Good news for retro platformer fans: Roc’n Rope, one of the more inventive early 1980s arcade games, is joining Arcade Archives — and it drops tomorrow. Whether you’ve never heard of it or played the original back in the day, this release is worth a look.
What is Roc’n Rope?
Designed by Tokuro Fujiwara (who later created Ghosts ‘n’ Goblins), Roc’n Rope was originally issued in 1983 by Konami. It is notable — as you can see from the video — for having very colourful animated sprites, at a time when both colour and animation were comparatively limited.
While a platformer, Roc’n Rope also differs in its use of a grappling hook. Instead of the usual jump-heavy platforming, Roc’n Rope rewards deft timing as your character uses a hook to climb ropes and peaks. It’s a different kind of arcade challenge, which demands skill, rhythm, and precision.
The record breaking Arcade Archives treatment of this release adds faithful emulation, optional scanlines or original-resolution display, and the convenience of modern platforms. It’s a nice blend of old-school design and modern comfort. But the game itself is a stripped back experience, without complex gameplay.
Fancy Roc’n Rope? Well, it’s probably for you. More specifically, if you like platformers with a twist, short intense games, or have an interest in gaming history, it’s a good option. The Arcade Archives has released many games like this, targeting gamers curious about gaming history. Roc’n Rope may seem primitive today, but it helped influence climbing and grappling mechanics in later generations of platformers.
When and where to get it
Roc’n Rope will drop on Arcade Archives tomorrow, December 11 2025, and is available for Nintendo Switch and PlayStation 4 (basic Arcade Archives features) and Nintendo Switch 2, PlayStation 5, and Xbox Series X|S (Arcade Archives 2 features). Head to the Arcade Archives listing for Roc’n Rope to find the correct store page link for your console.
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Christian Cawley is the founder and editor of GamingRetro.co.uk, a website dedicated to classic and retro gaming. With over 20 years of experience writing for technology and gaming publications, he brings considerable expertise and a lifelong passion for interactive entertainment, particularly games from the 8-bit and 16-bit eras.
Christian has written for leading outlets including TechRadar, Computer Weekly, Linux Format, and MakeUseOf, where he also served as Deputy Editor.
When he’s not exploring vintage consoles or retro PCs, Christian enjoys building with LEGO, playing cigar box guitar, and experimenting in the kitchen.
