Game Information

Developer: SZ Games

Rating:

4.2/5

Released: April 2024

Last Updated: June 2025

Technology: HTML5 (Unity WebGL)

Platform: Browser

Size: ~15 MB

Plays: 39,662

Mobile Support: No

About Stevedore (MSX, 2020)

Embark on a captivating journey with Stevedore—an indie adventure gem that pays glorious homage to retro gaming on the MSX. Set against the rustic beauty of a small coastal town, you become the hardworking Stevedore, racing the clock to finish loading the docks before the legendary summer party. Just as you dream of joining the charming lighthouse keeper at the festivities, disaster strikes—a thunderous crack, a dizzying fall, and suddenly you’re trapped in a labyrinthine abandoned warehouse beneath the docks.

With only your wits, agility, and raw determination, it’s up to you to guide Stevedore through perilous corridors, intricate puzzles, and mysterious locked doors. Each level teems with cleverly placed keys, treacherous platforms, and deviously hidden secrets. The nostalgia-driven pixel art and atmospheric chip-tune soundtrack immerse you in a world where every move counts, and danger lurks behind every crate.

Stevedore’s hard difficulty delivers a true test of skill. One wrong step and you might need to start again—yet every setback is a learning opportunity that makes eventual victory so much sweeter. Whether you’re a seasoned gamer or a newcomer craving a challenge, this game offers pure, unfiltered gameplay reminiscent of classic browser adventures, but with the tight polish and charm of modern indie design.

No downloads or installs—enjoy the thrill of escape and romance right in your browser, completely free. The game’s bold puzzles, emotive storyline, and raw retro aesthetics guarantee an adventure you won’t forget. Explore, strategize, and maybe—just maybe—find your way to love at the lighthouse. Test your mettle today and see if you have what it takes to conquer Stevedore!

How to Play

Dive into Stevedore’s challenging world by starting directly from your browser—no downloads, completely free! You’ll take on the role of the plucky dock worker, navigating a complex warehouse in search of keys to unlock the exit. Use your keyboard’s arrow keys to run, jump, and crouch, dodging hazards and avoiding pitfalls along the way. Precision platforming is essential; every jump must be perfectly timed, especially as levels grow more devious with moving platforms and hidden traps.

Your main goal is to find all the necessary keys on each level to unlock the exit door before time runs out. Search every corner, push crates to access hard-to-reach areas, and look for faint glimmers—they may indicate a secret or an extra life. As levels progress, puzzles will blend logic and reflexes; some doors need multiple keys, and you’ll face clever environmental challenges. There are no checkpoints, so patience and memorization are key—study level layouts, anticipate dangers, and plan your path.

If you’re new to tough retro-style platformers, start slow. Learn enemy and trap patterns before making risky moves. Pay attention to environmental cues and be ready to restart and improve your score. Mastering Stevedore means combining old-school tenacity with creative thinking. Victory isn’t just about speed—it’s about resilience, skill, and a sharp eye for hidden details!

Controls

mouse

keyboard

Tips & Tricks

Carefully scout each level before rushing—many keys are expertly hidden.
Use crates and objects strategically; pushing them can reveal secret paths.
Practice timing your jumps, especially when dealing with moving platforms or hazards.
Pay attention to sound cues—sometimes they signal hidden dangers or bonuses.
Conserve your lives by memorizing the order of obstacles and retracing your steps wisely.
Look for subtle visual hints like flickering lights or cracks—they might point to secrets.
Prioritize keys in the toughest spots first, so you avoid risky backtracking at the end.

Game Features

Authentic retro MSX-inspired pixel art and chip-tune soundtrack.
Challenging, skill-based puzzles that reward both logic and timing.
Zero installs—play instantly in your browser with smooth HTML5 performance.
Rich, emotive storyline with romantic and mysterious twists.
Hidden collectibles and secrets for high replay value.
Dynamic level design with increasing difficulty and clever traps.
Supports quick restarts for relentless speedrunners and perfectionists.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is Stevedore free to play, and do I need to download anything?

Yes! Stevedore is completely free-to-play. You don’t need to download or install anything—just launch the game in your browser and start playing instantly.

How difficult is Stevedore compared to other indie adventure games?

Stevedore is designed as a challenging experience. Expect retro-style difficulty—patience, precision, and strategic thinking are a must for success. Each level ups the ante with tougher obstacles and devious puzzles.

Can I play Stevedore on my phone or tablet?

Currently, Stevedore is not compatible with mobile devices; it runs best on desktop browsers for optimal controls and performance.

What happens if I lose all my lives or fail a level?

If you run out of lives, you'll need to restart the level. But with each attempt, you'll get better, learning enemy and trap patterns for easier progress next time.

Are there any tips for finding hidden keys or secrets?

Absolutely! Search every nook and cranny, look for subtle environmental clues, and don't hesitate to experiment with moving crates or objects to reveal hidden areas.