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The Mad Generals are a strange crew. They like nothing better than producing large quantities of weapons and ammunition factories, then invading every patch of land possible. Two gung-ho heroes ain't too keen about this and set off to wipe out the Generals' entire army (not the brightest of ideas).

In this vertically scrolling blaster, you have a choice between two attack craft: a helicopter or jeep (both are used in the two-player mode). Your military mission simply consists of blasting the hell out of everything that moves (and most things that don't!) as you cross the vertically scrolling terrain.

The enemy have some pretty impressive firepower; squadrons of fighter jets, heat-seeking missiles and huuuuge gun installations do their best to blow you into tomorrow. You haven't come feebly equipped, though, as your chopper/jeep packs some mean rockets. When destroyed, some of the opposition leave behind power-ups to upgrade your craft. Find a smart bomb and everything on-screen will instantly self-destruct. A shield's just as handy, providing you with invincibility for a short period.

The enemy fire isn't the only thing you need to avoid. though - plenty of natural hazards crop up, including craters, chasms (tricky if you're in the jeep) and even volcanoes! So fast reflexes and a great trigger finger are a must.

Vertically scrolling blast-'em-ups aren't exactly a novelty, but Swiv implements the classic formula extremely well. Graphics are detailed with very little sprite flicker, and the frenzied action never lets up - sometimes there's so many bullets flying, you just get lost in all the mayhem.

The jeep/helicopter two-player option is a neat idea (also allowing for two choices of solo play), with each person scrambling to reach the essential power-ups first. The only problem is that whoever's in command of the jeep is at an obvious disadvantage. There are just too many ground obstacles to avoid, whereas the copter flies straight over them.

This game is not easy; in fact, it's damned tough and really takes a lot of practice just to crack the first level. But the fast-and-furious action keeps you coming back for more and more.

Swiv is possibly the best shoot-'em-up available for the Commodore 64. Taking the form of a vertically scrolling Silkworm, the action is fast-paced and frenetic, with the two-player option giving the opportunity for many a violent night with friends.

On the negative side, though... hang on, there *is* nothing on the negative side! Swiv was an absolute essential purchase at full-price; as a budget game it's utterly unmissable. For the paltry sum of £3.99 you're receiving an absolutely classic piece of software: it's a game I'll certainly be playing for a fair while yet.

Presentation 83%
Two-level multi-loads, lots of continue plays

Graphics 81%
Nice attention to detail, lots going on

Sound 79%
Some real good crunching explosions!

Hookability 92%
Easy to get into with smart two-player option

Lastability 87%
It's tough, challenging action all the way

Overall 90%