The Commodore 64 Game Construction Kit is an American publication consisting of approximately 450 pages. The introduction admits that Pac Man and Asteroid type programs are beyond the scope of the book as they are written in machine code, and the book is devoted to Basic. That's a good start.

Detailed Planning of games is encouraged before touching the computer. Variable types and naming conventions are discussed, and integer variables, which are said to occupy less memory and allow greater speed of execution. Eh? Integer variables only occupy less space when stored in arrays, and they offer no increase in speed. This type of fundamental misconception does not inspire confidence.

General Basic commands are briefly covered, and structured programming is hinted at, but not emphasised. The text is interspersed with numerous programs of various lengths and dubious merit.

Character-based graphics show what can be achieved with standard keyboard graphics, but custom characters do not include extended or multicolour mode, although a character editor program is provided.

Memory configuration is incomplete but a useful boot program is provided to move the start of Basic up, and then load the main program. The area below Basic can then be used for screen, character or sprite data.

But Sprites are not clearly explained, especially multicolour sprites which are not mentioned at all. High resolution graphics is mentioned in passing, and the few pages on sound are pitiful.

From a 'games kit' I would expect useful subroutines, which could be strung together to help develop your own programs. Instead you get some poorly written programs, which are not very well explained.

This is yet another guide to Basic with an emphasis on games, and some listings thrown in to pad it out and help justify the scandalous price of £14.50. Not recommended.