Mr Run and Jump is a precision platformer from developer Graphite Lab that was released on Steam in July 2023. It has since been ported to the Atari 2600 as a ‘demake’ and is one of the first titles to come out for the new Atari 2600+ console. We reviewed it as part of our overall review of the system.
The game comes on a new Atari 2600 cart and will work on the new 2600+ as well as the original hardware. You control Mr Run and Jump who has lost his little dog Leap. You enter the Dark Realm and jump your way through many perilous levels to help your furry friend find his way back home.
There are six worlds to platform through, each with its own colour scheme and challenges. The controls are simple with just a jump mechanic and holding up which allows you to cling to ladders. Touching an enemy or a spike will cause a death and you restart at the level beginning.
There isn’t any life counter but the timer does continually count down. You will have to finish the entire game within 25,000 seconds which is more than enough time. There will be moments though when you will be tearing your hair out as this is one tough game to finish.
The entire game is broken down into single screens with each one containing a platforming section that you will need to overcome. There is a slight puzzle element to some of the sections although most of the game is just about getting better through practice.
The overall gameplay is fun and the controls are solid enough for a platformer on the Atari hardware. There is also good variety in the enemies, traps and section types that stop it from feeling repetitive. The enemies get faster and the jumps wider as you progress requiring every bit of your skill to get through.
Mr Run and Jump has all the hallmarks of a modern precision platformer wrapped up in a retro package that you can tackle at speed or take your time on. It chooses simplified mechanics over lots of different moves and lets the difficulty do the talking, this is about you and your gaming skills.
The only criticism is that it’s a little short, although the last level is frustratingly difficult in all the best ways. Also, some of the graphics feel sparse at times, but this can seen as putting the platforming action front and centre. There isn’t much in the sound department either and a distinct lack of sounds overall.
Atari fans will appreciate a new game for the Atari 2600, the first since 1990, and this is a great sign that Atari is determined to release new games to support its latest venture. Mr Run and Jump is releasing alongside the Atari 2600+ and can be purchased from Amazon for £25 from 17th November 2023.
