Play Burger Time | Commodore 64 Online Game (1984)

Burger Time is a classic arcade-style game originally developed by Data East in 1982 and later ported to various home systems, including the Commodore 64. The version for the C64, written by Lee Braine and published by Interceptor Software in 1983, closely follows the original arcade gameplay. Players control Peter Pepper, a chef tasked with assembling giant hamburgers by walking over their components—buns, patties, and toppings—to drop them down to the level below. The game features multiple platforms connected by ladders, requiring strategic movement to complete each stage.

The primary challenge comes from enemy characters—Mr. Hot Dog, Mr. Pickle, and Mr. Egg—who relentlessly pursue Peter Pepper. Players can temporarily stun enemies by dropping burger ingredients on them or using a limited supply of pepper to incapacitate them. The game’s levels increase in complexity, introducing more enemies and obstacles, such as conveyor belts and disappearing platforms, which add to the difficulty. The goal is to complete all burgers on a level while avoiding enemies and progressing to the next stage.

The Commodore 64 version of Burger Time retains the core mechanics of the arcade original but adapts the visuals and sound to suit the hardware. The graphics are colorful and detailed for the time, with distinct sprites for the chef and enemies. The music and sound effects, while simplified compared to the arcade, still capture the whimsical tone of the game. The controls are responsive, though the ladder-climbing mechanics can feel slightly clunky compared to more modern interpretations.

Burger Time for the C64 was part of a wave of arcade ports that brought popular coin-op experiences to home computers. While it lacks some of the polish of the arcade version, it remains a faithful adaptation that captures the essence of the original. The game’s simple yet addictive gameplay made it a favorite among C64 owners, offering a challenging and entertaining experience that tested both reflexes and strategy.