The ZX Spectrum version of Poogaboo: La Pulga 2 – the sequel to the classic Bugaboo (The Flea) – was coded by the same guy who created the original (Paco Suárez), so plays similarly, and is also what I’d call an authentic sequel.

Poogaboo was only ever released in Spain – by Opera Soft, in 1991 – so is relatively obscure as Spectrum games go. I’m a big fan of the original Bugaboo, but hadn’t heard of this sequel until recently, so was pleasantly surprised by its existence.

Poogaboo is available in two versions: 48K and 128K. The 128K version features nine different levels, and the 48K version I’m assuming has less, although I’m not entirely sure because I wasn’t able to get far enough to confirm it.

The gameplay in Poogaboo is more or less identical to the original Bugaboo: jump your way out of a cave within the time limit, and avoid being caught by the chasing dragon.

In this sequel, there are flies that Poogaboo can eat to increase the time he has, and the bonus he receives upon escaping. There are also spider’s webs that will ensnare him if he lands in one. And – most importantly – Poogaboo now has the ability to shoot bubbles, which can temporarily destroy the dragon.

It’s worth noting that Poogaboo uses a manual-based copy protection system, so if you do find a copy now, make sure you find the codes too. Otherwise, it won’t let you play.

Poogaboo‘s in-game graphics are mostly monochrome, which is a little disappointing after the multicoloured majesty of the original Bugaboo.

The biggest issue I have with the game, though, is the speed at which it runs. It’s considerably slower than the PC version (or any of the other versions of Poogaboo for that matter). To some this will be a blessing in disguise, though, because the slower speed gives you more time to shoot the dragon, and to better judge your jump speeds. To others, though, the slow nature of the game will just be frustrating.

More: Poogaboo on World of Spectrum