Retro Replay Review

Gameplay

Jetpac Refuelled revitalizes the frantic pacing of the 1983 classic by blending precision platforming with nonstop action. Players take on the role of Jetman, an Acme Interstellar Transport Company delivery pilot tasked with constructing and fueling rockets on hostile alien worlds. Each planet presents a new layout of ship parts, fuel canisters, and indigenous creatures that must be traversed, collected, or blasted before takeoff.

The core loop of assembling the rocket—locating two disassembled sections, hauling them back to the launchpad, and then gathering six fuel pods—never grows stale thanks to a steady increase in challenge. As levels progress, random hazards such as crumbling terrain, faster enemies, and environmental traps keep you on your toes. Jetpack thrust mechanics are tight, allowing for precise vertical dodges, but misjudge your timing and you’ll plummet into alien jaws below.

Refuelled’s additions make each trip feel fresh. Alongside the standard laser, you can upgrade to a dual shot that fires both forward and upward or a spread shot that rains projectiles in a cone. Cleverly, grabbing another powerup after reaching the spread tier resets you to the basic laser, encouraging strategic use of bombs and powerups. EMP bombs, in particular, provide a thrilling get-out-of-jail-free card by clearing every on-screen enemy in an instant—just be careful not to hoard them too long.

Graphics

Graphically, Jetpac Refuelled is a treat for fans of retro revival. The original Sinclair Spectrum’s blocky sprites have been lovingly reimagined with crisp pixel art that retains the charm of the 8-bit era. Each planet boasts its own color palette and background details—luminous alien flora, craters, and distant stars—that make exploration visually rewarding.

Character animations are delightfully smooth. Jetman’s jetpack thrusts ripple through his tiny wingshaft, and enemy creatures scurry, hop, or hover with distinct behaviors. The laser beam’s flash and EMP bomb’s shockwave are accompanied by subtle screen shakes that heighten the sense of impact when you clear a swarm of foes.

Beyond fidelity upgrades, Refuelled introduces dynamic lighting and parallax layers that add depth without betraying its arcade roots. Fuel pods glint, stored ship parts glow, and environmental hazards—like lava flows or icy patches—catch your eye, forcing you to balance commodity collection with hazard avoidance. Whether on-screen action is sparse or chaotic, the visuals consistently guide your focus and maintain readability.

Story

While Jetpac Refuelled doesn’t boast a cinematic narrative, its premise provides just enough context to justify your intergalactic escapades. As an Acme delivery pilot, you’re not only racing to complete your duties but also snatching up any glimmering treasure you can find. This lighthearted setup turns each level into a mini-adventure, as you leap between work and plunder.

The lack of lengthy cutscenes or dialog means the narrative never drags down the breakout gameplay. Instead, brief title cards introduce new planets and occasional cheeky commentary—like warning signs about particularly aggressive creatures or a tongue-in-cheek note about fuel shortages. This minimalist approach keeps the momentum high and ensures you’re always focused on the next ship part or powerup.

Dedicated fans of the original will appreciate subtle nods to the Sinclair Spectrum era—retro sound effects, brief screen flickers, and occasional textual Easter eggs—while newcomers can enjoy a straightforward “build, blast, collect, repeat” tale. The result is a charming, self-aware romp that feels more like an arcade journey than a sprawling space saga.

Overall Experience

Jetpac Refuelled strikes a satisfying balance between old-school simplicity and modern polish. Sessions are perfectly suited for quick pick-up-and-play bursts or longer marathons as you chase high scores and unlockable challenges. The adrenaline rush of narrowly dodging enemies, completing your rocket assembly, and rocketing off-screen remains gorgeously intact.

The soundtrack and sound design deserve special mention; jaunty chiptune melodies accompany each planet, seamlessly looping without becoming grating. Every shot fired, fuel pod collected, and EMP bomb detonated is punctuated by crisp audio cues that heighten the retro atmosphere while supporting the emergent gameplay.

For anyone seeking bite-sized arcade thrills wrapped in modern presentation, Jetpac Refuelled delivers. It pays homage to an influential classic while introducing enough new mechanics, visual flair, and level variety to captivate both veterans and newcomers. Strap on your jetpack—this interstellar delivery run is a blast from the past that refuses to feel dated.

Retro Replay Score

7.2/10