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There is a book and film called 'The Last Starfighter' which is based on the idea of a space war arcade game being used to select those with the talent to be ace starfighters. The game is virtually impossible to complete for all but the most skilful. I have a strong suspicion that Astro Chase might have been that game. As is now common, this comes as a fast loader which worked reliably.

There is an opening screen which makes full use of the graphic capabilities of the 64 to show the courageous saucer taking off from Earth base. Then you are quickly out amongst the stars and planets in your craft, ready to defend Earth from the dreaded Megard Empire with their Mega Mines and attack fighters. You must dodge your way among the planets seeking out the enemy and destroying them. Hitting a planet causes you to bounce and lose energy.

It is somewhat disconcerting to find that you also bounce off what seem like distant stars represented as points of light. Such are the vagaries of space no doubt. The graphics are excellent in respect of the planets and background but the various ships and mines are rather less imaginative. Tchaikovsky's 1812 Overture provides background music but there is an option to turn it off which is welcomed after a few minutes.

This action is fast and furious and nimble fingers will be needed on the joystick to stand any chance of saving Earth from what seems like an inevitable fate. If any of the Mega mines should reach the planet, then there is a devastating explosion and pieces of Earth hurl shatteringly in all directions.

This becomes a familiar sight. There are reputed to be 34 levels of play but I have failed to get through level one so far. An animated sequence is promised for each level successfully completed but it was interesting to find that failure to start a new chase within a certain time period produces an animated return to earth by the pilot wondering where everyone has gone.

This is undoubtedly a game for the experts who will appreciate the level of difficulty involved. A good example of the space war 'shoot-em-up' game.