Ghostlop (prototype)

Ghostlop is a unique puzzle and toss game developed by Data East Corporation in 1996, running on SNK’s Neo-Geo MVS hardware. Players control Bruce and McCoy, two ghost hunters tasked with eliminating minions of the Great King of Terror to prevent his dominion over the world. Gameplay involves strategically releasing red or blue balls using a four-button control scheme; changing their color is key to neutralizing various spectral adversaries encountered across multiple levels. The game presents a series of escalating challenges, pitting players against a diverse cast of ghostly creatures ranging from mischievous spirits and possessed toys to more formidable foes like the Exorcist Lulu and the Cursed Guitar. Successfully clearing certain stages unlocks additional missions and enemies, adding depth to the gameplay experience with branching paths depending on player performance. A hidden secret level can also appear under specific score conditions, introducing a Roswell alien for an unexpected encounter. While never officially released, this prototype offers a glimpse into Data East’s experimental approach to arcade gaming, blending puzzle mechanics with a quirky supernatural theme and cooperative two-player action.