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For an offering with that extra edge, you'd do far worse than get hold of a copy of the marvellously crafted S.D.I.

Based on the true Reaganesque Strategic Defence Initiative program, this one or two player action/strategy blast puts you in total control of your country's defences. You'd better be good, or it's the end of civilisation as we know it.

In all, there are a staggering 12 different levels, each of which contains an offensive and defensive mode.

Using joystick or keyboard, you are in full control of a laser loaded defence/offence satellite and, as you get to grips with the controls, watch as the first wave of an all-out nuclear war spreads from the starry horizon.

Controlling the small cursor on screen, your job is to aim your laser at the oncoming enemy and let 'em have it. Over the first level, your task is fairly achievable but, as the enemy craft and missiles begin to multiply, your life will become extremely tricky indeed.

You must keep your guard up at all times, to prevent enemy craft from penetrating your defences. Allow this to happen and you must automatically go into defence mode, as the opposing fighters, satellites and missiles bear down on you.

As you progress, the action gets red hot and you'll certainly wish you'd never started at some stages.

However, to help you outjust a little, watch out for the satellites bearing bonus pods. Shoot them out of the sky to release the pods, then dock with the pod to get extra cursors. Much needed in later levels.

Planning the best form of attack will take some getting used to and, after just a few plays, the tense atmosphere will make this superb game feel like the real thing.

Floating around above Earth's atmosphere, the sound effects are superb, while the game itself is a true challenge for any gamester.

As a two player game, S.D.I. is a must, with some truly marvellous graphics outlining this desperate struggle in the skies, As a budget label, S.D.I. should hook you for hours. Try it and see for yourselves.