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MORE OTHELLO

CP SOFTWARE produces a range of traditional games for the Spectrum. Those computerised versions are invariably competent and testing though they naturally lack the feel of the real thing. Their greatest virtue is that players can play alone against the machine if they are unable to find a partner and can thus build up skill levels.

ZX Reversi is the standard Othello game in which each player must trap pieces of another colour, thereby reversing the colour. Play continues until the board is full and the winner has the most pieces. Thought provoking and entertaining, the game can give valuable lessons in local thinking, as silly mistakes can alter the entire balance of power. The program has 11 levels of play; at the upper levels, suitable for extended play or problem solving, response times tend to be longer depending on the complexity of the positions handled.

One or two players can take part and there is a full-game automatic mode which is admirably suited for learning the game. Illegal moves are not accepted and a move can be recommended if required. The colours of both board and pieces can be altered to taste. Although there is no Save option the board can be set up or changed prior to playing.

Like most of the CP programs ZX Reversi is well made and the graphic display simple and clear. The colour change option is particularly useful and helps to add a little spice to things. It is annoying, however, to see simple spelling mistakes on the screen prompts. The game is nevertheless demanding and absorbing, guaranteed to give Othello addicts a good run for their money.

Richard Price

Memory: 48K Price: £6.95