One of Konami’s more obscure arcade releases is finally stepping out of the shadows. Labyrinth Runner, a top-down action shooter first released in 1988, is making its long-awaited debut on modern consoles later this week as part of the Arcade Archives lineup. Developed during Konami’s arcade golden era, Labyrinth Runner—also known in some regions as Trick Trap 1771—casts players as a brave prince on a quest to rescue the kidnapped Princess Papaya from the clutches of the devil. The adventure unfolds across the whimsical land of Vegetaria, a strange and colorful world filled with monsters, traps, and maze-like environments. Gameplay is classic late-’80s arcade fare. Players navigate vertically scrolling stages using eight-directional movement while blasting enemies with a small but versatile arsenal that includes standard shots, lasers, and bombs. Each area introduces new hazards and enemy types, ranging from giant insects and robotic foes to unsettling floating eyeballs, all building toward a final confrontation in the devil’s fortress. The journey spans five distinct stages, moving through forests, castles, underground mines, and dark labyrinths. While the controls and mechanics are simple by modern standards, the game’s difficulty and enemy density offer the kind of challenge arcade fans will instantly recognize. This upcoming release marks the first proper console appearance for Labyrinth Runner outside of its brief inclusion in Microsoft Game Room back in 2010. The Arcade Archives edition preserves the original experience while adding modern conveniences such as save states, display options, and score tracking. While Labyrinth Runner may not have the name recognition of Konami’s bigger arcade hits, its return is a win for preservation and for players who enjoy uncovering forgotten corners of gaming history. For fans of retro shooters—or anyone curious about Konami’s deeper catalog—this is a devil worth battling once more.
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