Lode Runner

Perhaps the key to Lode Runner's success, however, was that it was one of the first mod-able games. Okay, not really mod-able, but it did come with a level editor allowing budding game developers make their own levels and share them with friends, as if the original 150 weren't enough. To use the level editor you'll need a disk to save your levels on, which if you're using DOSBox will mean familiarizing yourself with the disk mounting commands. So popular was Lode Runner's level creating feature that it prompted a follow up "Championship Lode Runner" the very next year (unfortunately no DOS version known) with only 50 levels, but the most challenging Lode Runner levels designed. This game could best be called fast and furious puzzle solving. It's simple to learn, a challenge to master, and still has a lot to offer after you're done playing.

Lode Runner's simple gameplay is part of what makes it so addictive and exciting--even today. Mind-teasing never goes out of style, and the fast-paced digging puzzles you'll face in Lode Runner make it one of the better Virtual Console releases, even if it's not as good as the original computer versions of the game. If any of this sounds remotely exciting, you may want to give Lode Runner a try.

Some stages will have you scratching your head trying to figure out how to reach buried chests. In terms of graphics, the characters are very small, but their animation is remarkably lifelike. I also like the game's unusual color scheme. Lode Runner is a quality title, but it tends to drag on for too long. Not only do you begin with five lives, but you receive extra lives on a regular basis. This is also one of the quietest games I've ever played, with no music and sparse sound effects. There are no passwords, but there is a level select. It may not look like much, if you're looking for a thinking man's platform game, Lode Runner will deliver the goods.

Redesigning a screen is as simple as moving a cursor. You first select the object which you want to deposit on the screen. It can be a gold bar, or even yourself. Moving the drop cursor and pressing the fire button will put it on to the new setup. As for the rest of the game, you might just as well forget about it. The user definition is the most exciting aspect of it and anyone who can work their way through 150 screens of matchstick heroes deserves a prize for perseverance.

There's no redeeming Lode Runner here, and no getting past the fact that investing just one dollar more for the already-available Battle Lode Runner would be a much wiser move. Download this one only if you're nostalgic for its original NES release. Otherwise, step up to the 600 Wii Point pricetag and grab the superior sequel.