Boulder Dash Xmas brings the classic formula of navigating caverns and collecting treasure to a winter landscape. Released for Windows in 2004, it is an action-puzzle game developed by First Star Software and published by FlyOrDie. Instead of Rockford, the protagonist is Santa Claus, who makes his way through the snow to gather ornaments and gifts before finding the exit.
The gameplay retains the appeal of the original Boulder Dash: the environment consists of tunnels and blocks of terrain that Santa can dig through as he explores. Players must collect specific items in each level; once they are all gathered, a door appears, allowing progression. The task requires observing the terrain and choosing the right route, as snow and obstacles can collapse, blocking the path or endangering the character. Thus, each screen combines pathfinding with quick decisions about what to dig and when to move.
The change in setting transforms the usual treasures into C...
Boulder Dash Xmas brings the classic formula of navigating caverns and collecting treasure to a winter landscape. Released for Windows in 2004, it is an action-puzzle game developed by First Star Software and published by FlyOrDie. Instead of Rockford, the protagonist is Santa Claus, who makes his way through the snow to gather ornaments and gifts before finding the exit.
The gameplay retains the appeal of the original Boulder Dash: the environment consists of tunnels and blocks of terrain that Santa can dig through as he explores. Players must collect specific items in each level; once they are all gathered, a door appears, allowing progression. The task requires observing the terrain and choosing the right route, as snow and obstacles can collapse, blocking the path or endangering the character. Thus, each screen combines pathfinding with quick decisions about what to dig and when to move.
The change in setting transforms the usual treasures into Christmas ornaments and gifts, while falling rocks are replaced by snowballs. This festive makeover does not alter the core experience: the challenge lies in calculating moves, avoiding entrapment, and reaching the exit alive. Its side-view perspective and direct controls—primarily via keyboard—keep the action easy to pick up, though completing levels requires patience and planning.
The full version features 65 levels, while a trial edition offered 15. It also includes scoreboards, including an online ranking. No alternative game modes are listed, so the experience focuses on progressing through the caverns solo. With its updated graphics and seasonal theme, Boulder Dash Xmas serves as a festive variation on the arcade puzzle genre—a compact adventure for those who enjoy mazes, moving hazards, and the satisfaction of clearing each screen step by step.
