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Just about every computer and console in existence has some form of football game available for it, and the Nintendo is no exception.

At the start of the match, the one- or two-player option is set. After that one of seven teams is chosen and the timer is set to 15, 30 or 45 minute halves. If one person is playing the computer, one of five skill levels is chosen.

The viewpoint is a traditional one, with the match being played over a horizontally scrolling field. The player is given control over the nearest player to the ball, and can either kick at the goal, or pass to a team-mate. The receiver is indicated by an arrow and is usually the player who's nearest in the direction the current player is running.

When the ball is shot at goal, an arrow behind the posts can be moved up and down to bend the ball out of range of the keeper. If the opposition get the ball into your area, keeper control is handed over the the player, and he can dive at the ball.

At first glance, Nintendo Soccer doesn't look that good, with some poorly defined players and a distinct lack of scenery - it's almost like playing a Sunday league game! However, it's graced with oddles of playability, and even though the game is a little on the slow side, there's plenty of scope for football fans to hone their skills.

The five different skill levels combined with seven teams of varied ability give plenty of long-term challenge, and the two-player option, as ever, is brilliant.

Nintendo Soccer is one of the best simulations of the sport, and shouldn't be left on the sub's bench.