BOULDER DASH 40th Anniversary review

BOULDER DASH 40th Anniversary makes me feel old! Though I was only a baby when it was first released, I enjoyed every crazy level while growing up. Accordingly, when they announced new worlds, stages, and mechanics, I couldn’t wait to give it a go. Add in the original games, and you have yourself a winner. Yes, it isn’t perfect, and loading times are a bit of a problem, but I was willing to overlook this for the sake of nostalgia.

BBG Entertainment developed and published this blast from the past. It is a single-player game that utilises modern and dated graphics. Furthermore, it has an impressive retro soundtrack that will get under your skin. If this isn’t enough, the puzzles will make you curse, and the trial and error is just tough enough to push you over the edge. Therefore, this isn’t for the faint of heart.

BOULDER DASH 40th Anniversary doesn’t really tell a story.

Having no story should hold any game back. Yet, BOULDER DASH 40th Anniversary thrives despite this shortcoming. Instead of a rich and emotional plot, you are asked to collect gems, kill monsters, and get to the end of each level. En route, you must avoid boulders and overcome obstacles. It sounds very simple, but the cunning and nasty gameplay has a way of biting you in the arse.

You play the role of Rockford. He is a nimble being who simply loves diamonds and gems. He explores dangerous caves trying to find valuable items in the quickest time possible. However, he is rarely alone, and many hazards await. Though the game has been going on for over 40 years, the action hasn’t become dull. Instead, the growing fanbase has got involved and helped to create some of the new content.

Rewarding gameplay.

Tackling every level in this monster anniversary collection will break many unsuspecting souls. As you work your way through each stage, you must methodically navigate mud, rocks, and an array of monsters. Moreover, there are plenty of surprises that will impress the toughest and hardiest of gamers.

The basic action should have been tedious, but it isn’t. Carving the perfect path and running at lightning speeds is unbelievably rewarding. Though BOULDER DASH 40th Anniversary is a modern version of a classic franchise, it stays faithful to each core idea, and this was a winning decision.

Retro visuals, loud audio, and teeth-grinding longevity.

I adore retro games, and BOULDER DASH 40th Anniversary doesn’t disappoint. The original levels are as pixelated, vibrant, and dated as you’ll remember. Furthermore, there is a CRT filter to mix things up if you’d like. The modern levels have a nice, clean design, and the large stages will test the greatest of players. The audio has aged wonderfully. Like a fine wine, you will enjoy every moment. It is shrill, loud, and brilliantly in-your-face.

The controls are a little sensitive for my liking. However, once you get to grips with things, you’ll be sprinting around every stage. I’d have preferred the exclusive use of my d-pad instead of the analogue stick. This decision undermines the authenticity and was somewhat disappointing. This is one cruel game, and I can see many people quitting before they complete every level. Though many of the latter stages and fanbase content are tough, it enhances replay value and longevity.

BOULDER DASH 40th Anniversary is a modern classic.

If you love the original franchise, this won’t be a tough sell. The action is fun, challenging, and brilliantly rewarding. Furthermore, it reeks of old-school mastery and looks and sounds fantastic. I’m not as sold on the new ideas, but I think they will appeal to modern gamers, and this is a great approach. Accordingly, it is great, and you should grab a copy from the Xbox Store!