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This is a racing game with a difference. It has some odd mystical overtones which add a bit of originality to what otherwise could simply be an average driving challenge.

You are in control of a super rally car and your aim is to complete all the stages of the strange Nightmare Rally by reaching the target score for each stage without destroying your car.

You get three to start with. Damage is indicated by the "lives" icon changing colour. Red spells imminent danger, of course!

You can drive a manual or automatic car - auto is better to start with as it's one less thing to worry about when you're learning how to play.

Each stage is packed with obstacles - some dangerous some useful. Picking up Psi symbols dotted around the course adds gadgets like turbos and even a hyperspace gizmo to your car. Yes, hyperspace - told you this was a "different" driving game, didn't I?

Other mystical objects which have strange effects are Standing Stones and the Pulsating Eye. You'll have to find out what!

Nightmare Rally is a one for race game buffs. It has enough quirky bits to keep your interest and it's pretty playable.

Joystick and keyboard reactions leave a bit to be desired and the choice of colours on some of the stages aren't the best for the style of graphics being used. But overall this is an interesting twist on the driving game theme.

The only real gripe is the poor old Spectrum's sound. The car sounds a bit like a distressed wasp. Still, Nightmare Rally is well worth checking out if you're a driving game freak.