WHAT'S THE STORY? Green baize action without having to leave the safety of your own home. Featuring pretty much every variety of pool ever conceived, plus snooker, the big deal is that you can play online against unseen opponents. It may not replace a few frames down the local, but the potential for unprovoked violence is considerably reduced.

TECHNICALLY SPEAKING? Online pub game simulator.

PLAYS LIKE? World Championship Snooker 2003, er, pool.

WORTH STAYING IN FOR? It's cheaper than buying your own two-piece cue.