Can you beat the computer?

Colour Genie Poker is written in Basic and uses the low-res screen to good effect in drawing five playing cards. You then place a bet up to a maximum of fifteen by pressing 'B' repeatedly. The cards are then uncovered by typing 'D' for draw at which point the five cards are drawn out and you must decide whether or not you are likely to win with the hand you have. The option to "hold" any of the five cards is given and you can also double your bet.

When you have decided on your strategy, pressing 'D' again deals you however many cards you haven't held, replacing the unheld cards. The computer then checks to see if you have won and if so awards you points, and the chance to play double or quits on the turn of another card. If you lose, a tune makes certain you realise.

The game continues until you either break the bank (unlikely) or lose all your money (more likely). A very good program at a reasonable price and one that even the most inexperienced card player could play.

Marc J. Leduc