International Karate + (1987)

by Christopher September 27, 2024

written by Christopher September 27, 2024 6 minutes read

Summary

Release Year: 1987
Genres: Fighting, Hack and slash/Beat ’em up
Platforms: Amiga, Amiga CD32, Amstrad CPC, Atari ST/STE, Commodore C64/128/MAX, Game Boy Advance, PlayStation, Wii, ZX Spectrum
Developers: System 3 Software
Publishers: Ignition Entertainment

International Karate +: The Best Karate Beat ‘Em Up Ever?

Introduction

International Karate + is a karate-themed beat ’em up game released for the Commodore 64 in 1987. It is a sequel to the original International Karate, which was released in 1985. International Karate + introduces a number of new features, including a third fighter, an animated background, new moves, and remixed music.

Gameplay

International Karate + is a side-scrolling beat ’em up game in which the player controls one of three fighters:

Bruce Lee: A fast and agile fighter with a variety of kicks and punches.
Chuck Norris: A powerful fighter with strong punches and kicks.
Jackie Chan: A well-rounded fighter with a variety of moves, including acrobatic kicks and throws.

The player must fight their way through waves of enemies, using a variety of punches, kicks, and throws. The player can also use special moves, such as the double head-kick and the backflip.

Graphics

International Karate + has impressive graphics for a Commodore 64 game. The characters are well-animated and the backgrounds are detailed. The game also features an animated background, which is a first for a karate beat ’em up game.

Sound

The music in International Karate + is composed by Rob Hubbard, and it is some of the best music on the Commodore 64. The music is fast-paced and exciting, and it perfectly complements the gameplay.

Reception

International Karate + was a critical and commercial success. It was praised for its graphics, sound, and gameplay. The game was also a commercial success, selling over 100,000 copies.

Legacy

International Karate + is considered to be one of the best karate beat ’em up games ever made. It is a classic game that is still enjoyed by many people today. The game has been ported to a number of other platforms, including the Amiga, Atari ST, and PC.

Conclusion

International Karate + is a classic karate beat ’em up game that is still enjoyed by many people today. The game has impressive graphics, sound, and gameplay. If you are a fan of karate beat ’em up games, then you owe it to yourself to check out International Karate +.

Review

Score: 9/10

International Karate + is a great karate beat ’em up game with impressive graphics, sound, and gameplay. The game is a must-play for fans of the genre.

Pros:

Impressive graphics for a Commodore 64 game
Detailed backgrounds
Animated background
Fast-paced and exciting music
Variety of moves
Special moves
Three playable characters

Cons:

Can be repetitive at times
Some of the enemies are cheap

Overall:

Review Score

9/10

Art

Cover Art

Screenshots

Christopher

Christopher has carved a niche for himself as an authority on retro pre-2000 computer games. With a passion that borders on reverence, Christopher delves deep into the pixelated past of gaming, unearthing gems and sharing insights that resonate with both nostalgic players and curious newcomers. His articles serve as a time machine, transporting readers back to an era where gameplay and creativity often trumped graphical fidelity. Cristopher's expertise isn't just in cataloging these classics; he analyzes their design, the context of their creation, and their impact on the gaming landscape, offering a comprehensive look at the evolution of digital entertainment. Beyond mere retrospectives, Christopher champions the relevance of these retro games in today's high-definition world. He skillfully draws parallels between the foundational mechanics of yesteryear's titles and the modern gaming innovations they inspired. His work goes beyond mere preservation; it's an ongoing dialogue between the past and present of gaming. Christopher's content educates, entertains, and ignites discussions within the gaming community. His dedication not only keeps the legacy of pre-2000 games alive but also highlights their importance in shaping the future of video gaming.