Bubble Bobble

Bubble Bobble is a single screen platform game where players control Bub and Bob, two characters transformed into dinosaurs. Their objective is to clear each level of enemies to progress through a cave system, ultimately aiming to rescue friends and reverse the transformation.

Core gameplay involves jumping and collecting point items, but the primary mechanic is blowing bubbles. These bubbles serve dual purposes: they can act as temporary platforms or trap enemies. A trapped enemy must be popped by jumping into it, which converts it into a collectible fruit. The game can become more challenging if a player takes too long on a stage, as this summons an invincible enemy that pursues the player.

Various power ups appear on screen enclosed in bubbles, altering gameplay when collected. Examples include a horizontal lightning attack and a water stream that affects both the player and enemies by pulling them downward. The experience differs between single player and cooperative two player modes, which is reflected in the game's multiple conclusions.

Completing the game alone results in one ending that encourages playing with a friend. A two player completion yields a different outcome where the characters return to human form. A secret code unlocks a special mode with rearranged enemies, leading to a third, definitive ending. The NES release contains over one hundred stages. A separate computer version includes a hidden, reskinned mini game with twenty original levels.