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Cover art of Caveman Ninja

3.4 / 5

27 votes

Platform
Arcade
Genres
Platformer
Player Perspective
Side view
Developers
Eden Entertainment Software · Elite Systems · Data East · MotiveTime Ltd
Publishers
Takara · New World Computing · MotiveTime Ltd · G-MODE · Elite Systems · Data East · Tec Toy
Release date
December 31, 1991

Summary

Caveman Ninja, often called Joe & Mac, drops you into a fast‑paced run‑and‑gun arcade where two cavemen battle dinosaurs and rival tribes. The game shines in its simultaneous two‑player mode, letting friends swing clubs, hurl boomerangs, and fire flint projectiles side by side.

Beyond the basic arsenal you’ll find fire, electricity, stone wheels and other quirky weapons, while a unique health meter slowly drains even when you’re not taking hits – a constant reminder to keep moving. In some versions the two characters can even hurt each other, adding a playful layer of chaos.

The action spans six distinct stages, each ending with a boss that opens multiple routes. After the final showdown you can pick one of three exits, each delivering a slightly different ending, and a handful of hidden bonus levels reward exploration.

Bright, chunky sprites and fluid animation give the prehistoric world a surprisingly modern feel, making every run feel fresh and encouraging you to chase high scores again and again.

Storyline

Caveman Ninja, known in the West as Joe & Mac, follows the green‑haired Joe and the blue‑haired Mac as they trek through six prehistoric stages to rescue their captured "Cave Babes" from massive dinosaurs. The duo battles rival cavemen and a host of ancient hazards while trying to free the women who have been kidnapped by a hostile tribe.
In the original Japanese arcade version the game opens with a striking cut‑scene: the two heroes burst into a hut and emerge dragging the cavewomen by their hair, setting a gritty tone for the adventure.
After the final boss is defeated, players are presented with three possible exits, each leading to a slightly different ending that reflects the choice made at the conclusion of the rescue.

Edited by Maya Carter

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Game Artworks

  • Artwork 1 of Caveman Ninja
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Arcade Machine

Developers
Data East
Machine Style
Upright
Control Panel
Multi-player
Input Devices
Joystick · Buttons
Screen Orientation
Landscape
Sound
Mono · Stereo

Multiplayer

Game modes
Cooperative

Alternative Titles

  • Tatakae Genshijin Short
  • Joe & Mac Alternative
  • Caveman Ninja Alternative
  • Joe and Mac Alternative
  • Caveman Ninja: Joe & Mac Alternative
  • Joe & Mac: Caveman Ninja Alternative