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As a spectator sport show-jumping has about as much appeal as a snail race for me, but I have to confess that this simulation had me hooked and if you are looking for an engrossing and enjoyable multi-player game this is a real contender.

A simulation like this stands or falls on its animation and the horse movement and jumping in the game are surprisingly good for the Spectrum. The horse has twelve angles of movement which means that subtle control is needed, even on a joystick to steer your steed round the course within the 100 second time limit.

Judging the right approach angle to the fence is vital to get a faultless clearance, otherwse its four faults for a fence down and three faults for a refusal. If you forget to jump at the right moment, the horse and rider crumple into the fence. Just about the only familiar sight missing from the simulation is the rider spreadeagled over a fence after his mount has made an unscheduled emergency stop.

With six different courses for up to eight players Showjumping makes a compelling competitive game, and if there's a tie the remaining competitors go on to a more difficult jump-off round. Definitely a game where you'll be itching for your next turn.