Archer Maclean's Pool

Now here's a tricky one. What can I say about this that I haven't said already in issue two's review. Very little really, so if you're unfamiliar with Mr Maclean's near legendary work on the computerised green baize then you'll have to buy a back issue.

Basically Archer Maclean's Pool is a rewrite of the highly successful Jimmy White's Whirlwind Snooker, which set new standards for snooker sims. The pool version is as good, except it's pool. The 256 version is as good only it's in 256 colours (i.e. svga). To all intents and purposes this means clearer, more attractive graphics, the balls have more shine and reflection and the cue has a more mottled wooden look (though the same cannot be said of the edge of the table). The only slight criticism is that the numbers on the balls still constantly face the player. This may make the game easier to follow but gives the impression that the ball is sliding not rolling.

However, this is only a small personal bug bear. Archer Maclean's Pool is still the best pool game around, and this is a better looking version, though no one's going to pretend that owners of the original'should replace it. This is strictly for the uninitiated. Paul Lakin.