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