# Bomberman (PC Engine) Introduction ## Overview *Bomberman*, released in December 1990 for the PC Engine by Hudson Soft, is a refined port of the 1985 Famicom/NES classic. Japan-only, it follows White Bomber escaping an underground labyrinth through 64 maze levels, facing enemies like Balloon and O-neeto (*Wikipedia*). Enhanced with vibrant PC Engine graphics, it introduces 5-player Battle Mode via the TurboTap multitap, a series milestone (*GameFAQs*). Its addictive gameplay and multiplayer earned praise (*Sega-16*: 8/10), though repetitive levels were noted (*GamePro*: 3.5/5). ## Why Play Bomberman (PC Engine)? *Bomberman* (PC Engine) elevates the original with sharper visuals and expanded multiplayer. In Normal Mode, players navigate White Bomber through 64 levels across 8 areas, using bombs to destroy soft blocks and enemies to find exits (*GameFAQs*). Power-ups like Fire Up and Bomb Up add strategy (*nfs.fandom.com*). Battle Mode supports up to 5 players with varied arenas, perfect for chaotic matches. Levels take 2-5 minutes; Normal Mode lasts 3-5 hours. It appeals to *Bomberman '94* and *Kunio-kun* fans, distinct from *Need for Speed: Underground 2*’s racing or *Captain Tsubasa V*’s RPG (*@RetroGamingX*). ## Key Features - Navigate 64 maze levels across 8 areas - 2 modes: Normal (1P), Battle Mode (1-5 players, TurboTap) - Power-ups: Fire Up, Bomb Up, Speed Up, Remote Control - Battle Mode with varied arenas and hazards - Strategic bomb placement to defeat enemies and find exits - Authentic PC Engine gameplay on our retro ROM platform ## Key Differences: PC Engine vs. Other Versions - **PC Engine (1990)**: Japan-only, enhanced graphics, 5-player support; sharper than NES (*Wikipedia*). - **Compared to Bomberman (1985, NES)**: PC Engine adds 5-player Battle Mode, better visuals; NES has simpler 2-player mode (*GameFAQs*). - **Compared to Bomberman '94 (1993, PC Engine)**: *’94* adds rideable creatures, more arenas; 1990 version is simpler (*Sega-16*). - **Compared to Need for Speed: Underground 2 (2004)**: Maze action vs. open-world racing (*GameSpot*). - **Compared to Captain Tsubasa V (1994, SNES)**: Puzzle battles vs. soccer RPG (*Wikipedia*). - **Re-releases**: *PC Engine Mini* (2020, English support). ## Play Bomberman (PC Engine) Online Play *Bomberman* (1990, PC Engine) instantly on Classic Joy Games with PC Engine emulators. Also available on RetroGames.cz, EmulatorGames.net, OldGameShelf.com (4.3/5 from 20 votes), or *PC Engine Mini* (2020). Physical copies cost $30-$80 (cart) or $100-$250 (CIB) on eBay (*PriceCharting*). Use Mednafen or RetroArch. Strategy: Prioritize Fire Up; trap enemies in corners. Cheat: Enter “ABABCCACBCACBCAB” at password screen for Level 64 with max power-ups (*GameFAQs*). Join Classic Joy Games and blast your way to freedom now!