Games Computing


Lingo

Publisher: Complete Microcomputer Services
Machine: BBC Model B

 
Published in Games Computing #15

Lingo (Complete Microcomputer Services)

This program is described as 'the game that makes fun of the English language' but of course a knowledge of the same is essential thereby restricting the 'fun' aspect to those aged eight and over.

The program is very well presented arriving in a video style box with an elegant instruction booklet which clearly guides you through the complexities of the game. No problems were encountered with loading though being of classic adventure length patience will be a great asset not only for the playing of the game.

Within the computer's memory are, placed in excess of seven hundred words from which each of up to four participating players are dealt a random sample of twelve. Using simple key strokes the words are orientated such that the players make fullest use of the score values for each whilst making a sentence both meaningful and grammatically correct. These two qualifications can be challenged by the other players upon whose satisfaction a cumulative score is maintained.

Great thought has been obviously given to both the educability and playability of this game to the extent that a constant table of suitable word endings, punctuation and link words are displayed from which selection can also be made and score enhanced accordingly.

This is not the kind of program that can be enjoyed, nor a satisfactory conclusion be reached, in five minutes and is so totally different to the 'shoot, bang, kill' type game; but spend the time and give it some thought and an extremely rewarding, often hilarious, experience can be had by all the family.