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On to more modern day simulations - the first being Strike Force Harrier. Here you are flying the celebrated Harrier Jump Jet, well known for its ability for VTOL (Vertical Take Off and Landing). And boy, are you in trouble.

Single handed you must clear a vast tract of land and ultimately destroy the enemy base. Tricky stuff - particularly as the Harrier isn't the easiest thing in the world to fly.

The instructions are comprehensive and take you through your various instruments, weapon systems and finally the manoeuvres you'll need to master to survive against the spritely opposition.

The action takes place on a single screen, containing radar and the like on the lower portion - but this time quite a few of the essential indicators are placed on a head-up display, superimposed on the view from the cockpit, on the upper portion of the screen.

Controls are keyboard only, or a combination of joystick and keyboard - and are easy enough to master once you get the hang of it. Responsiveness is good and the opposition can get pretty smart. Messing around with the orientation of the jet nozzles can produce some pretty startling results.

If you've ever wanted to get some idea of what it feels like to pilot a Harrier then this is highly recommended.

1. od stuff, and you won't get bored with it.