Catacombs of Cherubim is a Commodore 64 platformer originally released in 2004, developed by Marcus Oliver Wagner under the alias natthrafn. Now re-released and polished for modern players, the game is available on itch.io as a pay-what-you-want title. This updated version brings back the brutal challenge of early 8-bit platformers with renewed energy and accessibility.
Set across four expansive cave systems, Catacombs of Cherubim challenges players to recover treasures scattered among hazardous terrain. Precision is critical—each mistimed jump or high fall ends in instant death. Inspired by titles like Spelunker, the game rewards caution, timing, and reflexes over brute speed.
Controls are joystick-based and feel tightly tuned. Players must master both vertical and horizontal jumps while avoiding collapsing platforms and steep drops. The learning curve is steep, but the satisfaction of mastering each section is substantial.
Wagner’s original code and design are intact, but the game now runs smoothly on both real Commodore 64 hardware and emulators. Visually, it stays true to the era, with crisp sprite work, dark atmospheric caverns, and minimalistic audio that amplifies the tension of deep exploration.
What makes Catacombs of Cherubim unique is its evolution. Though created two decades ago, the game remained largely unnoticed until its modern reintroduction. Retro fans have responded enthusiastically.
Whether you’re a long-time C64 veteran or just exploring retro titles, this is a rewarding dive into classic platforming.
