Metroid Classic
Nintendo Entertainment System · Action-Adventure / Platformer
Skull & Crossbones
Deep cut
| System | Nintendo Entertainment System |
|---|---|
| Released | 1990 (originally 1987) |
| Genre | Action-Adventure, Platformer |
| Developer | Tengen |
| Publisher | Tengen |
| Players | 1–2 players |
| Commitment | Weekend project (Roughly 6–20 hours) |
| Legacy | Deep cut · legacy score 1 |
Developed by Tengen, Skull & Crossbones arrived on the Nintendo Entertainment System in 1990 as an action-adventure game. This NES release is a port or adaptation of a game that first appeared in 1987. It blends action-adventure and platformer elements.
It landed about 5 years into the NES's life. Other notable NES releases from 1990 include Final Fantasy III, Dr. Mario and Mega Man 3.
Tengen also made Shinobi, Toobin' and Klax for the NES.
Skull & Crossbones supports up to 2 players, whether that means taking turns or going head-to-head.
Pick it if…
- you want to get lost in a long quest
- you have time for a weekend project (roughly 6–20 hours)
- you have a friend to play against
- you've played the NES hits and want something less obvious
Maybe skip it if…
- you want a game you can finish in one short session
What playing Skull & Crossbones is like
Action-adventures blend real-time combat with exploration, puzzles and item collection. You open up a larger world gradually as new tools let you reach places you couldn't before.
Tip for newcomers: Keep a mental (or paper) map of locked doors and unreachable ledges; most action-adventures expect you to come back once you find the right item.
Skull & Crossbones walkthroughs & guides
Stuck, or want to go deeper? These trusted sites have full walkthroughs, completion times and more for Skull & Crossbones.
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Playing NES games today
NES games are short on paper but often famously tough, so expect to replay levels and learn patterns. Many first-party titles are available through Nintendo Switch Online, original cartridges remain easy to find, and you can play backups of games you own in an emulator such as Rec0m88.
Skull & Crossbones FAQ
When did Skull & Crossbones come out on the NES?
Skull & Crossbones was released for the Nintendo Entertainment System in 1990; the original game dates back to 1987.
Who made Skull & Crossbones?
It was developed by Tengen.
Is Skull & Crossbones multiplayer?
Yes. Skull & Crossbones supports up to 2 players.
How long does Skull & Crossbones take to play?
As an action-adventure game, Skull & Crossbones typically falls into the "Weekend project" category: roughly 6–20 hours. Your time will vary with skill and how much you explore.
Read more about Skull & Crossbones on Wikipedia. Facts on this page are compiled from the open libretro database and Wikidata; "legacy score" reflects how widely a game is documented across Wikipedia's language editions. Spotted an error? Let us know.