Summary
- Release Year: 1987
- Genres: Arcade, Shooter
- Platforms: Amiga, Atari ST/STE
- Developers: Microdeal
- Publishers: Microdeal
Goldrunner (1987): A Classic Vertically Scrolling Shoot’em Up
Goldrunner is a vertically scrolling shoot’em up game designed by Steve Bak and released in 1987. The player controls a gold miner who must collect gold nuggets while avoiding enemies and obstacles. The game is known for its challenging gameplay, pixelated graphics, and addictive soundtrack.
Gameplay
Goldrunner is a vertically scrolling shoot’em up game in which the player controls a gold miner named Goldrunner. The goal of the game is to collect gold nuggets while avoiding enemies and obstacles. The player can shoot enemies with a variety of weapons, including a gun, a laser, and a bomb. The player can also use a jetpack to fly over obstacles.
The game is divided into 100 levels, each with its own unique layout. The levels become increasingly difficult as the player progresses, with more enemies and obstacles to avoid. The player must also collect keys to open doors and reach the exit of each level.
Graphics
Goldrunner’s graphics are simple but effective. The game uses a pixelated art style that is reminiscent of early arcade games. The characters and objects are small and detailed, and the backgrounds are colorful and varied. The game’s graphics are not particularly impressive by today’s standards, but they are still charming and nostalgic.
Sound
Goldrunner’s soundtrack is composed of catchy chiptune music. The music is fast-paced and exciting, and it helps to create a sense of urgency and excitement. The sound effects are also well-done, and they help to bring the game world to life.
Reception
Goldrunner was a critical and commercial success upon its release. The game was praised for its challenging gameplay, addictive soundtrack, and charming graphics. Goldrunner was also a financial success, selling over 2 million copies worldwide.
The game has been ported to a variety of platforms over the years, including the Commodore 64, the Apple II, and the PC. Goldrunner is still enjoyed by gamers today, and it is considered to be one of the classic vertically scrolling shoot’em ups.
Legacy
Goldrunner has had a significant impact on the video game industry. The game’s challenging gameplay and addictive soundtrack have inspired many other vertically scrolling shoot’em ups. Goldrunner is also credited with popularizing the pixelated art style that is now common in many video games.
Goldrunner is a classic vertically scrolling shoot’em up that is still enjoyed by gamers today. The game’s challenging gameplay, addictive soundtrack, and charming graphics make it a must-play for fans of the genre.
Tips for Playing Goldrunner
- Use the jetpack to fly over obstacles and reach higher platforms.
- Shoot enemies from a distance to avoid getting hit.
- Collect keys to open doors and reach the exit of each level.
- Use the bomb to destroy large groups of enemies.
- Be patient and don’t give up! Goldrunner is a challenging game, but it is also very rewarding.
Conclusion
Goldrunner is a classic vertically scrolling shoot’em up that is still enjoyed by gamers today. The game’s challenging gameplay, addictive soundtrack, and charming graphics make it a must-play for fans of the genre. If you’re looking for a fun and challenging shoot’em up to play, then Goldrunner is definitely worth checking out.
Review Score
8/10
Art
Cover Art

Screenshots

