Retro Replay Review

Gameplay

Boulder Dash EX captures the core puzzle mechanics that made the original Boulder Dash a beloved classic. Players navigate each maze-like cavern, strategically moving boulders out of the way to unearth precious gems. Every level demands careful planning—one wrong move can send a cascade of rocks tumbling and trap you in seconds.

The updated version introduces six distinct worlds, each with its own set of environmental hazards and enemy types. From fiery magma pits to slippery ice floors, these new biomes keep the gameplay fresh and challenging. As you progress, the puzzles ramp up in complexity, requiring split-second timing as well as thoughtful route planning.

One standout feature is the four-player multiplayer mode. Up to four friends can go head-to-head on the same screen, racing to collect the most gems while sabotaging each other with falling boulders or strategically placed bombs. This competitive twist adds a chaotic, laugh-out-loud dimension to the classic single-player formula.

Controls are tight and responsive, whether you’re shimmying along a ledge, digging through soft soil, or dodging a scuttling firefly. The Nintendo DS touchscreen offers a convenient shortcut menu for quick level selection, but purists can stick to the D-pad for the authentic Boulder Dash feel. Overall, Boulder Dash EX nails the balance between nostalgic simplicity and modern design enhancements.

Graphics

Boulder Dash EX sports a charming, colorful art style that pays homage to the pixel-perfect visuals of the original while making full use of the DS’s palette. Each world has its own visual identity: lush greens for forest levels, glowing reds for magma caverns, and icy blues for frozen tunnels. These varied backdrops keep the eye engaged throughout the game’s many chambers.

Character animations are simple but satisfying. The new protagonist has a slightly more detailed sprite than the retro emulated version, complete with cheerful expressions when collecting gems. Enemy creatures, from grazing butterflies to bouncing rocks, move fluidly and convey their hazards clearly—no guessing if that boulder is about to roll.

Transitions between levels are smooth thanks to quick-loading screens, and the included version of the original PC Boulder Dash runs as if on modern hardware, retaining its classic scanline look. While you won’t see cinematic cutscenes or 3D models, the consistent frame rate and crisp tile work reinforce the game’s timeless appeal.

The dual screens are used effectively: the action plays out on the bottom display, while the top screen can show a minimap or remaining time, depending on player preference. Subtle background animations—like dripping stalactites or flickering torches—add atmosphere without distracting from the puzzle action.

Story

Boulder Dash EX doesn’t rely on an epic narrative, but it delivers a lighthearted premise that drives you forward. You play as a daring explorer determined to reclaim priceless gems hidden deep beneath the earth. Each world hints at a broader underground kingdom rich with treasure—and yes, plenty of peril.

The new main character brings a bit of personality to the role: she gestures triumphantly when the exit door swings open and looks momentarily defeated if time runs out. It’s a small touch, but it adds emotional investment to otherwise abstract grid-based levels. You find yourself caring not just about the gems but about guiding your spunky hero to safety.

While cutscenes are minimal, level introductions and brief interstitial screens set the tone for each world’s theme. You’ll get a taste of creeping vines, molten rock, and frigid corridors before the digging begins. These little story beats don’t bog down the pace but provide enough context to keep the adventure feeling cohesive.

Multiplayer matches have their own narrative spin: you’re not just a lone digger but a member of a competitive excavation team. Friendly taunts and celebratory animations when you outscore an opponent add a playful rivalry that fits the game’s arcade spirit.

Overall Experience

Boulder Dash EX offers a fantastic blend of classic gameplay and modern enhancements. Whether you’re revisiting the original or diving into the new levels, the core puzzle-action loop remains as addictive as ever. The difficulty curve is well calibrated, making early stages approachable for newcomers while providing fiendish challenges for veterans.

The inclusion of both the updated version and the original PC emulation is a stroke of genius for retro enthusiasts. You get double the value—fresh content plus a faithful throwback. The four-player mode transforms what was once a solitary puzzle romp into a raucous multiplayer party, perfect for friends and family gatherings.

Sound design is crisp and unobtrusive, with upbeat chiptune melodies that adapt to each world’s atmosphere. Audio cues for falling rocks, enemy approaches, and gem pickups are clear and satisfying, reinforcing the tactile joy of each action.

In sum, Boulder Dash EX is a must-have for puzzle fans and anyone seeking a charming, challenging digging adventure. It captures the spirit of the original while adding enough new features—world variety, a sprightly hero, and multiplayer mayhem—to stand on its own. Whether you play solo or compete with friends, you’ll find that unearthing those gems never gets old.

Retro Replay Score

7.1/10