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Bruce Lee

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Inside Bruce Lee

MSX 1
Platformer
5· 0 votes

Bruce Lee is a platform game originally written by Ron J. Fortier for Atari 8-bit computers in 1983, with graphics by Kelly Day and music by John A. Fitzpatrick. It was published by Datasoft and later ported to numerous home systems, including the MSX 1. This MSX version brings the same side-scrolling action to Japanese and European audiences, offering a straightforward arcade-like experience typical of early 80s platformers. The player controls Bruce Lee as he fights his way through a series of levels. Gameplay involves jumping between platforms, avoiding traps, and battling enemies using kicks and punches. A second player can join in, either controlling Bruce Lee's rival Yamo or alternating control of Bruce Lee. The core loop is simple: navigate each stage, defeat foes, and reach the exit to advance. What makes Bruce Lee worth revisiting today is its tight controls and clear visual feedback, hallmarks of well-coded early platformers. While it lacks the complexity of later titles in the genre, it captures the pick-up-and-play spirit of the era. For fans of classic Datasoft arcade ports, this MSX version holds up well and is a neat piece of cross-platform history.

GAME INFO

Platform: MSX 1
Genre: Platformer
Publisher: Datasoft
Developer: Datasoft
Released: 1983
Players: 1-2

How to play Bruce Lee online

Getting started: When you start Bruce Lee, you are immediately dropped into the first level. Use the arrow keys to move left and right, and press X to jump over pits or onto platforms. Enemies appear from both sides; use the B button (S key) to attack them with kicks or punches. The goal is to reach the end of each stage without losing all your lives. There are no menus or tutorials - just press Enter to start and begin playing.

The game is played in a side-view environment. You need to time your jumps carefully to avoid falling into bottomless pits. Occasionally, items such as lamps or throwing stars appear; these can be collected for extra points or advantages. If you are playing with a second player, you can either cooperate or compete depending on the selected mode (the game will let you choose at the start by pressing a button).

Since this is an MSX version of an Atari original, the controls are responsive and the action is fast. A new player should focus on learning enemy patterns and jump timing. There is no save feature, so you must finish the game in one session. Be patient - the game can be tough, but it is fair.

CONTROLS

Controls

Arrow Keys: D-Pad / Movement
X: Trigger 1
S: Trigger 2
Enter: Start

Bruce Lee FAQ

Is there anything iconic or memorable about Bruce Lee?

This game was one of the earliest to feature a real-life martial arts celebrity as a protagonist, which was a big deal in 1983. Its cooperative two-player mode where one player controls Bruce and the other controls the enemy Yamo was unusual for its time and remains a talking point.

Is Bruce Lee exclusive to MSX 1 or did it appear on other systems?

Bruce Lee was originally released on Atari 8-bit computers and later ported to many platforms including the Commodore 64, Apple II, ZX Spectrum, Amstrad CPC, and the MSX 1. So it is far from exclusive, but the MSX port is a solid version that runs well on the hardware.

Can players save progress in Bruce Lee?

No, Bruce Lee does not include any save or password system. As was common for arcade-style platformers of the era, you must complete the game in a single sitting. Losing all lives sends you back to the beginning.

All MSX 1 games