Overview
Bomb Jack leaped across single-screen stages collecting bombs before they exploded. The twist: collecting lit bombs in sequence multiplied your score. This simple risk/reward system, combined with tight controls and colourful graphics, made Bomb Jack an arcade and home computer favourite.
Fast facts
- Developer: Tehkan (later Tecmo).
- Release: 1984.
- Screens: Famous landmarks.
- Mechanic: Sequential bomb collection.
Core mechanics
| Action | Function |
|---|
| Jump | Reach platforms |
| Glide | Control descent |
| Collect | Grab bombs |
| Sequence | Multiplier bonus |
The scoring system
| Collection | Points |
|---|
| Unlit bomb | Base points |
| Lit bomb | Bonus points |
| Sequential lit | Multiplier chain |
| All sequential | Maximum bonus |
This encouraged risky play for high scores.
Stage backgrounds
Famous locations:
- Egyptian pyramids
- Greek Parthenon
- German castle
- Hollywood sign
- More landmarks
Enemy types
| Enemy | Pattern |
|---|
| Birds | Horizontal movement |
| Orbs | Chase player |
| Mummies | Walking hazards |
| UFOs | Erratic flight |
Power-ups
| Item | Effect |
|---|
| P | Extra points |
| B | Bonus life |
| E | Extra bomb |
| S | Freezes enemies |
Control feel
| Feature | Quality |
|---|
| Jump | Responsive, high |
| Glide | Precise air control |
| Momentum | Controllable descent |
The floaty jump was distinctive and satisfying.
Home versions
| Platform | Quality |
|---|
| C64 | Excellent, Elite conversion |
| Spectrum | Good adaptation |
| Amstrad CPC | Solid port |
| NES | Later release |
Sequels
| Title | Year |
|---|
| Bomb Jack II | 1986 |
| Mighty Bomb Jack | 1986 |
| Bomb Jack Twin | 1993 |
Legacy
Bomb Jack influenced:
- Single-screen platformers
- Score-chasing design
- Risk/reward collection
- Home computer conversions
See also