C&VG


Chequered Flag

Publisher: Sinclair Research
Machine: Spectrum 48K

 
Published in Computer & Video Games #25

Chequered Flag

Chequered Flag is, as you might expect from the name, a Formula 1 racing simulation. It features some spectacular graphics, and there is a choice of ten circuits, mostly based on real race tracks, although there are some fictitious ones too - like the Cambridge Ring and Micro Drive!

When the game has loaded you first choose your track. Then you get a choice of three cars, one of which has an automatic gearbox.

The entire lower half of the screen is taken up by your car. You see all the dials - in fact, it resembles the cockpit display in Psion's flight simulation program in many ways.

Chequered Flag

Apart from the car, which is superbly drawn, there is not a lot else on the screen. Small telegraph poles fly past occasionally, but there are no other cars to pass - or to crash into!

This is one of those games which you have to be an octopus to play well. The game uses ten different keys but you only need to keep your hands on the accelerator, brake, left and right.

You also need a spare finger to change up and down through the gears, except on the automatic car.

I found the game a very real simulation of driving round a track. But steering is quite tricky and you certainly notice the lack of other cars.

Chequered Flag runs on a 48K Spectrum, and you should find it in WHSmith. It costs £6.95.