PUBS are again echoing to the melodious bleeps of Pac Man and Space Invaders. These bulky machines might possess less impressive graphics than a modern Gameboy, but Harrogate company World Events has found that many pub-goers yearn for archaic amusements.

So why stop with Pac Man? Drinkers might be delighted to wrestle with a Rubik's Cube over a pint. Or take a spin on a space hopper around the beer garden. Hours of fun can be provided with a cup and ball, or a spinning top.

Some genuinely ancient pub games might be revived. Whatever happened to cards, darts and dominoes?

Updated: 10:21 Friday, December 28, 2001