Overview
A licensed game that was actually great. DuckTales proved Disney properties could produce excellent gameplay when paired with capable developers. Capcom crafted tight controls around Scrooge McDuck’s cane-bouncing pogo attack, while non-linear stage selection and hidden treasures encouraged exploration. The Moon theme became one of gaming’s most beloved compositions.
Fast facts
- Developer: Capcom.
- Source: Disney TV series.
- Innovation: Pogo cane mechanic.
- Music: Legendary Moon stage theme.
Pogo mechanics
| Action |
Function |
| Pogo bounce |
Primary attack, reach heights |
| Cane swing |
Hit objects into enemies |
| Golf swing |
Knock blocks, rocks |
Stage selection
| Location |
Environment |
| Amazon |
Jungle temple |
| Transylvania |
Haunted castle |
| African Mines |
Underground |
| Himalayas |
Snow and ice |
| The Moon |
Space station |
Non-linear design
| Feature |
Effect |
| Stage choice |
Play in any order |
| Hidden treasures |
Exploration rewards |
| Secret areas |
Bonus discoveries |
| Multiple paths |
Varied approaches |
The Moon theme
| Legacy |
Impact |
| Composition |
Instantly recognisable |
| Remixes |
Countless covers |
| Cultural status |
Iconic game music |
| Composer |
Hiroshige Tonomura |
Treasure hunting
| Goal |
Method |
| Five treasures |
One per stage |
| Hidden chests |
Secret locations |
| Money |
Scrooge motivation |
| Title |
Year |
| DuckTales |
1989 |
| Chip ’n Dale |
1990 |
| DuckTales 2 |
1993 |
| Darkwing Duck |
1992 |
Remaster
| Version |
Year |
| DuckTales: Remastered |
2013 |
| Updated graphics |
HD visuals |
| Voice acting |
Original cast |
See also