In general the cartridges produced so far by Thorn for the Vic have shown a high standard of attention to detail: none more than this, in which a simple idea, that of controlling a boat up a randomly generated river, has been developed into an interesting and enjoyable game for one or two players.

The speed and position of the boat are controlled from joystick or keyboard. Obstacles appear in the river and have to be shot out of the way, there are explorers to be picked up from passing jetties.

The range of speeds available means that this program is fun for beginners and skilled joystick manipulators alike.

While programs in cartridge remain as expensive as at present, the daft situation arises that you can buy a computer for the price of two of these programs, or one hundred and forty two issues of this magazine.

But for those who can afford it this game will be a lasting source of enjoyment.

Tom Donald