Summary
- Release Year: 1983
- Genres: Platform
- Platforms: Atari 8-bit, Dragon 32/64, ZX Spectrum
- Publishers: Imagine Software
Jumping Jack (1983): A Retro Gem That’s Still Fun Today
Jumping Jack is a classic arcade game that was released in 1983. It’s a simple but addictive game that’s easy to learn but difficult to master. The goal of the game is to guide a small, green creature named Jack as he jumps from one platform to another, avoiding obstacles and collecting bonus items.
Gameplay
The gameplay in Jumping Jack is simple but effective. Jack can move left and right, and jump up to three platforms high. He must avoid falling off the platforms or colliding with obstacles, such as spikes, bombs, and fireballs.
Jack can also collect bonus items, such as fruit, umbrellas, and stars. These items give Jack points, extra lives, and other bonuses.
The game gets progressively more difficult as Jack progresses through the levels. The platforms become smaller and more spaced out, the obstacles become more dangerous, and the bonus items become harder to reach.
Graphics and sound
The graphics in Jumping Jack are simple but charming. The characters and objects are all made up of a few simple pixels, but they’re still expressive and recognizable. The game’s world is bright and colorful, and the animations are smooth and fluid.
The sound in Jumping Jack is also simple but effective. The game’s music is catchy and upbeat, and the sound effects are appropriate and well-timed.
Legacy
Jumping Jack was a critical and commercial success upon its release. It was praised for its simple but addictive gameplay, its charming graphics, and its catchy music. The game has been ported to numerous platforms over the years, and it’s still enjoyed by gamers today.
Jumping Jack has been cited as an influence on a number of later games, including Super Mario Bros. and Sonic the Hedgehog. It’s a true classic of the arcade era, and it’s still a fun and challenging game to play today.
Tips for playing Jumping Jack
Here are a few tips for playing Jumping Jack:
- Be patient. The game gets progressively more difficult as you progress, so don’t get discouraged if you don’t make it very far at first.
- Learn the patterns of the obstacles. Each obstacle has a specific pattern of movement. Once you learn these patterns, you can more easily avoid them.
- Use the bonus items to your advantage. The bonus items can give you points, extra lives, and other bonuses. Make sure to collect them whenever you can.
- Don’t be afraid to experiment. There are many different ways to play Jumping Jack. Experiment with different strategies to find what works best for you.
Conclusion
Jumping Jack is a classic arcade game that’s still fun to play today. It’s a simple but addictive game that’s easy to learn but difficult to master. If you’re a fan of retro games, or if you’re just looking for a fun and challenging game to play, then I highly recommend checking out Jumping Jack.
Review Score
8/10
Art
Cover Art
Screenshots
