BBG Entertainment has announced that Manic Miner, one of the most influential platformers of the early home computer era, will return this fall on modern platforms.
The reboot will launch for PlayStation 5, PlayStation 4, Xbox Series X|S, Nintendo Switch, Steam, Windows and Mac. The new version is being developed with the authorization of Manic Miner creator Matthew Smith and aims to preserve the distinctive gameplay of the 1983 original while introducing updated visuals, controls and other modern features.
Originally released in 1983, Manic Miner became a cult classic thanks to its challenging platforming, distinctive level design and memorable characters. The new edition will include all 20 of the original game’s levels, with players able to experience them either in their original presentation or through a modernized visual style.
The Classic Mode is designed to recreate the look and feel of the original release, including its pixel art and soundtrack. An optional CRT TV effect will also be available for players looking to recreate the appearance of playing the game on an old home computer.
Modern Mode, meanwhile, gives all 20 levels a new visual treatment with high-definition graphics, parallax scrolling, dynamic lighting and updated backgrounds. The goal is to give the classic stages a fresh presentation without changing the underlying design that made Manic Miner so challenging.
The reboot will also feature completely revamped controls designed for modern platforms. While the original game’s notoriously difficult gameplay remains intact, the updated controls are intended to make the experience more precise and accessible for a new generation of players.
The soundtrack has also been reworked, with the game’s classical compositions inspired by the works of Johann Strauss and Edvard Grieg receiving new arrangements. The updated music is intended to retain the character of the original while giving the game a more modern sound.
Manic Miner will also include global online leaderboards, allowing players to compare their performances and compete for the best scores.
One of the more notable additions is an extensive interactive archive dedicated to the history of Manic Miner. The archive will explore the game’s development during the early 1980s and its rise to cult status, featuring concept art, historical graphics and other behind-the-scenes material.
BBG Entertainment says the original code was reconstructed with pixel-perfect accuracy before the team began modernizing the game’s levels. This reconstruction was used as the foundation for the new version, allowing the developers to retain the original gameplay while introducing the updated presentation and controls.
The reboot also has an important connection to the game’s creator. According to BBG Entertainment, the new release is authorized by Matthew Smith and is structured so that Smith will properly participate in the proceeds from sales of the game. The publisher notes that Smith has historically seen little significant revenue from Manic Miner’s success despite the game’s enduring popularity.
Fans of the original will also be able to revisit one of its most memorable characters, as Eugene the toilet monster will return in the reboot.
“Manic Miner was a smash hit in 1983 … one that influenced generations of players and developers,” said Hans Ippisch, producer of the Manic Miner reboot. “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.”
The reboot will give players several ways to experience the classic platformer, whether they want an authentic recreation of the original or a more modern presentation. Alongside the two visual styles, the game will feature the updated controls, reworked soundtrack, CRT display option, online leaderboards and historical archive.
Manic Miner will be playable at gamescom 2026 in Cologne beginning August 26. BBG Entertainment will showcase the game in the Retro Area of Hall 10.2, where attendees will have the opportunity to try the reboot ahead of its release. Daily Manic Miner events will also be held at the show, with exclusive merchandise available as prizes.
Manic Miner is scheduled to launch this autumn for PlayStation 5, PlayStation 4, Xbox Series X|S, Nintendo Switch, Steam, Windows and Mac. A specific release date has not yet been announced.
More information about the Manic Miner reboot is available through the official website.