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Aardvark Software have come up trumps with their version of the arcade game Galaga.

Galaga is based on a Galaxians theme but one that has been beautifully reworked to produce a game that's full of fast and furious action.

Aardvark's Zalaga remains true to the arcade original - apart from the name change. Nothing has been missed, not even the amazingly detailed graphics or the twinkling stars in the background.

The game begins with squadrons of aliens streaming past your laser base into formation. At this stage you can blast away without fear of retaliation, but once the creatures are in position they fire and dive at your base without warning.

Doubling your firepower is achieved by manoeuvring the ship under a ray that one of the meanies occasionally sends down. This links up two bases but this never lasts long because it's difficult enough to keep one base out of trouble, let alone two.

The game climaxes with a challenging stage where an army of Zalagans swirl across the screen. Sharp shooting is rewarded by big bonuses.

I can recommend Zalaga without any hesitation. I rate it as one of the best shoot-'em-ups on the market, and well worth your attention.

Zalage is for the BBC 32K machine and is available from Essex-based Aardvark Software costing £6.90.