Leaper (Atari 8-bit, Commodore 16, Plus/4)

C16 / Plus 4 Box Art

Released in 1986 by Bug-Byte Software L.T.D for the Commodore C16 / Plus 4 and the Atari 8-bit, Leaper is a game based on the popular game Jumping Jack. The objective of the game is to reach the top of the screen by jumping through the moving gaps in each level of platforms. In this version, the idea is to reach the top of the screen six times, and with each completion, a letter from the word Leaper lights up. The gameplay of Leaper is relatively simple, but it can be challenging at times. Players have an energy bar which decreases if they touch the sides of the screen, don't jump up through a gap cleanly, fall down a gap cleanly or fall down a couple of levels. Once the energy bar is empty, the player loses one of five lives. Additionally, there are various creatures moving along various platforms and if these are touched then the player loses a life.

Title Screen C16 / Plus 4

One of the most notable features of Leaper is its sound effects and graphics. The game uses a version of popcorn as in-game music, which adds to the overall arcade feel of the game. The sound effects are also noteworthy, with satisfying "thumps" and "thuds" as the player jumps from platform to platform. The graphics are also well-done, with colourful and detailed sprites that are easy to distinguish.

Video Of Gameplay 

Get to the Top. C16 / Plus 4 Version

Upon its release, Leaper received mixed reviews from critics. Computer Gamer rated the Commodore 16, Plus/4 version 16 out of 20 in November 1986 and said "It all contributes to a fast-moving game that has some splendid sound effects and graphics. It deserves to be part of any games enthusiast's collection". On the other hand, Zzap! rated the Commodore 16, Plus/4 version 62 out of 100 in August 1987 and said "Simplistic, and occasionally frustrating, but highly playable". Commodore User rated it 6 out of 10 in September 1986 and said "Despite the game not working properly I would recommend it to most owners, because it's got good graphics and the tunes are the best around for the C16/Plus 4". Retro Game Reviews rated the Atari 8-bit version 2 stars out of 10 in December 2015 and stated "Leaper is a game I desperately wanted to love as it's a great concept and sounds like it should have tons of addictive qualities. However, the mechanics are poorly executed and it's impossible to keep playing for long as it repeatedly punishes you with very little in the way of reward".

Atari 8-Bit Version

Overall, Leaper is a game that offers a simple yet challenging gameplay experience. Its sound effects and graphics are noteworthy, and it's a game that offers a fun, nostalgic arcade feel. The game may not be without its flaws, but it's still worth checking out for retro gaming enthusiasts. While it may not be the best game of its time, it's still an enjoyable game that deserves a spot in any retro gaming collection.