10 Video Games You Didn't Know Were Connected

2. Bomberman/Lode Runner

Ciri Cyperpunk
Hudson Soft

Here's one that will blow your mind. Bomberman isn't just related to Lode Runner: Bomberman is Lode Runner.

Whilst gathering gold in the laddery labyrinths of Lode Runner, the eponymous hero is persistently pursued by robots bearing a striking resemblance to Hudson Soft's pyromaniacal protagonist. At first glance, it might seem like nothing more than explosive Easter egg - after all, the 'Cheerful White' only appears in the Famicom version - but there's actually more to it than that.

Complete the NES version of Bomberman, and during the ending sequence, the blaster master, for whatever reason, becomes human. And not just any human: he transforms into Runner - the hero of Lode Runner. Which means he was being chased by himself, sort of. Creepy.

Bomberman Lode Runner 2
Hudson Soft
Editorial Team
Editorial Team

Benjamin was born in 1987, and is still not dead. He variously enjoys classical music, old-school adventure games (they're not dead), and walks on the beach (albeit short - asthma, you know). He's currently trying to compile a comprehensive history of video game music, yet denies accusations that he purposefully targets niche audiences. He's often wrong about these things.