Thursday, July 25, 2024

Ka-Ge-Ki: Fists of Steel for Genesis


Image: MobyGames

Ka-Ge-Ki: Fists of Steel

Double Dragon meets Dredd


Genre: fighting - 1v1

Publisher: Sage's Creation

Year: 1991

System: Genesis


Gameplay Score: 2

Gameplay Notes:

There are only two attacks - a weak but fast jab, and a slow but powerful "straight" punch. There's also a jump button but you can't attack while jumping so it's only useful when you want to get away. I didn't find any use for it. So there's barely any depth in the fighting aside from the fact that you're in the 3D space. The unique aspect of this is that you can attack vertically! Generally your opponent is much better at hitting you up or down than you are so the best way to succeed is to line them up horizontally like ay other beat em up. But it's an interesting and memorable mechanic.


Level Design Score: 1

Level Design Notes:

Each opponent behaves slightly differently. But only slightly.


Theme Score: 3

Theme Notes:

It's Double Dragon in a high rise building. You have to fight your way up, floor by floor. It reminds me of Double Dragon and Dredd (2012), which you should watch.


Art Style Score: 2

Art Style Notes:

The sprites are extremely top heavy. Their heads are easily as large as the rest of their body. This allows for some funny expressions and animations and personality in each of the characters. They all feel unique and interesting. A big part of the experience is seeing what the next opponent looks like. The fighting arena is well drawn and feels large and well lit. I wish there was more than just one arena, but it looks alright.


Audio Score: 2

Audio Notes:

Seven notes. Two measures. Repeat. That's the soundtrack. Actually there are a few other jingles that play at the end of a round but yeah, it's not a great auditory experience. Sound effects are much better. Punches and falls sound alright. There are also a few voice samples. Most are in Japanese but the ref counting "8,9,10" is in English. Poor quality, of course, but the sounds aren't too bad.


Overall Score: 36

Review ID: 1015



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