Mr. Goemon

Mr. Goemon is the first game in the Ganbare Goemon series. It is based on Ishikawa Goemon, an infamous outlaw in 16th century Japan. It is a 2D side-scrolling platform game that consists of five stages where Goemon needs to go right and reach the end of the level, while avoiding or defeating enemies. Enemies are defeated by jumping on top of them or by hitting them with a pipe. Different types of items can be picked up as well to hit them or throw it at them, such as a fan, a mask, a giant ball or a cat statue. There is glowing power-up that provides temporary invincibility and kills enemy by running right through them. Touching an enemy is not fatal. When they are close they will hold Goemon and the player needs to quickly wiggle the controller to break free. When it takes too long or too many enemies get close for a hold, he loses a life. Certain projectiles also stun the protagonist for a short time.

There are three lives in total. Points are earned by progressing and defeating enemies. A bonus is provided at 40,000 points and then every 80,000 points. Enemies keep spawning so moving forward constantly is important. A timer is not shown on the screen, but the remaining time after quickly completing a level is converted into points. When all lives are lost the entire game needs to be started over.