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With an innocuous (look it up!) name like Satan, this game isn't going to get noticed, is it? Well, it oughta. The Evil One's minions have got a bad attitude towards axe-wielding wizards. And guess who's an axe-wielding wizard?

Abysmal, geddit? Satan is a two-part fantasy bash beginning with a straightforward session of cavern level leaping, monster-bashing and point collecting. Once completed, a password is provided to allow you to enter the second, more strategy-orientated game. This involves climbing up or leaping off ridges, bashing monsters and collecting points. Doesn't sound that different, does it? Let me explain.

In the first section, you play the part of a warrior who must drive Satan "back to the entrails of Hell". Sounds disgusting. What's more, this horrendous task is not altogether easy. To prevent you achieving your aim, Old Nick has imposed the combined hassles of a time limit and a small-but-formidable group of nasties. The Kelpie wield axes and prowl the cavernous levels waiting for foolhardy warriors such as yourself to sharpen their blades on. The Nairb fly around the upper cavern and breathe fire, saving their attack until you're clinging to one of the stone columns which you must climb throughout this part of the game. Finally, the tiny Glaistig scuttle after you and generally get in the way. However, they reproduce when shot at (!).

In order to achieve your ultimate aim you need to learn the art of magic. This means that your level one quest is to collect three papyrus scrolls which, when brought together, make you a wizard (and reward you with the password which opens up level two). These are, however, guarded by Tam Lin, a long-necked beast consisting of no more than dry bones and a beating heart. Despite this physical deficiency the monster can still 'mix it' with the best of them and proved it by beating me senseless again and again.

But the odds are not entirely against you. Several helpful features await discovery. Doorways in the cavern walls lead off to sub sections containing "power-ups" which increase your firepower threefold. Also available are potions which restore your strength, lightning flashes which clear the screen of opponents (yes, the smart bomb has been around since the age of magic!), extra lives and hourglasses for extra time.

On completion of part one you are given a code number which allows you to enter part two. The platforms and ladders remain but the setting this time is out-of-doors, and the action is far more furious than in part one. You have now become a wizard - in fact, you've become an axe-wielding wizard (smart move) - and must save your fellow wizards from death at the hands of Satan. It's still a race against the clock in that you must kill Satan and his minions before all the other wizards have been executed.

In the baddies department, Satan has saved the best until last. Initially there is only Satan himself to destroy. Once this is done however, he splits into two more opponents which in turn each split into two, making a total of seven devilish denizens. Each of your adversaries gets progressively smaller yet tougher to beat. The enemy sprites look good and conjure up an atmosphere of all things demonic.

You can buy yourself some help from a shop situated near the start of the level which stocks a variety of magical items. Scanners help locate the enemy, potions restore lost energy (these are vital to your success), shields and increased weapon capability are also up for grabs. Although small in comparison to part one, this section is good fun to play and provides a bit more variety in both graphics and gameplay, which can't be a Bad Thing.

The graphics throughout are well above second rate. The backdrops are effective: simple but atmospheric. The main character in the arcade section is slightly blocky but strikes some heroic poses as he battles through the screens. The Nairb, Kelpie and crew are even better defined and convey a suitable sense of wickedness.

Sound in the game is nothing new but it is appropriate and doesn't intrude upon the gameplay. (No repetitive soundtracks here!) Mostly, it consists of spot effects which are satisfyingly chunky, especially when Satan's cronies get it in the neck.

Where this game really scores is in the playability department. Overall, Satan looks pretty, it sounds fine and it plays well. There's a fair amount of skill involved in leaping between levels and the columns. But until you get to grips with the controls, it can be infuriating to be sent back to the beginning when you lose a life. Still, Satan is good enough to keep you coming back.

A little more imagination wouldn't have gone amiss. You may well think you've seen this game before. Apart from anything else, you wouldn't have believed that a lot of work went into the title. "Er, whadda we gonna call the bad guy then?" Satan. "Oh yeah, he's pretty bad, isn't he? Okay, what are we gonna call the game then?" Well, it's about Satan, isn't it? How about Satan? "Sounds good to me." Well, apart from the title...

1. Both background graphics and sprites are excellent, with lots of atmosphere.
2. Controls are very responsive
3. Part one is divided into small sections which prevents you going back to the start event time you die
4. Appropriate sound effects enhance the overall effect
5. Opponents' range of attacks keeps you on your toes
6. Password system for part two prevents frustration
7. Inclusion of two game types ensures long-lasting appeal
8. Good game design means that you are never trapped at one point for too long

1. Obviously derivative of Black Tiger
2. Part two is too short-lived
3. Documentation is woefully inadequate