which is probably more the fault of the coin-op than conversion itself and at least its does get harder as the game goes on. The actual programming is admirable, with attractively shaded graphics which cleverly avoid colour clash by splitting the screen horizontally. Playability also ranks high, and the game was probably originally slightly underrated. It's certainly well worth a look at the new low price, especially if you're a fan of the ageing coin-op.