Lode Runner Image
Metascore

Generally favorable reviews - based on 29 Critics What's this?

User Score

Mixed or average reviews- based on 7 Ratings

  • Summary: [Xbox Live Arcade] The classic action game Lode Runner is back, with 220 new levels and even more surprises! Confront crazed enemies in fresh sets of single-player levels and fun-filled co-op challenges, or lean back and master increasingly complex puzzles. Battle it out with endlessly spawning enemies in a feverish new mode, or challenge up to three friends in a cunning game of high speed tag, where the first to die are the first to avenge - as enemies! Create custom levels and host matches over Xbox LIVE. Lode Runner legacy: Inspired by the classic action title, but the game is recreated from the ground up for Xbox LIVE Arcade with 3-D graphics, all-new levels, and play modes. Game modes for everyone: Play expansive single-player and co-op Journey campaigns, frantic Hang On survival challenges, complex puzzles, and a four-player Last Man competition that rewards sabotage, revenge, and outright deviousness. New content: Explore five worlds inhabited by unique enemies and special terrain such as avalanche blocks, stalactites, and teleports. Blast blocks with bombs and collect energy balls to add lives. Unearth hidden enemies! Transition from one level to the next seamlessly. Master new co-operative play techniques like blasting blocks while riding on a buddy's head. Level editor and community: Design custom levels for any game mode and environment to challenge your friends. Host Xbox LIVE matches with your cunning creations or upload and download the coolest custom levels from the Lode Runner community. [Tozai] Expand
Score distribution:
  1. Positive: 21 out of 29
  2. Negative: 1 out of 29
  1. I think the old-school gameplay shines through in its new packaging. And for about a quarter of the price of a regular retail release, it’s still a good deal in a trying economy.
  2. Retro fans and new gamers will be delighted with this great remake. Well worth downloading, although the price is high.
  3. The game bears testament to the strength of Smith’s original vision, a puzzle game that avoids prescribed solutions through the tenacity of its enemies.
  4. Ancient and antiquated - not worth playing in spite of the admirable update. [June 2009, p.95]

See all 29 Critic Reviews

Score distribution:
  1. Positive: 1 out of 2
  2. Negative: 0 out of 2
  1. Shaun
    7
    The gameplay hasn't changed from how it was 25 years ago...but who needs it to? The modes included in the download add something to the game, including an excellent co-op mode. There are two downsides though: the controls could have been a bit tighter, and the price point is pretty high. Microsoft seem intent on pushing the new price point of 1200 points for its arcade downloads, and that's a pity - the appeal of the arcade has always been about great gameplay at affordable prices. That said, Lode Runner goes some way to justifying the higher price - challenging and fun, it maintains its appeal in its latest incarnation. Collapse
  2. adrianoc
    6
    Well, good game at all, but, there are some misunderstandings about the original Lode Runner, and, for old school gamers, that's not cool.