Crystal Mines is an action-puzzle game developed and published by Color Dreams for the NES in 1989. Drawing heavy inspiration from classics like Boulder Dash, you control a remote mining robot tasked with excavating subterranean levels. To complete each stage, you must dig through dirt and collect a target number of crystals while dodging falling boulders and blasting enemies, then reach the exit before time runs out. The game engine was famously reused and reskinned by Wisdom Tree for their religious title, Exodus: Journey to the Promised Land.
How to Play
Use the D-pad to move your robot and dig through the soft dirt. Press the A or B buttons to fire your weapon at enemies or detonate obstacles. Keep a close eye on gravityโdigging under a boulder will cause it to fall, which can crush you but can also be used to defeat pursuing enemies.
Browser Controls: Use the arrow keys to move. The Z and X keys map to the A and B buttons, while Enter and Shift act as Start and Select.
Tips
- Use gravity to your advantage: Lure enemies under boulders, then dig out the supporting dirt to crush them without wasting ammunition.
- Plan your route: Some crystals are buried under precarious rock formations. Dig carefully to avoid trapping yourself or blocking your path to the exit.
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