The Games: Winter Edition

The Games: Winter Edition brings a collection of winter sporting events to the home computer, giving players a chance to compete in snowy disciplines without having to leave the house or wear an uncomfortable amount of clothing. Each event has its own controls and demands, so success depends on learning the rhythm and technique rather than simply holding down a button and hoping for the best. The presentation is simple but functional, with the emphasis firmly on competition. As with many sports compilations from this period, it becomes considerably more entertaining when several people are taking turns and pretending that every defeat was caused by faulty controls. The individual events offer enough variety to keep the package moving, while the tournament structure gives victories some meaning. It may lack modern realism, but it captures the uncomplicated fun of early computer sports games remarkably well.