Lode Runner

Review by: Major Bunny

To start it off, I'll take a look at one of my all time favorites, Lode Runner. This great game from the '80's was brought back for the SS & PSX and hasn't lost a thing in terms of high-paced action and mental challenge. For those of you that aren't familiar with it, it's an arcade style platform game. Simply put, you must collect all of the gold and/or any keys and make your way to the exit while avoiding the cannibals chasing you. Your sole form of defense is an acid gun which can create temporary holes to the left or right of you. These can be used to either jump through or trap the enemies. They do close up after a few seconds though and that's not all bad. Timed right, you can trap an enemy there and watch him get smashed. Don't watch too long though because he'll reappear somewhere else on the screen. Moving to 32-bit proved very easy for this game. Thankfully the original stick figure graphics were left alone for the most part. New weapons were added and vets of the game will soon fall into that comfort zone after just a few plays. A pad configure is also included.

The enhancements of 32-bit are used accordingly for possibly the first time in recent memory. While the graphics are clearer, the true advance is in the music. Being on CD, the programmers have taken the time and effort to put in music that can stand alone in every respect. Not only is it great to listen to but it all fits the overall feel of the game well and doesn't interfere with the actual gameplay.

The puzzle aspect of this game separates it from today's "nostalgic wonders" and also shows that it was way ahead of it's time even back then. True, it owes more than a little respect to Apple Panic (or Space Panic as the arcade crowd knew it) but this is one excellently put together version. The difficulty is dead on and even as you zip thru some screens you'll find yourself lulled into a false sense of security as the computer bombards you with enemies from all sides and puzzles that look to be uncrackable.

There's a level creator but it really doesn't work as you can create and save your own levels but you can't link them into the game. A rather large oversight in my opinion.

Overall, a very good choice despite the fact that Lode Runner Extra is now out (I recommend that one also). I'll have both.