Introduction
Released in 1982 by Universal, Mr. Do! is a maze-digging arcade game that captivated players with its creative mechanics and engaging gameplay. Featuring a charming clown as the protagonist, the game blends elements of strategy, action, and puzzle-solving, offering a fresh twist on the maze genre. Its vibrant visuals, catchy music, and addictive design made it a standout title during the golden age of arcades.
Development and History
- Developer: Universal Co., Ltd.
- Publisher: Universal Co., Ltd.
- Release Date: December 1982
Mr. Do! was developed by Universal to compete with popular maze games like Dig Dug and Pac-Man. The game’s unique mechanics, such as the ability to defeat enemies using falling apples or a bouncing ball, distinguished it from its contemporaries.
The success of Mr. Do! led to multiple sequels and ports to home systems, including the ColecoVision, Atari 2600, and Super Nintendo Entertainment System (SNES), expanding its legacy beyond the arcade.
Gameplay Video
Gameplay and Mechanics
Core Gameplay
Players control Mr. Do, a clown, as he digs through a colorful maze to collect cherries while avoiding enemies. The gameplay is dynamic and offers multiple ways to achieve objectives:
- Objective: Players earn points by collecting all cherries, defeating all enemies, or spelling out "EXTRA" by collecting letters dropped by certain creatures.
- Enemies: Monsters chase Mr. Do through the maze. They can be defeated by:
- Power-Ups: Players can strategically use falling apples to block paths or eliminate enemies.
Challenges
- Increasing Difficulty: Each level introduces faster enemies and more complex mazes.
- Limited Resources: The power ball can only be fired once until it returns to Mr. Do, requiring careful aim and timing.
Cultural Impact and Legacy
Mr. Do! was a commercial success and became one of Universal’s most iconic arcade games:
- Competitive Sales: It competed directly with Pac-Man and Dig Dug in arcades, earning high revenue and a dedicated fanbase.
- Franchise Expansion: The game’s popularity led to sequels like Mr. Do's Castle (1983) and Mr. Do's Wild Ride (1984).
- Home Ports: Its availability on various home systems brought the game to new audiences, ensuring its longevity.
- Tournament Play: Mr. Do! became a staple in competitive arcade tournaments during the early 1980s.
Fun Facts
- Character Inspiration: Mr. Do’s clown design was chosen to make the game visually appealing and unique compared to other maze games.
- Variable Endings: Players can finish levels in different ways, adding replayability.
- Popular in Japan: The game’s vibrant colors and playful theme made it especially popular in Japanese arcades.
Conclusion
Mr. Do! stands as a testament to Universal’s creativity during the arcade boom of the early 1980s. Its combination of strategy, action, and puzzle elements has ensured its place as a beloved classic. Whether playing for high scores or simply enjoying its whimsical charm, Mr. Do! continues to delight arcade enthusiasts worldwide.