Title: Lode Runner
Platform: XBLA
ESRB Rating: E
Publisher: Microsoft
Developers: Tozai and Southend Interactive
Rating: 
Review by: John Gustafson
Once again, a gaming classic resurfaces on the current generation of consoles with a fresh coat of paint, a few bells, a couple whistles and a veritable determination focused on gaining a new fan base.
Older gamers will remember the original Lode Runner’s debut on the Apple II and Commodore 64 in 1983 as not only one of the best puzzle platformers, but also the most unique, with one of the first level creation tools. This version of Lode Runner is best thought of as a faithful reinterpretation of the storied game in all its high-resolution glory.
Like the original, players navigate intricately designed puzzles by climbing ladders, traversing gaps on horizontal ropes and blasting blocks with a robotic arm in an attempt to collect all the gold on screen. Gamers unfamiliar with the series will initially have a jarring experience as a traditional jump button is non existent and the character falls directly down rather than in the diagonal fashion featured in most other games. However, the omission of such “standards” is part of the puzzles, focusing gameplay on navigational decisions and block destruction, with some being indestructible.
The controls are deceptively simple, essentially utilizing a shoot backward and shoot forward design. Players cannot shoot the block underneath them, as this weighs heavily into level design and completion challenges.
Players can go it alone or co-operatively online or offline in a plethora of game types and challenges. There are a total of 220 levels spread through the game, offering a tremendous amount of variety and replay value for single or multiplayer, and that’s not including the unlimited variety the level creator brings to the table.
Make no mistake about Lode Runner, though, it is a difficult game that will push reflexes and warrant multiple puzzle replays. Yet it is not too tough to discourage players from continuing, and there is a definite rewarding feeling for passing the challenges and avoiding the enemies.
What hurts the game most is its steep price point. At this time, the online community is quite sparse and multiplayer games will be difficult if not impossible to start with a lack of players. Hopefully the price will drop, encouraging more people to pick up this classic title.
For more info, http://www.xbox.com/en-US/games/l/loderunnerxboxlivearcade
