Patrick Phelan works at Gremlin Interactive and he was the creative director on Actua Soccer 3. So why have Leeds only got four stars, eh? Eh? EH? Anyway, some advice. Fill up the stadiums and give us the opportunity to choose left or right-footed players at free kicks. Oh, and don’t let people change formations unless the ball is out of play. Good job, otherwise…

What games are tickling your fancy at the moment?
Ultima Online, because human nature always fascinates me, the way people behave to one another when they can’t see them is amazing. Snotty little 13-year-olds and important adults. Starcraft, because it’s the most finely balanced RTS games out there. The imagery, history and characterisations are beautifully realised, and I always win at it. Zelda, because it’s well thought out – has been designed with the user in mind at all times. The game structure allows you to learn different things as you make your way through the game, rather than reading it all in a manual. Quake 2 - the only game with a never-ending learning curve – I’m talking multiplayer here, the adrenaline-pumping sessions online - the mid-air rail gun shots - fantastic. Streetfighter Zero 2 - the king of combo-lead beat ‘em ups. Sore thumbs anyone?

What was the first computer game you ever played?
The first ‘real’ computer game I ever played was Revenge Of The Mutant Camels on my C64, I found it very difficult with my immature (at the time) skills.

Any particular favourites from yesteryear?
Sentinal - weird, massively addictive.
Pitstop II - the first and greatest two-player racing game on the C64
DropZone - I remember going through three joysticks playing it, so it must have been good.
Starwars - Vektor sensations.
Ultima 6/7/8 - ‘cos I’m sad.
ECHO The Dolphin - because it was relaxing and dreamy.
Doom - The last game that made me go WOW!.
FIFA on the Mega Drive – the first really good football game on the Mega Drive. I could go on......

What has been the biggest videogaming let-down for you last year?
Tekken 3. The beat ‘em up for amateurs.

Any titles you’re really looking forward to in the near future?
Starsiege TRIBES - massive multiplayer potential, action, teamwork and big guns.
Kingpin - looks really edgy, another outlet for all my pent-up aggression.
Diablo II - multiplayer hack-and-slash - looks to be better than the original in every way.

When all’s said and done, what’s your favourite game ever?
Sadly it has to be Ultima 8. I’ve no idea why nor do I feel the need to explain myself - I’m absolutely normal in every way.