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Miner 2049:er by Tigervision was nominated by several publications in the USA as game of the year. While it has taken a little while to reach the UK, it's certainly a game worth waiting for.

There are eight levels, which you get a glimpse of after the title screen, which show you what you've got to shoot for. In this game the levels are remarkably distinct, unlike many which put up screens varying only slightly from each other.

Bounty Bob has to enter all eight mine stations of an abandoned uranium mine, in search for a baddie, Yukon Yohan.

The top left of the screen displays points, the top right shows the remaining time you have to finish the screen and, if you don't beat the clock, it's certains for Bob.

Various cute little mutant fellows inhabit the mine levels, but providing they are in a diamond shape - when an item has just been collected - Bob can eliminate them easily. To complete a screen, all framework sections must be "claimed" by Bob walking on them, this being visually indicated. There are five points for each piece, 80 points for mutants and 100-900 points for possessions. Miner is joystick only operated which is a blessing as you progress through the game.

There are slides, lilypads, pulverizers, transporters and, in the final screen, a cannon, with which Bounty Bob is able to blast himself to the required levels.

Select too much dynamite and Bob goes into orbit. Also worthy of further mention, and in fact a delight in graphics, are the transporters. By standing Bob in a transporter and using the number keys you can "beam" Bob up to the desired level. Just make sure that there are no mutants at the other end!

Superb packaging and documentation combine with all the other elements to make a game that will appeal to a wide audience. The simple "Clementine" melody is played during the demo mode only and supported by well integrated sound effects during the screens. A recommended game.