This is not, as you might think, a guide to clocking up half a million on Defenderoids or a selection of unbeatable strategies for computer chess. It is another collection of programs for you to type in.

But, stifle your groans and do not turn the page. If you ever wanted a book of games and despaired at the dross generally offered, this is the book for you. It follows Ellis Horwood's Mastering The Vic 20, perhaps the best book ever written for this micro, and is up to the same high standard.

There are 22 programs here, largely games, and while not particularly original they are generally attractive.

Each program is accompanied by a short introduction and the book's saddest failing is that these do not contain much in the way of explanation of the programs. There are many neat tricks and techniques employed in the games and the value of Winning Games On The Vic 20 would have been enhanced if these have been properly documented.

Nevertheless, it's good value - which is more than can be said for most books of this type - and the listings are full-size dumps to a printer.

Peter Worlock