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There are very few pinball computer games which allow you to alter the playfield. Even fewer software firms give permission to sell the new version you've created using the program.

Pinball Construction Set from Electronic Arts for the Atari 400/800 fulfills these functions using a very successful variant of Smalltalk, previously only available on mainframes.

Because the language is graphics-oriented, the layout of the various utensils on the screen has obviously been well thought out and tested.

Every conceivable aspect of the game can be changed. Moving the objects about is slick and, by using the paintbrush, the shape of the bumpers can be altered. Using the same system, tunnels can be hidden, messages scrawled on and, if anything is not to your liking, then you can zoom in with the magnifying glass.

When all is to your fancy, the time arrives to save your game. This is the first time you will need to use the keyboard.

Author Bill Budge has included working tables of all the present computer pinball competitors such as Night Mission and David's Midnight Magic. All told, this is a truly astonishing leap forward in 8-bit programs and you get all this for £29.99.

Unfortunately it will not work on the new Atari XL range which means owners of these micros will just have to hang on until a conversion arrives.