"Despite the odd name, Lode Runner is actually a decent game"

Lode Runner is one of the true classics of the video game world...or at the very least, one of the semi-classics. This game has been ported to a variety of systems, but the innovation is apparent in every one of them.

The object of each level is to collect all of the gold. This may seem like an easy task, but it isn't. The only thing that you can do is dig holes directly in front of you. The main use for this is to trap bad guys who are chasing you, or to drop down to collect gold. Considering your obvious lack of moves in this game, you're gonna have to use your noodle if you hope to have a shadow of a chance of getting anywhere in this game. Everything in a level is carefully placed, so that you'll only be able to get to certain gold by digging in the right spots, but it's much more difficult than it sounds. The game is extremely challenging, and sometimes frustrating when you can't figure out a solution to a level. However, if you keep trying, you're sure to discover a way though.

The graphics of this game look pretty cartoony, but they're still pretty good. Considering the extreme age of the game, it doesn't seem bad at all. The sound is pretty average, nothing too outstanding or horrible about it.

If you're tired of ripping through games left and right, you should give Lode Runner a try. It's a unique game, but it's also very challenging, but it's addicting as well. If you can get all the way through this game (without outside help, of course) then you're truly a video game genius. If you can find this game at a cheap price, pick it up. It might save you from boredom on a rainy day...

Reviewer's Score: 7/10, Originally Posted: 11/01/99, Updated 08/07/01