Play Hammerin' Harry Online

Versions

Localizations

Game Info

Cover art of Hammerin' Harry

4.2 / 5

9 votes

Platform
Arcade
Genres
Beat 'em Up
Player Perspective
Side view
Developers
Irem
Publishers
Irem
Release date
December 31, 1990

Summary

Hammerin' Harry (known in Japan as Daiku no Gen‑san) is a punchy platformer that lets you swing a massive hammer as a hard‑hat carpenter on a mission to save his hometown, Beranme, from greedy developers. The game’s simple premise—smash obstacles, crush a colorful cast of enemies, and keep the construction crews at bay—creates a satisfying rhythm of action and timing. Irem’s 1990 arcade debut was praised for its tight controls and vibrant graphics, earning scores in the low‑90s from CU Amiga and Computer and Video Games, and a solid 87% from Sinclair User. Its charm proved durable enough to hop onto the Famicom, Game Boy, Super Famicom and even the PSP, each version preserving the core hammer‑wielding fun while adding a touch of nostalgic polish.

Storyline

Hammerin' Harry follows the eponymous carpenter‑hero as he swings his trusty hammer through the streets of his hometown, Beranme. In the original Japanese version the character is known as Genzo Tamura, but the English arcade release keeps the catchy title. The game’s premise is simple yet charming: Harry must defend his community from greedy construction firms that plan to raze the town. Each level pits the hammer‑wielding protagonist against waves of workers, machines, and bosses sent by the corrupt developers. By smashing obstacles and rescuing civilians, Harry strives to preserve Beranme’s heritage and keep the bulldozers at bay.

Edited by Maya Carter

Game Videos

Game Screenshots

  • Screenshot 1 of Hammerin' Harry
  • Screenshot 2 of Hammerin' Harry
  • Screenshot 3 of Hammerin' Harry

Arcade Machine

Developers
Irem
Machine Style
Upright
Control Panel
Single-player
Input Devices
Joystick · Buttons
Screen Orientation
Landscape
Sound
Mono

Multiplayer

Multiplayer setup
Hot Seat