A new PC port of the classic platformer Banjo-Kazooie, titled Lighthouse, has been released by the Harbour Masters crew. The port offers enhancements for Windows, Linux, and macOS users, acting as an alternative to existing reimplementations.
Quick Facts
- Platforms: Windows, Linux, macOS
- Requirement: Users must provide their own US 1.0 ROM file.
- Key Features: High-res enhancements, interpolation, and a built-in gamepad mapper.
- Co-op: Includes 'Anchor' co-op, with synchronization for the final boss and specific puzzle elements.
- Randomizer: Version 1.0 is integrated, allowing for the shuffling of notes, jinjos, jiggies, and molehills.
Customizable Gameplay
Lighthouse introduces several quality-of-life features, including a built-in gamepad mapper that allows players to fix controller recognition issues directly within the game. This utility creates a custom mapping file that remains compatible across future port updates.
For purists, the port ensures the vanilla game is 100% completable. While features like Note and Jinjo retention are included, they are disabled by default, allowing players to toggle them based on their preference.
Co-op and Romhack Support
The 'Anchor' co-op implementation allows for multiplayer sessions, with support for breakable objects and puzzle steps like the Treasure Hunt in Treasure Trove Cove. While the developers note that not every boss or minigame has been tested for synchronization, the final battle against Grunty is fully functional in co-op.
The port also enables support for romhacks. Players can use the Romhacks menu to load their own pre-patched files. The developers noted that while they are confident in the stability of hacks that do not rely on custom code, not every mod has been fully verified for compatibility.