StarLancer is a space combat game in the style of Privateer and Elite.

First impressions were very good - the installation process went smoothly and without a hitch.

You play the part of an enlisted pilot in the 45th Volunteers Squadron taking part in 25 increasingly challenging combat missions.

The game begins with a guided tour of your quarters on board the Alliance Starship Reliant.

The animation is polished and the gameplay itself is among the best I have seen.

There are a bewildering array of weapons and ships to choose from.

The graphics are beautiful and unlike many space combat games, the action remains smooth even when there are many objects being rendered on-screen.

One particularly nice touch is the translucent glowing shield effect around enemy ships as you fire on them.

All in all this is a superb game and is sure to be a big hit.

Price: £35
Contact: 0345 002000
Feelgood factor: 9 out of 10