The Monty Mole series, a collection of platform video games from the 1980s, holds a special place in the hearts of retro gaming enthusiasts. Developed primarily for the ZX Spectrum and Commodore 64, these games featured the adventures of the titular character, Monty Mole, as he navigated through various challenges and obstacles. The series, known for its humor, engaging gameplay, and quirky characters, left a lasting legacy in the gaming world.
Origins and Development
The Monty Mole series debuted in 1984 with “Wanted: Monty Mole,” developed by Peter Harrap and published by Gremlin Graphics. The game was inspired by the UK miners’ strike of 1984-85, and Monty Mole was depicted as a miner trying to steal coal to keep warm. This initial installment set the tone for the series, blending political satire with classic platforming action.
Major Titles in the Series
- Wanted: Monty Mole (1984)The first game introduced players to Monty Mole, who had to navigate a series of underground caverns to collect coal. The gameplay involved avoiding enemies and hazards while collecting enough coal to progress to the next level. The game’s setting, underground tunnels filled with obstacles, required precise timing and strategic movement. It was praised for its challenging gameplay and humor, becoming a hit among ZX Spectrum users.
- Monty is Innocent (1985)The sequel, “Monty is Innocent,” sees Monty imprisoned and needing to escape. Unlike the first game, this installment was more of a side adventure, focusing on Monty’s friend, Percy the Penguin, who must rescue Monty from jail. The gameplay involved sneaking past guards, solving puzzles, and avoiding traps. Despite its interesting premise, the game was less well-received than its predecessor due to its higher difficulty level and somewhat less engaging gameplay. However, it remains a notable part of the series for its attempt to expand the Monty Mole universe.
- Monty on the Run (1985)Perhaps the most famous title in the series, “Monty on the Run,” is regarded as a classic. Monty must escape to France after being framed for a crime he didn’t commit. The game features intricate level design, memorable music by Rob Hubbard, and a unique puzzle element where players must select the correct items for Monty’s escape kit. The wrong choice could lead to failure at critical points in the game. The levels were designed with multiple routes and secrets, encouraging exploration and replayability. The combination of platforming and puzzle-solving made it a standout title of its era.
- Auf Wiedersehen Monty (1987)In “Auf Wiedersehen Monty,” Monty travels across Europe collecting money to buy a Greek island and retire. The game features an expansive map with multiple countries, each with its own distinct levels and challenges. Players had to manage their resources and plan their route carefully, as some countries required more money to traverse than others. The variety in level design and the strategic element of choosing the best path to take added depth to the gameplay. The game was well-received for its ambitious scope and engaging gameplay, solidifying Monty’s status as a beloved character in the gaming community.
- Impossamole (1990)The final official title, “Impossamole,” was a departure from the original formula, featuring Monty as a superhero in a more action-oriented setting. Released on multiple platforms, including the Amiga, Atari ST, and others, the game involved Monty taking on a superhero persona to defeat aliens and save the world. The gameplay combined traditional platforming with combat elements, and each level had its own unique boss fights and challenges. Despite the mixed reviews due to its shift in style and gameplay mechanics, “Impossamole” demonstrated the developers’ willingness to experiment and evolve the series.
Gameplay and Mechanics
The Monty Mole games are characterized by their platforming elements, requiring players to navigate Monty through various levels filled with enemies, traps, and puzzles. The games often involved collecting specific items or reaching certain goals to progress. The controls were typically tight and responsive, making the challenging levels rewarding to complete. Each game in the series introduced new mechanics and elements, keeping the gameplay fresh and engaging.
What Made the Monty Mole Series Stand Out
The Monty Mole series, despite being part of a crowded platforming genre in the 1980s, managed to carve out a distinct identity and loyal fanbase. Several factors contributed to the series’ unique appeal and enduring legacy:
1. Engaging Protagonist
Monty Mole, the series’ titular character, is a charming and relatable protagonist. Depicted as a small, industrious mole, Monty’s character resonates with players due to his perseverance and determination. His humble beginnings as a coal thief during the miners’ strike added a layer of social relevance and humor, making him more than just a typical platforming hero.
2. Clever Use of British Humor and Satire
The Monty Mole games are imbued with a distinctly British sense of humor and satire. The first game, “Wanted: Monty Mole,” directly references the UK miners’ strike of 1984-85, embedding social commentary within its gameplay. This clever integration of real-world issues with in-game challenges gave the series a unique voice and made it stand out from other platformers of the time.
3. Challenging Gameplay and Intricate Level Design
The Monty Mole series is known for its challenging gameplay and intricate level designs. Each game requires players to navigate complex environments filled with traps, enemies, and puzzles. The need for precise timing, strategic movement, and problem-solving kept players engaged and coming back for more. The series’ ability to balance difficulty with rewarding progression was a significant factor in its popularity.
4. Memorable Music and Sound Design
One of the standout features of the series, particularly in “Monty on the Run,” is its music. Composed by Rob Hubbard, the soundtrack is often hailed as one of the best in video game history. The catchy and dynamic tunes not only enhanced the gaming experience but also left a lasting impression on players. The quality of the music helped elevate the series above many of its contemporaries.
5. Varied and Expansive Settings
Each game in the Monty Mole series offered a different setting and theme, providing variety and new experiences for players. From the underground caverns in “Wanted: Monty Mole” to the European adventure in “Auf Wiedersehen Monty,” the diverse environments kept the series fresh and exciting. The games often included multiple routes and hidden secrets, encouraging exploration and replayability.
6. Innovative Mechanics and Puzzle Elements
The series introduced several innovative mechanics that differentiated it from other platformers. In “Monty on the Run,” for instance, players had to choose the correct items for Monty’s escape kit, adding a layer of strategy and puzzle-solving to the platforming action. These unique gameplay elements added depth and complexity, making the series more engaging.
7. Cultural Relevance and Nostalgia
For many players, the Monty Mole series is a nostalgic reminder of the early days of home computing and video gaming. The series’ cultural relevance, tied to specific events and trends in 1980s Britain, gives it a historical significance that resonates with retro gaming enthusiasts. The charm and simplicity of the games evoke a sense of nostalgia that continues to attract new fans.
Cultural Impact and Legacy
The Monty Mole series, while not as universally known as some other platforming franchises, has maintained a cult following. Its blend of British humor, social commentary, and solid gameplay made it stand out during its time. The music, particularly from “Monty on the Run,” remains iconic, often cited in discussions of great video game soundtracks.
The series also inspired a fan-made sequel, “Moley Christmas” in 1987, demonstrating the enduring affection for the character and his adventures. Additionally, Monty Mole has been referenced in various retro gaming retrospectives and collections, ensuring that new generations of gamers can appreciate his adventures.
Similar Games and Series to Monty Mole
The Monty Mole series, with its unique blend of platforming, humor, and British charm, has captivated gamers since the 1980s. However, it is not the only series from that era to offer engaging platforming experiences. Here are some other notable games and series that fans of Monty Mole might enjoy:
1. Dizzy Series
Developer: The Oliver Twins (Codemasters) Platforms: ZX Spectrum, Commodore 64, Amstrad CPC, Amiga, and more
The Dizzy series features the adventures of an anthropomorphic egg named Dizzy, who navigates through various levels filled with puzzles and platforming challenges. Known for its whimsical graphics and engaging puzzles, the series shares Monty Mole’s charm and challenging gameplay. Popular titles include “Dizzy: The Ultimate Cartoon Adventure” and “Fantasy World Dizzy.”
2. Manic Miner and Jet Set Willy
Developer: Matthew Smith Platforms: ZX Spectrum, Commodore 64, Amstrad CPC, and more
Manic Miner and its sequel, Jet Set Willy, are iconic platformers from the 1980s. Players control Miner Willy, who must navigate hazardous environments filled with traps and enemies. These games are known for their high difficulty levels and intricate level designs. The humor and challenge in these games are reminiscent of the Monty Mole series.
3. Chuckie Egg
Developer: Nigel Alderton Platforms: ZX Spectrum, BBC Micro, Commodore 64, Amstrad CPC, and more
Chuckie Egg is another classic platformer where players control Hen-House Harry as he collects eggs while avoiding various enemies. The game’s fast-paced action and precise platforming mechanics make it a beloved title among retro gaming enthusiasts. Its simplicity and addictive gameplay draw parallels to Monty Mole’s early adventures.
4. Rick Dangerous
Developer: Core Design Platforms: Amiga, Atari ST, ZX Spectrum, Commodore 64, and more
Rick Dangerous is a platformer featuring an Indiana Jones-inspired adventurer. Players guide Rick through dangerous environments filled with traps, enemies, and puzzles. The game’s challenging levels and need for quick reflexes make it a favorite among fans of classic platformers. Its adventurous spirit and gameplay style are akin to the Monty Mole series.
5. Boulder Dash
Developer: Peter Liepa and Chris Gray Platforms: Atari 8-bit, Commodore 64, ZX Spectrum, and more
In Boulder Dash, players control Rockford, who digs through caves collecting gems while avoiding falling rocks and enemies. The game’s emphasis on strategy and timing, along with its underground setting, offers a gameplay experience similar to Monty Mole. Boulder Dash’s mix of puzzle and action elements makes it a timeless classic.
6. Turrican Series
Developer: Manfred Trenz Platforms: Commodore 64, Amiga, Atari ST, and more
Turrican is a series of run-and-gun platformers that blend exploration, shooting, and platforming. Players control a soldier navigating through alien landscapes filled with enemies and obstacles. While more action-oriented than Monty Mole, Turrican’s detailed level design and challenging gameplay appeal to fans of the genre.
7. Lode Runner
Developer: Douglas E. Smith Platforms: Apple II, Commodore 64, ZX Spectrum, and more
Lode Runner is a puzzle-platformer where players must collect all the gold in a level while avoiding enemies. The game allows players to dig holes to trap enemies or create new paths. Its innovative gameplay and strategic elements make it a standout title that shares the clever design and challenge of Monty Mole.
8. Commander Keen Series
Developer: id Software Platforms: MS-DOS, Windows
Commander Keen follows the adventures of an eight-year-old genius, Billy Blaze, who becomes the space-faring hero Commander Keen. The series is known for its smooth platforming mechanics, humorous storylines, and colorful graphics. Its light-hearted tone and engaging gameplay make it a spiritual successor to the charm found in Monty Mole games.
Conclusion
The Monty Mole series is a classic example of the creativity and innovation in early platforming games. Fans of Monty Mole can find similar enjoyment in the titles and series listed above, each offering its unique take on platforming, puzzles, and adventure. Whether through the whimsical world of Dizzy or the challenging levels of Manic Miner, these games provide a nostalgic journey through the golden age of video games.
Monty Mole
The Monty Mole series is a testament to the creativity and innovation of 1980s video game development. Through its memorable protagonist, clever level design, and unique humor, the series carved out a niche in gaming history. Whether you’re a fan of retro games or new to the genre, the Monty Mole series offers a delightful glimpse into the early days of platform gaming.