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Manic Miner is a seminal single-screen platform game that was developed by Matthew Smith for the 8-bit ZX Spectrum home computer, and published by Bug-Byte, back in 1983, and now, some 43 years later, Manic Miner is making its return for modern formats, including PlayStation 4/5, XBOX Series S|X, Nintendo Switch, Steam, Windows, and Mac, and it’s even been authorized by Matthew Smith!
Hans Ippisch, producer of the Manic Miner reboot, explains:
“Manic Miner was a smash hit in 1983 … one that influenced generations of players and developers. For my team and me, bringing back this cult classic is a huge honor. And personally, I’m very happy we can ensure that Matthew Smith will properly share in the success of this reboot.”
This new version of Manic Miner will include all 20 original levels, with the option to play in Classic Mode, with pixel art and the original sound backdrop; or in the new Modern Mode, which offers parallax scrolling, dynamic lighting, and lovingly detailed backgrounds.
The features offered by the new version Manic Miner include…
• A pixel-perfect recreation of the 1983 classic.
• All 20 original levels re-imagined in stunning HD.
• Choose classic or new mode with parallax scrolling and atmospheric effects.
• Optional CRT TV frame with authentic retro visual effects.
• Completely revamped controls for modern platforms.
• Newly arranged soundtrack featuring Strauss and Grieg.
• Global online leaderboards to compete with players worldwide.
• Extensive behind-the-scenes archive from the early 1980s to the present.
• Authorized by Matthew Smith
This new version of Manic Miner will be published by BBG Entertainment this fall, but if you’re lucky enough to be attending Gamescom 2026 this week, you’ll be able to play the game in the “Retro Area” of Hall 10.2, if not, you can find out more at the official Manic Miner website.
Of course, there have been several previous remakes of Manic Miner since 1983, both official and unofficial, and we reported on one of the unofficial remakes earlier this year.
