Pitfall!
_Pitfall!_ is an endless runner/auto-run platformer based on the classic
_Pitfall_ games. The 1982 game is used as the premise as the protagonist is
shown playing that version in the beginning. When it says ‘Tap to Anger
Volcano God’ he does so and the Volcano God is awakened, starting the real
game. The game is played by guiding Pitfall Harry through an endless
environment, helping him to survive the wrath of the Volcano God as long as
possible. The game is in full 3D, but generally only a single plane is used.
Actions include swiping up or down to jump and slide respectively. Harry can
also swing from vines and use a whip to attack creatures (through a tap).
Swiping left or right is used to take corners, and there are sections where
tilting the device is needed to slightly alter his position, sometimes to
collect items, but at times also to run over a small path. The camera is not
controlled by the player, but often switches positions, from a side view, to a
bird’s-eye view or a behind view. After clearing a certain distance a
checkpoint can be triggered to start the next run there. Checkpoints are
activated permanently by spending diamonds, the premium currency, in the
store. To use a checkpoint Macaw tokens are used, a separate currency spent
for each run where the checkpoint is used. Diamonds can also be spent to
continue after dying.
There are three main environments (Jungle, Mountain and Minecart) and they
often introduce structures or very different sections during a single run.
Getting hit by a snake or a scorpion is not immediately fatal, but red markers
appear around the screen. Runs are rewarded with experience used to level up.
Players can also earn patches in the tradition of classic Activision games.
Next to the main mode there is a separate Relic Rush mode for each of the
three environments. Each location has multiple levels that are short, but very
difficult to complete. Burst Tonics can be used in this mode to receive
additional speed.
The game is free-to-play and does not have an energy/stamina system. A basic
treasure and a premium diamonds currency are used to buy Macaw tokens,
outfits, checkpoints, power-ups (Jaguar token, Life Tonic, Haste Tonic,
Resistance) and upgrades for these power-ups.