4-bitplane sex appeal
Here is a game I consider a visual feast and a superb arcade conversion with utterly gorrrrrgeous gameplay. Yep, it's Mr Do! Run Run, released in 1990 by Time Soldier dudes, Electrocoin. (I like that bizarre shooter!).
In this top-down runaround, we play as a clown darting about the screen, collecting fruit while dodging various nasties. Think of Pac-Man meets Qix, and you've got it. We wield a single ball for defence, which can be replenished by picking up smaller ones scattered on the floor. Precariously propped up heavy logs await a single well-timed nudge to roll down, crushing anything in their path. Just don't get caught in the way!
Let's see why I adore this game and its aesthetics so much in these screenshots...
This is the campiest title screen I've ever seen. It's absurd but very colourful.
The overhead display is superb for a clear view of the task ahead.
Check out those melon monsters! But look, I can see logs just waiting to be knocked.
Shockingly awesome conversion!
This screen is laid out like a maze, and Mr Do makes a line as he moves. Use that to draw a box and transform the pills into fruits. Repeat the process to flip them into oranges, lemons, and pineapples for extra points. It’s based on Qix with excellent gameplay mechanics that give you a frantic adrenaline rush as you zip around the screen. The level is completed once all the balls are collected or the baddies are defeated.
This game is pure old-school, and it works perfectly. It’s so well-suited to zany action that’s both crafty to master and stunning to behold. I’m genuinely surprised by how much I enjoyed it, but even more so is that I never played it back in the day. What on earth was I thinking? Where was I? How did I miss this gem?
Okay, gaming dudes and dudettes, let's see more Qix'y screenshots...
Oh, I love the design of each level and how colours are used to enhance that.
Lots to do and many monsters to kill. This game is an action fest, and I love it!
Another level of pixel beauty which honours the arcade game perfectly.
Aesthetics
The sweet pixels were created by Gary Felix, who was responsible for Exolon & Future Sports. However, ignoring the lame animated intro at the start (sorry, Gary), the title screen that follows demonstrates what to expect from the game - freaky pixels, especially if you hate clowns? Meh, I don't see what all the fuss is about!
The sweet pixels were created by Gary Felix, who was responsible for Exolon & Future Sports. However, ignoring the lame animated intro at the start (sorry, Gary), the title screen that follows demonstrates what to expect from the game - freaky pixels, especially if you hate clowns? Meh, I don't see what all the fuss is about!
The in-game graphics score top marks with their authentic arcade feel. A rich, bold style and cutesy sprites create a charming world that instantly appeals to fans of Mr Do and Pac-Man. It might even make Rainbow Island seem a bit dull. I jest, of course, but Mr Do! Run Run is simply gorgeous in design and colour.
The audio is amazing thanks to the creative efforts of Wally Beben. I'm often amazed at what the YM can produce, but he knocked the ball out of the park with this. Everything you hear perfectly complements the lush visuals and frantic gameplay. His chip music truly does suit the gameplay and sounds ace.
Check it out and click on the green arrow below...
The CryptO'pinion?
Mr Do! Run Run is a challenging game with the first level being a real test. But stick with it; the joy of reaching the second level was incredible. My advice is to ignore the Qix elements and focus on mastering the controls. Then learn how to best defeat the monsters. Once comfortable, progress to farming fruits and collecting bonuses. This progression is key, and you’ll be rewarded with an absolutely fantastic experience.
One of the most underrated arcade conversions for the Atari ST. Don't miss it. Truly exceptional.
