Blackthorne for Mac

Try the vintage platformer without paying

Blackthorne is a side-scrolling action-platformer from Blizzard that has been reissued for modern systems. The core gameplay centers on running, climbing and fighting through levels while gathering keys and useful items to open new areas. A contemporary release bundles the original console builds with added conveniences so both longtime fans and newcomers can jump in.

What the collection brings together

• Rock ’N Roll Racing (included)
• The Lost Vikings (included)
• Blackthorne (included)

These titles were packaged as part of Blizzard’s 30th-anniversary offering, making the classic SNES and Mega Drive editions playable on current PCs.

New playback and save conveniences

• Save progress from any point in the game
• A Watch Mode that plays through the entire game for you
• Ability to skip ahead in recordings and take control at any timestamp

The re-release adds modern usability: you can save virtually anywhere, watch a complete playthrough, jump to scenes you want to see, or seize control mid-recording.

Definitive Edition: extra tools and some drawbacks

• Adds an automatic mapping utility
• Introduces decorative, level-themed screen borders that can be visually misleading
• Omits the free-save-anywhere option found in the console ports

A “Definitive Edition” ships with additional amenities like an auto-map, but it also removes certain save features and includes aesthetic choices (screen borders) that sometimes make level geometry harder to read.

How it feels to play now

The updated releases preserve the original level design and challenge, but expect some rough edges. Controls can feel stiff in places, and movement occasionally comes across as awkward compared with modern platformers. Still, the packages are faithful restorations with added options that help with accessibility and replaying.

Is it worth your time?

If you enjoy retro platformers or want to experience a 90s Blizzard action title, this collection is worth checking out. It provides the original console experiences with useful modern additions, although the Definitive Edition and control polish are not flawless. For most players interested in classic game preservation and nostalgia, it’s an enjoyable pick despite a handful of issues.