Play Karateka (Japan) Online

Karateka came out on the Nintendo Entertainment System in 1985, published by Broderbund. It was one of those early NES titles that felt different from the arcade style games; it had a clear story and a definite end, which wasn't as common back then. You play as a martial artist on a mission to rescue a princess from an evil warlord, and the whole thing unfolds like an interactive cartoon.

You control the karateka through a series of side scrolling screens, moving from left to right. The main objective is to fight your way past guards and birds to reach the fortress where the princess is held. The combat relies on high and low kicks and punches, and you have to watch your opponent's stance to time your blocks and attacks. It's a difficult game; enemies hit hard, and a few mistakes will send you back to the beginning. Finishing it gives you a real sense of accomplishment.