Jazz
The green rabbit hero and player character, armed with firearms and other weapons.
Documented for this version
Arrow LeftArrow Right | Move left or right |
|---|---|
Arrow Up | Look upward or enter applicable passages |
Arrow Down | Crouch or look downward where supported |
Ctrl | Jump |
Alt | Fire the equipped weapon |
These are the documented default DOS keyboard controls; custom key assignments may differ.
The game may use additional menu or weapon-selection inputs depending on the release configuration.
How it plays
The game uses a side-view perspective. Jazz runs, jumps, shoots, collects carrots and bonuses, and searches each stage for the exit while avoiding enemies, traps, and pits.
Levels are grouped into episodes and contain branching routes, secret rooms, weapon pickups, and bonus items. Progression comes from clearing stages and episodes rather than from a persistent character-level system. Some versions also support competitive two-player modes, but the main campaign is a single-player platform adventure.
Plan your run
Keep moving, but slow down near pits, moving platforms, and concealed enemies. Fire ahead while entering unfamiliar spaces, and learn enemy patterns instead of trading contact damage.
Explore side paths for weapons, carrots, and bonus items. Save stronger ammunition for crowded rooms or bosses, and use the level layout to avoid unnecessary fights.
Meet the cast
The green rabbit hero and player character, armed with firearms and other weapons.
The turtle warlord and principal antagonist, who threatens Carrotus.
Jazz’s rabbit companion and the central figure he seeks to rescue.
Before you begin
Search unusual walls and dead ends for secret passages and bonus areas.
Collect weapon pickups, but do not waste limited ammunition on weak enemies.
Use repeated short jumps when crossing dangerous platforms.
Jazz Jackrabbit is a fast-paced 2D action platformer developed and published by Epic MegaGames for DOS in 1994. It casts Jazz, a heavily armed green rabbit, as the defender of Carrotus against the turtle warlord Devan Shell. The game combines side-scrolling exploration with run-and-gun combat, colorful cartoon presentation, secret areas, and a strong emphasis on speed. Its episode-based structure and varied weapons gave it more depth than many contemporary platform games. Jazz Jackrabbit was well received for its energetic play, smooth scrolling, bright graphics, and PC-friendly alternative to console platformers. The DOS release became an important early title for Epic MegaGames and established a continuing series.
Catalog entry maintained by EmuGamers Editorial Team
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