Retro Runners, 8-bit endless running game runs into Windows Phone 8

Need another game to waste time? Check out Retro Runners. It’s an endless runner game with a nostalgic 8-bit style. Get as far as you can while dodging obstacles, enemies, collecting coins and special items.

Developed by two Brazilian guys, Retro Runners is also available on iOS, Android, and Blackberry. Head past the break to watch the official trailer video.

The controls are easy. Swiping on the left side of the screen switches tracks, while swiping up on the right side makes you jump into the air.

You have to avoid tripping on hurdles, falling into water pits, and bumping into other runners. You also need to pick up water bottles to keep your health bar filled up. It slowly depletes as you keep running, so make sure to look out for people on the sidelines handing them out. There are also photographers on the side that use flash. If you’re too close, you’ll be blinded for a few seconds.

There are special items along the way. Hitting a mushroom shrinks your runner, so you can just run under the hurdles. There’s also an item that doubles the coins you collect for a short time.

Collect coins along the way so you can buy extra lives or characters at the shop. There are 11 characters available and some of them have special abilities. For example, Alfred the skeleton has infinite energy and The Running Dead can eat people to regain energy.  Unlocking them requires a lot of coins, though. If you’re impatient, you can unlock the characters with real money. The Running Dead costs $4.99. Other characters without extra abilities cost much less.

Similar to other endless runner games, it gets tougher the further you go. You’ll start seeing other runners going in your direction and don’t be surprised to see trucks heading towards you.

Retro Runners is a free download at the Windows Phone Store with the addition of in-app purchases. Check it out and let us know what you think in the comments!

Thanks for the tip, Loren B.!