Karnov

Even taking into account the dodgy presentation here and there, and the feeble sound effects, Karnov is one of the slickest games around at the moment. It costs a bit more than yer average arcade game, but it's worth every rouble, I'd say.

Sheer game size demands a multiload that proves annoying as you go back and forth between levels. 48L sound is limited to spot FX, on 128K there are a few jingles. Should prove popular, with stacks of lasting appeal in nine tortuous levels and addictive action.

The NES version was also made considerably easier by adding a feature allowing the character to be hit once before he dies. Still, Karnov requires plenty of skill if you are going to get through its nine stages in one piece.