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Mined Out is unoriginal in concept but is nicely implemented on the Oric machines. The idea of the game is to travel through seemingly endless minefields in order to rescue that star of stage and silver screen, Bill the Worm.

The game loads and the instructions are clear and easy to understand. You are able to define your own keys for movements around the screen - a nice touch that other software houses should take note of. As usual you have to travel from the bottom of the screen to the top avoiding the invisible mines. An indicator lights up when you find yourself adjacent to one or more mines so it does not take much mental power to reach the exit at the top.

Once this has been achieved you move on to the next level and by rescuing lost maidens you gain extra points. In level 3 little creatures occasionally run ascross the screen and these clear away invisible mines and also lay visible ones. Other features include a bug that starts to chase you, so it becomes increasingly essential to keep on the move. However, it is also important to note that the bug is not very bright and hardly matches the speed of Carl Lewis.

The graphics are satisfactory and the sound is minimal, but neither stetches the Oric to its considerable limits. There is no Hall of Fame although the highest score is remembered. The idea is simple, the game fairly addictive and is best suited to family participation.

The arcade fanatic would be best advised to look for something more challenging.