The ZX-80 Magic Book is published by Timedata Limited, 57 Swallowdale, Basildon, Essex, England. 60 pages, softbound, £4.75.
This book offers both programs and instructions on how to make better use of this popular computer. The second half of the book contains material which helps one to understand how the ZX-80 works.
The text explains how to create and debug programs, how to convert from other Basics, and includes such information as instructions for improving the television picture, how to connect a video monitor in place of a television set, and other useful technical information.
The twenty-one programs include Russian Roulette, which I hope no one takes too seriously; Moon Lander, a version of Lunar Lander, which is quite a difficult game; and a 2K version of Hammurabi, which is one of the best ZX-80 games I have played. This well known computer game was the subject of the SYNC Challenge last issue. As the ruler of ancient Sumeria, you must make all vital decisions on how to run the city, such as: how much grain is allocated for food and seed, how much land is traded for grain, and vice versa. On each turn you are told how much land and grain the city has and how the population fared from your previous decisions. If you calculate carefully, the population increases, and the area of the city grows. If not, people starve and the city loses land.
The other games are a mixed lot — some good, some not as good. A few non-game programs are also included such as Sums Tester and More Sums. The ZX-80 Magic Book should be a useful addition to most ZX-80 libraries, particularly for its technical sections.