Play Chakan (USA, Europe) Online

Game Overview

Chakan is one of those Genesis games that sticks with you—mostly because it’s brutal in every way. You play as this immortal swordsman who’s so good at killing that even Death couldn’t take him down. Now, after centuries of being unkillable, he’s just… done. Wants out. So Death gives him a deal: wipe out all the evil in the world, and maybe you get to rest.

It sounds cool, and the gothic horror vibe is awesome—dark castles, floating skulls, weird monsters—but man, this game does not go easy on you. The controls are stiff, the platforming is unforgiving, and enemies respawn the second you turn your back. I spent way too much time swinging at bats in those first few levels before realizing half your moves are borderline useless. Still, there’s something weirdly satisfying about the challenge, even when it feels unfair. Just don’t expect to beat it in one sitting.

If you’re into punishing old-school action games with a creepy atmosphere, Chakan’s worth a look. Just keep a walkthrough handy.