System: Commodore 64
Release date: August 1987
Get ready to pop some bubbles and save the day with Bubble Bobble on the Commodore 64, the August 1987 arcade classic that brought dino-duo Bub and Bob to the retro scene. This colourful platformer is all about trapping enemies in bubbles and bursting them for points, but does it still sparkle in 2025? Let’s fire up the C64 and see if this bubbly adventure is a timeless gem or just hot air.
Gameplay: Pop, Trap, and Triumph
Bubble Bobble drops you into the scales of Bub or Bob, two adorable dragons tasked with rescuing their girlfriends from a maze of 100 levels. Armed with bubble-blowing breath, you trap enemies, pop them for points, and nab fruit for bonuses. The Commodore 64’s joystick and button setup feels snappy for navigating platforms and timing your bubble shots. Levels are bite-sized but tricky, with precise jumps and enemy patterns that demand quick thinking. Power-ups like speedy shoes or bubble-bursting candies spice things up, and co-op mode with a mate is pure chaos in the best way.
The downside? Later levels can feel brutal without practice, and the single-life system (unless you grab a rare 1-up) might have you restarting often. Still, the tight gameplay and clever level designs—crammed with floating platforms and sneaky enemies—keep you hooked like a bubble on a breeze.
Graphics: Pixel-Popping Charm
The Commodore 64 brings Bubble Bobble’s arcade roots to life with vibrant flair. Bub and Bob’s googly-eyed sprites are bursting with personality, waddling and blowing bubbles with gusto. Levels are simple but colorful, with varied backdrops and quirky enemies like ghosts and clockwork bots stealing the spotlight. Animations are smooth, and the bubble-popping effects are satisfyingly crisp. It’s not pushing the C64’s limits, but the bright palette and cutesy style make every stage a visual treat.
Sound: Bouncy Beats and Bubbly Blips
The soundtrack is a single, endlessly looping chiptune that’s as catchy as it is relentless. It’s upbeat and perfectly suits the game’s frantic vibe, though it might drive you a bit mad after an hour. Sound effects are spot-on—bubble pops, enemy squishes, and item jingles add a playful punch. The C64’s SID chip delivers that classic retro crunch, making every action feel rewarding, even if the music starts to feel like a bubble you can’t pop.
Replayability: A Bubble-Filled Addiction
With 100 levels, secret rooms, and a proper ending that’s tough to unlock without a friend, Bubble Bobble is built for replays. Chasing high scores, mastering enemy patterns, or teaming up for two-player mayhem keeps things fresh. The randomized item drops add a dash of chaos, though the steep difficulty might frustrate solo players. Whether you’re after a quick blast or a full-on bubble marathon, this game’s got hooks sharper than Bub’s claws.
The Retro Looney Verdict
Bubble Bobble on the Commodore 64 is a fizzy, frantic delight that captures the arcade magic perfectly. Its tight gameplay, charming visuals, and infectious energy make it a standout, even if the difficulty spikes and repetitive tune test your patience. Fire up your C64 (or an emulator) and dive in—this dino duo’s adventure is still popping off in 2025.
