Arsenal.com, like Doctor Who before it, has regenerated - and entered the Brave New World of actually charging for some stuff. It's the dot-com downturn, don't you know.

Arseweb's immediate reaction is that it looks a lot more like, well... like a website than in previous years. Most of the familiar features from last year remain intact, with a few significant additions - but nothing you really need, unless broadband video appeals.

The free-to-register 'Arsenal World' service promises in-depth news, forums and polls, and a basic 'instant messaging' service. It's probably worth signing up quickly, if only to be sure you get the username you want.

Arseweb has had problems enjoying the free preview of the 'Plus' services, notably broadband video - no matter how long we waited, the clips wouldn't start. And it's not immediately obvious that you have to register to get the free access. Does not bode well, sadly.

The verdict... OK, as far as it goes. We thought registration had gone out of fashion on the web, and it may prove a slight annoyance. It's a shame too, that the free Plus preview isn't better organised, as it will put off potential (paying) customers. The club deserves some respect for trying to take advantage of improving video technology - but so far, we can't help but feel a little underwhelmed.

Rupe adds: If Simon was using Netscape I think he'd be more than a "little" underwhelmed. Frankly, the site is a mess. Lots of the graphics are either missing or misaligned, sections of the page are in the wrong place, obscuring other sections. There has clearly been very little effort to get this right. Don't think I'll be paying for the extras just yet....