Ball and Chain is a free action game for PC by indie developer drmortalwombat. It's a 2D side-scrolling endless runner that has players take control of a floating hero bound to a ball and chain. They will traverse the dungeon-like maze of a mysterious tower to escape. 

Similar to Mike Mech (c64) or Tutankham Returns (C64), Ball and Chain offers players an engaging adventure through levels filled with various enemies and deadly traps. Being an endless runner game, the longer they are able to last and the coins they collect, the higher their scores will be.

Flailing around

Ball and Chain takes place inside the dark and gloomy dungeons of the Spike Empire. You take control of a ball that has unwittingly been held captive, attached to a heavy iron ball. With the help of some helium gas you mysteriously acquired, you will make a bold and floaty escape while dragging your hefty accessory around and dealing with its imposed constraints.

There will be plenty of things to contend in Ball and Chain as you find your way out. The iron ball comes with the detriment of limiting your movements, while also serving as a nice bludgeoning weapon to smack enemies with. Press the fire button to reel it in for better control and release to shoot it in the opposite direction—actually harder than it seems.

There are various collectible items floating about like stars and coins for score multipliers. Do note that the latter will increase the mass of the ball. Enemies will also drop powerup bubbles that provide various perks and bonuses. There's a slight learning curve as you get a feel for the movement and ball physics at the start, but you'll get used to it soon enough.

Don't let it drag you down

Ball and Chain is yet another solid game release for the Commodore 64. If you're a fan of the classic 8-bit system and are looking for something new to play, check this one out. It's fun, quirky, and surprisingly challenging. It will take some time to get used to the way it plays, but stick with it and you'll have a nice time.