The Lion King Overview
The Lion King is a side-scrolling platform game for one player that adapts the narrative of the Disney film. Its stages are set in locations from the story, including the Pride Lands and the Elephant Graveyard. Players control Simba through two distinct life stages, each with its own abilities and challenges.
As a cub, Simba can jump on small enemies and use a limited roar to scare others, navigating platforming hazards and simple puzzles. The adult Simba gains more direct combat options like claw slashes and the ability to throw foes. Throughout the game, environmental obstacles such as stampedes and swinging vines are combined with enemy encounters.
Health is managed via a meter that can be replenished by collecting insects found in the levels. Some bugs also grant extra lives. Short bonus stages featuring Timon and Pumbaa offer opportunities to gather these items for points. The original release lacked a save system, making completion in one sitting a challenging requirement, though later ports added this feature.
The game saw releases on several platforms with variations in presentation, such as different graphics and sound. Modern digital re-releases maintain the original design while ensuring compatibility on contemporary systems.
