Michael Jackson in 16-bit gaming

Users on Twitter request re-release of Sega's "Moonwalker" game

The death of the "King of Pop" touched gamers as well.

Beyond Moonwalking across concert stages throughout the world, Michael Jackson also starred in his own video games.  

Released in 1990 by Sega, Moonwalker follows the same story line as the film.  It’s basically a quest to save kidnapped children from the bad guy, “Mr. Big.”  In the game, players get to use a variety of music and dance moves to try and beat it while controlling a 16-bit character of Michael Jackson.  The game also features retro sounding synth-versions of “Beat It” and “Smooth Criminal.

Over at Sega’s official Twitter feed, gamers were asking if the company planned to re-release the classic title.  Sega responded explaining:

"Lots of requests for a Moonwalker re-release, which is understandable, I’d imagine such a release wouldn’t be possible for a long time though," SEGA said. Who has say over the MJ image rights and estate for instance? Those things won’t be sorted particularly fast you’d’ve thought."

Used versions of this game will probably be in higher demand now over at eBay and gaming stores.

Here's a YouTube video of the game.