Play Joe & Mac Returns Online

Joe & Mac Returns came out in 1994 as an arcade game from Data East, a follow-up to the earlier Caveman Ninja titles. It arrived during a time when side-scrolling beat 'em ups and cooperative platformers were common sights in arcades, offering another option for players looking to team up and drop some quarters.

You control either Joe or Mac, two cavemen armed with bone clubs, working your way through prehistoric levels to rescue captured cavewomen. The main objective is straightforward: clear each screen of enemies, often dinosaurs, before moving forward. Signature mechanics include knocking out foes with your club, then picking them up to throw at other enemies or obstacles; you can also find temporary power-ups like boomerangs or fire wheels that change your attack. The pacing is fast, with constant enemy waves and screen-filling bosses that demand quick reflexes and good positioning with your partner. It feels chaotic and silly in the best way, especially when you and a friend are hurling stunned pterodactyls across the screen.