Summary
- Release Year: 1983
- Genres: Platform, Puzzle, Strategy
- Platforms: Arcade, Epoch Super Cassette Vision, Family Computer, FM-7, iOS, MSX, NEC PC-6000 Series, Nintendo Entertainment System, PC-8800 Series, Sega Game Gear, Sharp X1, Wii, Wii U
- Developers: Namco Limited
- Publishers: Bandai Namco Entertainment, Bandai Namco Games, Dempa Shimbunsha, Namco Bandai Games, Namco Limited
Mappy (1983): A Feline-Fine Platform Adventure
In the annals of classic arcade games, Mappy stands out as a charming and challenging platformer that captured the hearts of gamers in the early 1980s. Released in 1983 by Namco, Mappy puts players in the paws of a police mouse on a daring mission to retrieve stolen goods from a mansion infested with mischievous cats.
Gameplay: A Mouse on a Mission
Mappy is a side-scrolling platformer with six floors of mansion to explore. The player controls Mappy, a nimble mouse, as he navigates through the mansion’s hallways, jumping over obstacles, avoiding cats, and collecting stolen items.
The mansion is a labyrinth of corridors and rooms, each filled with unique challenges. Mappy must use his agility to jump over tables, chairs, and other obstacles, while avoiding the pesky cats that roam the halls. The cats come in different colors and sizes, each with their own movement patterns. Some cats patrol back and forth, while others chase Mappy relentlessly.
To complete each floor, Mappy must collect all of the stolen items, which are scattered throughout the mansion. These items include jewelry, paintings, and other valuables. Once all the items are collected, Mappy must find the exit door and escape to the next floor.
Traps and Tricks: A Cat-and-Mouse Chase
Mappy’s adventure is not without its perils. The mansion is filled with traps and tricks designed to hinder his progress. There are conveyor belts that can carry Mappy away from his destination, trap doors that drop him to lower floors, and even cannons that fire balls at him.
To overcome these obstacles, Mappy must use his wits and agility. He can jump over conveyor belts, avoid trap doors by carefully timing his jumps, and use cannons to launch himself over gaps.
Power-Ups: A Mouse’s Arsenal
Throughout the mansion, Mappy can collect power-ups that give him special abilities. These power-ups include:
- Super Jump: Allows Mappy to jump higher and reach new areas.
- Speed Boost: Makes Mappy run faster, allowing him to outrun the cats.
- Invincibility: Makes Mappy invincible to the cats’ attacks for a short period of time.
- Extra Life: Grants Mappy an extra life.
These power-ups can be a lifesaver in tough situations, but they are also rare, so Mappy must use them wisely.
Legacy: A Classic Remembered
Mappy was a critical and commercial success upon its release in 1983. It was praised for its innovative gameplay, charming graphics, and catchy music. Mappy has been ported to numerous platforms over the years, including the NES, Commodore 64, and PlayStation.
Today, Mappy is remembered as one of the most iconic platformers of the early 1980s. Its simple yet addictive gameplay, lovable characters, and challenging levels have made it a timeless classic that continues to be enjoyed by gamers of all ages.
Tips for Playing Mappy
Here are a few tips to help you succeed in Mappy:
- Learn the cat patterns: Each cat has its own unique movement pattern. Study their movements and learn how to avoid them.
- Use the power-ups wisely: Power-ups can be a lifesaver, but they are rare. Use them only when you need them most.
- Don’t be afraid to explore: The mansion is filled with secret areas and hidden items. Take your time to explore and you may find some valuable rewards.
- Practice makes perfect: Mappy is a challenging game, but with practice you will improve your skills and be able to complete the mansion.
Conclusion
Mappy is a charming and challenging platformer that has stood the test of time. Its innovative gameplay, lovable characters, and catchy music have made it a classic that continues to be enjoyed by gamers of all ages. So grab your mouse ears and embark on a feline-fine adventure with Mappy!
Review Score
8.5/10
Art
Cover Art
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