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The derivation of this game is obvious - it was a four-player arcade game trying to follow up on the success of Gauntlet. Like the US Gold smash on home micros, it allows action by two players only, rather than four. The gameplay is much different from Gauntlet but will it be anything like as big a hit?

The game is made up of fifteen levels. They cycle around, getting harder. The aim on each level is to destroy a large mechanical monster to get a key, and then use the key to get through the exit to the next level. You can control one of four characters, all with very springy jumping powers, a weapon and the ability to crawl under things.

The levels are made up of platforms, obstacles and conveyor belts, which you have to get through to find the monster. On the way there are lots of portals that spew out other alien creatures to attack you. The monster takes many shots to destroy, leaving behind the exit key.

The aliens come in many forms: a flying fist, spiky balls, robots and other bipeds. They can stun you on contact, causing a loss of energy. Your energy reserves are substantial and take a long while to use up.

There are objects to pick up along the way, including a shield and a jet-pack with which you can float instead of walk and jump. Others provide extra jumping power, change your weapon, stop the aliens, or destroy them all.

Sounds okay so far, but the problem is that the graphics are appalling and the gameplay monotonous. The characters are detailed, but the use of colour is terrible - portals disappearing in the drab backgrounds. Games last for ages and you get stunned (die) so many times there's nothing to get your adrenalin going. Disappointing is about the best to be said for it.

It is hard to believe that a game can come out looking worse when converted from a Spectrum. Activision has managed it. A real pity, as there is a good idea behind Quartet. Unfortunately it is lost somewhere in the colour clash, tinny sound and horrific use of colour!

Surprisingly clear.

See all fifteen levels.

Graphics 37%
P. Detail on most characters.
N. Appallingly bad use of colour.

Sonics 22%
N. A few simple effects.

Grab Factor 42%
P. Some interest in exploring first fifteen levels.
N. Action is repetitive and won't get you going.

Staying Power 35%
N. Levels lack variety.
N. Even two-player games lack excitement.

Overall 38%
A disappointing arcade conversion.