"Pitfall II: Lost Caverns" for the Atari 400/800 XL/XE, a sequel to the original "Pitfall!" by Activision, is celebrated as a pioneering title in the platformer genre. The game, released in February 1984, introduces players to an expanded adventure featuring Pitfall Harry as he navigates through the wilds of Peru in search of the Raj Diamond, aiming to rescue his niece Rhonda and their pet lion, Quickclaw. This iteration is renowned for its engaging gameplay, innovative features, and the inclusion of more areas to explore than its predecessor​​​​.

Developed by Mike Lorenzen, the Atari 800 and 5200 versions of "Pitfall II: Lost Caverns" are notable for adding new levels beyond the original game, enhancing the player's experience by extending the adventure. This version, subtitled "The Adventurer’s Edition," showcases Lorenzen's ambition not merely to replicate David Crane's original work but to enrich it, offering players a more comprehensive and challenging journey​​.

The game received a warm reception upon its release, praised for surpassing the original "Pitfall!" in both scope and gameplay. Its graphical fidelity and the inclusion of multi-channel music, especially on systems as limited as the Atari 2600, were technical feats at the time. Contemporary and retrospective reviews alike lauded "Pitfall II: Lost Caverns" for its gameplay innovations, such as a checkpoint system, which were seen as ahead of their time and influencing later classics in the platformer genre, including "Metroid." Its design philosophy of non-linear exploration and the ability to not die, allowing for a more exploration-focused gameplay, set a new standard for the platformer genre​​.

"Pitfall II: Lost Caverns" stands as a testament to the evolution of video games in the early 80s, embodying the shift towards more complex and rewarding gameplay experiences. Its legacy is evident in its high praise and ranking among the best Atari 2600 games, highlighting its significance in shaping the future of platformers and adventure games alike​​.