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Trailblazer is a deceptively simple game. Load it in and you think, "What's all this then?" But then you start playing. And from then on you won't want to know about anything else. It's fast and awesomely addictive.

The idea is simplicity itself. You are in control of a bouncing ball which you have to guide over a series of tracks packed with hazards for the unwary.

Fall off the track and you lose a life. Stay on and you're in for the ride of your life!

The tracks streak out at you from the centre of the screen - like a race track would in a regular race game. You have to use all your skill, judgement and fast reactions to keep the ball rolling.

There are chequerboard squares on some of the tracks which will either slow you down or speed you up or even make you jump automatically.

Learn to recognise them, they can help or hinder your progress.

There's a time limit for each level - complete a track with time in hand shown in the clock at the top of the screen and you get more time for the next level.

There are 14 fun-filled courses to attempt each with their own unique challenges.

And you can play the game in two modes. The Three Course Trial gives you the opportunity to practice any three of the 14 tracks together with unlimited bounces. The Arcade option allows you to play all the courses in sequence with just four bounces and varying time limits.

Versions apart from the Spectrum have colour coded squares to watch out for and a two player option, plus a player versus computer options. You can attempt to knock each other off course in two player/robot modes.

Trailblazer on the Atari and 64 is just as addictive. But here you've got the extra added dimension of enhanced sound and glorious graphics. Do try playing the split screen two player version. It's great!

Gremlin's programmers have even managed to coax a decent tune out of the Spectrum! Sounds vary on other versions.

Trailblazer is a simply brilliant game. Original and extremely addictive. Everyone should have it in their collection!