Naughty Boy

In Naughty Boy, players control a mischievous character navigating maze-like forest environments in this cooperative maze shooter for two players. The goal is to progress through each level by destroying flags atop fortress structures while fending off various monsters with thrown rocks. Holding the fire button longer increases the projectile’s distance, allowing for strategic attacks and clearing pathways. Obstacles abound as you work your way upward, but occasional bonus rounds offer a change of pace. Here, players pilot a hot-air balloon, dropping rocks on a large monster below while managing a fuel gauge to keep the round going. Successfully eliminating enemies and utilizing special items like invulnerability power-ups are key to maximizing scores. Released in 1982 by Jaleco, Naughty Boy features straightforward controls—a four-way joystick for movement and a single button for rock throwing—and relies on the Zilog Z80 processor for its gameplay experience. A subtle difference exists between the original Jaleco version and later Cinematronics releases, with the former offering a strategic advantage due to fence placement that allows for easier monster targeting.