Simple spelling mistakes in the instructions for both programs do little to improve them. While excellent use is made of graphics, interest is not sustained, and skill requirements are negligible (or absent in the case of Ascot Stakes).

Torpedo Alley has you launching two torpedoes simultaneously at three ships running the gauntlet between the rocks at night. Only two degrees of difficulty are offered - easy or hand - the difference lying mainly in the game tempo.

The score is displayed as the 'time' counts up to 120. The game might well appeal to the very young or to those with poor hand-eye co-ordination.

Ascot Stakes is graphically excellent, producing a television-type pan of the race, but there is no skill involved at all. Punters select their horses, place their bets (you start with £100) and the computer does the rest.

You play until either all punters are broke or want to give up - you can't stop unless everybody else wants to!

This game is likely to appeal to only the very young. Although providing two programs for the price, the cost is still very high.

P.B.