Classic Games Database
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The Lion King

Review
Also known as
Der König der Löwen El Rey Leon Le Roi Lion O Rei Leão ライオンキング

Guide Simba from cub to king in this side-scrolling platformer, navigating hazards and mastering a unique roar mechanic.

The Sega Genesis version of The Lion King was developed by Westwood Studios and published by Virgin Interactive, with a worldwide commercial release in 1994. This was also the original release year for the game across platforms.

About The Lion King

The Lion King is a side-scrolling platform game for one player that adapts the narrative of the Disney film. Its stages are set in locations from the story, including the Pride Lands and the Elephant Graveyard. Players control Simba through two distinct life stages, each with its own abilities and challenges.

As a cub, Simba can jump on small enemies and use a limited roar to scare others, navigating platforming hazards and simple puzzles. The adult Simba gains more direct combat options like claw slashes and the ability to throw foes. Throughout the game, environmental obstacles such as stampedes and swinging vines are combined with enemy encounters.

Health is managed via a meter that can be replenished by collecting insects found in the levels. Some bugs also grant extra lives. Short bonus stages featuring Timon and Pumbaa offer opportunities to gather these items for points. The original release lacked a save system, making completion in one sitting a challenging requirement, though later ports added this feature.

The game saw releases on several platforms with variations in presentation, such as different graphics and sound. Modern digital re-releases maintain the original design while ensuring compatibility on contemporary systems.

The Lion King Screenshots

12 images
Title screen
Starting the game
Touch the hanging lion icon and you'll restart from this place if you die
Climbing high
A typical enemy
Beautiful cut scene
Roar At Monkeys - a hilarious level
The monkey throw the little lion around
Fell down a giraffa's neck
Climbing up the nests
Riding a chocobo. A chocobo? Or is it an ostrich? ;)
The African fauna at its best