Published on: April 29, 2025
Inspector Gadget SNES ROM Hack Modernizes Cartoon Classic with Multi-Jump and Enhanced Features
The legacy of classic 16-bit gaming continues as Inspector Gadget fans receive a substantial treat: a revitalizing ROM hack for the 1993 Super Nintendo Entertainment System (SNES) title, Inspector Gadget.
Originally developed by Hudson Soft and AIM, this side-scrolling action adventure brought the beloved cartoon detective to life for gamers and nostalgic fans alike.
Now, thanks to the efforts of ROM hacker BillyTime! Games, the new mod, Inspector Gadget – The Gadgeteer, delivers fresh gameplay improvements and quality-of-life enhancements, breathing new life into this memorable tie-in.
Background: Inspector Gadget's SNES Debut
First released in 1993 exclusively for the Super Nintendo, Inspector Gadget tasked players with navigating the cybernetic detective across six stages in a quest to rescue his niece, Penny, from the elusive Dr.
Claw.
Stages drew inspiration from the animated series, including spooky castles, dense South American jungles, and mysterious Egyptian tombs.
Notably, the game provided one of the few glimpses of Dr.
Claw's face outside the live-action films—a detail that distinguished it among television and gaming crossovers.
Upon its initial launch, the SNES title garnered middling critical reception.
For example, Electronic Gaming Monthly (EGM) recognized the game's sprite work for its faithful adaptation of the cartoon and noted the creative use of character gadgets.
However, the game as a whole received an average score from reviewers.
This reception laid the groundwork for future fan-driven projects seeking to enhance and update the gameplay experience for modern audiences.
Inspector Gadget – The Gadgeteer: Key Enhancements
Inspector Gadget – The Gadgeteer, by BillyTime! Games, introduces an array of significant updates designed to streamline play and expand player agency.
New features include:
- Multi-jump with the Blue Propellor Hat: Previously limited to a diagonal glide, Gadget’s iconic Blue Propellor Hat now allows for multi-jumping, making complex platforming sequences smoother and giving players greater aerial control.
- Skippable Chief Quimby Intros: Players can now bypass Chief Quimby’s opening level briefings, speeding up the action and reducing repetitive interruptions.
- Expanded Brain Cap Limit: The limit for the Brain cap—a power-up that increases the range of Gadget’s attacks—has increased from four to seven, enabling more effective long-range attacks against Dr.
Claw’s minions.
- Improved Camera Handling: The in-game camera has been adjusted for better visibility and navigation during jumps, further refining the gameplay flow.
These quality-of-life improvements collectively update a beloved classic for both returning fans and newcomers interested in the SNES era of platformers.
Release and Where to Download
Inspector Gadget – The Gadgeteer is now available for download via ROM Hack Plaza, a leading destination for ROM modifications and fan-made enhancements.
As with all ROM hacks, players must possess an original copy of the SNES Inspector Gadget ROM to apply the patch legally.
The dedication of BillyTime! Games highlights the enduring appeal of retro games and showcases the active communities that continue to support, restore, and reimagine gaming history.
Inspector Gadget for SNES, thanks to this thoughtful update, solidifies its status among cherished cartoon tie-ins while offering a smoother and more dynamic platforming experience on Nintendo’s classic hardware.