Spelunker II: 23 no Kagi (1986) is the arcade-exclusive sequel developed by Irem. Unlike the Famicom release which shifted into an action-RPG format, this version remains a pure, unforgiving platformer in the style of the original Spelunker. You must navigate a perilous underworld filled with traps, enemies, and precarious jumps to collect 23 keys. The game retains the infamous fragility of its protagonist, demanding precise movement and careful resource management to survive the descent.
How to Play
Your objective is to explore the caves, collect keys, and manage your limited air supply while avoiding geysers, pitfalls, and hostile creatures. The arcade controls use the directional pad (mapped to arrow keys) to move and climb ropes, with action buttons (Z and X) for jumping and using your weapon. You can collect items like bombs to clear obstacles and flares to scare off bats.
Tips
- Watch your step: Just like in the original, falling even a short distance is fatal. Always ensure you are fully aligned with ropes before climbing.
- Manage your resources: Bombs and flares are strictly limited. Save them for unavoidable obstacles and tricky enemy encounters rather than wasting them early on.
- Mind your air: The meter at the top depletes steadily. Keep moving and collect hidden items to replenish it.
Leave a Comment / Review: