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I often wonder if the sponsors of computer sports simulations really do take an interest in the game with their name or whether it is purely a financial arrangement. Not that it really matters in this case because Steve would be proud of this conversion from the snooker cue to the VDU.

At last a game of snooker which allows a player versus a computer option and the option to set up trick shots or practice set ups.

The game can be played using the keyboard or a joystick and since speed is not of the essence it does not matter which you use. There are three icon driven menus available. The main menu allows you to select the computer opponent, display the help screen or call up either of the other menus.

The play menu shows the set up of the two players, calls the main menu and the help screen, but the third menu is by far what makes this game unique: the edit menu.

Apart from allowing the table and cushion colours to be selected, this option allows you to move and remove any of the balls on the table. If you want to try your hand at trick shots then this is the game for you. As long as one red ball is left, any configuration can be tried and, if required, carried across to the play mode.

In the play mode the ball which you are aiming for is selected by moving a cross wire into position on the ball. Then spin and power may be determined before the shot is played.

The one problem I noticed with the game is the perennial one of using a black and white TV. Distinguishing the balls can be difficult but I suppose the answer is to lash out and buy a colour monitor.

E.D.