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Enter the SAINT - that's Strategic Artificially Intelligent Nuclear Transport, to you. Otherwise known as Number 5. This strange-looking hero looks very much like a skeletal E.T.

But Number 5 is a robot with a difference. While being built at the Nova Robotic's factory, Number 5 was struck by a freak lightning bolt. Something happens deep down with his circuits and he suddenly becomes alive, able to think, express emotions and, worst of all for a military robot, develops a conscience.

This robotic freak, understandably, attracts a lot of attention. Because Number 5 is equipped with deadly weapons, the factory president wants him locked up. Others are not so kind. Blow him up, they suggest.

Number 5 isn't too keen on this idea, and decides to escape. And that's where the game starts. As with the film on which the game is based, Number 5 must escape the factory complex, get into the countryside and build a replica of himself to foil his pursuers.

The game is divided into two parts. Part One is set in the factory complex - all 36 rooms of it. The robot must explore it, collect hardware and software for activating his laser and also the technical manual for building a replica robot.

Number 5 begins with just enough data to log-on to the Nova Research computer system and download other programs into his memory, which is restricted to three programs only, including the link. Load a fourth you will be required to rease an existing one. This also applies to objects carried. In this section Number 5 must solve puzzles and outwit the security guards for only then can you leave the complex and make your break for freedom.

Points are awarded for tasks attempted - don't forget to search drawers and beware of the coffee machine. Its liquid causes corrosion.

Because Number 5 has a conscience, he cannot kill. But he can stun his enemies in order to gain extra time. But when he does zap them his "conscience" level drops.

Once outside - part two of the game - the chase begins. Pursued by security forces ordered to kill and other Saint Robots programmed to deactivate him, the odds look slim for Number 5.

The guards are deadly - but remember the "Robot Code", means he can only stun them. He also must avoid colliding with the wildlife. They can easily be killed caused overload from grief and deactivation for a short time.

If you manage to locate a van before the Nova helicopter arrives, Number 5 has a chance to create the dummy robot, fool all his adversaries and escape to live happily ever after.

The graphics are excellent - especially on the Amstrad - and the gameplay clever and absorbing. By all accounts, the film was good... and the game doesn't disappoint. Go on, blow a fuse over Short Circuit.