Released in 1997-1998 by , Bonkheads is a fast-paced 2D platformer that takes heavy inspiration from the classic Mario Bros. (1983) arcade game. You play as one of two trolls, Grag or Thog , tasked with defending their home, Trollsville, from waves of invading pests.
The music began to stutter. The screen flickered violently. The "PING" counter in the corner, which had held steady at 0ms, began to climb. 100ms. 500ms. 2000ms. The connection was dying. The server, hosted on a ghost machine in a forgotten corner of the internet, was shutting down.
The original Mac version supported , allowing for online or LAN sessions. However, the PC version was limited to local co-op on a shared keyboard. For modern "online" play with the original files, players often use screen-sharing tools like Steam Remote Play Together or Parsec to simulate local multiplayer over the internet. Bonkheads GOG Dreamlist
If you prefer a native desktop experience, repositories like Home of the Underdogs and MyAbandonware host the original game files safely.
The version you play today is actually the main version, previously known as "Bonk 2" . It was rebuilt in HTML5 to survive the "Flash Apocalypse" of 2020 and includes all the best features of the original. bonkheads play online
Why has the online version of this game exploded in popularity? Here are three compelling reasons:
: This is the most popular tool for retro local co-op. One player (the host) runs the game, and the other player connects to their PC. Parsec then streams the screen to the second player and sends their controller/keyboard inputs back to the host machine as if they were sitting next to you.
What you are currently using (Windows, Mac, Linux, or ChromeOS)?
: While the 1997 original is largely considered "abandonware," you can find it on community-driven sites like Home of the Underdogs . Released in 1997-1998 by , Bonkheads is a
The game featured a hilarious roster of villains, including standard green goblins, fast-moving ducks, annoying skeleton dogs, and explosive TNT pests. Dynamic Co-op Mode
When playing online in a browser, the controls are usually mapped to modern keys. Since the game was originally played with a keyboard, the transition is seamless:
Elias’s eyes stung. He typed fast.
First, you need to acquire the game files. Since the game is abandonware, it is preserved on various historical software archives. The music began to stutter
Watch this full playthrough to see the classic troll brothers in action and learn the core 'bonking' mechanics: Bonkheads Mac/PC Playthrough [HQ] Daniel's Game Vault YouTube• Jan 25, 2012 Multiplayer Features
If you take too long to clear a stage, an invincible "hurry up" monster will spawn to chase you down.
: You can download the original 1998 Windows version for free from repositories like My Abandonware , which lists it as a popular title among retro gamers.
Bonkheads: A Guide to Playing the Classic Arcade Platformer Online