Virtual Skipper 3 (PC)

Working through a well thought through interface, the initial emphasis is on getting you up and sailing. That's not too tricky, and the learning curve is gentle enough to keep you interested despite the game's challenges.

Where the game really scores though is when you bring in the competitive element. It plunges you into races across familiar and strongly realised stretches of water, drawing upon numerous skills. You'll need to plan your best route across the waters. You'll need to take account of wind speeds and water currents. And then you'll need to fight off a quality field of competitors. In short, there's a lot to take note of, and if you get into it, it'll eat time away with genuine ease.

Because of that, Virtual Skipper 3 won't endear itself to all. It's hardly a pick-up-and-play kind of game, nor is it one that will appeal to those who require their gaming to be more arcade flavoured. Still, in this case it's all the better for it. For this is a deliberately serious, very enjoyable and--when on top form--utterly engrossing title. Graphically excellent, it's also a game that doesn't skimp on the multi-player options.

In short, not only is it a strong sailing simulation, it's a quality title in its own right, and a very sound purchase too. --Simon Brew