Dave Miller
Sandy’s boyfriend and the leader of the rescue mission.
Documented for this version
Which controls does this version use?
Actions
D-pad | Move the on-screen cursor. |
|---|---|
A | Select a command, character, object, or inventory item. |
B | Cancel the current selection or close a menu. |
Start | Pause the game. |
How it plays
How does Maniac Mansion play?
The game uses a third-person, room-by-room perspective with a selectable verb menu. Players direct up to three teenagers through the mansion, examining scenery, talking to characters, picking up objects, and combining or using items.
Progress depends on solving puzzles in different parts of the house. Characters can be separated, captured, or killed, and their abilities affect available solutions. Several endings are possible, and some actions permanently close off later options.
Plan your run
What is the best way to play Maniac Mansion?
Save before entering unfamiliar rooms or trying risky actions. Examine and collect useful objects early, but avoid carrying unnecessary items because inventory space is limited.
Use each teenager’s distinctive abilities when a puzzle seems impossible. Explore alternate routes and test harmless interactions first; some puzzles have multiple solutions, while other actions can cause an irreversible dead end.
Meet the cast
Who are the key characters?
Sandy Pantz
Dave’s girlfriend, held captive in the mansion at the beginning of the game.
Dr. Fred Edison
The eccentric scientist who controls the mansion and conducts experiments.
Nurse Edna Edison
Dr. Fred’s wife, who patrols the mansion and can capture intruding teenagers.
Weird Ed Edison
The Edisons’ son, a survivalist who keeps unusual pets and guards his room.
Weird Edna Edison
The Edisons’ daughter, who is associated with the mansion’s more disturbing areas.
Purple Tentacle
A sentient tentacle created by Dr. Fred’s experiments and one of the mansion’s major threats.
Before you begin
What should you know before playing?
- 1
Keep at least one character away from obvious hazards so the group can continue after a capture.
- 2
Read messages and examine objects carefully; many solutions depend on specific wording or visual clues.
- 3
Try different combinations of three teenagers on repeat playthroughs because their abilities change the available solutions.
Community discussion
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