Blackthorne vs The Lost Vikings
Side-by-side comparison of features, pricing, ratings, and alternatives.
Blackthorne is a classic 1994 side‑scrolling platformer that blends action, puzzle‑solving, and a dark fantasy narrative. Developed by Mass Media Inc. and Blizzard Entertainment, it follows the cursed prince Blackthorne on a quest to rescue his kingdom from the evil sorcerer Zagarna. The game features hand‑drawn pixel art, atmospheric sound design, and challenging boss encounters that demand precise timing and clever problem‑solving. Originally released for PC and Mac, it remains a beloved title among retro gaming enthusiasts.
The Lost Vikings is a classic 1993 side‑scrolling puzzle platformer where players control three distinct characters—Erik, Baleog, and Olaf—each with unique abilities. Together they must navigate treacherous levels filled with traps, enemies, and time‑based challenges to find their way back to their own time. The game blends humor, fantasy, and sci‑fi elements, offering both single‑player and cooperative multiplayer modes. Its clever level design and character‑switching mechanics have made it a beloved title among retro gaming enthusiasts.
- Atmospheric pixel art and sound design
- Deeply challenging puzzles and boss fights
- Rich, dark fantasy storyline
- Responsive controls and modern compatibility
- Unique character‑switching mechanic adds depth
- Clever level design encourages creative thinking
- Humorous story and dialogue keep the tone light
- Retro graphics and soundtrack are nostalgic and charming
- High difficulty may deter casual players
- Limited save points in original design
- No official multiplayer or co‑op mode
- Limited graphical fidelity by modern standards
- No online multiplayer support
- Some puzzles can feel overly obscure without hints
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Alternatives to Blackthorne
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Alternatives to The Lost Vikings
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Adventure and humor collide in brick-built Indiana Jones quests.
Classic puzzle platformer where three Vikings must cooperate to survive time‑travel chaos
The Verdict
AI-generated from listing dataBlackthorne offers a deep, dark‑fantasy single‑player experience with high difficulty at a premium price, while The Lost Vikings provides a cheaper, lighter‑tone puzzle platformer with co‑op multiplayer and lower difficulty.
Key differences
- •Blackthorne is significantly harder and targets veteran platformers; Lost Vikings is easier and family‑friendly.
- •Multiplayer: Blackthorne is single‑player only; Lost Vikings includes local co‑op for up to three players.
- •Price: Blackthorne costs $49.99 versus Lost Vikings at $19.99.
- •Theme: Blackthorne features a dark fantasy cursed‑prince story; Lost Vikings uses a humorous Viking sci‑fi premise.
- •Replay tools: Lost Vikings adds a level editor and time‑attack mode; Blackthorne relies on hidden collectibles.
Gameplay & fun factor
Lost Vikings' character‑switching and level editor create more varied puzzle experiences than Blackthorne's linear boss‑centric design.
Platform availability
Blackthorne explicitly supports modern PC and Mac resolutions; Lost Vikings platform details are not specified.
Price & value
Lost Vikings costs $19.99 versus Blackthorne's $49.99, offering similar critic scores for less money.
Multiplayer / co‑op
Lost Vikings includes local co‑op for up to three players; Blackthorne is single‑player only.
Content & replayability
Lost Vikings adds a level editor, hidden secrets, and time‑attack mode; Blackthorne relies mainly on collectibles.
Difficulty & accessibility
Lost Vikings is ESRB E and noted as less punishing; Blackthorne is high difficulty and may deter casual players.
Graphics & performance
Blackthorne features dynamic lighting, modern resolution support, and polished pixel art; Lost Vikings has limited 16‑bit fidelity.
Choose Blackthorne if…
Players who crave a challenging dark‑fantasy solo platformer and are willing to pay a premium.
Choose The Lost Vikings if…
Players seeking affordable, light‑hearted puzzle platforming with co‑op and lower difficulty.
Common questions
Which game is cheaper?
The Lost Vikings costs $19.99; Blackthorne costs $49.99.
Do either of the games support multiplayer?
Blackthorne is single‑player only; The Lost Vikings offers local cooperative multiplayer for up to three players.
How difficult are the games?
Blackthorne is high difficulty and may deter casual players; The Lost Vikings is rated ESRB E and is generally easier.