My Played Video Games Review: Troddlers for the Super Nintendo

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Troddlers is a puzzle game that draws inspiration from the video game Lemmings and was developed by Swedish game developers Atod in 1992. Initially released for the Amiga PC, it later received a remake for the Super Nintendo, which was published by Seika (now Kemco). Additionally, an MS-DOS version of the game was also made available.

Why is this almost unknown SNES game so unfairly underrated? Perhaps it's due to the misleading name, "Troddlers," which may have led people to believe it was a game targeted for toddlers. Additionally, inadequate publicity and the fact that the game was released before the widespread use of the Internet could have contributed to its "most unknown SNES hidden gem" status.

Cool PC game version box cover art (Image source)

The Story

They're mischievous, they're troublesome, they're Troddlers!

The renowned magician Divinius assigned you as Hokus and your partner, Pokus, a simple task: clean out the cellar. However, unable to resist temptation, you opened a box labeled "Warning! Instant Magical Troddlers May Zombify If Allowed to Teleport!"

In a flash, countless Troddlers teleported away, leaving you with a daunting challenge to recover them all before Divinius finds out. Brace yourself for 175 comical, and mind-bending levels that lie ahead. It's up to you to prevent these mischievous creatures from turning into zombies and facing the consequences of your actions!

Box, manual and cartridge of the game. (Image source)

The Graphics and Sound

In terms of graphics, Troddlers may not be groundbreaking, but it certainly meets the expectations. All the objects on the screen are well-defined and easy to identify, and the animations are fluid. The game utilizes small sprites, which actually works in its favor given the nature of the gameplay. With expansive levels to navigate, larger sprites would only hinder the overall experience.

The music is really catchy and adds to the overall enjoyment of the game. Each background in the game is accompanied by a fitting musical theme that enhances the atmosphere. For instance, when encountering a background featuring Sphinx, the music takes on an Egyptian-inspired tone, perfectly complementing the visual setting. The soundtrack effectively immerses players in the different environments and enhances the overall experience.

Gameplay video sample of Troddlers. Watch in 360p for near TV resolution of that time.

The Gameplay

In Troddlers, a Lemmings-inspired puzzle game, players control a character and have the ability to place and erase building blocks to create paths for the Troddlers creatures to reach the exit. The game introduces platforming elements and features various types of blocks with unique effects. Troddlers themselves enter the level after a certain time and always walk in a specific direction. Placing a block on a Troddler eliminates it, while erasing a block causes the Troddler to fall.

The game includes zombie Troddlers that behave similarly but can damage the player's character. Players must also collect different colored gems by creating them with rocks, each with their own formation rules. Rocks cannot be erased and must be pushed, and Troddlers cannot walk on them.

It is a game that offers a variety of gameplay elements and challenges. With over 100 single-player levels, players must navigate hazards and utilize helpful elements while completing missions. The game becomes progressively more complex and challenging as you advance.

While there is no save system, the password system makes it easy to continue where you left off. The multiplayer aspect is a highlight, allowing cooperative play through 60 levels specifically designed for teamwork. There's also a competitive "war" mode with 25 missions.

The replay value is about average, however, finding multiplayer opponents may be difficult due to the problem that few people have played it. Overall, Troddlers offers engaging gameplay and enjoyable multiplayer experiences.

My Verdict

Troddlers stands out as a distinctive and well-crafted game that offers a satisfying experience. It has excellent presentation and features impressive multiplayer modes. The game truly shines when played with a friend who is willing to learn and enjoy it together. However, if you don't have a companion to play with, the long-term appeal of Troddlers may lessen. Nonetheless, for those seeking a unique and enjoyable gaming experience, it is worth considering, especially with a cooperative partner.

Play it on the Super Nintendo or play it on a reliable emulator. Play it with a friend.

Let's keep on gaming in the free world!