# Bomberman Introduction *Bomberman*, originally released as *Bakudan Otoko* ("Bomb Man") in July 1983 for Japanese home computers (e.g., MSX, NEC PC-8801) and as *Eric and the Floaters* in Europe, hit the Famicom in December 1985 and the NES in January 1989, developed by Hudson Soft. This iconic maze-based action-puzzle game, created by Shinichi Nakamoto, follows White Bomberman, a robot seeking freedom from an underground compound by blasting through 50 levels of enemies and destructible walls (*Wikipedia*). Its core mechanic—placing bombs that explode in a cross pattern to clear obstacles and foes—spawned a franchise with over 60 titles and 23.2 million copies sold (*Wikipedia*). The NES version introduced multiplayer, a hallmark of the series, and a narrative linking to *Lode Runner*, where Bomberman becomes human upon escape (*Wikipedia*). Praised for its addictive gameplay (*GameFAQs*: 4.2/5), it’s criticized for repetitive levels (*Nintendo Power*: 3.5/5). Re-released in *Classic NES Series* (2004, GBA) and *Nintendo Switch Online* (2018).[](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Bomberman_%281983_video_game%29)[](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Bomberman)[](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Bomberman_%281983_video_game%29) ## Why Play Bomberman? *Bomberman* offers timeless maze-based action, perfect for quick sessions or multiplayer chaos. In Single-Player Mode, players navigate White Bomber through 50 top-down levels, placing bombs to destroy soft blocks and enemies (e.g., Balloon, O-neeto) to find exits (*nfs.fandom.com*). Power-ups like Bomb Up (more bombs) or Fire Up (larger explosions) add strategy, but mistimed blasts can kill Bomberman (*Wikipedia*). Multiplayer Battle Mode, supporting 2 players via link cable or 4 via multitap (later versions), pits players against each other in a last-man-standing arena, a feature that defined the series’ multiplayer legacy (*GameSpot*). Levels take 2-5 minutes, with Single-Player Mode lasting 3-5 hours. Its simple yet deep mechanics, chiptune soundtrack, and pixel art charm fans (*ArcadeSpot*: 61/73 votes). X posts call it a “multiplayer legend” (*@VertigoWarrior*). Compared to *Captain Tsubasa V* or *Need for Speed: Underground 2*, *Bomberman* swaps RPG and racing for strategic puzzle-action, appealing to *Kunio-kun* fans for its retro vibe. ## Key Features - Control White Bomberman through 50 maze levels, blasting enemies and walls - 2 modes: Single-Player (50 levels, find exits), Battle Mode (2-4 players, last-man-standing) - Power-ups: Bomb Up (more bombs), Fire Up (bigger blasts), Speed Up, Remote Control - Strategic bomb placement to clear soft blocks and defeat enemies like Balloon or O-neeto - Narrative ties to *Lode Runner*: Bomberman becomes human upon escape - Experience authentic NES/Famicom gameplay on our retro ROM platform ## Key Differences: NES/Famicom vs. Other Versions - **Famicom (1985)/NES (1989)**: Core maze gameplay, 50 levels, basic graphics; Japan’s Famicom has Japanese text, NES is English (*Wikipedia*) - **Compared to Need for Speed: Underground 2 (2004)**: *Bomberman* is a puzzle-action game, not open-world racing; focuses on strategy vs. speed (*GameSpot*). - **Compared to Captain Tsubasa V (1994, SNES)**: *Bomberman* lacks RPG elements, emphasizes quick puzzle battles; *Tsubasa* is a soccer RPG (*Wikipedia*). - **Compared to Kunio-kun no Nekketsu Soccer League (1993, NES)**: *Bomberman* is maze-based, not sports; both share retro multiplayer appeal (*GameFAQs*). - **Other Versions**: MSX (1983, simpler graphics), *Classic NES Series* (2004, GBA, portable), *Nintendo Switch Online* (2018, save states). *Bomberman Party Edition* (2000, PS1) adds 3D visuals (*Wikipedia*). - **Regional Notes**: Europe’s *Eric and the Floaters* (1983) avoids “Bomberman” due to IRA connotations (*Wikipedia*). ## Play Bomberman Online Blast away today! Play *Bomberman* (1985, NES/Famicom) instantly on our website, Classic Joy Games, with no downloads, using NES emulators. Alternatively, try it on RetroGames.cz (*Web*), EmulatorGames.net, OldGameShelf.com (4.7/5 from 25 reviews), or *Nintendo Switch Online* (2018). Physical NES copies cost $15-$40 (cart only) or $50-$120 (CIB) on eBay; Famicom carts are $10-$30 (*PriceCharting*). Ideal for *Bomberman* and *Kunio-kun* fans! Note: Use Mesen or Nestopia for accurate emulation; *Switch Online* offers online multiplayer. For strategy, prioritize Fire Up power-ups; trap enemies with timed bombs near corners. Cheat: At the password screen, enter “BAABBCBCBCCACCCABAC” for Level 50 with max power-ups (*GameFAQs*). Join players worldwide on Classic Joy Games. Start your explosive maze adventure now!