Get ready to relive a piece of gaming history—but with a twist! NMK’s 'Bomb Jack Twin' is back, and it’s cuter, tougher, and more explosive than ever. This beloved two-player arcade platformer, originally released in 1993, is set to detonate onto modern consoles later this week, thanks to Hamster’s Arcade Archives series. But here’s where it gets exciting: this isn’t just a rehash of the classic—it’s a revamped version of the 1984 Tehkan original, complete with enhanced graphics, a fresh soundtrack by composer Manabu Namiki, and a two-player mode that lets you team up with a friend as Bomb Jack’s twin sister. And this is the part most people miss: it’s not just about nostalgia; it’s about introducing a new generation to a timeless gameplay loop that’s as addictive today as it was decades ago.
In 'Bomb Jack Twin,' players step into the boots of the titular superhero, whose mission is to leap and float across vibrant levels set in famous tourist spots, collecting colorful bombs while dodging enemies. But here’s the controversial part: while the core gameplay remains faithful to the original, the addition of a second player and new power-ups—like the 'P' item that turns enemies into collectible coins—has sparked debates among purists. Is this a welcome evolution or a departure from what made the original so great? We’ll let you decide.
The game’s official description from Hamster teases: 'BOMB JACK TWIN' is an action game released by NMK (original work by KOEI TECMO GAMES) in 1993. The popular 'BOMB JACK' is back, cuter and tougher than ever! Two-player simultaneous play is also possible! Dodge enemy attacks and collect all the bombs on the stage. Prioritize grabbing the lit bombs for a chance at a high score!’
Releasing on January 15th, 2026, 'Bomb Jack Twin' will be available on Nintendo Switch, Nintendo Switch 2, PS4, PS5, and Xbox Series X|S. Pricing varies slightly: the Arcade Archives version for PS4 and Nintendo Switch is $7.99, while the Arcade Archives 2 version for the remaining platforms is $9.99. Both versions include online leaderboards, screen filters, and Hi Score Mode and Caravan Mode, but the Arcade Archives 2 version also introduces a Time Attack Mode for speedrunners. For those who want it all, an upgrade option between the two versions is available for $2.99 on Nintendo and PlayStation platforms.
But here’s the real question: In an era dominated by hyper-realistic graphics and complex narratives, does a retro platformer like 'Bomb Jack Twin' still hold up? Or is it just a nostalgic cash grab? Let us know in the comments—we’re eager to hear your thoughts!
For a sneak peek at the game in action, check out the footage below. And while you’re at it, don’t miss our recent coverage on the News NiGHTS logo controversy or the PS1-era vibes of Mech Shooter 'Vital Shell'. Whether you’re a retro gaming enthusiast or a newcomer, 'Bomb Jack Twin' promises to be a blast—literally.
