Bagman

In Bagman, released in 1982 by Valadon Automation, two players cooperate to navigate a series of mine shafts. The goal is to collect money bags scattered throughout the tunnels and transport them to a waiting wheelbarrow at the surface. Players must skillfully avoid patrolling guards, moving ore carts, and descending elevators while progressing through interconnected screens representing different levels of the mine. Movement relies on a four-way joystick for precise platforming and jumping, while a single action button handles actions like picking up and dropping bags, using a pickaxe to momentarily stun enemies or grab ceiling beams to avoid hazards—all crucial elements in this challenging run-and-jump experience. Successfully depositing money bags into the wheelbarrow earns points, as do stuns inflicted upon the guards; a high score requires both careful navigation and strategic use of available tools. Notably, the game’s introductory music is derived from "Turkey in the Straw," lending a quirky touch to its gameplay. Bagman spawned a sequel, Super Bagman, and was distributed internationally under different names, including “Le Bagnard” in France.